Wedding Band Music: Play To Please

Music is a crucial part of any wedding and can make or break the event. It sets the tone for the entire celebration and can be used to signal different portions of the reception, such as the first dance or speeches. When choosing what type of music to play, it's important to consider the style of your wedding, the venue, the age range of your guests, and your budget.

For example, if you're having a rustic barn wedding, an acoustic folk band might be a perfect fit. On the other hand, if you're going for a swanky hotel reception, a soul or Motown band could add a touch of glamour and elegance. If your guest list includes people of all ages, you might want to opt for a band with an eclectic repertoire or a DJ who can play a mix of classic hits, current pop songs, and sentimental tunes to keep everyone happy.

Additionally, it's essential to work closely with your chosen band or DJ to ensure the music selections align with the flow of events and the timeline of your wedding. This will help create a seamless and memorable experience for you and your guests.

Music to match the wedding style

Music is one of the most important elements of a wedding. It can make or break the event and set the tone for the entire day. When choosing the music for your wedding, you should consider the following:

The Wedding Style and Theme

If you're going for a specific theme or style for your wedding, the music should match. For example, if you're having a rustic barn wedding, an acoustic folk band would be a perfect fit. Or, if you're getting married in Mexico, consider hiring a Mariachi band to play during one part of the wedding weekend.

The Photography Style

The type of photography you choose for your wedding can also help determine the music style. For instance, if you want vintage-style photos, consider hiring a jazz band or playing classic 1920s music.

The Décor Aesthetic

The aesthetic of your wedding can also guide your music choices. For a whimsical wedding, you might want upbeat, acoustic music. For a boho-style wedding with 70s vibes, a playlist reflecting that era would be ideal.

The Location and Venue

The location and venue of your wedding can also influence the type of music you choose. If you're getting married in a specific destination with traditional music, like Lake Como in Italy, you might want to hire local musicians to perform classic Italian love ballads. Alternatively, if you're having an outdoor wedding, you'll need to consider the acoustics and ensure you have the proper equipment and instruments for the setting.

The Guest List

Finally, consider the ages, backgrounds, and musical interests of your guests. If you have a wide range of ages in your guest list, you might want to choose a band with an eclectic repertoire or create a playlist that caters to diverse tastes.

Remember, the music you choose for your wedding should ultimately make you and your partner happy. It's your special day, so pick songs that reflect your style and taste as a couple.

Songs to suit diverse crowds

Wedding bands can make or break your wedding through their energy levels, performance style, and song selection. When selecting a band, it's important to keep in mind that weddings have diverse crowds with guests ranging in age, background, and musical interests.

• Consider the crowd's musical tastes: Think about the diverse tastes of your guests. Include a good mix of classic hits, current pop songs, and sentimental tunes to keep everyone engaged. Avoid a one-track playlist that only appeals to a certain group. For example, if you have a wide age range of guests, playing only 2015 EDM hits might not be the best idea.
• Hire a versatile band: Opt for a wedding band that can perform a variety of genres and styles to cater to different tastes. Some bands may specialise in specific genres like Motown, Oldies, or R&B, while others may cover a broader range of musical styles.
• Specialty music: If you're hosting a culture-specific or themed wedding, consider hiring a band that specialises in that particular type of music. For example, if you're having a vintage-style wedding, a jazz band or a group that performs 1920s swing music might be a perfect fit.
• Avoid offensive content: Be mindful of playing songs with inappropriate words or suggestive content, especially if children are part of your guest list. You can play more adult-themed music later in the evening when most kids have left.
• Take requests: Allow your guests to make song requests beforehand or during the event. This ensures that a variety of musical tastes are represented and that your guests feel involved. However, it's also important to create a "do-not-play" list to avoid any songs or genres that might be offensive or unsuitable for your crowd.
• Plan for breaks: Wedding bands usually need breaks to rest their voices and recharge. During these breaks, consider playing recorded music to keep the party going. Create a playlist that complements the band's style and includes songs that will appeal to the diverse crowd.
• Engage with the band: Communicate your expectations and preferences clearly to the band. Share your favourite songs or genres and see if they can build a customised playlist for you. It's also a good idea to watch multiple videos of the band performing before booking them to ensure their style aligns with your vision.

MC skills

Understanding the Role of an MC

The MC is responsible for more than just introducing the band and making announcements. They play a crucial role in engaging the audience, reading the room, and ensuring the event flows smoothly. A skilled MC will know how to gauge the energy of the crowd and adapt their performance to match. They should be able to create a seamless experience, transitioning between different segments of the wedding, such as the first dance, speeches, and other special moments.

Assessing MC Skills During Selection

When choosing a wedding band, pay close attention to the MC's style and presence. Evaluate their energy, tone of voice, and ability to engage the audience. Ask specific questions about their MC experience and request videos of past performances. This will give you a better understanding of their skills and help ensure they are a good fit for your wedding.

Providing Clear Instructions

Once you have selected your wedding band, communicate your expectations clearly to the MC. Discuss the timeline of events, including the order of songs, special dances, and any unique requests. Provide them with a detailed schedule and any relevant information that will help them enhance the guest experience. For example, if you want the MC to make a specific announcement or introduce certain members of the wedding party, be sure to inform them in advance.

Flexibility and Adaptability

While it is important to have a well-planned timeline, the MC should also be able to adapt to unexpected changes or requests. For instance, they should be able to adjust the music selection or make announcements if there are last-minute alterations to the schedule. A skilled MC will be able to think on their feet and ensure the event continues to run smoothly, even when things don't go exactly according to plan.

Engaging the Audience

A talented MC will know how to read the room and engage guests of all ages and backgrounds. They should be able to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, encouraging guests to get involved and have a good time. This may include interactive elements, tasteful humour, or simply creating a comfortable and enjoyable environment for your guests.

Working in Tandem with the Band

The MC and the band should work together seamlessly. The MC should be able to feed off the band's energy and vice versa. They should be able to create a cohesive experience, where the music and announcements flow together naturally. A well-rehearsed band with a skilled MC will be able to create a dynamic and memorable performance that enhances the overall wedding experience for you and your guests.

Remember, the MC is an integral part of your wedding entertainment and can significantly impact the success of the event. By selecting the right person for the job and providing clear instructions, you can ensure your wedding runs smoothly and creates lasting memories for you and your guests.

Music for different parts of the wedding

Music can make or break a wedding, and it's important to consider the different parts of the day and how the music can complement them.

Prelude/Pre-Ceremony

Prelude music is played while guests are being seated and waiting for the ceremony to begin. It usually starts when the doors open, or up to 45 minutes before the ceremony. This music should be light and ambient to set the mood.

Processional

The processional is the music that accompanies the entry of the wedding party, including family, attendants, and the bride. It's common to change the song to something more dramatic when the bride enters.

Recessional

The recessional is bright and lively and accompanies the exit of the newly married couple. There is usually just one main song, followed by a postlude as guests are leaving.

Interlude/Postlude

An interlude can be played during significant moments, such as lighting a unity candle. A postlude is played as guests exit the ceremony.

Cocktail Hour/Reception

During the meal segment, slower and softer songs are often chosen so that guests can converse easily. As the meal comes to an end, the music can become more upbeat to encourage guests to move to the dance floor.

First Dance

The first dance often includes traditional ballads, followed by an open invitation to guests to join on the dance floor.

Dance Floor

The dance floor segment is all about high energy and having fun. A professional band or DJ adept at reading the room will be essential to keeping the party going.

Last Song

The last song of the night is important to consider, too—you'll want to end on a high note!

Band/DJ experience

The music played at a wedding can make or break the event. It sets the tone for the entire evening and dictates whether your guests will be cutting a rug or standing awkwardly around the perimeter of the dance floor.

When it comes to choosing between a band or a DJ, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the vibe you want to create. A DJ can bring a club atmosphere and keep everyone on the dance floor all night, whereas a band can offer a more eclectic repertoire to cater to a wider range of ages. If you're opting for a band, think about the number of musicians you want to hire, as this will impact the cost.

Before booking, it's important to watch multiple videos of the band or DJ performing to get a sense of their performance style, crowd engagement, and energy level. Pay attention to reviews, but be mindful that a five-star rating doesn't necessarily mean they are the right fit for your wedding. Look for specific details in the reviews that indicate their style, such as the types of music they play and any other entertainment they provide, like celebrity impressions.

Communication is key when working with a band or DJ. Be transparent about your expectations and the type of music you want to be played. Create a Spotify playlist and add songs that you like as you think of them, then share this with your band or DJ. Specify which portions of the wedding you'd like certain songs to be played, such as during the ceremony, cocktail hour, dinner, or dancing.

It's also important to consider the practical aspects, such as the space available for the band or DJ to perform and set up their equipment. Discuss the timeline of the event with them, including any special moments like the first dance or surprise performances, to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Lastly, don't be afraid to trust your band or DJ to read the room and make adjustments to the music as needed. A little wiggle room on the music selection will go a long way in keeping your guests engaged and entertained.

Frequently asked questions