Hiring a live pianist can add an incredible layer of elegance and emotion to your wedding day. But before you sign a contract, it's crucial to ask the right questions to ensure they are the perfect fit for your vision, style, and logistical needs. Here are five essential questions every couple should ask a potential wedding pianist:
1. What is your repertoire like, and can you learn special song requests?
This is arguably one of the most important questions. You'll want to know if their general style aligns with yours (e.g., classical, jazz, contemporary pop, film themes). More importantly, find out their policy on learning new songs.
- Do they have an existing song list you can review?
- Are they comfortable playing by ear or do they require sheet music for new pieces? (Playing by ear, like I often do, allows for quicker learning of many popular songs!)
- Is there an extra fee for learning new songs, and how much notice do they typically need?
- Are there any types of music they don't play?
A pianist who is flexible and willing to learn your special songs can make your day truly personal.
2. What are your equipment requirements, and do you provide your own?
Logistics are key for a smooth performance. Understand what the pianist needs and provides:
- If your venue has a piano, will they use it? If so, what are its condition requirements (e.g., recently tuned)?
- If no venue piano is available, do they provide their own professional-grade digital piano/keyboard and stand?
- Do they provide their own amplification (sound system)? Is it suitable for your venue size and guest count? Is the setup discreet?
- What are their space and power requirements (e.g., approximate footprint, access to an electrical outlet)?
Clarifying this upfront prevents any last-minute surprises or technical hitches.
3. What is your experience with weddings, and can you provide references or samples of your playing?
Experience matters, especially in the often unpredictable flow of a wedding day.
- How many weddings have they played for? Are they familiar with the typical flow of ceremonies and receptions?
- Can they share testimonials or direct you to online reviews from past wedding clients?
- Do they have audio or video samples of their playing, particularly of wedding-appropriate music? This gives you a direct sense of their skill and style.
A seasoned wedding pianist will be professional, adaptable, and understand the nuances of providing music for such an important occasion.
4. What are your packages and pricing, and what is included?
Get a clear understanding of their offerings and all associated costs:
- Do they offer set packages (e.g., ceremony only, ceremony + cocktail hour) or hourly rates?
- What is the total cost, including any travel fees, equipment fees, or overtime rates?
- How much playing time is included? What about breaks?
- What is the payment schedule, and what is the deposit required to secure the date?
- What is their cancellation policy?
Ensure all these details are clearly outlined in a written contract.
5. What is your process for planning the music with us, and how do you handle day-of coordination?
Communication and planning are vital for a stress-free experience.
- How far in advance do they start planning the music details with you?
- How do they prefer to communicate (email, phone, in-person meeting)?
- How do they coordinate with other vendors, like your wedding planner or officiant, regarding cues and timing?
- What time will they arrive on the wedding day for setup?
- What is their typical attire for a wedding performance?
A pianist who is organized, communicative, and proactive in planning will put your mind at ease.
Asking these questions will help you find a wedding pianist who not only sounds beautiful but also aligns with your practical needs and helps make your wedding music planning a joy. Don't hesitate to ask follow-up questions until you feel completely comfortable and confident in your choice!
I'm always happy to answer these questions and more. Feel free to reach out to discuss your wedding music!