Hiring a live pianist is a lovely way to add warmth to a wedding, memorial, church service or private event. A little preparation helps you find the right person and avoids stress later. These five questions are a good place to start.
1. What kind of music do you play, and can you play what I want?
Every musician has a repertoire, and some are more flexible than others. Tell them the style of event and the type of music you have in mind, whether that is classical, hymns, jazz standards, pop songs or film themes. If you have special requests, ask if they can learn them and how much notice they need. Ask, too, whether they can play from a list you give them or whether they prefer to choose.
2. What instrument will be used?
Find out if the musician brings their own instrument or relies on one at the venue. If it is a venue piano, ask who checks that it is in tune and in good condition. If the musician brings a keyboard, ask about space, power and any setup needs. This is one of the most common sources of last-minute problems, so it is worth settling early.
3. How will the timing work?
Ask how long they will play, when they will arrive and how long setup takes. If the event is a few hours, ask about breaks and what happens during them. For ceremonies, ask whether they are comfortable following cues from an officiant or coordinator. A good musician will want your run sheet and will ask questions about it.
4. What happens if something changes?
Plans change. Ask what happens if the schedule runs late, if the venue changes, or if you need to move the date. It also helps to ask what the backup plan is if the musician cannot attend due to illness or an emergency. You should feel comfortable that there is a clear plan and that you know how to reach them.
5. What are the details in writing?
Before you book, ask for the key points in writing. That way, everyone is clear about what has been agreed.
- Date, start time and location
- Length of the performance and any breaks
- Type of music and any specific pieces
- Instrument and setup needs
- Fee, deposit and payment timing
- Cancellation and rescheduling terms
A few extra tips
If you can, speak with the musician by phone or video before booking. A short conversation tells you a lot about whether you will work well together. Share your event details honestly, including the size of the room, the number of guests and the mood you want. Finally, book early, especially for busy times of year like wedding season and the holidays.
How we can help
JP Music provides live piano and organ music for weddings, memorials and celebrations of life, private events, corporate events, church services and senior living communities. We serve Calgary, Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, Strathmore, High River, Canmore, Crossfield, Didsbury and nearby. If you have questions about booking, reach out and Johnson will be happy to talk it through.
Planning something?
Tell Johnson your date and what you have in mind.
