How Much Does Wedding Music Cost in Australia?

What is a wedding without music? If you think about it, music plays a major part in every wedding. It greets your guests as they take their seats, it accompanies you as you walk down the aisle, and it’s the reason why your uncle decided to do the Macarena alone on the dancefloor because everyone else refused to join him.

Music sets the tone for your wedding, creates atmosphere and gets everyone moving. But, with so many options available, should you choose a solo musician, a band, or a DJ? And what about the music at the ceremony itself?

In this post, we’ll take a look at how much wedding music costs, including the average price couples pay, the cost of various options available to you at the ceremony and reception, and the factors that affect the cost of wedding music.

What’s the average cost of wedding music?

According to our wedding budget breakdown, the average amount couples in Australia spend on wedding music ranges from $1,500 to $2,500. These figures do not include additional non-music entertainment, such as magicians or dancers, which can cost an extra $1,500 on average.

The cost of wedding music can vary significantly based on factors such as the number of performers, the duration of their performance, and the type of music they offer. For instance, a five-piece band will generally cost more than a solo musician or DJ.

How much do wedding bands, singers and DJs cost?

The average spend may be $2,000, but the price you pay for music at your wedding may be vastly different depending on what you’re after.

Solo musician

A solo musician may perform with pre-recorded backing tracks or play an instrument like a guitar or piano. This is a versatile and intimate choice for ceremonies and receptions. Costs start from $500.

Duo

A duo, often featuring two musicians or vocalists, is a great choice for creating a rich but intimate sound for your ceremony or cocktail hour. Costs start from $800.

Band

A live band can bring energy and excitement to your reception, covering a variety of genres such as pop, rock, jazz, or indie. Costs start from $2,000.

String quartet

A string quartet adds elegance to your wedding, offering classical or modern arrangements. Perfect for your ceremony or pre-dinner entertainment. Costs start from $1,200.

DJ

A DJ is a flexible and reliable option for weddings, with playlists tailored to your preferences (even the questionable ones) and the ability to keep the dance floor packed. Costs start from $700.

Choir

A choir can provide a unique and harmonious experience for your ceremony or reception, adding an extra layer of sophistication. Costs start from $600.

Bagpiper

If you want to celebrate Celtic heritage, a bagpiper offers a dramatic and traditional touch for your ceremony or reception. Costs start from $300.

Harpist

A harpist brings an ethereal and elegant ambiance to your wedding, ideal for ceremonies or background music during the reception. Costs start from $400.

Organist

For a traditional touch, an organist or pianist is a timeless option for ceremonies or receptions. Costs start from $250.

Do you need a live musician for your wedding?

If you’re on a tight budget, then a live musician isn’t a must-have for your wedding – your guests will still have an incredible time celebrating your big day by throwing some shapes thanks to a DJ. But, if you do have a larger budget to dedicate to musical entertainment, then it will add a unique and personalised touch.

A talented live musician or band not only provides background music to your wedding but also works as a feature and talking point. There’s so much variation out there, whether you’re a fan of rock music, pop, classical, jazz or more.

How much does wedding ceremony music cost?

It’s not very common to have a full band or singer at your wedding ceremony (though if that’s your dream, go for it!), but live music can add a beautiful and personal touch. A string quartet, harpist, or even a bagpiper can create a warm and inviting atmosphere that pre-recorded music just can’t replicate.

Since your wedding ceremony is one of the shortest parts of the day, hiring a live musician for just the ceremony is often more affordable than booking someone for the entire day or evening reception. Costs for a musician to play during the ceremony alone typically range from $300 to $700, with more specialised performers, like harpists or bagpipers, falling on the higher end of this range.

What factors affect the cost of wedding music?

Several factors can affect how much you’ll pay for wedding music, including:

Location: If you’re in Sydney or Melbourne, you’ll likely pay more than if you’re hiring a musician outside large cities. You may also have to pay an additional fee if you’re outside their usual catchment area.
Date: Expect to pay more for a musician during peak times, such as during the summer months and at weekends.
Type of music: The type of music played can affect how much you’ll pay. For example, a band will usually be pricier than a DJ.
The number of musicians: It may seem obvious, but you’ll pay more for a band than a solo singer.
Experience: An experienced performer will cost more than an up-and-comer, but is more likely to entertain your guests for longer.
Time: The longer you want the musician at your wedding the more they’re going to charge.
Extras: A lighting package, smoke, bubble or confetti machine, plus mics for the speeches, may be available for an additional cost.

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And if you’re looking for ways to save money on your wedding music and everything else, we’ve got all the hacks and advice you need to help you hit the right notes.