Every bride knows that music is an important part of her wedding, but choosing wedding musicians does not have to be a challenge, especially when you know what to look for and exactly what is expected. 

Ceremony Music Basics

Should you use a wedding Top Ten list to select your music?  Well, that depends.  The songs on those lists are there because they are the most popular selections played at weddings.  These may be great songs, but they’re not unique.  If you’re looking to add something special to your wedding, ask your music planner for some alternate suggestions.  An experienced music planner will have a list of appropriate ceremony music for you to review.

Where the musicians are seated is also an important, and often overlooked, part of wedding planning.  There are vital cues that your musicians must be able to see in order to keep the flow of the ceremony.  Sufficient performance space is also critical since some instruments need more room.  Ask your music planner if there are any specific requirements.

The Great Outdoors

Every bride hopes for perfect weather.  If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, include a “Plan B” for weather contingencies, be prepared to use it, and your day will go much smoother.  It’s important for a bride to communicate with her musicians during planning to make sure these items are covered satisfactorily for both parties.

Extreme heat, cold, and any type of precipitation are concerns for musicians.  Valuable instruments, electronic gear, and amplification systems allow your guests to hear the ceremony, but are terribly sensitive to the elements. Many musicians have specifics in their contracts for playing outdoors.  This can include shade from direct sunlight or a weatherproof enclosure from wind and rain.

Using an internet weather site for the wedding day forecast can be important.  If there is a “chance of thunderstorms” in the forecast, it may be best for everyone to use the backup plan.  Your guests (and your musicians!) will feel more at ease if they aren’t watching dark clouds and you won’t be concerned about having to call the ceremony at the last minute because of a downpour.

Mark Your Calendar

Many musicians book 6-12 months out, especially for popular dates. By selecting your group early, signing a contract, and placing a deposit, your date is guaranteed and you will be able to begin planning your ceremony music in plenty of time.  It is important to sign a contract so that both parties have written documentation, which can be updated as planning proceeds.

Finally, when choosing your musicians, work with a professional group who offers music planning services and performs together frequently at weddings.  If you hire musicians, you get people who can play instruments.  If you hire wedding musicians, you get people who are familiar with many types of ceremonies, as well as any specifics for your faith.  By working closely with your musicians before your wedding day, you will be able to listen and enjoy your ceremony and your guests will be talking about your wedding for a long time.

- Eric Foose and Diane Albert

Eric Foose is the pianist and musical director of the Allegheny Highlands Chamber Trio.  He, along with partners Alane Foose on flute and Diane Albert on cello and saxophone, provide an unique mix of classical and light jazz musical selections for weddings, dinner receptions, and other special events.

State College Wedding Ceremony Music, www.ahctrio.com
(814) 742-9145
info@ahctrio.com

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