Wedding Band Top 11 Questions

TOP 11

questions to ask when hiring a band for a wedding.

1. What kind of music do we want? Guests at weddings usually range in age from 7 to 80 years old. This being the case, the music should appeal to all ages. The band that can bridge many styles--from Ellington and Gershwin to Motown and Madonna--is a wise choice. After your guests have marveled at the flowers, and enjoyed a wonderful meal; the band will still be playing. It is the band that will either make or break your party.

2. When should we look for a band? Begin once the wedding date is set; the best bands may be booked a year or more in advance. Before finalizing the band, confirm your location. The size and accoustics of your site could influence the group you choose.

3. Can we see the band perform live? While it would be nice to see how the band works with a crowd, the best groups do not have a need to do public showcases. This means you would have to visit someone else's party, an option which is awkward at best. If it can be arranged, remember, every wedding is different. Seeing the group play someone else's party (and requests) is not always reflective of the job they will do for you. It is better to rely on a group's reputation and the quality of the music on their demo tape. While reviewing it, note the band's style, and repertoire. Do you like the quality of the instrumental and vocal performances? Can this group please parents and friends alike?

4. Do the musicians always play together? Are the band members on the tape the ones who will perform at your wedding? Some bandleaders have bands that have been together for years, while others choose from a pool of musicians for each job. Request those who regularly play together, and specify the names of the leader or key personnel in the contract. Be aware of the instrumentation on the tape vs. what you will be hiring. If in the name of economy, you cut down on the number of musicians, be aware of what will be missing.

5. Are there hidden costs in the fee? Beware of extras, such as a union tax or assessment. Although all professional musicians belong to a union, the bride's family shouldn't have to pay an additional union tax above the band's fee. A bandleader claiming otherwise is dishonest. Also, does the band have a sound system? If they do, confirm electrical needs with the reception site. If the musicians don't have their own system, ask what they require, and find out the total cost for providing it. Do you need music for the ceremony or cocktail reception? What is the overtime rate? Have these costs been addressed?

6. Should I feed the band? It depends. If the band has had to travel a couple of hours to get to the site of your reception, then I would suggest making arrangements for the members of the group. Happy musicians will do a much better job, then hungry ones.

7. Is a deposit required? Expect to pay 50% of the band's fee up front. This protects the band and the couple from arbitrary and last minute changes of plan.

8. What will the band members wear? The group may indicate in advance that they have specific costumes. Otherwise, ask if they perform in tuxedos.

9. How often does the band take breaks? A party will die if the music stops. The best bands play what is called "Continuous Music". This means the group will take 5 to 10 minutes off each hour. They will time these breaks to coincide with the main course, or toasts. If music is needed during this time they will rotate a few members of the group to play these breaks. This also insures that the music will be soft enough to carry on conversation at the tables during courses.

10. Does the band take requests? Give the bandleader a list of any special songs you want played. Also specify, any songs you don't want to hear. Let the bandleader incorporate the requests into their sets. Specify if you want the bandleader to act as master of ceremonies. It is best if you discuss the finer details with the Leader as close to the date as possible.

11. What do the musicians do when they are not playing weddings? Do they have other professions or are they professional musicians who record, write or teach when they are not playing weddings? This will tell you something about the quality of the musicianship.