Thank you for your interest in The DNA Band. Below are the most popular and most commonly asked questions about our entertainment services. Should you require any further information, do not hesitate to ask.

Our most popular question:
How do you create such a full sound with only 4 people in the band?
Many clients usually question how we can achieve such a full sound with only 4 performers. Then they hear us perform live and are blown away by our orchestrated sound. It begins in our 24 track state-of-the-art recording studio. We incorporate the instruments used in the original songs with midi tracks and synthesizers, arrange the songs, finalize the mix, and repeat this process for every song in our repertoire. We then perform live with the recorded tracks until we achieve a uniform blend. Sometimes it sounds so close to the record, you think it’s the original artist. This process allows us the freedom to perform an eclectic blend of music from classics to current hits utilizing cutting edge technology with incredible accuracy and versatility. That’s why our song list is so comprehensive.

Does The DNA Band provide an M.C.? (Master of Ceremonies)
Absolutely! Dennis Weber, our male vocalist, brings years of experience as a Masters of Ceremonies to every event. He is resourceful, creative, flexible and able to respond to problems "on the fly". In every event, Dennis takes the audience on a pleasant journey with his wonderful charm, contagious wit, and makes the audience feel that all is going well. Our past clients have been absolutely delighted with his professionalism. (M.C. duties are included at no extra charge)

Once I decide to book The DNA Band for my event, what is the next step?
It’s always advantageous to the client to sign a contract as soon as possible. This guarantees that your event is secured for that specific date. The reason; we frequently get multiple requests for the same date. By booking early, you “The Client,” will get preferential treatment for your event, thus eliminating any scheduling conflicts amongst other viable bookings. 

Can I hold the band without a deposit?
As much as we would love to accommodate you, we can not restrict our booking ability by refusing to consider other potential clients for the same date. If you request, we may grant you "the right of first refusal," so that, when we receive another earnest request for the same date, we will give you 12-24 hours to accept our contract and pay the deposit before providing the other client the same opportunity. You could hire us later if we’re still available.

What if I need to change the performance times that are on my contract?
Please let us know immediately so we can inform all of the musicians. This will avoid any possible scheduling conflicts. We request that no event start times be changed within one week prior to your event. Any delays in our start time requested by the client at the event (ceremony or photography shoots) does not alter our end time without incurring overtime payment.

Do you accept credit cards?
Sorry, we do not. We do accept cash and personal checks.

Can I give the band the final payment the day of my event?
Yes. Unless the contract states differently, final payments are due at the beginning of your event. You do not want to be scrambling about, looking for your designated bill payer or your checkbook during the event. We want to fully concentrate on the music and your guests, not business or payment concerns. However, we can generally fully accommodate corporate accounting and payment policies.

No. If a function is located more than one hour away, then the final payment is due 5 days prior to the event. This is the only guarantee we have that the client does not forget to pay the band on the day of the event. We try to accommodate our clients as much as possible, but traveling long distances is a liability for the band.

What if I want the band to play overtime?
Your contract will indicate the cost per half hour for overtime. If you decide that you want the band to play beyond our contracted time, just let us know by the last contracted set at the event. You will be asked to sign an overtime authorization and to pay for overtime immediately after the event.

Will The DNA Band participate in the planning of the itinerary for our event?
We ask all our clients very detailed questions about the selection and timing of their events such as; cocktail hour, toasts, first dance, and any other special dances, surprises, or whatever you want us to be aware of. We ask that you send us a typed name list of the people in your wedding party and contact people such as your wedding planner or catering company. We will work effortlessly with all the necessary parties involved to make sure we have a cohesive working model for the entire event. We then integrate all the information provided, along with your song selections, and create our best repertoire of music for your occasion. Of course, in our experience, changes usually occur in every event, and The DNA Band has always and easily adapted to those changes.

How many songs does the band play during the reception?
Typically, we play approximately 40 - 45 songs during a four-hour time period.

How many breaks does the band take during the reception?
First let me preface this by saying that every event will have its own specific guidelines. For instance: A wedding reception will contain a cocktail hour, toasts, dinner, cake cutting, bouquet/garter tossing, and dance sets. Typically, the band will take 3 breaks for the entire event. Our breaks last approximately 10 to 15 minutes in length. Very frequently, dinner delays or other unforeseen circumstances result in our taking only 2 breaks, one of which is longer. Generally, a 4 hour event will produce 3 breaks.

What happens during breaks?
Every event is uniquely designed for each client. In essence, we will ask our client what their intentions are for the evening; such as age group, occasion, themes, favorite music, and/or specialty songs. We then create a jukebox format utilizing an I-pod or CD. We organize the sequence of songs requested by our client and make sure that all the music is played through our state-of-the-art sound system, creating a continuous flow of music. This is a free service to our clients. You might also consider scheduling toasts during band breaks.

Can The DNA Band provide listening/background music for my "cocktail hour?"
Yes. We have the ability to perform background music by controlling our state of the art sound system at audible levels during cocktail hour. We can also provide acoustical sessions if the client requires it. Our listening set is designed primarily for these specific occasions. Or we can design a specific blend of music with our I-pod as per our client’s request. 

How does the band handle cultural or traditional music?
We ask our clients very meticulous questions regarding styles and/or traditional music expectations. We then take those requests and create a special library of songs that compliment the occasion. This could include music that is outside of our usual repertoire, such as Latin dance, Traditional folk music, Rap, and Ethnic/language based cultural songs. You are always welcome to provide us with your own custom CD’s.

Can I choose the songs we want played at the event?
You will receive an updated copy of our song list. We suggest you pick up to 8 songs you definitely want to hear or do not want played. Please allow us some creative freedom with regard to the performance. We will do our best to play your specific requests while continuously gauging the genre of music your guests are responding to.

What is the lead time for The DNA Band to learn special songs?
If you have any special requests, please let us know at least four-to-six weeks prior to your event. We will check with all the musicians to see if they know the song. If not, the band may need a recording (either supplied by you or downloaded by us) and sheet music/chord charts. The band may not be able to learn a specific song if time is not allotted. We can learn up to two (2) songs per event.

Will we have a chance to speak with the band’s spokesman prior to the event?
If you are booking the event directly with The DNA Band, then you can speak frequently with Al Reale and/or Dennis Weber. All information is constantly shared with all band members regarding your event. If you are booking the event through an agent or entertainment company, they probably will prefer to act as a liaison between you and the band.

Is tipping the band appropriate?
Tips are not expected… but are certainly appreciated.

How much room does the band need?
Ideally, the minimum stage size is 10'x16' to allow for maximum freedom of movement in our performance routines. We have played in spaces as small as 8'x10.' Stages are ideally 18" high or higher, to provide excellent visual sightlines and sound projection of all frequencies across a crowded dance floor, but shorter stages are acceptable. In fact, we frequently play in rooms that do not have a stage at all, and the reported experience is very good for all the guests. The band does not provide stages.

Does the band provide lighting or umbrellas?
No. You will be required to provide adequate lighting and coverage for the band (especially if we will perform outdoors). Additionally, please provide heaters for the band if necessary. Keep in mind that if your guests are cold, your band is also cold! Frozen fingers do not move very well. Frozen vocal cords may create some “note cracking.” I'm only partially kidding! (Dance floor lighting can be offered for an additional flat fee of $80.)

How large should a dance floor be?
This is really a hypothetical question of which we will respond accordingly. As large as the client thinks is necessary. Of course, the size of the party will predicate how much space you can provide. A minimum dance floor should be 10’x14’ or 8’x16’ for a private party. Weddings usually provide a dance floor of 18’x24’ or larger to accommodate their guests.

Do I need to provide meals for the band?
It really is good form to provide meals to band members whose driving, set-up, playing, teardown, and drive back time may easily exceed 10 hours. Our experience has been that most clients so appreciate all of our pre-event effort that they regard us as friends before we play the first note! So they often want to give us the "guest meal," which we prefer. However, we recognize the validity of budget concerns, and we gladly accept the less expensive "vendor meals" that many venues can provide. It’s entirely up to the client.

What happens if one of the band members gets sick or is unable to perform?
We will replace him/her with a musician of equal ability. Since we work often, we necessarily have developed a list of top singers and musicians who have frequently played with The DNA Band and know our particular arrangements.

What happens if the band doesn't show up?
This has never happened… period! Not in the entire existence of The DNA Band, nor in the over three decades of experience of our members. We take great pride in our reputation as professionals. We are obligated to provide the band by contract.

What will the band wear to my event?
We will discuss your preferences with you. Upon request, we can perform in Black tie (tuxedos and formal dresses), but we prefer to add variations so that the band is distinct from the guests and wedding party. Otherwise, we will wear very stylish suits with colorful shirts and/or ties, in keeping with the band’s image. Some corporate events call for a relaxed, casual appearance, although this is still "dressy" rather than "grungy." If it is a themed party, such as a costume party, we will dress accordingly. We will do our best to accommodate you.

What are the band's power requirements?
It is best if the band has easy access to two 20-amp dedicated circuits. We have performed quite successfully with two, 15-amp dedicated circuits on numerous occasions. We have run off of a single, large power generator for small outdoor events.

What other functions does The DNA Band play for?
Along with weddings, our most popular venues are; corporate events, company parties, banquets, private parties, gala functions, country clubs, and restaurant/lounge clubs. There is a long list of possible functions on our web site. If you can think of a function, we’ll create the music for you. We can accommodate our clients almost any venue or personal party you want us to be part of. We have never refused an opportunity or a challenge.

How far will The DNA Band travel for a function?
If it’s within driving distance, we can be at your function. We’ve traveled as far as Las Vegas for a corporate event. There are special circumstances, of course, that we can discuss with our clients if they feel strongly about hiring The DNA Band. Our services can be tailored and transported to any venue, within reason, if the timeline and price suits both parties.

Al, Dennis, Carrie, and Dan 

play the music you've remembered through the years....yet keeping in tune with today's Artists. What makes DNA so unique is the variety of music they provide for your party. Most bands play one style of music. DNA can play memorable Standards   from the 1940's to current radio hits. Imagine hearing the lost favorite by Mr. Billie Paul, “Me and Mrs. Jones," followed by Sinatra's hit "The Lady Is A Tramp." Then kickin' the dance floor with current Top 40 artists such as Lady Gaga,   Pink, Kelly Clarkson, Gwen Stefani ,Maroon 5 , Justin Timberlake to name a few....and let's not forget Motown or dance groups like Earth, Wind & Fire, The Gap Band, Smokey Robinson, Kool and the Gang....The DNA Band will perform them for you. And for those Country fans...how about Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts or Keith Urban....we've got you covered. 

DNA has performed throughout Southern California, so if you are within driving distance.....

call us...we'll make your party a guaranteed hit!

Al Reale: Bass & Vocals

Al’s musical experience began at the age of fourteen playing as a back-up drummer for a local band. After a few years, he was introduced to the bass guitar and never looked ba has played and covered all types of music, including Italian. His night club performances were so successful in Boston that the regional Italian DJ offered his band to open at the Bradford Hotel for some twenty European concerts. Hefinished third out of forty contestants in an international music competition in New York City. He has recorded at AAA Recording Studio in Boston and Normandy Studios in Rhode Island. Recorded and released an album with ‘Mansfield’ in the 1980’s which was played on a regular rotation within the New England college circuit. Al has performed in the U.S., Canada and Italy. He is an accomplished musician, both in performance and composition, with a meticulous flair for song arrangement.

Carrie: Lead Vocals

Carrie has been singing for over 12 years. She began studying classical music at the age of ten and has since had many accomplishments in the field of music. From singing at major sporting and political events to performing in front of millions on American Idol, Carrie has performed in a wide range of venues. After her stint as a semi-finalist on American Idol, Carrie went on to star in another ABC showcase, All American Girl. Carrie attended the California Institute of the Arts as a vocal performance major and her roots in classical opera have segued seamlessly into a powerful mix of soul, pop, and R&B. Over the past few years she has recorded original songs for some of Los Angeles’ top songwriters and producers and she continues to expand as a vocalist.

Dan Stone: Drums

After studying percussion at Mansfield University in Pennsylvania, Dan headed west to California where he graduated with honors from Musician's Institute. Dan’s eclectic style encompasses a wide variety of musical genres and has rendered him a top choice for studio session work when not performing with DNA. He is well versed in synth drums and percussive instruments. We think he was born with sticks in his hands.

Dennis: Guitar & Vocals

Dennis has been playing guitar since his teens with various local bands. His bio includes a wide variety of night club performances along with large special events. Through the years he has developed a successful music store where he also teaches piano along with guitar. An accomplished musician and studio technician, he composes different forms of music for various venues. Over the past few years his songs have been placed on a variety of syndicated TV shows. He continues to work with up and coming L.A. performers, including artist from Universal / Sony.  Although his guitar playing leans towards R&B, Dennis is very eclectic and enjoys performing all styles of music.

Al:  Bass & Voca