To hire a saxophonist in Singapore, decide the moments you want live sax for, pick the format, plan the songs, check the room and the sound, then book early enough for your date. This guide takes each step in turn.
Step 1: pick the moments
Write down the parts of the event where live music matters most. At a wedding that is often the processional, the cocktail hour, dinner, the first dance and the after party. At a company event it is the welcome drinks, dinner, the awards and the dance floor. At a party it is the arrival, the toast and the peak of the night. The moments decide the length: one hour, two to three hours, or a full day.
Step 2: pick the format
- Solo saxophonist. One player, live, with or without backing tracks. Suits ceremonies, cocktails and dinners.
- Female or male player. Both are available. See the female saxophonist.
- DJ and sax. Live sax over the DJ's tracks for the dance floor. See DJ and sax.
- Singer and sax duo. Vocals with sax for songs with words that matter. See the singer and saxophonist duo.
- Sax with a pianist, a violinist or a band. For a fuller sound or a big stage.
Step 3: plan the songs by moment
| Moment | What works on sax |
|---|---|
| Guests arriving | Soft jazz, bossa nova |
| Processional | A slow love song you both know |
| Cocktail hour | Smooth jazz, ballads, instrumental pop |
| Dinner | Gentle background music |
| First dance | A sax version of your song |
| Party | Pop, R&B, funk, soul, house with a DJ |
Send the list early and mark the songs you must hear. A song outside the saxophonist's usual list may need arranging and rehearsal, which can add to the fee.
Step 4: check the room and the sound
The saxophonist brings the technical gear needed and can play wireless or from a fixed spot. In a large ballroom or outdoors you may need extra microphones, speakers or a mixer, quoted separately. Ask the venue three things: its sound curfew, where the player can stand, and whether its AV team can help on the day. The saxophonist coordinates with your planner and the venue staff.
Step 5: choose the player
Listen to samples or watch videos, and talk through the mood you want. Confirm the saxophonist is free on your date. Read the contract for performance times, the payment schedule and cancellation. Look at the player's reputation at events like yours. See the videos for a start.
Step 6: book at the right time
For a wedding, book three to nine months ahead, and earlier if your date falls between September and December. For a company event, book four to eight weeks ahead, or two to three months ahead for December dinner and dance season and Chinese New Year.
Step 7: send the brief
Send the date, the venue, the number of guests, the moments, the format and your songs. You are matched with one or more saxophonists who are free. You agree the music, the attire and the schedule, and on the day the saxophonist arrives early, sets up and plays to your running order. Check the prices, then ask for a quote.
