Live Wedding Band versus a Wedding DJ or maybe there IS another Option

It’s no secret that there are few other elements of a wedding that can make or break the entire celebration other than the music. And it’s for this reason why discriminating brides and grooms often lose countless hours of sleep deciding on their entertainment.

The seemingly obvious choice for an upscale wedding is to hire a live band; however that can cause strife with those couples who really appreciate hearing the music the way they’ve heard it, by the original artists. Of course the next logical choice is to research a great dj. However, finding a dj is no walk in the park, since even celebrity dj’s may not often click with the type of music that you may feel is more appropriate for your crowd. In fact, in certain circles, even mentioning the words “Disc Jockey” is equivalent to serving six foot heroes for dinner.

So what’s a modern couple to do? Hire both?


Some couples choose to alternate between a band and a dj, though that can surely create a roller coaster ride between two very distinctly different types of sound. Another theory is to have the band start the evening, and then “reset” the party with a dj to finish out the night. Yet the downside of this arrangement is that it can sometimes alienate the older segment of the guest list, making them feel that the remaining portion of the party is reserved for younger guests.

Splitting the entertainment between a separate band and dj can also affect the “flow” of the party. This is something that is very rarely talked about when couples are out shopping for their prospective entertainment, yet it is quite crucial to the success of the party. The flow of the music, and the segues that a band or dj chooses can affect the dance floor in a big way. Choose poorly, and you lose the crowd, choose wisely and the energy of the party can take your guests on a fantastic trip they’ll never forget.

There is one more option, one that has been around for quite a number of years, but only recently receiving national prominence… It’s called “Synergy” and it’s a unique concept created by New York based On the Move Events that simultaneously combines live musicians with some of New York City’s hottest disc jockeys.

In essence, it truly is a combination of a band and a dj, and along with uncompromised talent, the magic is in the pre-production. On the Move digitally removes specific elements of music from original recordings and then has musicians “replace” those tracks, live at the party. The result is an incredible blend of familiar music with the sophistication of a live band. But since the integrity of the original music is still in tact, it’s not a full band that is playing along, rather accent musicians creatively intertwined with the original artists.

Choosing a band or a dj is based not only on musical preference, but sometimes other external factors play a role as well (and no, I don’t mean your future mother-in-law!). Sometimes the venue itself plays a role in determining your entertainment. There are some rooms that simply don’t have the physical floor space for a large orchestra, and the sound from small live ensemble just won’t do. Conversely, some venues have a fixed stage that is so large, that a solo dj just looks lost on it.

It’s these venue limitations that lead directly to On the Move’s decision to allow their clients to hand pick the type and amount of musicians to customize their Synergy package. Nevertheless, try not to get so caught up in the aesthetics that it clouds your judgment and sacrifices the quality of the entertainment. And one last thing, once you’ve hired the entertainment and you’re confident with their ability, if you give them some creative latitude (along with your suggestions) they should take the reigns from there and make all your musical dreams come true!

ABOUT Darren Olarsch

Darren Olarsch is the owner of On the Move Events, a full service NYC production company dedicated to providing exclusive event services for all occasions. On the Move’s Entertainment division represents the country’s hottest DJ’s, incredible Live Bands and many exclusive unique concepts, such as our renowned “Synergy” Band/DJ combination. On the Move’s Event production division has been flawlessly planning complete events and providing state of the art audio-visuals, lighting, and exceptional event design services for discriminating clientele across the globe.

We are delighted to represent On the Move Events and and you can additionally find Darren as one of our featured affluent wedding entertainment resources HERE

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