Band Members Taking Breaks

... no takers from the bands on board so I'll recant my experiences as a musician in a wedding band. The answer really depends on the band so you should definitely inquire. Of the bands I have played with and have seen as a guest at weddings, breaks were only taken during dining courses where much dancing wasn't going on anyway. During part of the dining course, very often you can expect to hear one or two musicians/vocalist playing ballads, show tunes, etc. When they break, often they will play a cd so that the music is continuous.

In my experience as a DJ working with a band as a combo (George Nichols Music), we basically took turns at sets, alternating live and pre-recorded music during the dining courses. A band/DJ combo offers the best of both worlds, without any limitation. I don't believe I've seen/experienced any situation where the breaks were too long in that the break interfered with the dynamics or flow of the event. Most bands should be able to provide you with a general idea about when and how long they take breaks. If they seem disturbed when you ask, think about the message that they are really sending you. You may want to look elsewhere.

Regards,

Michael
http://www.musicbymichael.com

What you have experienced is the most common complaint people have about bands. The term 'continuous flow of music' is constantly used and most misunderstood. It really means the band plays 20 minutes and then either one personal plays or they play a CD for 20 minutes.You average 30 mintues per hour for the full band. I was interviewed by Bridal Guide Magazine about this topic and explained the difference between the commonly mis- used and mis-understood term 'continuous flow' and the difference compared to 'full band continuous music'. My personal band and my office policy is full band continuous music - full band performs 55 minutes per hour. The band takes a 5 minute break once an hour at the least conspicuous times-when food is being served. The client has the option of CD music for 5 minutes or one person performs for the 5 minutes.I have played many weddings where my band performed 6 or 7 hours or more - the full band performing 55 minutes per hour .
This is my personal policy. I am not speaking for any other music offices or making any comments or judgements on any other music office band policies. My advise is read the specific writing in the contract.
STAN WIEST
A.STAN WIEST MUSIC
Featured in BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINE
January 2003 issue- article on 'The Cutting Edge In Weddings and Wedding Music'A.Stan Wiest Muisic Website Stan Wiest Email

I think 55 minutes sounds above and beyond! Thats wonderful.... now I have to talk to my band leader and see what he has to say about all this! Wish me luck!!!

Thanks for all your help.

When you talk to your band leader - can you come back and share what was said? Im also curious.

My band has 'continuous music' in our contract but after what Stan just posted - Im wondering. Who cares if its continuous if they are breaking every 20 minutes?

Thanks!

Who is your band? I think we have the same agent.