Background music

Discreet live music to create the perfect ambience
for your reception

So the ceremony's over and you're now husband and wife. Congratulations!

Live music is a great way to break the ice at the champagne reception. Classical music (perhaps with a few jazzy numbers thrown in) is a good starting point, as it contrasts well with the livelier, more contemporary band or disco in the evening.

Popular choices for musicians able to play both classical and lighter music include a

• Harpist
• String quartet
• Pianist

If you’d prefer something more informal and upbeat, then a small jazz band is ideal. We’ve found that the most effective styles for background music are

• Trad jazz
• Rat pack style

If you’re looking for something completely different, how about

• French café-style jazz
• Cool Cuban sounds
• Pianist/vocalist

It’s important that background music can be heard, without being intrusive - so do bear in mind the number of guests you’re expecting. For example, you might love the idea of a harpist, but if you’re expecting more than 60 or 70 guests the music may be lost without amplification.

If you’re crossing your fingers for good weather, so that your drinks reception can take place outdoors, then it’s best to choose background musicians who require no power supply as they can easily play indoors or out. Remember that most musicians will require a solid, stable surface on which to set-up, as well as shade from bright direct sunlight, which can damage expensive instruments.

Most background musicians/ensembles can move from one location to another in a matter of minutes, so it’s often possible to have the same musician(s) playing for the drinks reception and the beginning of the wedding breakfast.

Looking for some great background music?