20 s The QUEE NS Courier • bridal • september 22, 2016 for breaking news visit www.qns.com bridal No Music? NO WAY! By Tresa Erickson Whether just a CD or a live band, most couples choose to incorporate music into their wedding ceremony and reception. A wedding without music would seem strange, wouldn’t it? Music may be recorded or live. Some couples hire a DJ to play recorded music, while others choose to have CDs played over a stereo system at the venue. Some couples hire a band or orchestra, while others hire a singer or guitarist to perform acoustically. For many couples, acoustic music adds a unique element to their wedding. If this is the route you choose, here are some tips for hiring a musician. You should start by selecting the songs you want to have played at your wedding. This will give you some idea as to the genre, which, in turn, will give you some idea as to the type of musician to hire. If much of what you select is rock, you probably don’t want to hire a harpist or flutist, as the music won’t suit the instruments. A guitarist or pianist, on the other hand, might work well. Once you have an idea of what type of musician you need for the music you want played, you can start looking for one. Ask family and friends for recommendations. Check with music teachers and local colleges. Look at the listings in the phone book and online. Set up phone interviews with each of the candidates on your list and find out if they are interested and available the times you need them. Ask about fees and requirements. The answers to these questions should help you narrow your choices considerably. Once you have a few candidates in mind, set up face-to-face interviews with them. Find out all of the details and ask for a sample of their work. Go over the song list with them and make sure they can play the selections you want them to. Arrange to go to one of their performances or set up a time when they can give you a quick audition. This will enable you to see them perform. When you are ready to hire a musician, work up a contract. Do not make a verbal agreement. Get the agreement in writing with all of the terms listed. This will ensure you get what you pay for. Hiring a musician to play acoustically at your wedding is no different than hiring any other professional. You need to do your homework and get the right person for the job.
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