wedding musician

Wedding Musician: The Ultimate Gift to your Spouse

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As the saying goes, “once in a while, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairytale”. And each fairy tale should be celebrated memorably. There are a couple of ways to make a wedding memorable. But none surpasses the presence of a wedding musician on your special day. This is because live music breathes life to the event.

 

When planning your wedding, you want to create a perfect paradise for your spouse. A paradise where they will be the centre of attraction because it’s a big day for both of you. Bringing a DJ into your wedding is a cool idea, but not the best scenario. You do not want to settle for good in your wedding, aim for the best – absolute perfection! A live wedding musician creates an intimate, yet lively mood while keeping your spouse at the centre of it all. It is also relaxing and a romantic gesture to amplify the lifelong commitment you are just about to make to the love of your life.  Below we have listed for you some benefits of bringing a live musician to your wedding.

 

A Wedding Musician adds a unique touch to your Special Day.

 

If you want your wedding to be truly memorable, then it must differentiate from anything you’ve seen, heard, or read about, at previous weddings. The guests, and also your partner is most likely to remember the performance of a live band or a wedding musician over a backtrack of recorded music.

 

A Wedding Musician can interact with your Guests.

For an event to be lively and interesting, there needs to be interaction on all levels. A live band interacts with the audience, raising the excitement level as the evening turns into night. This allows your guests to feel appreciated and considered in the planning of the occasion. And such moments on the dancefloor, are the memories that will live on in your guests’ hearts, as you live ‘happily ever after’.

 

A Live musician can customize your Special Request

This is one feature that DJs and prerecorded music have difficulties simulating. You can request your wedding musician to play certain music that personalizes the connection that everyone will gather to celebrate. The musician can even add your names to the music which makes the song solely about you.

 

They bring about a level of Professionalism: 

DJ’s are commonly hired to play prerecorded songs, often hiding behind the dexterity of a USB stick! Hiring a musician injects that professional touch into your event. This is mainly because musicians are always professionally trained to immerse themselves in the audience and keep everyone entertained. Wedding DJs are limited by the pre-recorded music in their playlists, which creates an atmosphere but can be difficult to take to the next level without wearing your guests out! Remember you want your wedding to feel romantic to you and your spouse.

 

Live performances are Romantic

Live performances bring that romantic feature that may lack in other forms of entertainment. Cutting the cake or kissing her after putting the ring on her finger while a violin player plays a sweet sensational song. What a romantic unforgettable moment. Live wedding music can bring the ‘movie’ feeling to your wedding.

 

They are priced relatively cheap.

On top of all these advantages, live performers are relatively cheap, in comparison to other entertainment options. This is because many wedding musicians and bands have their own instruments and less equipment to bring, so the overall cost of hiring their services is reduced. Also, they occasionally offer incredible discounts during off-peak seasons that can competitively price their service well below a traditional wedding DJ.

 

Make that ultimate Musical Enquiry, for your Special Day

With these facts laid out to you, the only remaining thing is to find a qualified and professional team that will help make your day. Why don’t you contact David Delaney, a renowned violinist and all-around wedding musician who is professional and well informed when it comes to performances at weddings. Surprise your spouse by booking a wedding violinist who knows the undertones of weddings and the art of creating romantic moments and scenes. Contact David today to request a quote

 

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engagement proposal ideas

Engagement Proposal Ideas – Taking the Knee in Style

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More often than often, a happy relationship usually leads to marriage. Ok, wait. Let’s stop there before we get too carried away with happy endings. Before a man can marry the love of his life, he needs pretty impressive engagement proposal ideas to convince the love of his life that she’s making a bullet-proof choice. The manner in which you propose is a defining moment and usually leaves lasting memories with your wife-to-be. In order to be romantic, you ought to choose good places where you will propose to your girl. Just remember women love romantic experiences. Your winning proposal will be the hot topic of many a fiance’s catch-up coffee discussion and the stuff of pride of legend that is destined to be shared as far down as the grandkids. Whichever way you decide to pop the question, go all out in the romance department. To make it even more special, accompany your proposal with cool and romantic songs or add a live musician to the moment. Men, we trust in you, but if you need some inspiration on how to propose the love of your life, here are some memorable engagement proposal ideas you can secretly plan, for maximum Yes effect!

 

1. At the Theatre of a Live Music Show

It’d be wise to contact the organizers of the show and inform them of your plans. Also, you should make contacts with a local violinist to perform while you will be proposing. So here’s how it can go down.

  • The setup might include the master of ceremony (MC) signalling you to go on the podium while the show is on its advanced stages.
  • The MC will then start a truth and dare game where he or she should ask you a question, upon failure to answer, he then dares you to hug your girlfriend.
  • Not only should you hug her, but also proceed to propose to her while musicians or actors enter the stage all seemingly unaware but blatantly in on the act.

2. Take your Partner on a coffee date at a classic hotel.

The hotel should be spacious and also located in a serene environment. While taking your coffee you will be talking and informing your girlfriend of your plans of intending to propose and randomly bringing up engagement proposal ideas to her. Teasing her may even make her more blissfully unaware that the moment is right upon her. After she is done drinking her coffee, you would then signal her to read what’s written in the cup. To her surprise, she would find the words; “I want to marry you, my angel”, or similar.’ To add extra emotion, consider adding some background music or a live violin player performing in the background.

 

3. Engagement Proposal Ideas while on a vacation or on a Short Trip Away

The destination is entirely up to you, but we find it hard to see past a beach in Cape Town or Durban. While on your getaway, you would then take her to swim, photoshoot or to play water bucket relay.  In the afternoon, you would then consider sitting with her at the beach while the sun sets. At that moment, a violinist would then intervene from behind where you are sitting. As they are playing, you should seize the moment of distraction to get down on one knee and propose to her while assuring her you love her as much as she loves the musical backdrop to her surprise moment.

 

4. Take her to a garden setting in any South African city

Lastly, you might consider having a simple but classic proposal, and we can’t think of a more idyllic setting than in one of South Africa’s many stunning botanical gardens or parks. Here’s how it might go down. As you are entering the garden’s yard, you would find some entertaining musicians performing (preferably pre-booked so they can work with your plan) You’d then seem interested and approach the band. The band would then start approaching and presenting directly to you. One of the players will then hand your partner a note, which will contain a romantic proposal message written on it.

Say “I do”, to Unforgettable Engagement Proposal Ideas, with a dash of Violin

To ensure that your engagement proposal ideas, put into action, create a truly unforgettable moment, you need to go big or go home. Deciding to ask your partner to marry you may seem like the easiest decision you ever made. However, the moment itself can be nerve-wrangling. Call in the experts to help you. Nothing says “Yes” better than a violinist in the background performing “your special song”. David Delaney is not only an experienced wedding violinist but is also available for proposals of all manners and melodies. Contact David today to request a quote for your exciting, life-altering moment.

 

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violinists in johannesburg

Violinists in Johannesburg – From Medieval to Mainstream

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Ever wonder where violinists in Johannesburg hide away? In South Africa, violin players seem to shy away from the stage in a broader context. Such is the novelty when we are graced with a talented string player live in front of us, it begins to beg the question – If the talent is clearly there, who are they, and how can hear a little more of their beautiful music?

The JPO – Where classical violinists converge

The J.P.O. – the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra is widely regarded as the premier outlet for classical violinists in Johannesburg and further afield. Frankly, good classical music down in this far-flung outpost of the world can be hard to track down! In the year 2000, classical musicians banded together from the ashes of the National Symphony Orchestra to form the JPO, combining talented international local and local soloists. Although beleaguered by scandals, they have resurrected in 2018, restoring credibility and offering world-class performances to the Joburg and the greater public. If you’re interested in attending a concert, the JPO is currently running their World Symphony Series – Summer Season, every Wednesday and Thursday at the Linder Auditorium, in Parktown, Johannesburg.

 

Celtic and Scottish Traditional Music – grounded in Mzansi

With a global footprint to be reckoned with, the Irish and the Scots are a musical force of note.

Alongside violinists in Johannesburg, we have a couple of fiddlers too. The famous 1984 song from country giants Alabama, “Fiddler in the Band”, seemed to have rung true for Irish musician David Delaney. He has been performing fiddle and flute in a wide assortment of Irish, folk, jazz, African and fusion bands since he arrived in Jozi in 2010 en route to Australia. You can find David performing as a solo violinist, or equally comfortable with bands such as Beukes and Delaney, Wiam Otto, and The Cover-Ups.

 

The Muses – Adding Sass and Flair that Violinists in Johannesburg aren’t normally allowed to

I couldn’t write about violinists in Johannesburg and not leave out The Muses. An electric string quartet that has become one of the most sought after corporate musical acts in SA. Can they play? Of course! But what sets them far apart from their classical rivals is the vibrant on-stage energy they recreate with every piece of music. There’s clearly a formula that is working here, and the corporate and high-end wedding market can’t get enough of them! If there’s a new Ed Sheeran, Beyonce or Coldplay single that’s burst onto the scene, you can be guaranteed that the Muses will be performing an equally uplifting version at an event near you. They’re not exactly my cup of tea, but they’re a talented and highly entertaining unit – something that aspiring violinists in Johannesburg can sit up and take note of.

Get in Touch

violinists in johannesburg

Have you heard a violinist or fiddle player perform somewhere recently that deserves a bit more recognition for their hard graft and talent? I’d love to know more. Like the resurrection of the JPO, musicians and the industry needs to band together to allow the South African entertainment scene to flourish. Happy New Year all. If you are searching for a violinist for a wedding, party or event, please contact me today to book and arrange top class musical entertainment.

 

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wedding music

Wedding Musician by Weekend – Five things you didn’t know about Me

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While being a wedding musician is one of my forte’s, I’m quite a private person off the stage, yet busy with many other aspects of life apart from being that “Irish fiddler in the band”. 

Most of you probably know me with a violin in my hand, making strange noises on the Irish low whistle, and singing along ad-hoc with Beukes and Delaney or at a solo gig. I’ve often been generalized as the “Irish wedding musician in Joburg” – and while it has its perks, there are a lot more strings to my bow! Read on, and get to know a little more about me, the David Delaney ‘off the stage’.

  • I have a 2-year-old son named Morena.

The highlight of my life, and the primary motivation for succeeding where I can. Morena means “King” in Sesotho. My mother’s maiden name is also King. He’s slowly and affectionately stepping into his noble roots.

  • I have traveled to over 40 countries

While I haven’t engaged my services as a wedding musician in all of them, I spent much of my twenties backpacking and travelling as much of the world as I could. Before settling in South Africa, I spent almost 18 months working and touring throughout Australia and New Zealand. It’s difficult to choose a favourite country, but Mexico was a particular highlight, with fond memories often recalled of Slovenia, New Zealand, and Thailand. Might explain a little about my very strange accent!

  • I hold a Degree in Marketing and an M.Sc in Interactive Media

The path to being a wedding musician in South Africa was never the initial plan. I studied between 2001-2007 and graduated twice from the University of Limerick. Truth be told, I was probably better known to play traditional music sessions in the pubs and homes of- Limerick, and widely presumed to be a student on the BA Traditional Irish Music course.

  • Before being a Wedding Musician, I spent a Semester studying abroad in Austria.

Ich habe auch Deutsch, in der Üniversität studiert. Ich hab, in 2003 die Gelegenheit genutzt, ein Semester in JKU, Linz, Osterreich zu studieren. An eye-opening experience – came home with an Austrian accent and have never lived it down from my life-long German friends in Bochum.

  • I work as a Content and Social Media Manager

Truth be told, a wedding musician and entertainer does not yield a steady income throughout the year. I can’t write a lyric but I’m passionate about writing, grammar and marketing. I love my day job – it’s not a fall back from music, but a skillset I’m avid about learning and moving forward in. I work for a fantastic digital agency called Prebo Digital and proud of the role our team plays in growing small and medium businesses through digital strategies. Check out all the online activities we do!

prebo digital

 

 

David Delaney

Maybe it’s the first time you’ve stumbled upon my page, or you’ve now familiarized yourself with the “other” side of me. Either way, you’re very welcome to my page. I am a wedding musician and event entertainer for any occasion you can imagine. Should you be getting married soon, or holding an awesome party, feel free to contact me on how we can make it an unforgettable occasion. Have a memorable weekend, and look out for my gigs and events happening near you soon.

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wedding music

Wedding Violinist – Making the Right Choice

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Congratulations on your Engagement. Now that your wedding planning is in full swing, you are probably sorting through the myriad of entertainment options to keep everybody in the party mood as you celebrate the most special day of your life. A wedding violinist offers the best opportunity to capture the mood and the romance of this significant moment.

Whether your heart is set on adding classical music and instrumental airs to the occasion, or hiring a fiddle player to get your guests in the party mood as the sun sets, a musician is an integral part to an unforgettable union that brings two families together as you officially celebrate the start of your union of marriage.

 

Finding a Wedding Violinist that hits the right notes with your guests

There are many options on the table when it comes to carefully select a professional musician who will add to your big day. Do bear in mind before you choose your violinist;

  • What is the Age demographic?
  • Would your guests prefer sing-along and folk music, as opposed to classical violin
  • Would a large venue require more than a single wedding violinist – perhaps a group?
  • Are musicians available near your wedding location or would a violinist need to travel?

Versatility is Key when leaving the party in the hands of the musician

There is nothing more romantic than a wedding violinist to lead you into your wedding ceremony as you prepare to exchange your vows with your partner for life. Once the official part of the day has concluded, you will be swept away to capture professional photos on your wedding day. Essentially, you will be handing over the reigns to the musician to keep your guests entertained, and build up the afternoon towards the evening’s festivities. A wedding musician can strike a chord with your closest friends and family. Pay close attention to the repertoire that a musician can perform. Ideally, your wedding musician can perform a variety of repertoire that will be enjoyed by both young and old alike.

The older folk at the wedding are likely to be your families longest and closest friends. Never neglect this faithful group – by considering a fiddle player as opposed to a classical wedding violinist, he or she will boast a vast repertoire, and the uncanny ability to honor that unusual musical request from your Aunt. As a performing wedding violinist, I have been able to switch my repertoire to accommodate requests from artists such as Simon and Garfunkel, Kenny Rogers, Barbra Streisand, and The Water Boys.

 

Can your Wedding Musician also Sing?

One of the earliest debates in the early planning stages of your wedding hinges on whether to book an instrumentalist or a singer for the reception. The truth is, you should not have to choose – there are multi-talented musicians in South Africa who can both perform instruments and sing, thus providing all round top class entertainment on your big day. While my main focus is a wedding violinist, I also sing, perform the Irish Flute and accompany my songs on guitar. Every bride and groom deserves unforgettable wedding music – I endeavor to provide this, in one affordable package.

 

David Delaney – Irish Wedding Musician

Performing for over 7 years throughout South Africa, I pride myself in arranging and playing wedding ceremonies that strike a personal chord with the special couple that I am honored to perform for. Each wedding ceremony and reception is as unique as the couple that brings it together. Not only do I perform as a solo wedding musician, I also offer my musical expertise with my successful band Beukes and Delaney, available either as a duo, or a full band with a bassist and drummer. If you require a local, classical string quartet, I do highly recommend the Vienna String Quartet. While you enjoy some samples of my music, be assured that I offer as standard, personalized requests for your bridal entrance. Feel free to contact me today to request a quote on musical entertainment for your wedding day.

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