What Should You Know Before Booking a Wedding Saxophonist?

Do I need to provide equipment?

Generally not, most professional players will bring their own sax and wireless microphone (obviously) and then a small PA (speakers) set up. If they are performing with a DJ then they will most likely plug in to the DJ decks and not bring their own speakers. Most saxophonists (Nick Pike Sax included) run their microphone through some reverb and compressor pedals to get a bigger sound so having a power point close to hand would be appreciated and possibly an extension cable depending on where you want the sax and DJ to be set up.

Can they saxophone players take requests?

Yes, saxophonists who specialise in parties, weddings and events are mostly very able improvisors and can play by ear very effectively. This means that they can switch what they’re playing on the fly (to different degrees of success!) so if you have a sudden burning desire for a nostalgic anthem then they should be able to tag along on your journey! It is worth mentioning that, whilst saxophone players do take requests, you will get the most out of the sax player you’ve hired if you let them play tunes that they know well and are comfortable with.

Is a DJ and Sax option a good one?

Yes, a DJ and sax pair really well together and can be very versatile. They create a fantastic party atmosphere with an efficient use of personnel. Whilst I’m of the opinion that you can’t beat a good band for getting the blood of the crowd going, DJ and Saxophone is a fantastic alternative.

Does the saxophone work for small, intimate weddings?

Yes it does but pick your song carefully. Saxophone has a lot of dynamic potential and you may have hired a very versatile player. However, what works very effectively on a dance floor (screaming sax, firey fast note passages, outrageous crowd interaction) won’t necessarily be what you’re after during your ceremony. That said, I’ve played plenty of ceremonies for happy couples and have changed my saxophone tone and setlist accordingly. As long as you communicate what you want and what you don’t want to your chosen saxophonist then they will suit your small and intimate wedding very well.

What are some logistical questions to ask a saxophonist for my wedding?

In the UK, performers must generally have up to date PLI (Public Liability Insurance) for themselves and to have all of their electrical equipment PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) tested so that they’re safe to use within your venue.

When should I book my saxophonist?

Well in advance will serve you best as most good saxophonists will be booked up 6 months to a year in advance. That said, I still get plenty of bookings for the week or two weeks following so you might be lucky with last minute bookings. Ideally you want to book no later than January or February for a summer wedding of that year but ideally a year or so in advance.

When should a saxophone player perform during my wedding?

Sax players are great in a variety of performance settings. On the dance floor is an obvious and much covered time but they can also play you down the aisle, play you into your wedding breakfast, perform background music during cocktail hour and then dance around you during your first dance.

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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.