Selecting Musicians

When hiring musicians for your wedding ceremony, reception, shower or any special occasion, start your search as soon as you set a date. Professional musicians, orchestras, bands and soloists may be booked a year or more in advance. Here are some guidelines to use when making a decision about the type of music you want and whom to hire:

• The music should compliment your special event, and not be overpowering. Take into consideration the size of the venue and the acoustics (a set of full Highland Bagpipes inside a small church is probably a bad idea).
• Don’t be afraid to ask for and check references of the performer you are considering. Chances are, if other people have been pleased with the musician, you will be, too. 
• Take the time to audition musicians. This will give you an overall feel for their style of music and ‘on-stage presence’. Auditions can be in person, over the phone, by cassette tape or video. Audio tapes let you sample the style and expertise of the musician. Video additionally allows you to see the appearance of the performer. Make sure you like the quality of the music and that it is appropriate for your event.
• If you have particular selections you want included, be sure to discuss this in advance with the musicians. Make sure they can honor your requests and will have enough time to get the music and rehearse.
• For wedding ceremonies, always check with your officiant before making selections. Some faiths or houses of worship do not allow secular (non-religious) music or particular selections. Knowing this in advance of hiring a ceremony musician will help you determine who to hire. Also, if you are getting married in a church, check with your officiant to make certain hiring a ceremony musician outside the congregation is permissible.
• Discuss your expectations with musicians. Musicians should dress and present themselves according to the theme of your event. Be very clear on what duties you expect of the musician, such as when to play a certain selection. Be as detailed as possible, and get everything in writing. Don’t leave anything to chance.
• Amplification is important for any sizable events. Ask if the musicians are providing their own sound system and be sure it is electrically compatible with the venue or is battery operated.
• Most importantly, look for a harmonious working relationship. If the musician is not responsive to your needs during consultation, keep looking.

If you don’t know where to start looking for a musician, check with the Johnson City Symphony, Symphony of the Mountains or the ETSU music department for recommended classical musicians. Try the Birthplace of Country Music Alliance or the ETSU bluegrass department for bluegrass or country ideas. If you are interested in Celtic Music, call Symphony of the Mountains or the Wedding Loft in Jonesborough (there is a piper on staff there). For rock or alternative bands, your best source (other than word of mouth) may be the back page of the region’s “Loafer Magazine” as it lists booking and contact information for many of the area’s most popular bands.