Isn't it awkward when you are at a wedding reception, and no one is dancing?  Or maybe you're the one who dislikes the dancing part and you run and hide when the music starts pumping.  Wouldn't you feel more comfortable if EVERYONE was on the dance floor? 

How can you prevent the dreaded empty dance floor at your wedding?  You want everyone to have a good time - how can you guarantee it?  One of the latest trends in the wedding industry is choosing a live band for your wedding.

In Centre County, how do you make that happen?  Where do you begin?

Area bandleader and musician Rick Hirsch has offered us some advice of what types of questions to ask when inquiring about live music.

1.       What types of music do they play?  You want to know if their style will fit with your reception theme.  You will want to ask for references, demos or some type of sampling of their music, and what past customers have said about them.  It's also much more convenient for you if they have a website with these things posted.

2.       How large is the band?  You'll want to find out how many members are in the band, as well as how much room will they need at your reception site.  Also, make sure they have someone to emcee for you since this is typically something a DJ would take care of for you.  A live band is great, but if they don’t have the experience to announce the wedding party – take caution! 

3.       What will they wear?  Sounds like a silly question, but if your wedding is formal they better not be wearing jeans.  Find out what the overall look of the band is, what they will be wearing that day and how they will fit in with your overall theme.

4.       What happens during a break?  Will there be music playing when they need to “take 5”?  How frequent are the breaks?

5.       What songs are in their repertoire?  It would be good for you to see a list to make sure they have the variety you’re looking for.  Also if there’s a song that’s really important to you – are they willing and able to learn it?

6.       What’s the bottom line?  How much do they charge?  Is there an extra fee to travel outside of the State College area?  Do they have options for brides on tight budgets?

A live band can be a great addition to your wedding as long as you’ve done your homework beforehand.  Ask the right questions and you’ll know if they’re the right band for you.

Rick Hirsch and his bands Quintessence, the Rick Hirsch 3, and the Valley Jazz Orchestra specialize in performing for wedding receptions, and have done so in the Centre Region since 2000.  You can contact him with more questions, or to find out about his bands at JazzItUp@mac.com; (814) 867-9935.  And, of course, his website: www.JazzUpYourParty.com .