Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Hiring A Band For Wedding Receptions

By Jilley Walsh


Disc Jockeys are often the first choice of brides when planning their wedding, but another consideration might be selecting a live band for wedding music instead. A band can add a whole other level of ambiance to a wedding or function versus a DJ playing pre-recorded music on a sound system.

Sometimes couples choose to go with both, and a DJ plays music for the dancing later on in the evening, and a band plays throughout cocktail time and when food is served. This can be nice to have some smooth jazz or a jazz vocalist performing without being overly loud or being a specific song that people may or may not like. The mood will be set with some soft tunes, and a live act is much more pleasant to listen to over a disc jockey. Sometimes you'll see this at corporate parties as well.

A live band can captivate a crowd a lot better than someone with a sound system. The crowd and the performers kind of give each other energy as the mood heightens. A band can get an audience really excited and fired up with games and activities, such as singing along with music and can make your guests feel like they're in the front row of a great concert event.

Specific types of music are more appropriate for live bands. In the case of a party having a rap or dance music theme, you might want to stick with a DJ. If you're going with rock music, or country, then it's good to go with a band.

Looking for a band is quite easy. Ask co-workers and friends if they know anyone or have ever hired a band before. Look at magazines, go to bridal fairs, check your yellow pages, or do a search for "band for hire" on the internet. When you do find a band that interests you, ask for a recording of one of their gigs, maybe a video or CD.

Once you've selected the band you want, get a contract written up. If they don't offer one, make your own and get it signed before you pay any deposit. A well thought out agreement in writing will protect everyone. Think about the results if the band doesn't show up. The contract should address this. Most bands hold insurance specially made for entertainers. Ask if they have this as some venues might even require it. Check with the venue ahead of time to make sure there is adequate space and power for the band to set up and figure out ahead of time where the loading and unloading areas are.

A lot of bands will work with you on the kind of music you want played and give you a playlist of songs they know. It's not always best to try and plan out each song you want them to play, but it's okay to give a bit of guidance. You have to trust the band as professional entertainers to make good song choices to keep everyone interested.

Hiring a band for wedding music is a fantastic idea, and can be a way to make your wedding one to remember for years to come.




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