Beat Train Productions-Frequently Asked Questions

bride and groom dancing at Ipswich, Massachusetts Wedding

Below are the responses to commonly asked questions, answered by Beat Train Productions' founder (and DJ), Ari Rosenfield.

Why Should I choose Beat Train Productions for my event?

Beat Train Productions is a Better Business Bureau accredited business that puts its focus in our customers and always strives to exceed expectations. We’re a small DJ company that focuses on quality over quantity. When you hire us, you can be confident that you are dealing with an ultra reliable and experienced DJ, with a proven track record, who only uses state-of-the-art-professional equipment. Additionally, you can be certain that you’re dealing with a reputable business that puts customer satisfaction as it’s number one priority.

How far in advance should I book a DJ?

On many dates, demand for our services has far outweighed our supply of DJ's. Our focus is on providing exceptional DJ's and we feel that if we constantly tried to expand, it would compromise our level of quality. Unfortunately, for many dates, all five of us are booked far in advance. Generally, it's a good idea to book at least 9 to 18 months in advance.

Are you available for our date (and if not, can you recommend another DJ)?

Currently, at least one of our DJ's is available for all 2010 dates, with the exception of June 5th, June 26th, July 24th, July 31st, August 14th, September 18th, September 25th, October 2nd, October 10th, and October 16th.

If we are not available, unfortunately I do not give specific recommendations for other DJ's-although I can tell you that many outstanding DJ's do gigs at the following bars (although please book at your own risk, as I do not have any way of guaranteeing that all of the DJ's at these clubs are professional and reliable) : , Good Life, Milky Way, Enormous Room, and Middlesex Lounge.

What are your rates and are your rates negotiable?

Our rates for Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between March and November start at $1500, and may exceed $2000 (depending on which DJ you want to book, etc). For week day or winter rates, please inquire.

I am sorry, our rates our not negotiable. It is our aspiration to offer great value based on our hard work, skill, focus, and professionalism-but it is not our aspiration to compete on price. Thank you for your understanding.

Are you insured?

Yes, Beat Train Productions has full liability insurance.

What are the most important criteria to consider when hiring a DJ?

Funny you should ask, I've discussed the topic extensively at the Beat Train Productions Blog. To view it in a new window, please click here.

What kind of equipment do you have?

We use high quality professional audio equipment, including JBL and Mackie powered speakers, Shure wireless microphone systems, and we always bring back up equipment (including back up speakers, microphones, and computer systems). Additionally we offer a variety of lighting options-you can read more about our lighting services here.

What do you wear to gigs?

I wear custom tailored suits (always a dark color). After all the hard work you've gone to in producing your perfect event and hand selecting the best vendors, the last thing you need is a poorly dressed DJ.

Do you take requests?

Of course. When you hire us, we’ll gladly work with you prior to the gig to establish what songs and genres, if any, you’d like to request and what songs and genres you’d like put on a “no-play list”.

Most of our clients trust us to use our discretion, exercise good taste, and do a good job reading the crowd-and will give us a limited number of requests—but that is up to you!

Do you require a deposit?

Yes, 50% of the balance is required to hold the date.

I heard through the grapevine that you're moving to New York, whats the story with that?

I have made the decision to start living in New York City for several months each year-during those months (in 2011 I will be away from May 1st to July 31st) I will only be taking bookings for myself in the NYC area (the other DJs that work for me will still be available for Boston area bookings). When I'm living in New York, I will periodically visit Boston from New York to meet up with clients. The other guys will still be available in Boston while I'm gone though.

What music genres do you play?

What we'll play is relative to your preferences. We tend to be quite versatile, and we're able to accommodate a wide range of genres, whether you’d prefer a program of cutting edge music or simply the classics. To name off a few of the many genres that could be played at your event: soul, funk, hip hop, pop, top 40, disco, rock n roll, alternative, indie rock, eighties, rockabilly, classical, big band, swing, jazz, easy listening, mambo, latin, salsa, and oldies.

Do you have any samples of the music you play?

Yes, you can hear a few mixes of my mixes on the Media Page.

Do you have references?

Absolutely, I have posted some of them on the Testimonials page.

Do you require that we provide you with a meal?

No we don't. However, if it is provided it will be graciously accepted.

What are the differences between yourself and the other DJ's that work for Beat Train Productions?

Each of us has our own unique style that distinguishes us from one another. We also have many common characteristics. We are all experienced, professional, reliable, and versatile. For all of us, the number one goal is to make sure our clients' events succeed. We all go out of our way to minimize variables such as showing up extra early for a gig, bringing back up equipment, and encouraging our clients to meet with us in person prior to their event so we can chat and make sure we're on the same page. We are all articulate as emcees, but we prefer to keep our talking to a minimum and err on the side of subtlety.

What if my DJ can't make the event due to sickness.

All of our DJ's are in excellent health. We eat healthy and exercise regularly. We have never had to cancel a gig before. If for some reason it was necessary, we would be sure to find a suitable replacement. If this unlikely scenario happened, and you were not satisfied with the replacement DJ, we would offer to refund your money. Once again, it's very unlikely that this would happen.

Do you know any photography companies that you could recommend?

Certainly. For photography, I would highly recommend Ashley O'Dell; Heather Parker; as well as Mike Howard (see mikehphotographer.com and mikehoward.smugmug.com).

Better Business Bureau Accredited DJ Company