Music for your Wedding Reception, Part 1

WGA Vendor Dennis Lau (Regular wedding entertainer!)

The subject of music at weddings is sizable to say the least! If I were to cover the many areas encompassed by this subject in a single article – I would surpass the WGA wordcount (and get a cross email from Steph)! Even in a series of articles, I suppose, one would only broach the topic superficially. Still, it’s worth a go.

In this first part I’ll look at some options one has when it comes to that very important ingredient to a wonderful wedding – the music!

String Quartet/Piano

‘Versatility’ may not be the first word that pops into your head when you think of a string quartet or a classical setup.

If you’re drawn to this option because of the texture and sound of classical music but are turned off by the lack of modern feel, it may be worth a second thought. Contemporary music can be arranged for classical instruments and it gives an interesting spin to your favourite hits.  Moreover, the look of a string quartet adds a stylish touch to a reception backdrop.

For example, here’s The String Quartet (been on Steph’s Ipod for 2 years!) doing an awesome cover of Coldplay’s “Clocks”:

Wedding band

We can thank Adam Sandler and the movie ‘The Wedding Singer’ for running the good name of a wedding band through the mud. However, a tight band with a charismatic frontman can be a great addition to your wedding reception. If you pick the right band, the genres available can be huge. Anything from jazz to pop is brought to the table by an adaptable band. It’s all there, and good bands are always a guest favourite.

Here are The Engagements with their cover of “Rock with you” by MJ:

DJ

When it comes to all round multipurposeness, the DJ is the most versatile of the lot – ‘anything you can play so can I’. Not as pleasing to the eye as a string quartet or as interactive as a band, what the DJ lacks he makes up in sheer practicality and song choice. With a DJ there is no limit to your songlist.

Just make sure you don’t hire this guy: