Testimonials From Backtalk Band
customers
January16, 2010
Radiology Associates Post-Holiday Party
Ramada Inn, Ithaca, NY
Dear Bob, and all the members of Backtalk,
Thank you so much for playing at the Radiology Associates post-holiday party
last night! The music was awesome!
You are all so talented and professional. You played a great variety of music.
Thanks for making our event so special!
Gratefully yours,
Amelia & Anthony Massi
amassi@twcny.rr.com
August 16, 2009
Wedding
The Fountainebleau Inn, Alpine, NY
Jim,
It was a real joy having Backtalk as our wedding band and we can't thank
you enough for making our party fun and special!!
Best,
Rose Lillich (bride)
rlillich@gmail.com
August 15, 2009
Commodore's Ball
Ithaca Yacht Club, Ithaca, NY
As to last weekend, you're very kind to write but it seems like I should
be the one sending the thanks. You and your colleagues did an outstanding
job at the Ball. When I was working with the Club staff on the arrangements
I mentioned that I very much wanted the evening to bring a bit of magic into
the lives of those who attended. From the feedback I've received, we clearly
were able to do that...and in no small measure due to Backtalk's wonderful
performance. Just as I'd hoped, you provided an array of music to beautifully
complement the stages of the evening and did a great job of ever so delicately
enticing the various ages out onto the dance floor. It was really neat to
see true professionals at work. I had a great time and I know I speak for
the rest of the attendees in expressing both our thanks your efforts and
our admiration for your skill. Well done!
Frank Wayno - Commodore
fjw2@cornell.edu
607-255-8009
July 25, 2009
Wedding
Statler Hotel, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
Lucy and I would like to thank you for making our wedding reception one helluva
party in the Statler at Cornell. As we co-ordinated everything from Japan,
you made organizing the event so much easier and a lot of fun. From Bob's
solo performance through the cocktails and the entire bands performance at
the reception, your professionalism was reflected thorough your fantastic
beats and the crowded dance-floor. I would strongly recommend other couples
to sign this band early. They are the best in the area and will make for
a memorable event for all to remember.
Half of our guests were between the age of 20 and 30 and they never left
the dance floor...in addition to the older folk. You did a great job of playing
songs that 'fit the moment' and kept people dancing. You can't beat some
of the classics that EVERYONE. regardless of age, knows by heart and want
to dance to. Jim Lawrence was also our Master of Ceremony and did a great
job when it came to introductions of the bridal party and speeches.All in
all they really made our reception one to remember and I highly recommend
you book them early. We did 2 years in advance as they are very popular and
do a fantastic job.
Kindest regards, Tex and Lucy
You guys were great...many thanks!!
Dr. Matthew 'Tex' VerMilyea
drtexivf@mac.com
Tel: +001-301-977-2010
Mob: +001-301-956-6142
June 6, 2009
Cornell University 50th Reunion - Class of 1959
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Jim,
You guys were great. I havenít danced that much in years.
Weíve got to figure out how we get you on the road so we can do it
again in Columbia County or NYC.
Thanks again,
Harry
Harry J. Petchesky
Cornell Class of 1959
Harry@scheichetdavis.com
April 1, 2009
Cornell University Annual Service Awards Banquet,
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
(over 500 guests in attendance, including President David Skorton)
Jim,
As usual everyone LOVED the music last night. Thanks to all of the members
of Backtalk and a special thanks to you for working on your night of celebration.
Congratulations and thanks for everything.
Cheryl
Manager / Employee Outreach and Connections
Division of Human Resources / Cornell University 607-255-7565
crm54@cornell.edu
November 24, 2008
Wedding
La Tourelle, Ithaca, NY
Dear Jim,
It's hard to believe that it was already over three years ago that we tied
the knot at La Tourelle Inn in our beloved Ithaca, NY. In the spirit
of "better late than never", we wanted to finally take this opportunity to
thank you and the Backtalk Band for helping to make June 24, 2005 the happiest
day of our lives.
We will never forget how great the music was - the dance floor was always
packed! And you guys played all the songs we requested and also did
a great job as M.C. We selected you as our reception musicians because
we saw how well you appeal to multiple generations - everyone from grandparents
to grandkids had a blast. Best of all, we appreciated your enthusiasm
and passion for facilitating an unforgettable celebration through your music.
Please accept the enclosed photos as a token of our thanks, and feel free
to display the photos, and/or this letter as a testimonial for your
business. Again, thank you so much for being such an important part
of our special day!
Jenny & Brian Colicchia
(Please email Jim jsl10@cornell.edu
for contact info)
October 26, 2008
Wedding
Belhurst Castle, Geneva, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
Thank you for everything. People had a great time and there were many
compliments about the band and the music.
Ben & Leanne Loyd
leanrums@aol.com
October 4, 2008
Wedding
Cortland Alumni House, Cortland, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
Kristen and I wanted to thank you for making our wedding such a memorable
event for us and our guests. We couldnít have been happier with your
performance. Everyone had a blast, and we continue to hear from others how
great the music was! Jim was a great MC, who kept the party moving and on
schedule without being in the way. And I was impressed with the bandís
talent level and musicianship. You guys also know how to read a crowd, because
the dance floor was full the entire night. Also, the staff at the Alumni
House were impressed, and made a point of telling us that you were the best
band that they ever had.
Thanks again, and please feel free to use us as a reference in the future.
Best,
Jason Rushing
jason.rushing@gmail.com
July 18 and August 15, 2008
Wagner Vineyards Pub Nights Summer 2008
Wagner Vineyards, Lodi, NY
The Backtalk Band played twice this summer at Wagner Vineyards Pub Nights
and I can honestly say they were the best sounding band all summer. Each
member of the band performed exceptionally in every song. The big crowds
that showed up for the performances were dancing, singing, and having a great
time. I had many people coming up to me asking for them to return next summer
for Pub Nights in 2009. I look forward to booking the band for future
performances. Thanks again for the two great nights of live music,
Kevin Lee
Manager
Wagner Vineyards Retail Sales
k.lee@wagnervineyards.com
July 31, 2008
Don Barber for Senate Campaign Event
Ithaca, NY
Jim - Backtalk is always a great group to bring out a happy, relaxed feeling
in a crowd. You did it again! Thank you and your team - so very
much!
Don Barber (for State Senate)
and ....
Hi Jim,
It's hard to believe a week has gone by since the event. My heartfelt thanks
for making it such an incredible success. You guys sounded terrific and everyone
had such a wonderful time. It was terrific seeing you, and Don and
I think the world of you.
In friendship,
Rita
Rita Rosenberg-Barber
barber.rita@gmail.com
Barber for Senate
Campaign Scheduler
January 26, 2008
Retirement Party - City Planner of Ithaca, NY
Center Ithaca, Ithaca, NY
Jim and fellow players,
Thanks so much for your wonderful playing last night. Many people asked me
who the band was, and, of course, I told them. I hope at
least a few have the opportunity to hire you all for something.
You made the party really sparkle. I truly appreciate your musicianship and
the fun you brought to the occasion.
Warm regards,
Beth and Thys
pvc@twcny.rr.com
October 7, 2007
Wedding
Aurora Inn, Aurora, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
Jeff and I would like to thank you profusely for your performance at our
Oct. 7, 2007 wedding! We just received our wedding video a few weeks
ago and were so excited to see your sets, both during the cocktail hour and
during the reception. Our guests were up and dancing all night - and
truly enjoying themselves - which is all that we could have ever hoped
for! We had a great time and you guys far exceeded our expectations
and wishes! In fact, one of our guests (getting married in CA) are
using you guys as their "wedding music inspiration"! Thank you!
Thank you!
Elizabeth and Jeff Marshall
September 15, 2007
Wedding
Fontainebleau Inn, Alpine, NY
Dear Jim & The Backtalk Band,
We can't thank you enough for everything you did to make our wedding day
so special. The music was perfect!
We had so much fun and our guests are still commenting on my father's new
dance moves - no one has ever
seen him move like that! Thanks again! All the best,
Angela & Scott Braun (bride and groom)
angvitale1@aol.com
September 1, 2007
Wedding
Traditions at the Glen, Endicott, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
Just wanted to thank you all for a wonderful performance at my wedding reception
on 9/1. As somebody who appreciates music, I was so impressed.
All my guests thought you were fabulous and wanted to know who you were.
Thanks for making my event a huge success.
Liza & Todd Szelkowski
electra18424@cox.net
June 7, 2007
Cornell University Class of 1962 - Reunion Weekend
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
You were the star of our dinner dance! The music of the '50s and '60s was
just what classmates wanted along with the selection of more current music.
The Backtalk Band made it possible to reconnect with our classmates through
music and dance. "Book that band for our 50th!" was heard more than once.
Thank you for your part in making memories!
Ruth Bleyler
ruth.bleyler@valley.net
June 5, 2007
Cornell University Service Awards Banquet
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Dear Jim,
We just wanted to thank you, and the Backtalk Band, for providing wonderful
musical entertainemnt at the June 5th Service Recognition event. The
feedback that we received was overwhemingly positive - attendees thoroughly
enjoyed your music. Again, thank you!
Nancy Doolittle (Co-Chair, Service Awards)
njd3@cornell.edu
Betsy Shrier (Co-Chair, Service Awards)
eas6@cornell.edu
June 3, 2007
Wedding
Tradations at the Glen, Endicott, NY
A couple of years ago, while we were in law school and still just dating,
we decided to go to a Cornell law school reunion on a whim. At that reunion,
we had an absolute blast all because of the band playing that night. All
of us in attendance could not stop raving about them. At one point in the
evening, to no one in particular,
I said, "These guys will play at my wedding."
Well, as you can probably guess by the fact that we are writing this testimonial,
that band was the Backtalk Band, they did play at our wedding, and it was
absolutely terrific. We were worried before the reception that our friends
and family might be a little reserved and that no one would dance. I even
charged one of my groomsmen with the task of getting people up and dancing
should it start to lag like a lot of receptions tend to do. To the credit
of the Backtalk Band, he never had a chance to fulfill that task. The minute
the band started playing, the dance floor was full. I had never in my life
seen my parents dance, so that should tell you a little something about their
performance.
Without exception, we are thrilled with the way the night turned out. From
beginning to end, it was exactly how we envisioned it. Backtalk Band has
our deepest appreciation and our highest recommendations.
Kenny and Rachel
bigredwedding@gmail.com
June 1, 2007
Wedding
Belhurst Castle, Geneva, NY
Thank You for a great time! We all had a blast and me and my father could
not have danced to livelier band. Everyone thought you all were fantastic!
Clare & Pete (bride & groom)
clareann79@hotmail.com
pcrowley@rockbottom.com
Oct. 21, 2006
Wedding
Fontainebleau Inn, Alpine, NY
Dear Jim (and the band) -
We want to thank you for your amazing performance at our wedding on Oct.
21. The whole night is a blur, but how much fun we and our friends had dancing
is very clear. Of all the comments we've received from our guests, the top
one is how great our band was. You played exactly the right mix of music
for everyone at the the wedding. Thank you helping make our day so special
- please share our thanks with the rest of the band.
Cassie & Eric Larson (bride & groom)
cassandra.coffman@gmail.com
eslarson@rcn.com
August 5, 2006
Wedding
Lincklaen House, Cazenovia, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
We can't thank you enough for the wonderful job you did at our wedding! The
music was truly outstanding, from the cocktail hour jazz all the way to the
end of the reception. The songs were perfect and we had everyone of all ages
out on the dance floor! We had wanted a small, intimate wedding but also
a joyful celebration, and the music just sparked the party. We were thrilled!
We have received so many compliments from our family and friends who also
loved the band! Mary Margaret at the Linklaen House was impressed with your
professionalism, and we appreciate all the effort in coordinating setup and
taking that off our shoulders too! Also, my parents couldn't have been happier
with our band choice and would love to be a referral for the band, if ever
needed. Again, many many thanks! The entertainment was perfect and we won't
forget all the joy you brought to our wedding day.
All the best,
Emily & Eric Walker
"Eric
Walker" eric.walker@uconn.edu
"Emily
Taylor" emily223@gmail.com
Emily's parents: 315-449-9470
December 3, 2005
Wedding
Statler Hotel Ballroom
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
When you are preparing to throw a wedding for 250 family and friends, you
want all the details ironed out well in advance, with as little fuss as possible,
so that you can focus on your daughter and on the celebration. That's what
you want. As a veteran of three daughters' weddings--the last, on December
3, 2005--I can tell you that often, "little fuss" is not what you get. Let's
take bands and DJ's for example. Some think it's their party, not yours.
They wear what they want, and play what they want, not what you have requested,
or play poorly, or look disinterested or bored with the proceedings, or have
breaks longer than their sets, or use equipment that takes constant, obvious
fiddling to operate, or have a limited repertoire of what they can produce
with any quality.
Want to avoid all these hassles at your next event? Hire Backtalk, the band
that made our reception a smashing success! From the earliest contact, Backtalk
was easy to deal with. Their website made it easy for our west coast daughter
to hear samples of their work, while her east coast parents sat back and
let her make musical choices for the event. Because the band's repertoire
includes over 2000 songs, Kate had no trouble filling out her evening's playlist.
The guys showed up in their best bib and tucker, and were set up and ready
to go when we needed them. No muss, no fuss, no bother. This versatile group
played soft jazz and big-band numbers during the dinner, "tuned to the room,"
so that guests were easily able to converse at their tables. I liked that
they had anticipated that such an accompaniment to the dinner would add to
our experience.
With dinner over and 250 people ready to party, the band lit up the room
with selections from the '60's on up, from Motown to Liverpool to Nashville
to CBGB's, their sets a closely woven medley of one song seamlessly blending
into another. Throughout the evening, the band were clearly enjoying doing
their work! Their breaks were brief, with CD's supporting those who danced
non-stop until the wee hours of the morning. The band handled numerous requests
with grace and ease, as long as the tunes were consistent with what the bride
had requested. My daughter and her new husband were delighted with their
special evening, and with the Backtalk band who "stirred the drink." Margaret
and I, as host and hostess for the party, could not have been happier with
our choice of the Backtalk Band! And I was so glad that I had booked them
almost a year to the day before the big event. They stay busy because they
are the best at what they do. Want to guarantee that the musical note of
your big day is a hit? Book Backtalk!
Richard Steinacher (Father of the
Bride)
steinachers@earthlink.net
September 17, 2005
Wedding
Traditions at the Glen, Johnson City, NY
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you and the members of "The
Backtalk Band" for the wonderful performance at our wedding reception. You
were above and beyond our expectations. Everyone, right down to the youngest
enjoyed the music. We are still getting asked who the band was.
Rob and I would definitely recommend "The Backtalk Band" to anyone and if
we ever need a band for any future occasions, we will surely call upon your
group.Thanks again for a great performance and being a part of our special
evening. What a great end to a very special evening for Rob and I.
Take care, Tammy & Rob Beck
TBeck@smlny.com
August 6, 2005
Wedding
Fontainebleau Inn, Alpine, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
Lisa and I wanted to thank you for an absolutely fabulous evening of dancing
thanks to your outstanding performance at our wedding. Not only was your
playing marvelously arranged and technically flawless - it was sincerely
energetic and fun, which we and our friends and family could feel as we danced
the night away. You were also impeccably dressed and professional throughout,
providing introductions, microphones and background music when appropriate.
Basically, you guys were perfect and we couldn't have asked for a better
band. If you ever need a reference, please don't hesitate to ask, as we will
provide a glowing recommendation. Again, thanks for a terrific evening!
All the best,
Jon Slemmer (& Lisa)
June 26, 2005
Wedding
Fontainebleau Inn, Alpine, NY
"If your gang likes to dance, then this is the Band for you! The Backtalk
Band played for our daughter's wedding reception this summer and the dance
music was non-stop. The dance floor was overflowing with everyone singing
and dancing to one favorite after another.
We were so impressed with The Backtalk Band and very thankful for the added
dynamic they brought to the reception, making a night to remember even more
special! Thank you to the boys in The Backtalk Band!"
Kevin and Holly Keegan
keegan@epix.net
December 4, 2004
Wayne County Hospital Group Gala Ball Fundraiser
Newark, NY
"We had a great time. . . I love your music. We got very good feedback from
the crowd. I think the fact that the dance floor was full all night, right
til goodnight, is evidence that everyone enjoyed themselves. I will not hesitate
to pass your name on to others. I hope we have a chance to spend the evening
together again."
Karen Kehoe
AndreSis@aol.com
and
The Backtalk Band was a great success! People are still talking about
how the music was a key element to the upbeat party and gemultlicht of the
occasion. The band members are so very accomplished that I hope to hear the
other formats someday. You worked well with the committee and with the
guests.
Malcolm O'Malley
Malcolm.O'Malley@viahealth.org
Newark-Wayne Community Hospital and DeMay Living Center
October 15, 2004
Wedding
Springside Inn, Auburn, NY
Just wanted to drop you a quick note to let you know that your band did a
great job Friday evening. Everyone had a great time and you keep them all
dancing all night. Many of the guests came up to me and wanted to know who
the band was because they enjoyed the music.
Thanks Again, Dawn (Sister of the bride)
west@dreamscape.com
October 2, 2004
Wedding
Red Newt Winery, Hector, NY
I'm delighted to tell you how much I enjoyed your music at the Wedding I
attended on October 4, 2004 At the Red Newt. I was very very impressed. I
must admit that I had been told what a great band you were. But coming from
Chicago and being involved in the music scene here, I wasn't expecting much
from "out in the country". Boy was I wrong! Your selections –
and volume- were perfect for dinner. When the dancing started, you showed
a remarkable versatility and built the mix, the volume and the pace to get
the whole group up on their feet. I humbly admit my big city prejudices
were unfounded. Thanks for a great evening.
Karen Morby (mother of bride)
312-829-2926
karen@christywebber.com
September 25, 2004
Wedding
Aurora Inn, Aurora, NY
We received so many compliments from our guests and wedding party on your
performance. It was wonderful, and we were so thrilled we selected Backtalk
to perform at the cocktail hour and reception. Thank you and your team for
making our night so memorable!
Best,
Amy (bride)
amy.l@sterlingbrands.com
Matt (groom) mstevens@fwcse.com
September 11, 2004
Wedding
LakeWatch, Ithaca, NY
"Holly and I really appreciated your performance at our wedding, your band
did an excellent job! We both got great feedback from our guests, and your
participation really contributed to great evening for us with a nice touch
of class. Thanks for your participation. Regards, Mark"
"Just wanted to send a note saying how much we enjoyed your band at Holly
and Marks' wedding reception at Lakewatch in Ithaca Sept. 11. It was so much
fun dancing to the music I love played with such enthusiasm and professionalism.
Many comments on how great the band was and I enthusiastically agreed.
Thanks for helping make the reception a happy and memorable experience.
"
Mark & Holly Meuisse
mmeurisse@palisade.com
August 28, 2004
Commodore's Ball
Ithaca Yacht Club, Ithaca, NY
"I received numerous very enthusiastic comments on the music and the band
members: " The band was the best we've had in a long time..." The band played
great music... and the musicians were friendly; they seemed to enjoy playing
and interacting with the crowd..." "Can we get the same band again next year?"
The band really made the party.... magic..." "What a successful evening...
the people, the food, the band..."
Robin M. Rogers, Commodore
Ithaca Yacht Club
January 2, 2004
Wedding
Tinneli's Hathaway House, Solon, NY
My daughter Sarah was married this past January (2004) and we just had a
great time at both the wedding and reception. But if you ask me what made
the reception truly great, it was the Backtalk Band. They were the difference.
A wedding reception should be fun, and they made it that. They have an incredible
variety of music that they can play - jazz, blues, pop, rock & roll,
etc., etc., etc. - and everything they do is more than excellent. We had
many positive comments about the band for weeks afterwards (including one
today, which is May 6) - everyone really enjoyed what Backtalk did.
We debated on whether to save a few bucks and hire a DJ to play CD's. I am
so glad that we had a live band. More than that, I am so glad that we had
the Backtalk Band. If you are looking for a good local band - there are a
lot of them out there, but if you want the best local band - then you'll
have to get the guys from Backtalk. I promise you, you won't regret it.
Sarah Daniels (bride)
sarahdaniels04@yahoo.com
David Daniels (bride's father):
dcd3@cornell.edu
November 8, 2003
Wedding
Trillium at Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
Dear Backtalk Band,
Thank you so much for making our reception an extra special and highly
entertaining night to remember! We sincerely appreciate your flexibility
and hard work to make our reception exactly what we'd hope it would be.
It was a pleasure and a joy to have you perform and we're sure all our guests
would agree. Thanks again for a great performance!
With warmest regards,
Pete & Kell
Peter Bronski (groom)
peterbronski@hotmail.com
September 6, 2003
Wedding
Sheldrake Point Winery, Ovid, NY
Karl writes: "They were EXCELLENT! Very versatile in their music. Very
professional looking (they wear tuxes) and sounding. Did an excellent job
of introducing the wedding party etc. They take minimal breaks and had everyone
at the reception dancing and having fun. Many of our guests later asked where
I found such a good band. I would hire them again in a heartbeat. Did you
listen to their music on their website? If not, then do so..it's a good
representation of their sound and versatility. They played light jazz/pop
music while we ate and later rock & roll, blues etc to dance to. Slow
stuff and faster stuff."
Jennifer (bride)
jennifer.messmer@cbre.com
Karl Messmer (father of bride)
kmessmer@zoom-dsl.com
May 3, 2003
Wedding
Greystone Castle, Canistota, NY
Thanks again for such a fabulous job - we have gotten SO many compliments
on the band. One woman who's daughter is only 20 now said that she'd be in
touch to get your name when her daughter gets married several years from
now!
Melissa Radley Guarracino
melissa.radley@yale.edu
June 8, 2002
Wedding
Wagner Vineyards, Ginny Lee Cafe
Lodi, NY
We have gotten so many wonderful remarks about the reception and the quality
of music you provided. I would certainly provide a reference and feel free
to have future couples email me. You all are very talented, play an array
of music for everyone, and present as very professional which added to the
wedding. I did not want it to end. Thank you again for helping make the day
a success.
Judith Johnson (Mother of the Bride)
jbjohnson@tompkins-co.org
June 7, 2002
Cornell Reunion Class of 1962 Party
Trillium Cafe, Cornell University
Ithaca, NY
All of my classmates thoroughly enjoyed the Backtalk Band, as witnessed by
the dancing that most everyone participated in! Several folks commented on
how you were able to zero in on the musical style that our class seemed to
want to hear. The music for the reception was absolutely on target as well.
I, for one, was impressed with everyone's musicianship and personality. The
entire evening was a success--assisted by the music!
Thanks again,
Ruth Bleyler '62
Ruth.Z.Bleyler@VALLEY.NET
September 29, 2001
Wedding
Clarion Hotel, Ithaca, NY
I just wanted to send you a quick note to thank you for such a great performance
at our reception on September 29th. We just got our pictures back, and there
is not one shot from the reception where someone isn't dancing. All anyone
could talk about that night was how great the music was and how well you
read the crowd. I always knew my family was a dancing bunch, but that night
they even surprised me. Please feel free to use Roger and I as a reference--we
can't sing your praises enough.All the best, and I hope I get to see you
guys in action again!
Cynthia and Roger Rumsey
CQuimby@cravath.com
212-474-1744
September 9, 2000
Wedding
Wagner Vineyards - Ginny Lee Cafe
Lodi, NY
Backtalk is the talk of the town after its performance at the Hangar Theater's
annual gala. The band combines the playing of some of the best solo musicians
in town with a great ensemble feel to rock the house! "This band can play
anything!" was the shared sentiment from the exhausted but very happy dancers
at the gala. Backtalk is a Hangar gala tradition, one that keeps getting
better every year. From standards to 20-minute rock and roll medleys (not
for the faint of heart!) Backtalk is a band to talk about!
Sincerely,
Renee
renee_vogt@merck.com
(610) 397-3263 or (610) 970-9286 eve
