Bands Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cover charge?

Yes, there is a $10 charge per person, unless it is a special event. The cover goes directly to the band, in full. 

How is the band paid?

The band gets the door. If 100 people come in the band gets $1000! With that pay we expect the band to advertise on social media at least 3 times, or more, in the 3 weeks leading up to the event. We also will do the same as it is a partnership.

Will the band be provided with food and drinks?

The house will pay for a $50 domestic beer tab, this does not include imports and crafts. Food, cocktails, liquor and craft beers are not included. Unfortunately, we had some people take advantage of this.

Can we book another venue within 5 miles within a week of playing at Central Tavern?

No. This is not good practice for both venues and the band! If there are too many shows within the same area in a small amount of time it dilutes the number of customers that will attend. We recommend not booking within 7 miles of the Central Tavern, 4 weeks before and after the date booked.

What are the normal set times you're cool with? Start time? Number of sets? Break times between? Earliest load in time? Hard stop time?

  • Load in between 6pm - 7pm. Quick 15-20 minute sound check. We ask that you keep playing around on instruments to a minimum as much as possible as we do have a dinner crowd before the bands start. If you want to load in earlier just let us know. We open at 4pm and are happy to accommodate.

  • We advertise the start time is at 8, but the latest time you should start is 8:30.

  • 2 - 3 sets. No more than a 5 - 10 minute break in between, we find if it is longer people leave.

  • Play to at least 11:30 but feel free to keep going until 12:15am. 

Do you provide a sound guy or should we bring our own?

Due to a shortage of sound engineers, we cannot guarantee a sound engineer anymore. We are sad about this. However, you can use our equipment at no cost. If you need a sound engineer, we can give you a few names to try and book with. However, they book out 3-6 months.

What is expected of advertising from the bands/DJs?

Central Tavern expects, at a minimum, the bands to advertise on their social media accounts with the following schedule:

  • 3 weeks before the event, once or more that week

  • 2 weeks before the event, once or more that week

  • 1 week before the event, 3 times or more that week

What do you have for sound equipment?

  • Speakers

    • 2x Bose F1 Heads and Subs

    • 5x QSC 8 monitors

    • 2x QSC 8 Rear speakers

    • 1x QSC Rear Active Sub

    • 1x QSC Touchmix 16

  • Mics

    • 2x SM58 Wireless Mics

    • 1x SM58 Wired Mic

  • Drum Kit/Instrument Mics

    • 3x SM57 Wired Mic

    • 1x Beta 52A

  • Mixer

    • QSC TouchMix 16 with iPad