Every band I worked with wanted my program of dances well in advance, and then asked me for copies of any music they did not have. In some cases, they transposed tunes to easier keys so that their performance would sound better. In every case, they assembled a folder of music for my event, so that there would be no fumbling around with music between dances. English bands are familiar with a much broader repertoire than most American contra or ECD musicans. One evening at Halsway Manor ended with an exuberant Israeli circle dance following my last programmed longways.
English bands have greater responsibilities at an event than American bands or musicians.
First, the band, not the event organizer, is responsible for the sound system. Having a consistent roster of musicians and using the same equipment which they have calibrated to achieve optimal sound, makes for consistently good sound. Bands are also responsible, as I indicated earlier, for having a huge variety of music at hand, ready for any last-minute changes of programs or choice of tune where none is specified. This results somewhat from the use of accordions and well-calibrated sound systems, as well as from conscious artistic decisions. The musicians do considerably less ornamentation and variation of the melody than we do in the States.