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Speak to the Band Leader ... "There is a lot you can tell by interviewing the leader of a group," says David Fletcher, proprietor of New York's Best Musicians, Photo & Video. "Find out which musicians will be performing, if the band members always play and rehearse together, and their wedding experience. Also ask if their repertoire is focused on any particular age group or if they try to please all generations at a wedding. If so, how?' "I would ask the agency the same questions and see if the answers match. Trust your instincts. If it feels like the group is not a good choice for your wedding, it's probably not."
Personal Musical Choices ... "Some high-energy dance bands have members who are also fine classical or jazz players. This enables you to have a duo, trio, or quartet who can play for your ceremony and cocktail hour and then be joined by the rest of the band for the reception. That creates a good 'flow.' " When choosing the music for your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, "There really are no rules," says David. "This is your wedding. Sure, classical, contemporary, or religious are popular choices for a ceremony. Jazz and classical are traditional choices for a cocktail hour. For a reception, dance themes, of course. These are great choices, all tried and true. But none of this is written in stone. Don't hesitate to raise your ideas with those who are helping you plan your music."
Varied Musical Styles ... "I think what distinguishes our musicians is our extensive training and professional background in music," says David, who was a college music educator and the director of many musical productions. "I have been and still am a professional musician, on piano and bass, in several genres, including classical, jazz, and rock. With us, you can tap into a wide 'musical data base' as you are planning your music and want fresh ideas." David's band, Amaretto, "is a group of nine highly talented and like-minded musicians. Between us, there are 14 music degrees. Some have classical backgrounds, while others are serious jazz artists. Our vocalists dazzle when performing contemporary, pop, or R&B, and are just as compelling with swing or hip hop. "The depth of the band is what makes the difference. That's essential to carry a wedding. Virtually anyone can sound okay for an hour. But at a complex, multi-generational event like a wedding, nothing beats a seriously trained and rehearsed group."
Exciting For Everyone ... "Your wedding is the most significant of personal commitments. It's exciting for everyone who is a part of it. Naturally, when we see a couple and their families delighted by the band, that is exciting too.
David's firm also offers photography and videography. "Our approach is photo-journalistic and our prices are very affordable, with video starting at $500 and photography starting at $750. Many clients like the convenience of 'one-stop shopping' and the savings we can offer as a multi-service agency." New York's Best Musicians, Photo, & Video |
