Monday, June 7, 2010

What You Should Know Before You Hire Wedding Band

By Rick James

Your wedding is one of the most treasured nights of your life, so it's important to make sure that it's remembered for all the right reasons. Choosing the right musicians for your reception can make all the difference between a good wedding and a great wedding. Here are some tips and pointers to remember if want to hire wedding band.

The benefits of hiring a live band:

Live music creates a more intimate atmosphere, in which musicians can build up a relationship with their audience. They are also able to tailor their music to suit the different groups of people present, and respond to requests or to the general mood of the night. The lead singer may double as an MC, helping to keep the flow of the night.

When should you start looking?

You should start looking for a band a minimum of 6 months before the actual date of your wedding. This will give you enough time to make enquiries, sample music produced by different bands, and make sure that everyone is clear on all the details for the event.

How do you find the right band?

Take a moment to think about what kind of music you are after. Is there a particular style you want played at your reception? When you've thought about what music you want, start asking people what great bands they know of. You can ask friends and family, and anyone with experience in weddings, such as wedding planners, photographers and florists.

Where possible, try and see your potential entertainment performing live. This will give the best idea of their musical competency and the relationship they create with their audience. Otherwise, ask for a recording of their work, preferably in video format.

Discussing the details:

Ask the band for a copy of their play list well before the night and make sure that it has a wide variety of songs that will appeal your guests. A good band should be able to get a feel for the songs that will best suit their audience, and will also be open to any suggestions you might make. Many bands will also be happy to learn some new songs if you request them.

Always check with the venue first and find out if there are any space or sound restrictions. Discuss equipment and room size with your band, and find out if they have any special requirements. Take a look through the venue to make sure there are enough power outlets, and to see if the stage will be big enough to accommodate the whole band, especially if it has many members.

Write up a contract that has all possible details in it. It will help everyone to know exactly what is happening and what the expectations are. Include times and dates, set up, departure times, transport arrangements, attire, food and drinks, break times, overtime, payment schedules, insurance, and the unforeseen events and costs. If you have any special requests for particular pieces or play lists, or if you want your band to act as Master of Ceremonies (MC), add this to the contract as well. Name band members individually within the contract.

Have the band get to the reception venue about an hour before the event is set to start. This will give them time to set up and perform sound checks.

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