Greater New York City Metro Wedding Musicians

What Kind of Musicians Should You Pick for Your Wedding?

New York City is home to many of the best artists in the world. That means when it comes to wedding musicians, you have your pick of the talent pool. You can choose anything, from a classical string quartet to an 80s cover band, a talented DJ or just about anything in-between.

To start whittling down your list, think about what kind of ceremony you want to host. Do you dream of a traditional and elegant wedding? Then a classical quartet might be in order. Are you planning a more laid-back ceremony? Maybe a DJ is a good bet.

Your wedding venue can also affect the type of New York City wedding musicians you hire. Certain religious institutions, for example, may limit the type of music you can play. You also want to look at the space and conditions of the venue. A hotel can host a large band, but a restaurant wedding probably can’t. If you plan on holding the ceremony outdoors, you may need to pay extra to bring out a full piano.

How Much Do Wedding Musicians in New York City Cost?

Another huge factor that will affect your musical choice is your budget. Musicians, especially NYC wedding musicians, don’t come cheap. You aren’t only paying for their time at your wedding, but also for them to practice and rehearse your set. Each additional musician in the group will add to the cost, so larger bands can quickly drain your music budget.

There are ways to save money without killing the beat at your NYC wedding. The simplest option is to hire a DJ instead of a live band. If you have your heart set on live music, consider hiring the minimum number of musicians needed to create a great sound. You may also want to look for up-and-coming groups that are willing to give you a lower rate in exchange for visibility and a positive referral.

How to Choose Your Wedding Musicians in New York City

The problem with living in New York City is that you’ll likely find that you have numerous great wedding musicians to choose from. To pare down your list, start by requesting referrals from your wedding planner if you have one. Your venue coordinator can also likely give you referrals for bands that have performed with them in the past.

When you have a list of potential musicians, listen to samples of their music. Make sure the band’s contact - either their manager or the band leader - is professional and responsive. Ask about pricing and be very clear about what type of music you expect the musicians to perform.

Top NYC wedding musicians are booked quickly, so you’ll want to think about hiring your band or DJ nine to 12 months out from your wedding date.

Need help finding the right rhythm for your wedding? Take a look at all our great wedding musicians in New York City.