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.
www.classicaltogo.com
PO Box 1275, El Cerrito, CA 94530
(510) 234-3044
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