What type of musicians should I hire?

     Choosing musicians is dependant on a few factors. One is the location - In a traditional church setting, you will most likely be required to use tradional, religious or classical pieces which will sound best played by either an organist or pianist accompanied by softer instruments like violin, harp, guitar or flute. You may want to include a trumpet in the combination to add emphasis during the Bride's entrance and during the Recessional. Another factor is to consider you and your fiance's personal tastes. You may not like the big, full sound of the organ and may opt for a lighter, more acoustical sound. You will then want to choose a piano, guitar or some other acoustic instrument as your lead. Always add in a lighter sounding instrument for your accompaniment. Never try to use a trumpet, flute or accompanying instrument as your lead. Finally, you need to determine whether you want instrumental music, vocals or a combination of the two.
     In a more contemporary church setting, you can usually select some "love songs", and may have access to an electronic keyboard from which the musician can choose a wide variety of sounds. Again, consider your personal tastes when choosing accompaniments. Do you like vocals, guitar, piano, violin, etc.? Add a little spice and throw in a saprano saxophone (Kenny G?) or try a little light jazz sound and hire a trumpeter. Always keep in mind the restrictions of the particular church you are in as well the more sacred parts of the ceremony.
      Outside a non-religious site, such as a garden, ballroom, private home, etc. you will have to choose musicians who have their own portable instruments because more than likely, you will not have access to a piano or organ. First discuss personal music tastes with your fiance and then choose the instruments that you feel would sound best. You can use a keyboard if you have access to electricity. If not, try putting a string ensemble together - violin, viola, and cello. If you like the brassy sound, mix together a trumpet, flute, and french horn. Maybe you would like to see and hear an elegant harpist play. Harpists can play alone or as an accompanist. For a more contemporary sound, try recruiting a guitarist who also sings like Kenny Loggins.

How do I locate musicians?
       There are several resources from which you can find musicians. This site is probably the most complete resource in Acadiana. Other ways are to contact a wedding consultant, a music store, attend a bridal show (usually in June), the yellow pages, local bridal publications (magazines, newspapers), ask the church organist, coordinator or minister, ask another bride who has already made music arrangements, or ask for references while visiting other wedding vendors (bridal salons, tux shops, florists, etc.).