Music Directory
Most of the following agencies, bands, and D.J.'s will provide a free demo tape.
BANDS
The "A" Band
308 Orchard Dr., Monroe, N.Y.; 877-674-7434; 845-783-0130; theaband.comEarth Wind & Fire, Beyoncé, and Frank Sinatra are a tiny fraction of the music this veteran band—which can feature anywhere from five to ten members, according to your preference—can cover. Their eclecticism has served them well. Prices from $4,000.
Adam Roth & the Jaded Six
917-664-0319; adamroth.comThe kitschily dressed Roth leads this eclectic band of six. He’s best known for playing guitar on many of Denis Leary’s albums, but you can also see him play at the monthly “Stump the Band” night at Niagara in the East Village. Prices upon request.
Alex Donner Entertainment
429 E. 52nd St., near Beekman Pl., Ste. 12D; 212-752-2920; alexdonner.comWhat began as the Alex Donner Orchestra has grown into a one-stop shop for everything from classical music to mariachi bands and even cabaret. The list of notable clients spans the political spectrum from George H.W. Bush to George Soros. Prices run from $4,000 to $20,000.
Al Scatt's Stolen Moments Entertainment
914-693-2309; stolenmoments.comThe company is composed of ten acts—from D.J.’s to steel-drum trios to jazz and classical orchestras. Stolen Moments also offers a cover band as versed in 50 Cent as in Louis Armstrong. Prices upon request.
Anteros Quartet
212-665-4752; anterosquartet.comThis versatile quartet can tailor its song list to suit any couple, from the classical canon, “Hava Nagila,” tangos, or ragtime. Couples on a budget can opt for the simpler trio, and those who want to add a little kick to the classic quartet can request a trumpet, harp, or vocalist. The quartet charges $1,200 for the first hour and $300 for each additional hour.
Associated Musicians of Greater NY
212-245-4802; nyclivemusic.comThe New York Musicians Union (Local 802) represents more than 10,000 professional musicians in New York City; whether you’re looking to hire a band or orchestra, the union will refer you to the appropriate group or contractor. Prices negotiable depending on group size and time.
A. Stan Wiest Music
271 Bread and Cheese Hollow Rd., Fort Salonga, N.Y.; 631-754-0594; stanwiest.comThe agency provides a diverse array of bands and D.J.’s (think mariachis, steel-drum bands, strolling violinists, or musicians well-versed in Persian music and salsa). A favorite among Dixieland fans, flamenco lovers, sitar aficionados, and people who love bagpipes. Prices upon request.
Bianchi Musico
917-847-1633; bianchimusico.comClassical cellist Stephanie Winters and pianist Pilley Bianchi started playing together last year when a couple requested an urban, edgy sound for their wedding. Bianchi, an award-winning songwriter, loved the combination and decided to collaborate with Winters, a recording artist who has accompanied singer Richie Havens, among others. Ceremonies are usually an hour and a half. Prices upon request.
Bud Maltin Metropolitan Music
212-447-6543; budmaltin.comThis orchestra’s members, some of who have been playing together since 1985, perform rock, disco, and R&B as well as specialty sounds like reggae, Latin, and klezmer. The orchestra always has a male and a female vocalist. They can also supply jazz and cocktail duos as well as trios and quartets for ceremony and cocktail music ($4,200 to $11,000). Upon request, they also can coordinate live sound with their own D.J. at no additional cost.
Cal James Entertainment
484 W. 43rd St., at Tenth Ave.; 212-967-9791; caljames.comMusical director, film scorer, and session saxophonist James has gathered a select group of studio musicians and vocalists who have worked with Sting, Eric Clapton, and Ray Charles. They’ll hook you up with a string quartet, jazz combos, harp ensembles, a flute trio, or their highly sought-after dance band the Cal Jones Orchestra. Prices run from $4,000.
Campanella Ensemble
917-952-8180 ; campanellaensemble.comWhether you want a cocktail pianist, a strolling violinist, or any other ensemble combination, this metro-area group can likely deliver it. Their talented group of musicians includes singers, harpists, guitarists, and, of course, all the standard string and brass performers. Prices vary widely depending on the number of musicians you hire, your location, and the duration of the reception.
Charlotte Russe Music
212-582-5694; 516-374-5422; charlotterussemusic.comThis team breaks out the horns for Duke Ellington classics and hams it up on “Time of My Life,” but what sets it apart is its huge repertoire of klezmer and Asian music. Owner Charlotte Sanders sings in seven languages (English, French, Spanish, Yiddish, Hebrew, Russian, and Polish). Prices upon request.
Chuck Braman Jazz Groups
76 Carmine St., near Seventh Ave. S., Apt. 3D; 212-989-5281; nycjazz.comThe Chuck Braman groups include a piano trio, a vibraphone quartet, and a quintet with a classically trained jazz violinist, among others. They’ve been performing mellow, classy jazz for the past two decades at New York City weddings, restaurants, and MoMA openings. Prices upon request.
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PrintFrom the Summer 2008 New York Wedding Guide
- 747 Orchestra
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New York NY Tel: 516-365-5664 http://www.747orchestra.com
New York’s original R&B, Motowm, Soul and Funk band for 29 years providing outstanding vocals, instrumentation, “killer” horn section and interaction. The energy, excitement and professionalism of 747 orchestra is superb.
- Alex Donner Productions
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429 East 52nd Street, Suite 12-D New York NY 10022 Tel: 212-752-2920 http://www.alexdooner.com
A one-stop for the best musical & dance entertaining for your reception from Classical to Sinatra to Soul to Today! Includes the much sought after Alex Donner Orchestra, the more contemporary Donner Party Band and the popular Donner Strings. From four to twenty members. Prices from $4,000. Book early.
- Bud Maltin Metropolitan Music and DJs
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New York NY Tel: 212-477-6543 http://www.budmaltin.com
Disco, rock, Sinatra, swing, R&B, and latin. Non-stop continuous music including music for ceremony and cocktail hour. Contact us to receive a free CD.
- Creations Music
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New York NY Tel: 212-579-0096 http://www.creationsmusic.com
Kim Sozzi’s career span from a single on Dawson’s Creek, and sharing the stage with Nelly Furtado at Lilith Fair. Watching Kim’s dream team of exquisite musicians assures clients of an affair worth remembering.
- Elan Artists
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Tel: 1-888-800-3526 (ELAN) http://www.elanartists.com
A cooperative of upper echelon musicians and artists: soloists, classical and jazz ensembles, dance bands, photojournalists, and documentary film artists who all specialize in weddings and events.
- Ken Gross Orchestras
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Tel: (212) 961-0210; (800) 688-4480 http://www.kengrossorchestra.com
New York City loves our style! Hot horns. Tight rhythm section. Superb vocals. Vast repertoire. Attention to detail. Excellent reputation and enthusiastic references.
- Zack’s Dance Loft
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37 East 28th Street, Loft 206 New York NY 10016 Tel: 212-731-9632 http://www.zacksdanceloft.com
Dance lessons are taught in a relaxed teaching style, creating a pressure free, fun atmosphere. A first class studio full of amenities; complete privacy, best policies, all at an affordable price.
