Playing Piano for a Wedding

I once knew a pianist who had a tiered fee structure for playing at weddings: a low fee if he chose the music, a moderate fee if the bride chose, and a high fee if the mother of the bride did. While many wedding musicians avoid this approach, they recognize its wisdom: few gigs have the potential for drama like a wedding. Emotions are high, opinions vary, and expectations can be unrealistic. However, mastering the nuances of wedding performances can lead to steady, lucrative work.

Weddings embody the romantic dreams of couples, and as pianists, we help realize those dreams. Our role involves organization and detail from the outset. Although it’s impossible to cover all contingencies, there are key things pianists need to know for a smooth musical experience during the ceremony.

Do your homework

 

Create a wedding set list

Include popular marches and joyful background pieces like Chopin waltzes. Avoid personal songs unless specifically requested, as they may lead to awkward situations.

Have a clear fee structure

Your initial rate should cover a consultation, and ceremony. Additional fees may apply for travel or extra requests like music you’ve never played or a rehearsal. Research local rates to find a competitive pricing strategy.

Create a wedding contract

Contracts are vital to outline expectations and protect against potential scope blow-out. 

The wedding party consultation

If meeting in person

It’s best to have the initial meeting at your home or studio to demo pieces for selection since most couples may not know the titles of wedding music.

If meeting online

Prepare a list of musical examples to share during the consultation or send links to recordings ahead of time.

Review contract and financial expectations

Clearly outline compensation and duties in your contract and ensure both parties sign it.

Choosing the music

Bride (or Partner) processional

The main processional, often Wagner’s wedding chorus from Lohengrin, should be short—typically 8 to 16 bars.

Wedding attendant processional

Choose traditional pieces like Pachelbel’s Canon in D or consult with the wedding party on their preferences.

Recessional music

Choose something upbeat, like Mendelssohn’s Wedding March, and aim for continuity in music for attendants and guests.

Extra music

Inquire about any additional performances or special music moments, such as lighting a unity candle.

 

The Wedding Rehearsal

 

Weddings can be chaotic, making rehearsals important. Here’s what to do..

 

• • Meet the wedding coordinator and officiant

Establish who will cue you during the music and maintain eye contact for cues.

• • Mark stopping places in your score

Note where to stop during the processional based on the aisle’s length and the wedding party’s positioning.

• • Ask for a Run Sheet

A written outline to reference during the ceremony.

Wedding

 

Arrive early to set up, and check in with the coordinator. Start playing background music as guests arrive, ideally light classical to match the event’s formality.

Pay attention!

Avoid playing too long once the wedding party enters or stopping before guests sit. Stay focused throughout the ceremony, and play something festive after the recessional.

In conclusion

 

Every wedding is a learning opportunity. Reflect on what went well and what could improve for future performances