How to Hire Wedding Musicians
Music sets the emotion of the whole day — the walk down the aisle, the first toast, the last dance. Here is how to choose and book the right wedding musicians.
Three moments, three kinds of music
Ceremony
Prelude, processional, bridal entrance, recessional. Popular choices: solo piano or organ, acoustic guitar, a vocalist, a string duo or quartet.
Cocktail hour
Background music while guests mingle — a jazz trio, solo guitar, or the ceremony musicians continuing.
Reception
A band (or band plus DJ) for dancing, or a solo/duo set during dinner.
When to book
- Reception bands: six to twelve months ahead for popular dates
- Ceremony musicians: two to six months ahead
What it costs
Ceremony soloists often run a few hundred dollars; ensembles and bands cost more; travel, extra hours, and learning special songs add to the price. See How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Musician?
Questions to ask
- Can we hear samples, ideally from a wedding?
- Will you learn a special song?
- Do you bring sound equipment? What power and space do you need?
- How early will you arrive, and how long will you play?
- Attire, travel fees, deposit, and cancellation terms?
Where to find wedding musicians
- Your venue and planner
- Your church — many church musicians play weddings
- Post the role on Rifflynk — ceremony and reception musicians near you are notified
Confirm everything in writing
Use our booking checklist and share a timeline with exact cues — who walks when, and which song plays.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book wedding musicians?
Six to twelve months ahead for popular dates and bands, and at least two to three months for ceremony soloists or small ensembles.
How much do wedding ceremony musicians cost?
A solo pianist, guitarist, or vocalist for a ceremony often costs a few hundred dollars, while a string quartet or larger ensemble costs more. Reception bands cost the most. Prices vary by market, length, and travel.
What music is needed for a wedding ceremony?
Typically prelude music as guests arrive, a processional for the wedding party, a bridal entrance, any music during the ceremony, and a recessional.
What should I ask wedding musicians before booking?
Ask for samples, their repertoire and willingness to learn requests, whether they bring sound equipment, setup and power needs, attire, travel fees, deposit, and cancellation terms.
Can church musicians play our wedding?
Often, yes. Many churches have musicians who play weddings, and many church musicians also take outside wedding bookings.