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Classical bands

Classical Music or Chamber Music bands can add a touch of class to any kind of affair.

At a black tie affair (i.e. corporate event, wedding etc.), people find chamber music bands to be a must have. Many people hire classical music bands separately from another band and/or DJ to enhance their cocktail hour. While the top 40 band/DJ play the dance music and perhaps the Classical band, the dinner music. You of course can always decide where the Classical/Chamber music band will fit best in your music plans and your band leader should be able to assist you with those details. Remember, one of the great added benefits to a Chamber Ensemble is that they can be played acoustically and don’t require any power unless it’s a large venue.

How to Find a Great Classical/Chamber Music Band:

Repertoire

Find out how flexible the band is in terms of what styles of music they can play. The more extensive their repertoire, the more likely they can take almost any request.
Classical Music can be played with a variety of instruments (i.e. strings, woodwind and/or brass). You should decide how large of a band you would like to hire such as
a duo, trio, quartet, or larger ensemble. Classical Music bands can often play many styles such as classical, jazz standards, broadway tunes, and popular music. If you have a specific style request such as Russian or Celtic Classical music, make sure the band can accommodate them.

Musicians

Good Classical bands play and/or rehearse together often, make certain yours do.
The musicians and especially the band leader should have plenty of experience and
understand your particular music needs for your special occasion.  Don’t be afraid to find out what their musical resume is. The better Classical musicians often graduated from the top music schools in their country.

References

Never hire a band without references. Make sure to contact them to ensure that they are a company you want to deal with. If you can’t see the band perform live at the very least get a recording and/or video. Remember personality is an important factor when hiring a band. A band’s dress and demeanor help set the mood for the affair. It’s important that you feel comfortable with your band leader and are confident that he/she can develop a rapport with your guests as they are going to be taking requests for songs throughout the affair.

Pricing

Bands are more expensive than DJ’s. If you were thinking of getting a band for the price of DJ you will be disappointed. Don't let your budget dictate the quality of the performance, let the quality of the performance dictate your budget. If you’re getting married you don’t want a lousy musical performance to ruin your special day. Bands can cost anywhere from $700-$1200 per musician. The cost will depend on many factors i.e. date and time of the affair as well as location. The busier the date the more expensive it is likely to be. It’s important to find out exactly what their fee structure is, what “overtime” will cost and how many musicians would they recommend.
Once you find the band you want make sure to book them ASAP as the better musicians always go first.