Reception Music

RECEPTION MUSIC

The music at your reception will set the tone for the festivities. Once you have decided on the kind of reception you want, you will then need to determine the kind of music you want. Your choice of entertainment should be made far in advance, as the best bands are usually booked early. There are probably local booking agents who represent and have demo tapes for many bands. You can specify your budget and they can provide you with many choices. Be aware that they also charge a percentage of the total as their fee, so negotiate up-front. For very formal, traditional weddings a big band or orchestra will give you a better ambience than a DJ.

In selecting a band:

• Discuss with the leader the type of music you want played, as well as the kind of music you do not want.
• Discuss what specific selections you want played and when.
• Find out how many musicians there are, what they will wear, whether or not they play continuously or take short breaks. Specify the exact number of musicians you are hiring and what instruments they play.
• If there are certain musicians whom you want to appear personally (vocalist or specific instrument) specify them by name in your contract.
• Ask how the rate is computed – hourly or on a set fee basis.
• Specify in the contract the date and location of the reception and at what times the band should arrive and leave.
• Ask for referrals or ask to listen to them perform. Take time to go hear them at some of their next engagements.
• Some bands also use professional staging and lighting effects. Be sure your reception site has adequate room for their equipment and enough electrical outlets.
• Ask if you are required to provide the musicians with food.
• You will probably need to pay a deposit, maybe up to 50%. Reserve some of the total payment till they are finished playing. This way, if you have disagreements, you can negotiate a final fee.
• Get everything agreed upon in writing, including the names of the musicians and hours they will be performing. Also include any overtime rates.

You may also want to consider contacting a disc jockey, who can usually provide a wide variety of musical selections and may act as your master of ceremonies. A DJ will be less expensive than a live band and will require less space for equipment. Another benefit is that your guests will hear the original songs played as they remember them. And with a DJ, you will have continuous music, whereas live musicians generally require breaks.The volume is also more easily adjusted by a DJ than with a live band.
In selecting a DJ:

• Ask for other wedding references and call them.
• Discuss what music you want and don't want.
• See if you can provide your own favorites if the DJ doesn't have them.
• Specify in the contract the date and location of the reception and at what times the DJ should arrive and leave.
• Find out how many hours are included in the fee and what are overtime rates.
• Ask how many breaks he/she will take and for how long.
• Ask if you are required to provide the DJ with a meal.
• Check on what equipment he/she will bring and double check the room facilities.
• Ask if he/she has backup equipment and/or a backup DJ in case of illness.
• The DJ's attire should match the formality of your wedding.
• Get everything agreed upon in writing.