cocktail hour music

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Live Music Consulting on April 23, 2011 at 4:53pm

Hi Ashley,

I think the bottom line is that it's YOUR wedding. If you have never noticed it, perhaps it won't be a big deal to most of the people you associate with.
In our experience, live music does make a significant difference in the ambiance of a cocktail hour, assuming the musicians are good. But not all cocktail hours need to be this "cookie cutter" hour of class.
If you are looking for ways around this common plug-banning obstacle, you might consider a variety of acoustic instruments. We often refer string groups that play radiohead, coldplay, hip hop, jazz standards, and classic rock covers, in addition to more traditional options. Something like this could combine classy AND trendy, without falling victim to limitations on amplified instruments. You might also consider a harp, woodwind or brass group, or acoustic jazz combo. Many of these instruments would provide as much of a visual aesthetic as audible.

Best of Luck!

Dan - from Live Music Consulting

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Permalink Reply by Ashley on April 24, 2011 at 4:00am

Thanks everyone for your posts! Our wedding was actually in June 2010, and we ended up NOT having any music for cocktail hour.  Our venue was gorgeous and the cocktail hour was outside surrounded by fountains and a pool and awesome scenery.  The music would have been drowned out, and no one noticed that there wasn't any music anyway! It was a great day =) 

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Permalink Reply by Flamingo Wedding Services Bonair on May 1, 2011 at 10:16am

That,s great!! so you have the music of the water! can be also very beatyful!

 have a happy life together!!!

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Permalink Reply by Flamingo Wedding Services Bonair on April 26, 2011 at 2:44pm

Never been on a wedding with music totaly made by the artist themself?  Look to the Caribbean Music, Nothing have to plugged in .... The band out of the old days.. Nothing have to plugged in. There are so many instruments not need to plugged in. Find the right artist!!!

Wish you good luck!!

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Permalink Reply by Bruno Esposito on April 29, 2011 at 2:19am

I  realize your wedding already happened, congratulations. But I'm posting my reply anyway in case it can help someone else:

On option I often recommend here on the Amalfi coast (Italy) is a neapolitan traditional (folk) duo. It's usually mandolin and guitar or accordion, it's acoustic (no amps needed), and it's lively but it can be in the background too if you prefer. If you're afraid it might be cheesy, don't worry, just make sure you pick the right songs.

If you cannot find neapolitan musicians where you are, another option would be an acoustic jazz band. It could also be a trio/quartet, something like drums, double bass, clarinet and/or banjo. This also doesn't need amps or PA, and it can be lively or in the background according to your preference. The recommended repertoire for this kind of band is "old school" instrumental jazz. 

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Permalink Reply by Diane Davich-Craig on May 9, 2011 at 9:53am

Glad you had a wonderful day!  To those that want music but have no electricity there are some options.  All classical groups like the flute, violin and cello trio etc sound best if not amplified anyway.  When we do flute and guitar outside, our guitarist brings a battery amp.  We all also have battery lights for our music stands to keep from having to find outlets

and have cords running on any job.  Music can make a wondeful event spectactular and even more memorable.  Diane - Nashville Chamber Players

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Permalink Reply by Laura Fazekas on May 24, 2011 at 10:37am

It's not necessary, but if you really want it, try and hire a string quartet or someone to play acoustic guitar!  Those don't necessarily need amps!

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Permalink Reply by Nora Tindon on May 26, 2011 at 10:42am

I see your problem. Pianos are very difficult to move, have to be re-tuned after, etc. But you could hire a different artist (harp players are always welcome, and travel with their own instrument) and if there is a musical school near you, students are glad for the chance to play very cheaply.

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Permalink Reply by georgeth on September 29, 2011 at 6:43pm

Llive musicians are really nice, but IMO not worth the expense. I even struggled with having live musicians for my ceremony, but caved on this because it fit within our budget.Many people commented on how nice it was and what a classy ambiance it brought to the reception.  We hired the Fred Knapp Trio out of Grand Rapids.  Fred will provide a soloist or as many musicians as you want.If any one needs help to plan a wedding,they can use the wedding planner iPhone app and get gain from it.

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Permalink Reply by Heart and Soul Events on October 1, 2011 at 11:39am

Cocktail music is totally up to you. If you cannot have anything plugged in, how about having a harpist. Very romantic, beautiful, and calming music.

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Permalink Reply by Cindy on November 15, 2016 at 5:40am

I'm still undecided about what music I want at the wedding but I know I want there to be string musicians there. I really want music to be playing from the moment the first guest arrives until I'm leaving the venue with my husband (Squeeeeeel!) but I haven't booked anything yet. I've only just got engaged though so I'll probably calm down and realise we can't have music playing the whole time. If that's the case reception music will be the first to go as that's when everyone's drinking and chatting anyway so no one really pays attention to live music at that point. XOX

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Permalink Reply by Suzannah Price on June 15, 2017 at 12:32am

Hi--great question. It's important to have mood music, but I don't think you should sweat this too much! It's not vital, you can definitely go without it and make things a bit quieter/easier conversation for guests. I wouldn't worry about it, either way you're fine!

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