Frequently Asked Questions About Hiring a Wedding Saxophonist in London

What is included when I hire a saxophonist?

Your chosen saxophonist will typically come with their own saxophone, backing tracks and a small, portable PA. The quality of the PA brought by the player can vary quite a lot so it is worth talking to the saxophonist about the number of guests they’ll be playing to and location (indoor, outdoor, high ceilings etc.) to make sure that their system will be suitable. Nick Pike Sax uses two Bose S1s for gigs and reception of up to 80-100 guests. For much more than that then Nick uses his much more powerful Bose L1s for up to about 150 guests. This is not taking into account the acoustics of the room so it is worth discussing this with your chosen player.

How long will a sax player play?

Really it depends on how much you’re paying them but the general standard is 2x45 minutes or 3x30 minute sets over the course of 3 or 4 hours. Sax players can play for much longer, especially if they’re with a DJ or band where there is space for them to rest their embouchure (their mouth muscles) but most will still charge for a full gig if you want them to play for a shorter time, it is always worth discussing what it is you’re after from them in advance, don’t try to be cheeky. No sax player will appreciate having a first dance, wedding breakfast entry or surprise reveal thrust on them with no warning (it’s happened more than a few times to me) and you run the significant risk of the saxophone player refusing to do it which can lead to embarrassment and bad blood. I’ve never refused to do the surprise extras yet but I’ve heard stories when they have said no. Communication is key!

Do I need to provide anything for my sax player?

Nothing significant. They will almost definitely need a power point where they can plug their PA and microphone in but other than that, the pre-arranged logistics is all they really need. If your venue has an event manager or you’re using a DJ, make sure you put them in touch with your saxophonist so that they can hit the ground running.

What is the best time for my saxophonist to play? 

Saxophone is an incredibly versatile instrument that can suit lots of different situations. It’s tone suits both a relaxed background mood, a romantic and emotional wedding ceremony situation and, of course, when the party needs to get started.

The classic wedding hit points to choose are (one or all):

• During your drinks reception or canapés - this can be relaxed background jazz or understated tropical house with enough beat to get people excited but not boiling over into full party mode just yet! This time works really well in a standard dinner party and/or corporate event as well. Saxophone before dinner to take guests from arriving sober and guiding them musically to being a bit tipsy and excited works really well.

• During your Wedding Breakfast or Dinner - sax as a background instrument works really well too. It enhances the atmosphere and provides some entertainment which is especially useful if you have families or employees who have only just met and aren’t necessarily naturally talkative.

• During the Evening Party or Reception - either having your saxophonist as a soloist working with your hired DJ or even making them perform solo (depending on your size of party and budget) is an excellent entertainment and your guests will talk about it as being one of the most memorable elements of your wedding or event.

How Long should I have a saxophonist play for?

This is up to you but the standard is 2 or 3 40-45 minute sets. You need to have some breaks in-between sets for the saxophonists embouchure (mouth muscles) to rest and not to over-saturate your evening with saxophone. It isn’t uncommon to play 2 sets during the reception, wait a little while and play for a couple of sets in the evening or even with the band!

Do I need to provide equipment for the saxophone player?

Most saxophone players will bring their own sax, backing tracks, microphone and (assuming they aren’t playing with a DJ or on a specific house system) their own small PA or speaker system. They will nearly always need a power point close where they play and possibly a power extension cable but otherwise should be fairly self-contained.

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Looking for a wedding saxophonist in Hertford, Oxford, Bucks, or across the South East?

Whether you're planning your big day in Guildford, Harlow, Tring, Coulsdon, Berkhamsted, or beyond – including Chichester, Dulwich, Forest Hill, Peckham, Honor Oak, East Dulwich, Croydon, Southend, Chidham, Farbridge, Fleet, Farnborough, Slough, Essex, Surrey, Sussex, Kent or London – Nick brings unforgettable live saxophone music to your celebration. Get in touch to check availability and make your wedding truly special.