Creating the Perfect Vocal Performance: From A Singer’s Perspective
As a professional singer, nothing brings me more joy than helping couples celebrate one of the most important days of their lives with a custom music experience. Whether it’s an intimate ceremony, the first dance, or an emotional toast, the right vocal performance can set the tone, capture the mood, and elevate the entire atmosphere of your event.
But behind every perfect performance is careful preparation and a deep connection with couples. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at how I approach creating the perfect vocal arrangements and preparing for each performance, so you can feel confident knowing that your event’s music is in the best hands.
1. Getting to know you
One of the most important aspects of creating a custom arrangement is getting to know you, the couple. Each relationship is unique, and your music should reflect that. When I’m preparing to perform for a wedding or special event, I spend time learning about the couple’s personal preferences, musical tastes, and the significance of their chosen songs.
What i ask:
What genres and artists do you love? This helps me understand the style you want for your ceremony or reception. Are you into R&B, jazz, pop, or perhaps something more classical?
What’s your story? Every couple has a journey that’s reflected in their relationship, and I often ask about meaningful moments or memories you share. This way, I can incorporate songs that resonate deeply with you both.
What vibe are you going for? Whether you envision a romantic, relaxed, or high-energy atmosphere, your chosen music should reflect that.
By understanding your preferences, I can ensure the music captures your personalities and enhances your celebration. After all, this is your special day, and your music should feel as personal as your love story.
2. Arranging songs for the right instruments
The next step is to consider what instruments will accompany my voice. For weddings and events, the combination of piano or guitar with vocals can create a beautiful, intimate sound that feels organic and timeless. It is my job to be transparent about what instrument may best showcase the genre of music you have selected, or the song choices you are leaning towards, but it is also about what you have envisioned!
Choosing the right instrument for your songs
Piano: Piano arrangements are ideal for slow ballads, jazz classics, or gospel tunes. The depth of the piano’s sound brings a level of richness and sophistication to emotional songs like “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri or “All of Me” by John Legend. The chords are powerful and versatile, adding layers of warmth and elegance to the performance.
Guitar: For a more laid-back or contemporary vibe, guitar can lend a softer, more intimate feel to the arrangement. Acoustic guitar works beautifully for relaxed pop songs or love ballads. Think Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” or a stripped-back version of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley. The simplicity of the guitar allows for a deep emotional connection, giving the performance an authentic and heartfelt feel.
Tailoring to the mood and style
Some songs just feel right on certain instruments. For instance, a jazzy R&B tune may suit a piano arrangement, while an upbeat pop song could be better suited to guitar. I always take the time to consider how the combination of vocals and instruments will work together to enhance the overall mood of the event.
3. Preparing vocally
As a singer, my voice is my instrument, and I take every step necessary to ensure it’s in peak condition for every performance. Whether I’m singing a slow ballad at a wedding ceremony or belting out dance hits on the reception floor, my vocal health is crucial to delivering the best possible performance.
How i prepare:
Warm-up Exercises: Just like an athlete stretches before a game, I begin my day with vocal warm-ups. These exercises help stretch my vocal cords and get them ready for the a live performance. Gentle hums, lip trills, and scales are part of my routine to ensure my voice is smooth and controlled.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is key to keeping my vocal cords healthy. I drink plenty of water throughout the day, and I avoid anything that might dehydrate my voice, like alcohol or caffeine, especially before a performance.
Vocal Rest: I make sure to give my voice ample rest before the event. If I’ve had a busy week with rehearsals and performances, I ensure I take breaks to avoid vocal strain. Overusing the voice before a performance can lead to tiredness and less control over tone, so I prioritise vocal recovery.
4. What you need to know before booking a vocalist for your event
When considering a vocalist for your event, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best possible performance:
Communication is key
To create the perfect musical experience, communication is vital. Be sure to let me know any songs that are non-negotiable or have special meaning to you. The more I know about the vibe you're going for, the better I can tailor the performance to fit your vision.
Book in advance
Vocalists can be in high demand, particularly during wedding season, so it’s always a good idea to book well in advance. This allows us plenty of time to go over your setlist, discuss any special requests, and rehearse the songs to perfection.
Consider the venue’s acoustics
When selecting a vocalist, think about how the venue's acoustics will impact the performance. For example, larger venues may require amplification, while smaller, more intimate settings might benefit from an acoustic performance. We’ll discuss this ahead of time to ensure your performance sounds its best.
The power of personalisation
As a singer, I believe the more personal the song selection, the more meaningful the performance. If you're looking for something specific, whether it’s a unique cover or a mash-up of songs, let me know. I love working with couples to create something special that reflects their love story.
Final thoughts
When it comes to booking a vocalist for your event, there’s a lot that goes into the preparation behind the scenes. From understanding your music tastes and crafting the perfect arrangement to warming up my voice and ensuring everything goes smoothly on the big day, my goal is always to create an experience that feels personal, professional, and unforgettable.
At Encore Music Collective, we take pride in curating bespoke musical moments that perfectly align with your vision. Whether it’s a delicate ballad on piano or an upbeat jam with guitar, we’re here to bring your celebration to life with music that resonates.