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TEN TIPS FOR USING LIVE MUSIC
by Natalie Cox
Classical To Go

1. Choose your favorite style of music. Live performers contribute immeasurably to the mood of any gathering, and that magic is yours to create. If you are not sure what kind of music you want, ask for suggestions and keep an open mind. Classical music is often the most comfortable for a diverse crowd.

2. Make sure the wedding environment can accommodate your musicians' needs. Performers must be on dry, level ground. Direct sun, fog, and mist can damage acoustic instruments and make players uncomfortable. Canopies and umbrellas can be rented cheaply, and are an ideal solution to the sun problem. Wind topples music stands and carries away sheet music. Electric instruments require a reliable power supply.

3. Place performers away from food and beverage tables (to avoid spills and distractions), where there is plenty of room so your guests will not bump into them. Indoors, make sure they have enough light to see their music. If your event calls for candlelight, request that your musicians bring their own stand lights. Musicians should not be placed next to heaters, blazing fireplaces, or drafty windows and doors. If you are planning a boat wedding, make sure there is enough ceiling height for tall instruments (such as harps), and room to stand.

4. Are the acoustics right? Hardwood floors and sparsely decorated walls amplify sound. Musicians love them. Carpeted floors and acoustic tile ceilings soak up sound and make listening difficult without some amplification.

5. "Processional" music chosen for the entry of the bridal party is traditionally elegant, stately, and good for walking. Any selections played during the ceremony should be romantic, meditative, or religious. Celebratory, happy music is appropriate for the "recessional," or exit of the bridal party. Make sure the musicians know the final words of the ceremony; that is their cue to start the recessional music.

6. Be sure not to schedule music while your minister is speaking. Unlike the world of movies where sound is blended in a studio after scenes have been filmed, in real life it is almost impossible to adjust volumes perfectly. Music will not only distract from the spoken ceremony; some guests won't hear the minister, and others won't hear the music.

7. Hire experienced musicians. They know how to follow the action of the ceremony, and will be able to adapt to sudden changes - such as the shy flower girl who runs back up the aisle. They won't need to go to your rehearsal, will be faithful to schedules, and will show up dressed properly and ready to play. These things are very important, and should not be taken for granted. If you ask professionals for help in assembling your musical program, the music they select will be romantic and festive. Trust their judgment. Some of your favorite concert hall pieces may not work in a small setting.

8. If you anticipate any overtime playing, be sure to ask the musicians well in advance. Professional musicians often do two or three performances in a day. They may have another event scheduled, and their time may be very limited.

9. A deposit of one-third to one-half of the total cost should be given in advance. Often the balance will be due two weeks in advance..

10. Have you heard of the French term noblesse oblige? It means, among other things, that patrons of the arts are obliged to provide food and drink for their hired artists. Musicians work hard at their craft. To be at their best, they need food and rest occasionally.

Consider using a Wedding Coordinator. They are experts at organizing the diverse elements of any wedding: caterers, florist, musician, cake maker, and minister. The cost will be more than paid for by your peace of mind.

Enjoy yourself. Your guests will take their cue from you and will have a good time, too. Even the most meticulously planned event will have a few glitches and miscues, but if you ignore them, chances are no one will notice.

By Natalie Cox
Natalie Cox is a professional Harpist with 18 years' experience, and the owner of Classical To Go, a booking agency for live music. She has performed at more than 3,400 weddings and special events, either as a soloist or with her ensemble.