There’s something about the moment the bride walks in, the room goes still, and a live vocalist begins to sing “Can’t Help Falling in Love” — not from a Spotify playlist, but from the chest of a real human, right there, voice trembling slightly with emotion. That moment stays with you. Years later, you may not remember the centrepieces or the dessert, but you’ll remember that.
Live music has a way of anchoring memories — it elevates a wedding from an event to an experience. But it’s not always for everyone. As a former musician myself (I still play bass at church and open mic nights), I’ve seen both the magic and the mishaps of live performances at weddings in Singapore.
So before you book that jazz trio or acoustic duo for your big day, let’s weigh the pros and cons — no pitchy notes, just honest chords.
Nothing sets the tone quite like live music. Whether it’s the warm strings of a classical ensemble during the tea ceremony, a jazz band over dinner, or a soulful singer serenading your march-in — live music adds depth and energy that recorded tracks can’t replicate.
In Singapore’s wedding venues — from grand ballrooms at The Fullerton to alfresco setups at Open Farm Community — live music can adjust organically to the vibe, whether it’s intimate or lively.
Want your favourite Coldplay song with a string quartet twist? Prefer a bilingual emcee-singer [15.Do I Need an Emcee for My Wedding?] who can switch from English to Mandarin seamlessly? With live performers, you can personalise your setlist and even adapt lyrics or dedications.
Local musicians here often have wedding-specific packages, and many can throw in your march-in songs, first dance tunes and even emcee-ing.
There’s a difference between guests eating quietly to background Spotify, and guests softly clapping or singing along as a crooner belts out “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran.
Live performers interact. They engage. They make the wedding feel alive — especially useful during slower moments like the dinner lull or cocktail hour.
When you hire a live band in Singapore, you’re often supporting homegrown talent — many of whom have honed their craft through weddings and bars. It’s a meaningful way to honour artistry and add something soulful to your day.
Let’s address the elephant in the ballroom: live music isn’t cheap. Depending on the number of performers, equipment, and duration, you could be spending between $800 to $3,000 or more for a 2-3 hour session in Singapore.
For couples trying to stay within budget, it’s often a toss-up between a live band or, say, an extra dessert table or videographer [53.Wedding Videographer – Necessary or Extra?].
Some venues (especially restaurants or smaller hotels) may not have the physical space or acoustics for live setups. A 5-piece jazz ensemble might look squashed next to the buffet line at a heritage shophouse venue.
Even the best bands face tech hiccups: mics crackling, amps being too loud, feedback during speeches. And in Singapore, where sound regulations and hotel tech setups can be tricky, it helps to have a professional AV team — which may cost more.
Some guests prefer music as background noise — not a centrepiece. If your guest list skews more traditional, or if you want a low-key vibe, live music might feel like too much.
Live music at weddings, when done well, creates moments you’ll never forget. It’s a little like marriage itself — vulnerable, emotional, unpredictable at times… but when it comes together, it’s nothing short of beautiful.
If budget and logistics allow, I say go for it. Hire the band. Let them sing your story. Because in the end, a wedding isn’t just about the details — it’s about the way it felt.
And music? Music makes you feel.