Weddings Winter 2017 > Planner

Park Swing Orchestra

This orchestra can rock the house with up to a 22-piece ensemble (the musicians have been lauded for their big-band skills by the jazz press). Those seeking something more modest can hire just a few members to play classical, jazz, classic rock, or swing. Brothers Edward and Bill Kinslow direct the proceedings. Prices upon request. (good value)

Peter Duchin Music, Inc.

Performing since 1962, big-band leader Duchin will work with most budgets to provide dance bands that can play anything from the Great American Songbook to contemporary hits. Prices upon request.

Project Orange Music

This live-band production company has put on private shows for the likes of Prince and Missy Elliott. Its eight- to 15-piece ensembles play hits from every genre (including swing, Motown, pop, and rock), taking care to avoid played-to-death songs. Prices start at $7,500 for an eight-piece band.

The Rhythm Dogs

A dance band specializing in Motown, soul, swing, reggae, and dance music, this group has members who have played with Aretha Franklin and Janet Jackson. A DJ is also available. Prices upon request.

Sam Hill Entertainment

Always in demand, this company books around 500 weddings each year in the New York area and works with a long list of set bands, including groups that don’t fit the typical reception-party mold. Many play clubs and shows on nights when they’re not doing weddings, and most offer complimentary jazz solos, duos, or trios for the cocktail hour. Prices upon request.

SoulSystem Orchestras

This perpetually hip group plays a wide range of music—from Rat Pack classics, Motown, and Top 40 to rock and roll. Its seasoned musicians regularly tour on the international circuit, and it boasts a rhythm section led by Skid Row drummer Rob Affuso. Prices upon request.

Starlight Music

After more than 25 years in the business, Valerie Romanoff and her team of bandleaders can shift easily from classic R&B and jazz to hip-hop, rock, and Top 40 hits. Its string ensembles can create a custom sound with a mix of classical and pop music. One played at the wedding of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas and another at the Super Bowl in 2011. From $13,000.

Star Talent, Inc.

Covering traditional to contemporary genres, Star Talent represents ten bands with diverse specialties and offers DJs and string ensembles as well. Its bands have performed at the weddings of both Paula Abdul and Stevie Wonder’s daughters. Five-piece bands start at $4,500.

A Sterling Band

With past bookings by musical luminaries including Paul McCartney and Clive Davis, the ten members of Sterling can be trusted to put on a high-quality show. Their sound is great for ‘70s soul and funk favorites (they have a particular ear for replicating Earth, Wind & Fire), but their versions of Kanye West and Lady Gaga are pretty impressive as well. Prices start at $7,500.

Steve Wexler and the Top Shelf

Wexler’s upbeat band includes professional nightclub, Broadway, and studio musicians. Playing original arrangements and familiar favorites, it can deftly handle a slew of genres: Motown, soul, Latin, rock, and R&B. Ensembles include six to 14 musicians, and fees range from $5,000 to $15,000.

The Stingers Band

This peppy band loves jamming out to Motown, R&B, and Top 40 hits. Its “rock and soul” style, cultivated over 15-plus years, has generated a huge following: celebrities including Denzel Washington and Martha Stewart are fans. From $6,500 to $13,000.

Stolen Moments Entertainment

This company is composed of acts—including DJs, steel-drum trios, jazz and classical orchestras, and a cover band—that are as well-versed in the songs of Jay Z as they are in those of Louis Armstrong. Prices upon request.

The Storytellers Band

This classic party band delivers a custom experience to more than 60 weddings every year, mixing high-energy Top 40 tunes with Motown. (Band leader Sara Jacovino is known to nail Rihanna’s “Only Girl in the World” every time.) You can also catch them live at top nightclubs around the city. From $10,000 for a ten-piece band, which includes a free cocktail-hour performance if you mention New York Magazine at booking.

Stuart White Productions

This company has more than ten ensembles, ranging from solo harpists to Motown bands. The crown jewel is its ten-piece orchestra, which has performed at presidential inaugurations. Prices upon request.

Ten Tumbao

This top salsa band mixes hot Latin rhythms with passionate vocal harmonies and melodies. It plays a variety of styles, including Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Colombian, and Brazilian, as well as modern hits. Jazz, funk, swing, classical, and other genres are also available. From $2,500. (good value)

Trapp Music

Founder George Trapp, a graduate of Juilliard and the Vienna Conservatory and a veteran of numerous professional groups, oversees a collection of jazz and classical ensembles that incorporate a variety of instruments, ranging from flute to harp to the upright bass. They are especially popular for ceremonies. From $900 per ensemble. (good value)

Trevor Davison Orchestras and Musical Entertainment

This Long Island–based orchestra specializes in Hamptons-appropriate swing and ballroom music with a dash of Motown and contemporary thrown in. Its DJ-and-band combination is especially popular. Prices upon request.

Vali Entertainment

This event-production company’s four bands are known for danceable covers of classics and energetic performances: They’ll play five-hour sets without breaks. Versatile and eclectic, they have played with such boldface names as Queen Latifah, Tina Turner, and Tony Bennett and performed at Chelsea Clinton’s wedding. Anything from a soloist to a 24-piece orchestra is available. Prices upon request.

Venus Ensembles

These concert-quality classical and jazz ensembles play elegant or upbeat music and have been on the Late Show With David Letterman. Jessica Meyer, the Juilliard-trained founder, helps couples work out the musical details. From $350 per musician for the first hour, $150 per musician for each additional hour. (good value)

From the Winter 2017 New York Wedding Guide