Where To Start
It might feel overwhelming at first because there’s so much to do- and it’s all so new. But no worries, you can do it. Friends who’ve recently gotten married can be a good source of contacts, suggestions and encouragement. They’ve been there, done that, and what better way to get great information than from a first-hand source! Wedding consultants, photographers, videographers and caterers all have experience working with musicians and may have many good recommendations. Don’t forget the place where you’re having the reception too, because more often than not, they’ll have lots of ideas and contacts.
Where the Musicians Are…
You can also find musicians through local chapters of the American Federation of Musicians, entertainment agencies, music schools and college music departments. For classical musicians, a good lead is a local symphony orchestra. Chances are many of these professionals are accustomed to playing at weddings. Various schools and agencies can be found with just a simple Google search- the Internet is a gold mine of information, in which the world is literally at your fingertips.
Save By Using Live Music Most Effectively
Sometimes, just a ‘taste’ of live music is all you need for a special touch. Think about having a harpist or keyboard player as people are arriving. This can set the tone and lend a special feeling to the Prelude just before your ceremony. You can easily switch to recorded music for the rest of your event, or you may decide to have the keyboardist play for the whole ceremony and Interlude (depending on your budget) and then switch to recorded music throughout. That way you have the best of both worlds- the ‘feel’ of live music PLUS the tremendous variety and range of recorded music, as well as saving on your music budget!
Sometimes Less Is More
If you decide to have a band, keep in mind that “too much band” can be a huge detriment to your reception especially if no one can talk or socialize over the loud music. Keep the size of the band in keeping with the size of the room- and your location. For a little more of a ‘live’ taste for your reception, you can have a 2 or 3 piece pop-jazz group with a live singer and it can be just as effective and fun as any big band. Do make sure in any event that the bandleader you hire is a great emcee. (For more information about emcees, read our article, “Your Wedding ‘Emcee’ – Master of Ceremony”)
Stay on the Same Page as Your Musicians with Pricing & Contract Details
Overtime’s expensive! Know just how long your contract calls for, or you can wind up paying lots of unexpected overtime fees at the end of the wedding. Make sure to have all your questions answered and spelled out in writing BEFORE the event!
2 Comments
great information you have there!! I learned lot.wedding Nowadays are very special to couples especially with a live music and bands which can bring life to the wedding!!…Budget is also important because of you do have wedding singers or bands which are not suitable with the price due to their performance well think of those musicians or wedding bands that are suitable with the budget but has its quality and standards in performing live during weddings…..
http://manhattanmusic.com
In my opinion live music band make’’s the differences at a weeding. If you have a nice band how knows what music to play , your weeding will be most beautifull. I will send a facebook friend req , i really like this website and blog. All the best to you