Live Music Hiring Tips For Wedding Receptions

When you are looking to hire live music entertainment for your wedding reception, there are numerous choices at hand.

Let's step back a bit to decide what constitutes live music.

Here's the general list:

1) bands (various genres and mixtures of music)

2) string ensembles

3) jazz ensembles

Sure they are other types of live music, but the above list made up over 80% of our bookings last year.

It really depends upon what type of reception you wish to have. Some prefer a more classical
environment where usually string musicians perform while others want a more livelier affair.

For this article, we will discuss the key points in hiring any live music. We are assuming you know the type of live music you want.

1) If possible, go to a live performance.

Unless you receive a live recording, most mp3 recordings and other samples are usually studio
based. When attending a live event, watch the group's mannerisms, stage persona, and interaction with the audience. You won't have to worry about this with classical ensembles because they are mostly instrumental.

The best event to view a band is at another wedding. This may prove difficult if you aren't in the
wedding party or an invited guest.

When viewing a band at non-wedding event, take careful note of the band's sound as well as
professionalism.

2) Get all your questions answered.

Ask lots of questions!

When you have questions, don't hesitate to ask and make sure you get a complete answer. This is key to booking any act.

The more formal your reception is, the more questions you will have. If want to have the traditional wedding reception with formal introductions, toasts, and dances, provide the band/ensemble with the necessary details.

3) Make sure you know how much space the band will need.

Not a good scene when a 7 piece band shows up and there is only space available for 5 members or less.

Find out the maximum amount of space allowed for the musicians. Some bands still may be
able to downsize without sacrificing sound to meet your needs.

Oh, and don't forget the sound techicians. There should be a section for them as well.