I was talking to a friend last night that was upset that a job he booked several weeks ago with nothing more than a handshake, was given to another group. He arrived at the job only to find that another band was already set up and had a contract in hand from the organization. My friend did not have a contract, and had to walk away. How many of you out there play private parties without first sending a contract and getting a deposit? And how good is that contract? The folling is a copy of the one I've used for the past several years, and I have never had a problem with it. A couple legal beagles looked at it and said it was as good as they come. If anyone on the forum wishes to use the same format, feel free.
CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT
TRAVLIN' EASY PRODUCTIONS
100 XXXXXXXXXX Rd.
XXXXXXX, MD
(410)555-5555

This agreement is made effective as of March 28, 2003, by and between Ms John doe, 39 Main Street, Anywhere, MD 00001, Representing the Gulf War Veterans Association, and Gary Diamond, of Travlin' Easy Productions, 100 XXXXXX Road, Anywhere, MD 21000.

A. Ms John Doe/Gulf War Veteran Association desires to employ the musical services of Travlin' Easy Productions (Gary Diamond).

Therefore the parties agree on the following:

1. Travlin' Easy Productions shall provide to Ms John Doe the following services: One (1), four-hour musical performance on Sunday, June 22, 2003, at a time to be determined by contractor at least 30 days prior to performance.

2. Travlin' Easy Productions agrees to perform faithfully, professionally and to the best ability, experience and talents, all of the duties that may be required by the express and implicit terms of the this Agreement. Such duties shall be provided at the residence of Mr James Doe, Smith Road, Anyplace, Maryland 00001.

3. Compensation: As compensation for the services provided by Travlin' Easy Productions (Gary Diamond) under this agreement, Ms John Doe will pay Travlin' Easy Productions (Gary Diamond) the sum of $200. A deposit of $100 shall be paid to Travlin' Easy Productions at least 30 days in advance of the performance. The balance of the compensation, $100, shall be paid on the date of performance.

4. Reimbursement for additional expenses: None required

5. Term/Termination. This agreement may be terminated by either party up to 15 days prior to the performance without penalty. No refunds will be made after that date.

6. Notices. All notices required or permitted under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed delivered when delivered in person or deposited in the United States Mail, Postage Paid, addressed as follows:

Contractor:
Ms John Doe
Town of Bel Air
39 Main Street
Anywhere, Maryland 20000

Service Provider:
Travlin' Easy Productions
C/O Gary Diamond
XXXXXXXXXX
Anyplace, MD 2XXXXX
(410)555-5555

7. Entire Agreement. This Agreement contains the entire agreement of the parties and there are no other promises or conditions in any other agreement whether oral or written. This agreement supersedes any prior written or oral agreements between the parties.

8. Amendments. This Agreement may be modified or amended, if the amendment is made in writing and signed by both parties at least 15 days prior to the performance. No modifications may be made after that date.

9. Severability. If any provisions of the Agreement shall be held invalid or unenforceable for any reason, the remaining provisions shall continue to be valid and enforceable. If a court finds that any provision of this Agreement is invalid or unenforceable, but that by limiting such provisions it would become valid or enforceable, then such provisions shall be deemed to be written, construed, and enforced as so limited.

10. Waiver of Contractual Right. The failure of either party to enforce any provisions of this agreement shall not be construed as a waiver or limitation of that party's right to subsequently enforce and compel strict compliance with every provision of this agreement.

11. Special considerations for outdoor performances. The Contractor shall provide adequate shelter to protect the Service Provider and the Service Provider's Equipment from: direct sunlight, rain, snow and winds in excess of 10 miles per hour. This can be in the form of a tent, tent/shelter, pavilion or covered stage area that is completely waterproof. If outdoor temperatures exceed 85 degrees f., the performer(s) attire may be modified to accomodate climatic conditions.

12. Electrical Power Requirements. A single, 20-ampere outlet is required to operate the musical equipment and amplifiers(s). This out must be a standard, 110-volt, grounded receptacle that is located within 25 feet of the performance site. If an extension cored is required, it must be a grounded, heavy-duty cable constructed from 12 gauge or heavier wire.

13. Applicable Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of Maryland.

By: __________________________________Date________________
Ms John Doe
(Gulf War Veterans Association)

By:___________________________________Date________________
Gary Diamond
Travlin' Easy Productions


Cheers,

Gary