Selecting Wedding Musicians
The first step is to decide which instruments or voices you would like to have perform for you. Start by identifying whether you want anyone to sing. Once this question is decided, you can go on to select the instruments you like. If you don't already have a clear idea in mind, you may be able to consider certain combinations that you hear at other weddings. If you haven't the first clue as to which instruments you would like, start by getting a CD that features a number of different instruments and combinations of instruments playing wedding music. Once you have a general idea of which instruments you would like, you can go on to finding musicians.
As you decide which specific musicians will perform for your wedding, it is essential to hear them before you finalize your decision.
Be sure you feel comfortable with the group you choose. Look for someone who listens to and is responsive to your wishes, has experience playing for your type of wedding, has expertise that he/she will provide to the extent that you desire, returns calls promptly, and is willing and eager to answer your questions.
Selecting Wedding Music
Before you begin to select the specific music for any part of your ceremony, check with the wedding site to learn if there are restrictions about the types of music allowed in the facility. Some places of worship have strict rules about types of music, instruments played, amplification, and composers.
Prelude
The prelude or pre-wedding concert is a period of music performed as the guests arrive. It typically lasts from fifteen to thirty minutes and helps to set the mood for the wedding. The mood that is created is up to the couple and can vary from elegant, to ethnic, to religious, to romantic, to joyous and celebratory, and may include a combination of any or all of these. This music is usually relatively soft so guests may converse and greet each other as they arrive and find their seats.
Procession
The processional section of the music may include a special piece of music for the seating of parents and/or grandparents of the couple as well as any other special family member or guests who are seated just before the procession of the attendants. This is usually followed by a selection to accompany the arrival of the groom and all of the attendants (bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearer, etc.). Immediately after the last attendant has arrived, the musicians usually will pause for a few seconds before beginning the special piece that heralds the arrival of the bride. It is nice for the bride to have her "own" music as it helps o make her arrival more dramatic.
During the Ceremony
Depending on the nature of your ceremony, there are several possible points at which you may wish to have music played or sung. These times include: a few minutes of meditation, an interlude between readings, during a candle lighting ceremony, during the sign of peace, a brief selection immediately following the exchange of vows, and/or during and after communion.
Recessional
Following the last words or final event of the ceremony, the recessional music begins. This music is typically very upbeat, celebratory, and joyous and provides the musical accompaniment for the exit of the bride and groom and the wedding party.
Postlude
The musicians play a few lively, festive pieces as the guests depart the ceremony area.
