Live Music for your Wedding Day – Ten Top Tips
Choosing the right music for your wedding can be a daunting prospect. There are so many things to think about: what sort of music should I have before the ceremony as my guests arrive; how about as we walk in; music during the signing of the register; as the married couple leave the ceremony; drinks reception; wedding reception; should I look at using recorded music or employing the services of a live musician? Big questions to think about, all at a time when your mind is swimming with other pressing decisions! As an experienced wedding pianist and organist, I would like to offer you some helpful advice. Here are my Top Ten Tips…
ONE
The age old rivalry between live music and recorded music – yes recorded music is quick and easy to arrange, you can hand over the CD or more 21st century options of an iPod or Smartphone, and hey presto all your music is ready to play at the venue! But have you thought about the sound system? Could it break down at the crucial moment? Surely considering a musician, with vast experience of such important and unique occasions, would be an option? Each musician is passionate about their instrument and the music which they will provide. At a moment’s notice they can be flexible – fill in with more music; vary the speed of the piece; but more importantly, they are there to adapt to the ever changing mood and pace of the day.
TWO
Once you have chosen to have live music there are endless possibilities of what type of professional musician you should choose: soloist, be it a singer or musician; a string quartet. All of these musicians will have a wide repertoire of music setting the right mood for every aspect of your special day.
THREE
Thinking about booking your chosen musician needs to come fairly early in your preparations for the wedding. The very best musicians have a full diary and would not want you to miss out on them performing and ‘wowing’ your guests.
FOUR
The internet offers amazing flexibility in finding a musician. From the comfort of your own home you can visit their website, YouTube channel or social media page to get a feel of what they can offer as well as hear them play!
FIVE
Send an email or pick up the phone and have a chat about your initial thoughts. All musicians will be delighted to discuss your requirements and will offer music tailor made for you. To make a firm booking you normally pay a deposit, fill in a booking form and hey presto you’ve booked your live musician!
SIX
A consultation in a relaxed environment gives you a chance to share ideas. They will come with examples of their work and at every step, they are there to put you at ease and listen to your individual requirements. After all, it’s your special day and the musician is there to make it stand out from the crowd!
SEVEN
Keep in regular contact and update them. Flexibility should be their watch word and changes to music or timings can be made – but only if you keep them up to speed. Arrange final payment before the big day then its one less thing to think about.
EIGHT
2 weeks before, the musician will get in contact and check everything is in place. They will also contact the venue and arrange for rehearsal time, if needed, and arrange set up times.
NINE
The big day! The musician should arrive in good time and be ready to entertain your guests. Keep your musician in the picture about any last minute changes and don’t forget they can adapt to the changes as they happen. If they are playing for the Drinks Reception or Reception a kind thought is to offer some refreshments, especially if it is a hot day or if they are performing for a while. Always a welcome extra!
TEN
Musicians always love feedback – so that they can adapt their performance during proceedings. Above all, enjoy the day and take comfort in knowing that you’ve made your day unique by using a live musician instead of the common place recording!
Andrew Roberts BA (Hons) Q.T.S. MISM
Teacher, Organist, Pianist, Composer
