Frequently Asked Questions

Are you willing to learn a specific song or songs not on your song list just for my event?
Yes, absolutely!
However, if you want more than two additional songs, we can discuss a small fee (usually around $25 per song).

Do you take breaks?
Yes. My performances require energy and concentration, and I need to recharge after 45-50 minutes of performing. Breaks usually run only about 5 – 10 minutes.

What type of payment do you accept?
I accept cash, check, credit card, and PayPal.

Is my deposit refundable?
Your signed contract and deposit commits me to you.  That means that I will refuse all other opportunities that may arise on the date of your event.  Because of this commitment, I’m not able to refund deposits in case of cancellation, regardless of reason.  That said, if the cancellation occurs because of something outside of your control, such as inclement weather, I’m happy to apply the deposit to a reschedule of your event.

What sort of power requirements do you have?
I need one independent 20 amp 120 V circuit.

Will you play outdoors?
Yes. However, there are some additional things considerations for playing outdoors. If the temperature is above 80 degrees, I need a tent or awning covering the stage. You will be responsible for providing adequate protection for my equipment in case of inclement weather. Therefore, if the weather is threatening, a tent and several tarps would be a good idea. If the weather becomes dangerous to me or my equipment after I have begun setup, I reserve the right to cancel the performance (terms of payment will apply, regardless of weather conditions). I also reserve the right to cancel performance if the temperature drops below 60 degrees, or winds exceed 15 mph.

Do you require food and drink?
Well, I’m human, so the answer is “it sure would be nice”, and frankly, being properly nourished and hydrated is a requirement to deliver the high energy I put into my performances. I don’t demand to eat with your guests, nor do I have any specific dietary requirements. However, if it’s not possible to partake in the food generally provided, a sandwich and some bottled water would be wonderful.

Do you accept tips?
Let me think for a sec…uh, yes. Are they expected? No, of course not, but like any service provider, I don’t mind if you show appreciation for my performance.

What if one of my guests gets “out of hand”?
I’m fine with people having a good time. However, you are responsible in case of injury to me or theft and physical damage to my equipment resulting from negligence of you or your guests.

Can I use your name in marketing for the event?
Absolutely. Please contact me to discuss creative ways to jointly market your event.

  “Steve Shoaf saved our wedding! The pianist we had hired a year before the wedding was unable to play and gave us very little notice. Steve was kind enough to step in just a few weeks prior to our date…he knew all the ceremony music even though they were not “traditional” songs. He played thru our cocktail hour as well as dinner and everyone commented on how wonderful his playing was. His music set a wonderfully romantic, elegant background for our affair. We will certainly recommend him to others! Many Thanks!”

 – Krissie C.