Selecting A Band For Wedding Parties And More
A DJ might be a bride’s first instinct in planning wedding entertainment, but a good idea is to look into a live band for wedding music. A live act can add a whole other level of atmosphere and interactivity rather and a disc jockey using CD’s on a sound system.
Some couples do a combination. A disc jockey can play the music for the dancing later on and might be the master of ceremonies for all of the announcements, but a live act can set the mood through dinner and cocktail hours. A band in this case might not always take up a lot of room with their gear maybe if it’s just a jazz quartet with a singer. It will really set the mood with the live sounds that a DJ can’t come close to achieving. At company parties, it’s common to see a smooth jazz act begin the evening and then a disc jockey takes the reins with more contemporary hits.
Live music is much more engaging than a sound system. There’s a synergy between the audience and the performer, where each one feeds off the mood and the result is sublime. A band can get a crowd moving with interactive fun, especially a rock act, with singalongs and can make guests feel as if they’re at a live concert.
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.
Finding a live band is not difficult. Ask friends for references, use bridal websites or magazines, go to bridal fairs where bands specializing in weddings often perform, or look in your local telephone book. When you find one, ask for samples of performances including DVD video and CD’s.
When you decide on a band, make sure you have a written contract. If they don’t offer one, insist on it. A good contract will protect both parties if anything strange occurs at the event. Most bands have entertainer’s insurance. It’s good to ask if they have that as well. When you find your venue make sure they have adequate power and an area for your band to play. Some bands require a lot of amplifiers and this can be problematic in some situations. Communicate all environmental variables to the band ahead of time so there’s no surprises. Also, try to help any band you hire by sorting out ahead of time where the will load and unload their gear.
Many groups will let you choose a selection of songs you want heard, but it’s not a good idea to try and dictate ahead of time what songs will be played. Professional acts will know what to play and when, being very sensitive to the ebb and flow of the mood, so trust them. It’s a good idea to give them a short list of favorites, but it’s probably best to just leave it at that.
If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your to finding a good band for wedding music.
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