The choice of musicians for your ceremony and reception is critical to setting the tone of the occasion.
For church weddings, many brides choose the church organist. You might consider adding a flute, trumpet, or harp and vocal soloist to the organ. For a different kind of sound in the church, use a flute and harp, or a trio or quartet. They provide a beautifully elegant and intimate sound for the prelude and ceremony. You can add a trumpet and vocalist to most of these ensembles. Some brides use both the organ and a chamber music ensemble. They can play together or split up the parts of the ceremony. For example, the ensemble might play the prelude and the processional for the attendants, with the organ (and trumpet) playing for the entrance of the bride. During the ceremony the organist might accompany a vocal soloist and the ensemble could play for the candle ceremony. They could all play together for the recessional, and the organist could provide the postlude music. If you want the church setting but not the organ, a chamber music ensemble can provide all of your music.
For outdoor ceremonies or ceremonies in private homes or other locations where there is no organ or electricity, a chamber music ensemble is a perfect choice. Most groups can play nearly anywhere, with shade being the primary requirement. Most musical instruments do not take direct sunlight or rain well, so you will need to provide shade or shelter.
As with the other venders you choose, you should use professional musicians with lots of wedding experience. They will see to it that you get the kind of music that is right for you and your ceremony. Many musicians play alternate instruments, and could provide something out of the ordinary if your ceremony could use it. For example, perhaps a song on a Native American Flute would be the perfect touch for a Hopi Wedding Vase Ceremony, or for the Apache Wedding Prayer. If you are having a Renaissance wedding, you will want a group which performs the music on early instruments, such as recorders, harps or strings, and who has costumes.
Be creative in planning your ceremony and work closely with the leader of your musicians to find the music which is just right for you. If you know nothing about music, but know what effect you want, the leader should be able to provide suggestions for you.
There are so many choices available to you for your reception music. Many DJ's provide all of the music for the reception, from dinner music through dancing. If you want live music, you could use a chamber music group for cocktails and dinner and switch to a live band for dancing. Talk to each group to find out what they can provide. Some chamber groups have some dance music as well as the dinner music.
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