Recently, I spoke with a bride about her upcoming ceremony. She mentioned that it was going to be a small, indoor wedding, and was wondering what my recommendations were for musicians.
My answer?
It all depends on what kind of experience you want to create for your guests.
For an indoor wedding, you have more choices. You aren't limited by outside noise from the wind, helicopters flying overhead, or potential rain. In addition, you can amplify acoustic instruments or plug in electric instruments. You may even have a piano at the venue. (If not, using an electronic keyboard is a great substitute.)
Here are my top recommendations for musicians for your traditional, indoor ceremony:
For a traditional, elegant ceremony:
1. String quartet – Comprised of two violins, viola, and cello, the string quartet is the picture of elegance. The graceful, agile violin melody will soar above the delightful harmonies provided by the second violin and viola and the rich, deep sonority of the cello. Stately in both appearance and sound, the classic string quartet will greet your wedding guests with style and sophistication.
For those on a budget:
A string trio, comprised of one violin, viola, and cello, is a great alternative. With the trio, you will still hear the fullness of the melody, harmony, and bass lines.
2. Harp – Aesthetically-pleasing, the exquisite harp is the definition of elegance. This grand, multi-stringed instrument will be a unique presence at your wedding, providing a beautiful atmosphere for your guests. The smooth, cascading sounds of the harp are perfect for classical and contemporary music.
For those on a budget:
A piano or keyboard is a great alternative. Both versatile instruments, the piano or keyboard can play the full range of music of the harp and isn’t as difficult to transport for the musician.
3. Woodwind trio – Comprised of flute, oboe, and clarinet (or flute, flute, and clarinet), the woodwind trio is characterized by the distinct timbres of the instruments. While the delicate-sounding flute is airy and sweet, the medieval-sounding oboe is stately and beautiful. The clarinet is the bass instrument in the woodwind trio and has the widest range, from the dark, smooth lower register to the bright, upper register.
For those on a budget:
Because woodwind instruments generally project well, a solo or duo combination would be a great alternative. For example, a solo flute or clarinet, a flute and clarinet duo, or even two flutes or two clarinets would work well.
In the next segment, I’ll discuss creating a more casual, fun atmosphere for an indoor ceremony.
Questions? Comments? Contact me!
My answer?
It all depends on what kind of experience you want to create for your guests.
For an indoor wedding, you have more choices. You aren't limited by outside noise from the wind, helicopters flying overhead, or potential rain. In addition, you can amplify acoustic instruments or plug in electric instruments. You may even have a piano at the venue. (If not, using an electronic keyboard is a great substitute.)
Here are my top recommendations for musicians for your traditional, indoor ceremony:
For a traditional, elegant ceremony:
1. String quartet – Comprised of two violins, viola, and cello, the string quartet is the picture of elegance. The graceful, agile violin melody will soar above the delightful harmonies provided by the second violin and viola and the rich, deep sonority of the cello. Stately in both appearance and sound, the classic string quartet will greet your wedding guests with style and sophistication.
For those on a budget:
A string trio, comprised of one violin, viola, and cello, is a great alternative. With the trio, you will still hear the fullness of the melody, harmony, and bass lines.
2. Harp – Aesthetically-pleasing, the exquisite harp is the definition of elegance. This grand, multi-stringed instrument will be a unique presence at your wedding, providing a beautiful atmosphere for your guests. The smooth, cascading sounds of the harp are perfect for classical and contemporary music.
For those on a budget:
A piano or keyboard is a great alternative. Both versatile instruments, the piano or keyboard can play the full range of music of the harp and isn’t as difficult to transport for the musician.
3. Woodwind trio – Comprised of flute, oboe, and clarinet (or flute, flute, and clarinet), the woodwind trio is characterized by the distinct timbres of the instruments. While the delicate-sounding flute is airy and sweet, the medieval-sounding oboe is stately and beautiful. The clarinet is the bass instrument in the woodwind trio and has the widest range, from the dark, smooth lower register to the bright, upper register.
For those on a budget:
Because woodwind instruments generally project well, a solo or duo combination would be a great alternative. For example, a solo flute or clarinet, a flute and clarinet duo, or even two flutes or two clarinets would work well.
In the next segment, I’ll discuss creating a more casual, fun atmosphere for an indoor ceremony.
Questions? Comments? Contact me!