Music is
one of the most important decisions to make in regards to a wedding.
There are countless things to consider when planning, but selecting the
right music to go with the style and location of the wedding ceremony
and reception is certainly in the top five of importance.
The different
routes that can be taken for ceremony music selection must be dictated
by factors such as the location of the ceremony, personality and
preferences of the couple, religious affiliation, degree of formality,
and time of day of the ceremony.
The three most simplistic types of music at the ceremony will be the
prelude, processional, and recessional. The prelude music will begin
anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes before the ceremony begins. This music
sets the mood while guests are being seated and waiting for the ceremony
to begin. Most desirable is purely instrumental music during this time.
When a soloist prepares to sing, most guests will feel it is their duty
to be quiet and listen, which could make them feel ill at ease.
The processional occurs when the entire bridal party, including family,
attendants, and bride, enter the ceremony. Either one song for the whole
of the party can be used, or, a different song can be chosen to
emphasize the bride’s entrance and add a little more excitement to the
moment.
The recessional is played while the bridal party, led by the newly
married couple, exits the ceremony. This music is usually chosen to
reflect the happiness of the event and is lighter and more carefree.
The majority of couples will also choose some interlude music during
ceremony highlights; for instance the lighting of the unity candle. And
it is nice to include a postlude, as well, during the time that the
guests are exiting the ceremony location. Depending on the set up of
ceremony with respect to reception, the postlude could double as music
leading into cocktail hour.
Reception music should consist of four main categories, entrance of the
newlyweds, dinner, and any dancing/entertainment to follow dinner.
For cocktail hour and dinner, the music should be mood-setting and yet
unobtrusive; mainly just pleasant background noise, rather than
disruptive to conversation of guests. The entrance of the newlyweds
should reflect the grand entrance that it is as the couple is officially
and formally introduced for the first time. For the entertainment
portion of the evening, the varied musical tastes of the guests must be
taken into consideration. If a wide variety of styles of music is
desired, consider a DJ, rather than a more limited band.
In choosing the music for both ceremony and reception, there are many
things to keep in mind. Location must be considered and any site
restrictions should be noted. Choosing a 12 piece orchestra for a tiny
chapel, for instance, does not make sense. And if a traditional piano is
not practical for an outdoor ceremony and substitution of an electric
piano is desired, it is important to make sure electricity is available.
When creating and signing a contract for wedding music, there are many
things which should be covered. If at all possible, see the musicians
live before they are hired. At the very least, obtain a recording of the
musicians in the same configuration for which they are being hired. Find
out who is demonstrated in the recording. This can make a big difference
in the music quality and tone. When hiring a group of musicians, know
who exactly will be performing at the event, and find out how often
substitutions are made (and decide what the acceptable substitutions
are.) Take into consideration the size of the ensemble that is desired.
Find out which instruments will be represented, as different instruments
will create completely different styles. Get references from others who
have heard them play previously – hear from guests if possible as you
will likely get honest feedback from them.
Work out such things as EXACT dates, locations, and arrival times;
equipment issues (what are the musicians bringing, what is expected to
be provided for them); what they will be wearing; a play list and
perhaps more importantly, a DO NOT play list; fees and overtime fees;
breaks to be taken; sequence of events; insurance; cancellation and
refund policies.
It is important to consider all aspects of planning for wedding music,
both ceremony and reception. Thorough research and careful
decision-making will divert possible disasters and unpleasant surprises
when it comes to this important component of ceremony planning.
