Wedding Music Professionals in Rustenburg
Music is an integral part of the perfect wedding that should not be neglected. The first thought that comes to mind when thinking about wedding music is the party music for the celebration at the reception, but there is a lot more to consider when deciding on wedding music.
It is important to choose music that will link all the stages of your wedding into a unity, from the ceremony to the last dance. We asked Rustenburg sound professionals, Sound Motion Productions to give us an idea on how to go about when deciding on music and music professionals for a wedding.
In General
Make sure that the musicians, DJ’s or sound company you choose, are reputable and know what is expected of them.
Make sure communication channels are open and that they understand what your requirements are and that they will also consider your personal taste in music.
Ensure their equipment is of high quality and in working order.
Because of the high demand for good music professionals, they might be booked up long in advance. Make a choice in good time and book to avoid disappointment.
The Ceremony
The processional song signals the start of the wedding ceremony and sets the tone. Most couples choose something formal or classical although the trend is shifting and some couples opt for a ballad or music of personal significance to them.
Examples of popular processional music include: The Wedding March by Mendelssohn, Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel, A Thousand Years, The Princess Bride by Roy Todd and recently more popular songs has become popular. A good example is, Somewhere only we know, by Keane.
Soft, soothing melodies, such as Pachelbel’s Canon can be played during the ceremony. A musician who is sensitive to the occasion will provide the right music at the right time for sacred moments during the ceremony, the vows and the signing of the register.
Singers or musicians playing instruments are a popular choice to add a personal touch to the ceremony.
Asking a friend or a family member to perform at your ceremony can save money and add to the intimacy of the wedding reception. Tread lightly though, as someone close to you might get emotional on the day or feel pressured to perform. It is a great honour to bestow on someone to perform at your wedding, but if you have any doubts rather get a professional to perform.
The recessional song is usually lighter and less formal than the processional music and allows for guests to leave the ceremony feeling happy and joyous with the wedding couple’s new status.
Reception Entrance
This is the first time the wedding couple arrive at a party as husband and wife and the music chosen for this entrance is usually joyful or dramatic. The start of the wedding celebrations should be marked by music which will make a lasting impression.
At the reception it is important that the master of ceremonies or the event organiser and the music professional communicate so that the different events flow evenly and the chosen music is played at appropriate times. Also specify if you will need specific music for events like cutting of the cake, garter and bouquet toss, speeches etc.
Microphones should allow all guests to hear the speeches while tables should not be placed too close to speakers.
First Dance
Choosing the song for the first dance is usually a very difficult decision unless the couple has a song that is special to them. Romantic songs which allows for slow dancing are most popular. The choice of song will also depend on the dancing skills of the couple.
The first dance song should have a great melody and appropriate lyrics. A song might sound very romantic but if you listen to the lyrics it might be about breaking up, longing, sadness and even death.
Let’s party
A music professional will be led by the mood of the crowd on the dance floor, i.e. younger people will enjoy music that is popular at the moment but he/she should allow for variation that is pleasing to all guests.
Cross-generation hits should be the bulk of the music played as the ages of guests can range from 16 to 85 and everyone should be enjoying the party.
Do’s and don’t of making requests
Wedding guests should always keep in mind that the music professional/DJ had lengthy discussions with the bridal couple about what they want regarding the music, but if you do feel that you have to make special requests please keep the following points in mind:
Don’t ask what songs we have. We usually have quite a number of songs and if you ask this question it is quite obvious that you don’t have a specific request in mind but actually wants to take over as DJ.
Know the song you want to request. We would love to assist but some vague explanation and humming of the tune while other music is playing makes this quite difficult.
Be patient to hear your song. The music professional/DJ will make sure to incorporate it into the playlist at a suitable time.
Make sure to dance when you hear your request. Going into a meditative state when your song starts playing will not do much to keep the party going.
Don’t touch our gear. It is nerve wrecking if guests with drinks in hand are trying to adjust and interfere with instrumentation. We need to keep the music going, and a guest pulling a plug on the music is the last thing we need.
Compliments are welcome. Let the DJ know that you are enjoying the music. This will help the DJ gauge which type of music is being enjoyed by the crowd and general appreciation for what we do is always a plus.
The last dance
End the reception on a high note. Say your goodbyes to guests on a classic, sweet, modern/high energy or humorous note. There are a huge number of songs that can be used but if you decide on one of the above categories it will narrow it down and make the choice easier.
The music of your wedding day will become part of your memories of the special day and for years to come the music will take you back to that special day and make it last forever.
Wedding music professionals in Rustenburg:
- Sound Motion Productions: 082 563 1514
- Direct Productions: 082 558 7118
- High Quality Sound Productions: 084 543 3114