Blue Prairie Dogs

Serves Oro Valley, AZ

35244

Hired 9 times

4 employees

33 years in business

$150/hour

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.

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Credentials

Background Check

Dan Oved
Completed on 1/7/2025

Introduction

Dan Oved is a singer, songwriter and founder of the Blue Prairie Dogs. Since 1991 the band has played original spicy western and country rock music. They also cover classic country, western and an eclectic variety of popular songs from Jimmy Buffet, Beatles, Eagles, blues, old times folk for example. Dan recently branched out to include campfire favorites to entertain young folks and he regularly invites kids and adults to sing-a-long. Dan Oved is available to perform solo, duo, trio or full 4 or 5 piece band. Dan says, “I truly enjoy entertaining audiences young and old. Music has always enriched my life, I played piano and violin throughout my k-12 school years. Eventually I found my passion for music was further inspired through guitar playing, song writing and singing harmonies with band mates. Music critics accurately describe my music as "cheerful, articulate and engaging", while others feel my music is "colorful, clever and humorous". Lol, I'm happy to agree!”

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

Our rates are custom designed to meet the client's needs and budget. Our rates range from $150 for a solo 1 hour performance up to $1,400 for a 5 piece band playing for 3 hours. We accept payment via cash or you can charge through PayPal or Square. Payment in full will be collected after the performance. I'm confident you will be be satisfied with our services. I work with excellent musicians, my band members are seasoned and talented professionals and our level of integrity is high. My rates reflect the quality of entertainment you will ultimately enjoy.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I will return inquiries within 24 hours. I carefully listen to the desires of the potential client. As needed, I send the client sound bites from our large repertoire of music and provide local references upon request. If the client likes our music then we work out a budget and customize music sets to meet the client's needs. We then write up a contract for our services.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I'm a lifelong musician. I began my musical training as a young child on piano. I progressed through violin and orchestra and I eventually found my heart soared within the western and folk rock genre. After graduating from college with a BS in math & sociology I played with bands in the clubs of New York City. In 1978 I moved to Tucson, Az and over several years crafted songs that reflect my love of the western U.S. and it's rich history.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I joined the Thumbtack team of professionals in July of 2016 to expand my outreach hoping to meet folks in need of my music services.

What types of customers have you worked with?

The Blue Prairie Dogs have played for a variety of clients, for example; at private parties like birthdays, BBQ's, retirements and weddings. We've played at holiday office parties and at a convention for dentists. We've played at Tucson's annual Folk Festival for 24 years, the 4th Ave Street Fair, at Marana Parks & Recreation family nights and for Tucson Food Co-op annual meetings. We've also played at 2 Harvest Festivals for the Waldorf School. I am a member of Southern Arizona Arts Council Association and through SAACA I’ve played several arts festivals and farmers markets. I've played campfire sing-a-longs at Unitarian Universalist's family camps and at grade school fundraisers. I've also played solo for art gallery openings, senior communities like The Fountains and The Inns, rehab centers and the Veteran's hospital/ home for disabled vets.

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

I've created a fun, family friendly campfire music set. We've made song books to share with campers and everyone has a magical time singing and listening to old favorites and new and easy-to-learn songs.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

To create a fun and memorable musical event please take your time to think through what style of music you feel would enhance your event. Do you want popular cover music? Would you prefer a specific genres like rock, folk, motown, hip hop, indie, reggae, jazz, blues, country, western or classical genres? What era are you drawn to like 1950-60’s, 70’s, 80’s etc. Are you adventurous and would you love to hear original music? Would you like a mix of traditional and new music, oldies or clever remakes of favorites? Consider whether you want to set an ambient tone of background music or perhaps you want dance music. Maybe your guests will want to be entertained with a performance that includes audience participation and funny songs that lighten their hearts. We can work out a custom set for you! Finally you'll need to clarify a budget that you are comfortable with. I offer several options to help you stay within your budget.