Weddings Summer 2013 > Planner

The Deanna Jones Orchestra

Playing jazz standards, funk, and Motown covers, among other styles (including original songs), this orchestra has a fun and energetic vibe. A typical arrangement includes bandleader Jones, plus three to four vocalists, four horns, and a rhythm section. Smaller ensembles also available. From $5,000.

The Dexter Lake Club Band

These guys first met at Oberlin, where they formed an eighties cover band. Since then, they’ve built a reputation as a real rock band that happens to play weddings. Members have played with the Walkmen and the Cars. Over time, they’ve added classic rock, soul, and Motown to their set list. From $9,000.

Doug Winters Music

This band plays a catchy mélange of songs and styles ranging from Adele and Tony Bennett to the best of eighties rock, and Winters will work with couples one-on-one to craft the perfect soundtrack for every stage of the wedding. Price is $1,200 per player (though rates are negotiable).

Élan Artists

This cooperative represents artists, musicians, and bands, and offers everything from classical ensembles to vintage groups to full-throttle dance bands. Each group customizes its music to reflect a couple’s style. Past performances include The Martha Stewart Show, Clinton Foundation, and Alvin Ailey parties, in addition to countless weddings. Band fees range from $5,500 to $15,000; classical music ensembles from $750 to $2,500 for ceremony and cocktails.

Empire Beats Featuring Camille Atkinson

Empire Beats plays classic rhythm-and-blues hits along with is own original songs. With Atkinson’s powerful and dynamic vocals and Empire’s big beats, guests are guaranteed to stay on their feet for hours. Prices start at $2,100.

Faze 4 Orchestras

Faze 4, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, hires out ensembles of six to fourteen musicians for high-energy dance music, Top 40, and classic jazz. Listen to samples from each of the company’s eleven bands online. Prices upon request.

The Gainsborough Trio

This trio met as conservatory students and the members now play weddings to augment their professional gigs in the pits of such Broadway shows as Wicked. Wedding offerings range from Bach to Gershwin ($700 for the ceremony; an additional $225 more for cocktails). (good value)

George Gee Orchestra

This energetic Chinese-American bandleader (and lover of all things retro) has a big selection of combos available, including a party-starting seventeen-piece big band playing swing, jazz, rock, R&B, and Motown. Prices upon request.

Golem

Fronted by talented singer-accordionist Annette Ezekiel Kogan, this energetic six-member “folk-punk” band seamlessly mixes traditional klezmer music with modern tunes. Inspired by Eastern European rock, Golem’s wild versions of “Soul Man” and “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” make for a raucously unforgettable reception wrap-up. From $1,000 per hour. (good value)

Hal Prince Music & Entertainment

This second-generation family-owned agency offers any kind of big-day entertainment a couple could dream up—including high-energy dance bands, string quartets, lively orchestras, D.J.’s, emcees, and more. Its musicians have performed with such artists as Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, and Steely Dan. Prices upon request.

Hank Lane Music and Productions

This company is the exclusive entertainment provider at high-end spots like the St. Regis and the Waldorf Astoria. The group can provide virtually any style of band or D.J., as well as custom lighting and design elements. Former clients run the gamut from Diddy to Vera Wang; the company also provided music for both Ivanka Trump’s and Carmelo Anthony’s nuptials. Prices upon request.

Harbor Lights Music

Harbor Lights Music offers a roster of bands and orchestras, a slew of D.J.’s, and classical and jazz ensembles to accommodate virtually any style and taste. The focus is on dance music: Top 40, R&B, mainstream hip-hop, Motown, seventies jams, and big-band swing. Potential clients can preview the company’s bands at their local performances or via video before booking. Prices upon request.

Hire Julliard Performers

For the couple on a budget, students and recent alumni of the illustrious music school can play classical, jazz, and contemporary numbers. Many will travel throughout the tristate area and can play solo or as ensembles. From $270 for one soloist (within Manhattan). (good value)

Jeff Jeffreys Music

Saxophonist Jeffreys and his troupe of talented musicians play swing, seventies, Motown, and contemporary tunes. He also offers classical quartets, trios and duos, jazz groups, and solo artists. Prices upon request.

John Malino Music

This outfit is perfect for couples more likely to frequent Bemelman’s Bar than the Bowery Ballroom. Vocalist Malino has a smooth Harry Connick Jr. sound and headlines all performances. The veteran five-piece ensemble, which can expand into a full orchestra, has played together for over ten years and performs jazz, swing, classic rock, and standards. From $6,500.

From the Summer 2013 New York Wedding Guide