Question 1

How many musicians perform with Ariel or Heartbeat?

Accepted Answer

Ariel and Heartbeat are available with as many as twelve musicians, with a minimum of eight for Saturday night events. For off-peak dates or more intimate celebrations, we may be able to offer a smaller ensemble—just ask! We’re happy to discuss what’s possible. The ideal band size depends on your event space, guest count, musical preferences, and budget. We take all of these factors into consideration and will help you determine the best configuration for your celebration.

Question 2

Will the musicians I hire be the same musicians who perform at my event? Are you an agency or a band?

Accepted Answer

The same musicians you see in our promos are the ones who will perform at your event. That consistency ensures a tight, well-rehearsed sound that only comes from years of playing together. Our musicians are highly trained career professionals, some of whom have shared a stage with major artists. Each player is selected for talent, reliability, professionalism, and attitude. The show has to be excellent every time, and our musicians bring their A-game to every performance. ⚠️ Buyer beware: If a company claims to be a “band” but offers “anywhere from 3 to 17 musicians,” that is an agency pulling from a rotating roster.

Question 3

Our guests span multiple generations. Can your band play a wide variety of music?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. One of our specialties is creating a playlist that bridges the generations and keeps everyone on the dance floor. You’ll be able to choose your favorite songs from our extensive and ever-growing song list, which includes everything from swing and Motown to today's top hits. You’re also welcome to give us a “Do Not Play” list—we want to make sure the music reflects your tastes and style and avoids anything that doesn’t. ⚠️ Pro tip: If a band limits how many songs you’re allowed to request, it could be a red flag that they rotate members and can’t offer a larger selection.

Question 4

Will the band learn a special song for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes! If your first dance or parent dance song isn’t on our list, we’re happy to learn it—just provide at least four weeks’ notice and a YouTube link to the version you love. This service is included in your package—no extra fees. ⚠️ Heads-up: If a band suggests playing your special song via MP3 instead of learning it live, they may be avoiding rehearsal time. We believe a live band should rise to the moment.

Question 5

What’s included in your band packages?

Accepted Answer

All of our band packages include the following: Professional musicians (as selected) Travel to your venue Top-tier professional sound system On-site sound engineer and assistant Stage lighting Customized set list and wedding timeline Learning your special songs (first dance, parent dances) $1,000,000 liability insurance

Question 6

Do you offer any additional services?

Accepted Answer

Yes—we’re a one-stop shop for all your entertainment needs: Ceremony musicians Cocktail hour musicians DJ services (alongside the band or for late-night parties) Up-lighting, pin spotting, or monogram projection Dance floor lighting (intelligent lights, lasers) Photo booth setup

Question 7

Do you help with the wedding planning phase?

Accepted Answer

We provide detailed planning forms and a collaborative timeline to ensure every moment of your celebration runs smoothly. We go over everything with you in advance so that your event flows effortlessly and everyone is literally on the same page.

Question 8

Will you learn any music for us?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our repertoire is already quite extensive, including current hits, as well as long loved classics from across the decades, but if you don’t see your song in our list, we will learn it for you.

Question 9

Can we send you a specific list of songs we want you to play?

Accepted Answer

You can. If you do, we will review it and compare it with our list. Any songs you are requesting that we do not already play, we will discuss with you. We aim to play what makes you happy on your big day, so do share your vision with us.

Question 10

How much space do you need for the band?

Accepted Answer

Depending on how many players you have chosen for your entertainment, the space needed could vary. A 13 piece band typically needs a stage or performance area of at least 20 feet wide by 12 feet deep. If you’re going with an 8 piece band, a minimum of 16 by 10 feet is required.

Question 11

Do you carry liability Insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do. Our fee includes $1,000,000 liability insurance

Question 12

Is it inappropriate or disrespectful to you guys if we ask that our first dance be played by CD?

Accepted Answer

No, it’s your wedding, we do it your way! However, our musicians are top-tier players and singers and will do an amazing job of playing your most special song, exactly as you are used to hearing it, except it will be twice as magical because it’s live. That’s what hiring a high end wedding band is all about.

Question 13

Can we borrow a mic for our ceremony?

Accepted Answer

If you need a microphone for your ceremony, we can provide a sound system, including a mic and mic stand, plus the PA and speakers to amplify the sound, and a professional to operate it, for an additional fee.

Ariel Music & Events

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About Ariel Music & Events