Find trusted wedding musicians near you

When you book wedding musicians through Airtasker, you can expect a group of skilled musicians to bring their instruments to your wedding venue, serenade you and your guests, and provide memorable live music for your wedding.

The exact inclusions can vary depending on the Taskers you hire, but here’s what you might expect when working with wedding musicians near you:

Preparing a setlist for your ceremony or reception

Even before you book a Tasker for your wedding music, you should already have an idea about the kind of music you want to hear. You might want Top 40 music for the reception, piano covers of your favourite songs, a gospel choir, or big band jazz. Indicate your choices in the task post, and once you pick your wedding musicians, discuss the setlist with them. The Taskers can suggest other songs to include in the setlist. If you haven’t picked out songs for key moments like your first dance or recessional, they can help you decide on these, too.  

Additionally, if you’re getting the musicians for more than just a few songs, you may want to discuss your “do not play” list. This step helps the Taskers steer clear of any tracks that could bring down your party’s mood or cause some awkward moments with your guests.

Helping you decide on band size

Unlike a wedding band which is typically a fixed group, some wedding musicians may offer flexibility that will fit your budget and the vibe you want to achieve. For example, a 9-piece band might be a better fit for an upbeat party, while a string trio will suit a solemn and intimate ceremony. For a minimalist yet emotionally impactful performance, we suggest getting a solo instrumentalist (possibly paired with a vocalist). If you want a classically romantic atmosphere, string quartets or classical guitarists work best.  

Providing instruments and sound equipment

Performers typically bring their own instruments, but not all wedding musicians have their own sound system. For cases like these, you’ll need your wedding coordinator or your venue to provide the speakers, amplifiers, and cables. Be sure to coordinate with the Taskers so that they can set up and do soundchecks before the guests arrive. 

When booking wedding musicians, you might be presented with a contract rider, which includes items you’ll have to provide, such as transportation to and from the wedding venue and meals. Remember to read this rider carefully and to let your wedding coordinator know what to prepare for the Taskers. 

Matching live music to your ceremony and reception moments

Each part of the day has a different job for the music. Planning them separately helps your wedding musicians choose the right line-up and setlist:

Guest arrival and ceremony: soft acoustic or strings while guests are seated. Then a processional piece timed to your walk down the aisle (agree a clear cue with the musicians), two or three songs during the signing of the register, and something upbeat for the recessional.

Cocktail hour: a jazz trio, acoustic duo or wedding singer keeps the mood relaxed while photos are taken.

Dinner and speeches: background music at a volume that lets guests talk, with a pause for speeches.

First dance and dancing: a live version of your song needs time to learn or arrange, so request it early. For the dance floor, many couples switch to a wedding band or wedding DJ.

Outdoor ceremonies may need light amplification if it’s windy or the space is large, so check power access with your venue.