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If you are reading this blog post you likely are planning all the details for your wedding day. Congratulations as you take this next step in your relationship - this is such an exciting time!
I remember when I was planning my own wedding that all of the details could become overwhelming at times. In response, I've created this blog post to share my thoughts in regards to live wedding music. As a musician myself, I hope this article will make planning easier for you and of course, if you have any questions, please reach out and we'd be glad to assist! 
PC: Anna Bright Eyed Photography | Creek Club at I'On | Musician: Holly Slice (Baby Grand Shell)
Why Choose Live Music?
Undeniably music is essential to a beautiful wedding day; however, when brides are making checklists of what to include in their wedding day, I am often asked what are the advantages to including live music over recorded music. Click here to read our blog entitled The Four A's of Why Live Music Should be a Part of Every Wedding.
What Instruments Work Best Together?
I believe music choices are a personal preference and there are not "right" or "wrong" choices. Of course, as a musician I have my favorite recommendations and pointers to consider:
#1. Instruments that play multiple notes vs. a single note When a couple chooses a soloist or duo, I recommend considering which instruments can play multiple notes at a time (e.g., piano, guitar, or harp) and which instruments play a single note at a time (e.g., violin, flute, cello). I personally love the "full" sound of a duo that includes a multiple note instrument with a single note instrument -- I even chose piano and violin for my own wedding day!
Flute with harp is one of our newest duo combinations and here are a couple of snippets from candid footage from recent weddings!
#2. String trio vs. string quartet If you've sung in a choir before, you are likely familiar with the four voice parts: soprano, alto, tenor, and bass. A string quartet is similar in structure! Although a string trio still sounds beautiful, if you have the budget for quartet, it's definitely the way to go. Many couples especially love that our string quartet can share classical music for the ceremony and then transition into pop selections for cocktail hour! To note, we also have other trio combinations found here. If you like a "full" sound while incorporating strings, some of our trios combine a pianist with two string musicians. #3. Listen to all of the options Ultimately though, my biggest piece of advice is to listen to all of the different options we provide. There are multiple video and audio recordings throughout our website to allow you and your fiance to make informed decisions, knowing exactly what the music would sound like for your wedding day!
* Note: In some of the duo videos, the videographer placed the microphone closer to one musician over the other while recording. If the sound between the instruments does not sound balanced, no worries as it will be completely balanced in person.
What are the Most Unique Instrumentation Options You Offer?​#1. Baby Grand Shell As a pianist, I always thought it would be amazing to have the aesthetics of a baby grand at outdoor wedding venues. To make a long story short, in 2018 I was able to bring my vision to life and have enjoyed performing with this beauty (see below) for multiple special events. To note, the baby grand shell is essentially a beautiful piece of furniture that holds a full-size electric keyboard and amplifier. Any outdoor photos of a baby grand featured on our Instagram is the shell. The sound quality is the same as our keyboard option; however, the baby grand provides a "wow" factor in appearance!​ 
#2. Bagpipes
Some couples have chosen bagpipes for the bridal processional and recessional to make those pieces stand out from all of the other ceremony music! Listen to bagpipes here. #3. Violin with Backing Tracks If you are looking for a fun alternative for your cocktail hour or reception that fuses live music with recorded music, violin with backing tracks is a great choice! Here are a few samples:
​#4. Steel Drums If you are planning a summer wedding or your wedding is in a coastal setting, this is a fun and unique option for cocktail hour! Listen to steel drums here. #5. Celtic or Pedal Harp Many couples and guests have never heard a harpist perform in-person; therefore, a wedding is a great opportunity to share something unique. Listen to celtic harp here and pedal harp here. #6. Pop String Quartet Previously string quartets have often been associated with only classical music; however, that is no longer the case!
Finally, we also have 3 songwriters on our team who can create an original song just for your big day! This is a great option, especially for the bride's entrance or the first dance. You can learn more and listen to some of their original songs here.
How Much Does Wedding Music Cost?
We offer many packages at a variety of price points to allow each couple to find an option that falls within their budget! Prices vary based on:
#1. Instrumentation Which instrument(s) are your preference? #2. Location Is the wedding located in the Charleston area or will the musicians travel? We do travel and have been as far as Highlands, NC! #3. Music Does the musician already know your preferred selections or will they master new songs for your wedding day? ​ Please reach out to us with details about your wedding day so we can share a quote with you! Do Musicians Need to Attend the Wedding Rehearsal?
A musician can attend the wedding rehearsal for an additional fee; however, on average, only 2% of our brides choose to add this option and 100% of the weddings have gone smoothly. We will ask you questions when planning the music (e.g., How many attendants are in your wedding party? Do you have a flower girl or ring bearer?) so we will be ready to be present and poised within the moment to provide beautiful, seamless music!
Richard Bell Photography | Cello and Violin Duo: Kathryn & Andrea
Should I Consider Adding Ceremony Sound?
In my experience, one of the aspects that can often be overlooked is the need for amplification. Many times I'm one of the people closest to the couple and even I cannot hear the vows. I imagine this can be disappointing for guests who want to hear what is being shared. Of course, not all ceremonies need amplification; however, I've shared a few considerations in my blog post entitled Do I Need Ceremony Sound? - click here to read that post.
We look forward to hearing from you and are wishing you all the best as you continue to plan all the details for your big day!
Holly Slice Founder, Lowcountry Pianist & Company
4 Comments
3/16/2023 10:58:36 pm
It's nice to know that hiring a live band that knows how to play your favorite tunes could transform the mood of your event. My friend is interested in getting married this year. I will talk to him about this wedding option music so he can find a live brass band around his area before the event.
Kara Mountain
12/21/2023 07:58:57 pm
Good evening,
Celeste Ranson
9/22/2024 06:41:13 pm
I would like a cellist to play for one hour at my wedding ceremony on James Island on October 26 at 5:00pm Leave a Reply. |
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© 2024 Lowcountry Pianist & Co. LLC
All Rights Reserved.