What to ask when hiring musicians for your wedding day

Live music adds unforgettable magic to your big day. But not all musicians, or musical moments, are created equal. Your wedding ceremony and your reception serve very different purposes, and the questions you should ask when hiring musicians for each will differ too.

Below, we’ll break down exactly what to ask to make sure the music fits the mood, flows smoothly, and makes your guests feel something they’ll remember.

🎻 What to Ask When Hiring a Musician for Your Wedding Ceremony

The ceremony is all about intimacy, emotion, and timing. Whether you’re walking down the aisle to a classic piano piece or something personal and unique, here’s what you need to know:

1. What’s your ceremony music experience?
Have they played weddings before? Ceremony music requires precise timing and the ability to adapt if things run a little ahead or behind schedule. I've lost count of how many times I've had to improvise on the piano because a groomsman was late or something delayed the ceremony. It happens more often than you'd think, and not every musician handles it well. Some get flustered or frustrated, which can throw off the vibe. You want someone flexible and calm, not someone who lets a minor hiccup ruin your big moment. Someone who can make any challenge seem like just another part of the experience.

2. Can you help with song selection?
A great ceremony musician can help guide you through the prelude, processional, and recessional music and even provide suggestions you haven’t thought of. Be careful not to select a musician who is only skilled in one specific style. Versatility is key. Classical players may not be able to improv as well as jazz musicians, a skill that can definitely come in handy in the cases described above. Pop musicians may not be able to play the more classic wedding music as well as the classically trained folks.

3. Do you provide amplification?
Outdoor venues especially need amplification, even for something as simple as a piano or guitar. Most players should be equipped to provide everything they need to perform at your event (with the potential exception of power - see below) Ask if the have an extra microphone in case there is an unexpected need to make announcements to the attendees. This can be super helpful and keep things running smoothly.

4. Can you learn a specific song for us?
If you have a meaningful song in mind (even if it’s not traditionally played at weddings), ask if they can learn it. This is a VERY TYPICAL request. Don’t be afraid to ask for your song and be clear about the style you’d like it played in. If you’re not sure, find a few examples on YouTube or online to use as reference. I recently played “It’s Raining Men” in a romantic, classical style as the groomsmen walked down the aisle. It was one of those “if you know, you know” moments. Some guests caught it and smiled, others just thought it was a beautiful piece of music.

5. Do you need access to power, shade, or other specific setup requirements?
Especially important for outdoor or unconventional venues. Know ahead of time what the musician needs to perform comfortably and reliably.

6. How does pricing work for ceremony music?
Is there a flat rate for the ceremony? Are there extra charges for learning new songs, bringing equipment, or staying longer than expected? Expect to pay a solo musician somewhere between $400 - $800, depending on ceremony length, location, special needs/requirements, etc.

Bonus: Does your musician also have a license to officiate the ceremony?
It might sound like a wild question, but it’s not as out there as you’d think. In fact, I’ve had the honor of both playing and officiating weddings. So if you’re looking for someone who can provide the music and lead the ceremony, I can do both. It’s not something many musicians offer, but it’s a unique option I’m happy to provide if it helps make your day easier.

🎹 What to Ask When Hiring a Musician for Your Wedding Reception

The reception is where the party happens. You want live music that’s not just background—but brings the energy and enhances the atmosphere.

1. What styles of music do you play?
Do they play jazz, pop, Motown, dance hits, or a little bit of everything? Get a sense of their vibe and versatility.

2. Can you provide dinner music and transition into dancing?
Some musicians or bands can handle both. Others specialize in one or the other. Make sure the flow of the evening is seamless.

3. Do you take requests?
Interactive music experiences (like a live pianist taking requests) can be a fun twist that keeps guests engaged.

4. What’s included in your setup?
Speakers? Lighting? Microphones for toasts? Don’t assume anything—ask what’s included and what isn’t.

5. How many breaks do you take?
Understand how long they’ll play, how often they take breaks, and if they provide background music during those pauses.

6. What are your pricing options for the reception?
Do they charge by the hour, offer a set block of time, or have packages that include dinner, cocktail hour, and dancing? Be clear on what's included in each price point. Live music makes each moment special and if it’s affordable, having the band play during cocktail hour and dinner is a real treat for your guests.

Ready to Book Live Music for Your Wedding in Raleigh, NC?

Whether you're looking for a solo pianist for your ceremony, a dueling piano act for your cocktail hour, or a high-energy musical experience for your reception, I’d love to help.

📆 [Check my availability here]
📧 Or reach out directly to start planning the perfect soundtrack for your big day.

Scales. Learn to LOVE them.

If you're learning to play an instrument, or even if you've been playing for years, there’s one simple truth that can change your musical experience:

Scales are everything.

They might not seem exciting at first glance. In fact, most people think of scales as a warm-up exercise or something to “get through” in a music class. But if you really understand them, scales become the gateway to playing almost any song, improvising with confidence, and connecting more deeply to your music.

Why Are Scales So Important?

Scales are the foundation of Western music. Here’s why they matter so much:

• Scales become scale degrees – This means you understand not just the notes in a scale, but their function (like 1st, 3rd, or 5th).

• Scale degrees become chords – Understanding which chords are built from each note helps you recognize progressions, harmonies, and patterns that exist in thousands of songs.

• Chords lead to melodies and improvisation – Once you know the framework, you can start creating melodies, solos, and emotional musical moments without guessing.

• It all becomes muscle memory – With regular practice, this foundational knowledge becomes second nature—freeing you to focus on expression rather than mechanics.

Still Think Scales Are Boring?

Think of it like learning a language. Scales are the alphabet. Once you know the letters and how they form words, you can write anything, from love songs to symphonies.

And here’s the good news: learning scales doesn’t have to be dry or complicated.

In my private piano lessons (available in-person in Wendell, NC), I help students break down the essentials of music in a way that makes sense, whether you're starting from scratch or returning to your instrument after years away.

Common Questions:

Can I learn songs without learning scales?
Yes, but you’ll eventually hit a wall. Without scale knowledge, your musical vocabulary stays limited.

What if I already play by ear?
That’s great, but adding scale knowledge can take your natural talent to the next level and help you understand why the things you play sound good.

I’m just a beginner. Where do I even start?
Right here. I offer step-by-step guidance and practical, real-world examples that make learning scales easier and more enjoyable than you might expect.

Ready to Learn Music Differently?

Whether you're picking up piano for the first time or you’re a guitarist looking to understand theory, I’ll guide you every step of the way.

Private lessons are available now. In-person in Raleigh, NC or virtually from anywhere.

Want to unlock the songs you love? Start with scales.
[Contact me to get started.]

A photo of the C Major scale and its relative minor scale, A minor. Want to learn more about what it all means? Let’s chat!

The Thing You Can’t-NOT-do.

There’s usually something in life we find ourselves doing without even trying. It might not be part of your job, and no one’s asking you to do it, but you do it anyway. For some people, it's obsessing about your lawn or garden. For others, it's painting, editing videos, coaching a team, or figuring out how to make something better just because you care.

For me, it’s music. Always has been.

But lately, it’s more than just playing piano. I keep coming back to composing. I’ll sit down at the keys and end up writing something that sounds like it belongs in a film or a trailer. I don’t do it because someone hired me. I do it because I literally can’t help it. It’s the thing I keep doing, no matter what else is going on. Here’s a couple examples I sketched out.

This is the thing I found that I simply can’t-NOT-do.

And I think that’s worth paying attention to.

When you find that thing, whatever it is, you don’t need permission. You don’t need a business plan. You just need to keep showing up and doing the work. Not for a deadline. Not for likes. Just to get better. To see where it leads. And maybe, if you keep following it, it turns into something bigger. Maybe even something that pays.

But even if it doesn’t, it’ll grow you.

That’s where I’m at. I’m leaning in. I’m thinking about taking it further, maybe getting a more formal education in composition. Not because I have to. But because I want to. And because I know I’m just getting started.

So if you’ve got something that’s pulling at you like that, start. Don’t overthink it. Just get in the habit of doing it a little more. You never know what’s possible until you do.

Booking Music Isn’t Just a Vibe. It’s a Responsibility.

In one of my earlier posts, I mentioned that I help run a music festival. I figured it’s time to tell you a little more.

The Punch Brothers On Stage at the 40th Annual Huck Finn Jubilee. According to Chris Thile (mandolin), the Jubilee was the first festival he attended as a child and the first one he played as a professional musician. Also shown, Noam Pikelny (banjo), Gabe Witcher (fiddle), Chris Eldridge (guitar), Paul Kowert (bass).

It’s called the Huck Finn Jubilee, and it’s a bluegrass and roots music festival that’s been going strong for over 45 years in Southern California. My family and I took it over in 2017 after the city that ran it decided to shut it down. We couldn’t let that happen. Not just because it had history, but because we believe in the power of live music and the community it creates.

Every year, we carefully select the artists who play our stage. And yes, we’ve been lucky enough to book big names who’ve played the Grand Ole Opry, won Grammys, or gone on to national tours. But you want to know what we’re proudest of? Spotting the ones on their way up. The young bands still sleeping in vans, who take the stage and leave your jaw on the floor. Booking those acts before they blow up? That’s the good stuff.

And here’s the thing: booking music for a bar, club, or restaurant? It’s no different. Whether you’re programming a full weekend lineup or just looking for the right solo act for Thursday nights, the entertainment you book becomes part of your brand. It tells your customers what kind of experience to expect. And it can be the difference between a packed house and a quiet room.

We’ve all seen it happen. A band gets up that isn’t quite ready…off-key, out of sync, just not in the pocket…and the energy in the room vanishes. People finish their drinks, make polite faces, and don’t come back. That’s not just a bad night. That’s a missed opportunity to build loyalty and buzz.

On the flip side, the right music? It elevates everything.

It could be something as simple and elegant as a solo piano player at a high-end lounge, creating ambiance without overpowering conversation. Or it could be a high-energy pop cover band that gets your crowd clapping, singing, and tagging your venue all over social media. Either way, it's about matching the music to the mood you want to create—and then curating that experience like it matters. Because it does.

There’s enough great music in this area that no one needs to settle. From singer-songwriters and jazz duos to string quartets and full-throttle bluegrass bands, Raleigh and its surrounding towns are filled with talent. And as both a resident and a working musician, I want to help make sure we keep delivering top-tier live entertainment to this community.

Because when a local music scene thrives, it doesn’t just sound good. It lifts spirits. It builds culture. And yes, it helps the economy too.

So whether you're looking for a solo act to set the mood or a showstopper to headline your Friday night, choose with care. Book with intention. Your audience can tell the difference, and they’ll thank you for it.

Can I play?

That was the question I used to ask as a kid, knocking on a neighbor’s door after hearing the laughter and energy spilling out into the yard. I may not have gotten any formal invitation, but with friendly neighbors, I always felt like I was welcome to join in.

That same feeling hit me when my family and I arrived in Wendell. Even before fully unpacking, I could feel the hum of this community…the music floating from porches, parks, breweries, and the people behind it all. It’s the kind of place where creativity feels alive. And once again, I found myself thinking… Can I play?

I’ve always been drawn to places where music feels like part of the fabric of daily life. Los Angeles. Nashville. Austin. Chicago. Cities where a walk down the street means stumbling into a local artist playing their heart out. There’s something special about that…how music connects people and gives a place its unique flavor.

My own path in music has taken me all over the world. I spent years touring with the Drew Davis Band, an original country music project (more on that later) and later shifted into a role as a musical director, which opened doors to performances in places like Spain, Abu Dhabi, Japan, and Italy. Whether I was playing piano in a packed venue or leading a team of performers on an international stage, what’s always driven me is the same thing: creating moments that bring people together.

That’s what I hope to contribute here in Raleigh. I want to play a role, literally and figuratively, in supporting and amplifying the music community that already exists here. Whether it's playing piano at local bars, lounges, or weddings, offering solo performances for special events, or teaching lessons to the next generation of musicians, I’m here for it.

I hope that you’ll allow me to join in on the musical fun and share what it is that I can with the intention of making our community tighter, more connected to each other and the beauty of music.

If you're looking for a professional piano player in Raleigh for your wedding, event, cocktail hour, restaurant, or private party, or if you’re just someone who wants to learn how to play, I’d love to be part of your journey. Because when music thrives, so does everything else: culture, connection, creativity, and community.

So….Let’s make some noise, Wendell! I’d love our new home to (continue and expand) as a place that honors the creativity, time, and heart it takes to make music that moves people.

Like our festival mottos says (again…more on that later): Resonate positivity. Unite in Harmony. Amplify vibration.

Concerts in the Fancy Room

When I was a kid, my best friend’s house had one of those rooms—the kind no one ever used. If you grew up in the ’80s, you probably know what I’m talking about. The furniture was pristine, sometimes even wrapped in plastic. The carpet looked like it had never been walked on. It was more display than living space.

In that untouched room sat a shiny black baby grand piano. It looked like something out of a movie. And even though the room itself felt off-limits, my friend’s parents always welcomed me in to play. I didn’t need to be asked twice.

I never had a piano like that. Honestly, I still don’t. So every chance to sit at that one was a little moment of magic. The soundboard, the long strings, the way the whole instrument seemed to breathe…everything about it felt alive. I’d play for as long as they’d let me, and they’d call in neighbors or relatives to sit and listen. No one talked, except for a few whispers about my “talent”. They just sat there, smiling.

That room, meant to be admired from afar, became a place where something real happened. And it stuck with me. That feeling of doing what I loved, just for the joy of it, and seeing other people moved by it in their own quiet way. It made me realize that music isn’t just something I love. It’s something that can create connection, across generations, backgrounds, and experiences.

Those impromptu concerts were never planned. No tickets. No stage. Just a kid, a piano, and a few kind people who chose to listen. But I think about them often, especially now as I start to play out more in my new community here in Wendell.

There’s always a little voice that creeps in with self-doubt. Will people care? Will they judge? Am I doing too much/not enough? But when I come back to those early memories, I remember what really matters. Most people aren’t listening to critique. They’re listening to feel something.

So that’s what I’m chasing again. Those quiet rooms that turn into something more when music fills them. And if you’re someone who’s looking for a piano player for your event, your venue, your wedding, or even just your home, I’d be honored to bring that feeling to you.

Because sometimes, the room no one ever goes into becomes the place where music lives the loudest.

A black baby grand piano sits in the center of a formal living room with white carpet, white walls, and furniture covered in plastic protectors. Carpet runners lead through the room, evoking a pristine, rarely-used space from the 1980s.

Yes, It’s the Same Song Again!

If you’ve ever had a child learning an instrument in your home, you know the sound of repetition. The same scales, the same few bars, the same song… again and again. It’s enough to make even the most supportive parent long for a good set of noise-canceling headphones.

Trust me—I’ve been on both sides. I was the kid hammering away on a piano while the rest of my house quietly lost its mind, and I’m the parent now who totally gets how hard that can be. Repetition is not flashy. It’s not glamorous. But it is how you get good.

And it’s not just practice—it shows up in performance, too. Many bands, orchestras, pop groups, even church musicians play the same material over and over again.

In 2001, I spent a year playing at Tokyo DisneySea in a show called Mystic Rhythms. It was part of the launch of what was then the most expensive theme park ever built. The show ran five times a day, five days a week, for a full year. Same material. Same choreography. Same music.

And you know what? I never got bored. Because within that repetition was a kind of discipline I had never experienced before. A chance to lock in with my bandmates. To focus not just on getting the notes right, but on making the same thing better every time. Could I play that passage smoother? Hit that cue tighter? Listen more deeply?

It was like chasing the perfect show. And while that may not exist—especially in something as subjective as music—what does exist is the ability to grow through the repetition. You learn how to concentrate. You develop stamina. You build muscle memory and a deeper relationship with your craft.

So whether your kid is repeating a two-bar phrase until it drives the dog under the couch, or you’re grinding out your own version of “just one more take,” know that repetition isn’t punishment, it’s the neccesary pathway. And sometimes, it leads to unexpected places. Like an orchestra pit in Japan, or a surprise moment when it all clicks for the first time on stage.

Repetition may not be exciting. But what comes from it often is.

If you're looking for piano lessons in Raleigh, or just want to talk about helping your kid push through the grind in a way that feels good for everyone involved, I’m here for it.

Sometimes, doing the same thing over and over again is exactly how something new begins.

A photo of the impressive stage from Mystic Rhythms, Tokyo. The show told the story of the interactions between the spirits of Earth, Wind, Fire, and water. I was a member of the opening cast and the show went on to become the longest running show in Disney Theme-park history.

A photo of the platform on which I performed 5 shows a day, everyday, for 1 year! I loved getting to know and play with my Japanese counterparts in the 6 piece band that brought the music of the show to life.

Understanding Music Changes Everything

I mean that—deeply. Understanding music won’t just make you a better player or listener. It will show you how to trigger emotion with your playing. It will reveal the mathematical beauty hidden in the patterns of every song you’ve ever loved. I don’t say this lightly: learning how music works changes the way you see and hear the world. I can’t overstate it. It’s that powerful.

So…If you’re an adult who’s always wanted to learn piano—or you played years ago but feel like you never quite got it—you’re not alone.

And it’s not just ‘piano’ that I am talking about. We’re exploring MUSIC here.

Maybe you’re a guitar player. I meet a lot of folks who picked up the guitar as a teenager, followed some tabs, maybe learned a few cool-sounding chords, but never really connected the dots. They can play, but they don’t quite understand what they’re playing.

That’s where I come in.

I teach music a little differently. I focus on understanding music from the inside out. Through the lens of harmony, structure, and function. Because once you understand how music works, everything changes.

If you’ve never touched an instrument before, no worries. If you’re rusty, that’s okay too. I’m not promising to turn you into a virtuoso overnight (and if anyone is, run…quickly!). What I do promise is that you’ll start to see the beauty of how music fits together. And that’s a very addicting kind of knowledge. Trust me, I’ve been fascinated by it for 40 years.

Here’s the journey we’d take:

Ultimate Beginner
– Learn the notes on the keyboard
– Get comfortable with intervals, note names, and fingering
– Understand the building blocks

Beginner
– Learn major scale patterns and how they relate to the circle of 5ths
– Understand how major and minor chords are structured
– Explore diatonic harmony
– Start playing real songs using number language (What’s a 2-5-1 progression? A 1-6-2-5-1?)
– Learn chord inversions and how to add color with 7ths, 9ths, and more
– Start hearing how songs are built

Intermediate
– Embellish and arrange songs
– Improvise melodies and simple solos, understand the modes (yes, they are important)
– Explore harmony outside the diatonic system
– Start writing and composing your own music

From here, it’s your call where we go. I can help you chase the goals that matter to you—whether that’s playing at home, writing original music, or finally understanding what your favorite songs are doing under the hood.

Understanding harmony and function won’t just help you play better—it’ll unlock a deeper appreciation for music itself. You won’t just memorize songs. You’ll understand why they work.

And that understanding? That’s the reward. There’s no final destination in music. Like that quote says, “You don’t start a dance with the purpose of ending up at a specific place on the floor.” The joy is in the movement. In the learning. In the playing.

So if you're an adult in the Raleigh area looking for piano lessons, and you're ready to learn how music works—not just how to press the right keys—I’d love to help. All it takes is a little practice.

And practice? Well, that’s just another word for play, right?

This is an AI image.

While it reflects some of the things you’ll see in music, not much of it is ‘real’.

That circle of notes? The is meant to look like the circle of 5ths. A huge concept in understanding music.

Those roman numerals with numbers…well…they aren’t ‘real’ either, but we do often notate chords with numbers and it shouldn’t be intimidating.

Let’s study together and grow your understanding of music, harmony, composition, and notation.