How many musicians do I need?
The size of the wedding party is the key to this question. A duo with discreet amplification can happily entertain a group of up to 60-70 people. A trio can cope with up to 100 people. As the party size increases, so does the size of the venue. You need more happening on stage to catch the attention and get the party going. A four or five-piece band with a small PA sound system is generally required if the party is 100 or more.
To entertain 200 people and beyond, the quality of the PA system and the lighting for the stage and dance-floor becomes crucial to the success of the event. An act is required that is able to present a “stage show” that not only sounds good but also looks good, in terms of movement and costume, with the ability to catch the attention of the crowd … even those at the back of a big hall!
How do I find the right band?
The quality of musicianship is the most important factor. Listen to recordings of the band performing live, where available.
Repertoire and experience come next. How long has the band been involved in wedding entertainment? Can you talk to a “satisfied customer” … a couple who used the band for their wedding and were, hopefully, delighted with the result? If it’s possible, watch the band perform live.
How will the performance be organised?
You can expect approximately 3×45 minute sets of live music in a four hour period … or 2×1 hour sets, if it suits you better. If the musicians are carrying a PA system, they will probably come equipped with a CD player and will be able to play CDs of a similar style of music for half an hour before the first set and in the breaks between the sets, giving professional-quality background music when the band is offstage.
For peace of mind, organize your music through a reputable agency like Manhattan City Music. Make sure you receive, sign and return a contract stipulating when the band will arrive, when the performance will take place and the agreed amount of remuneration. You should expect to be able to talk to the bandleader a few weeks before the wedding to discuss any specific preferences you require.
That first dance is something really special. If you approach the band well before the event, the guys will usually be prepared to learn your chosen song, if it’s not already in their repertoire.
How much should I expect to pay?
Reliability and quality of performance are the two attributes that are essential for headache-free, successful music at a wedding. If you go for cheap, you are likely to sacrifice either or both of the above!
Depending on the versatility of the musicians, the quality of equipment (PA system … possibly back lighting for the stage and for the dance-floor), the price increases. Larger bands cost proportionately more.
Call us for a quote @ 212-678-0445
Manhattan City Music is a company that provides music of all styles and types for weddings, birthday parties and corporate events in the New York. To find out more about all aspects of wedding music planning and to get up-to-date info on live music for weddings in the New York. We are a company run by musicians, so you can be sure that all the important aspects of your live wedding music will be attended to by knowledgeable, experienced professionals.
