music

musicians and disc jockeys

First dance

Musical Soloists and Ensembles

Big Bands and Ensemble Jazz >
Bluegrass and Acoustic Bands >
Harpists >
Guitarists >
Pianists and Keyboardists >
Bagpipes and Other Celtic Music >
Classical String Ensembles and Quartets >
Cover Bands: R&B/Soul/Pop/Rock >
Barbershop Quartets and Vocal Ensembles >
Mariachi and Bolero Ensembles >
Gospel Singers >
Music and Entertainment Booking Services >
DJ Services >

Big Band and Ensemble Jazz

The Martini Kings It's Martini Time! The Marsico Brothers Anthony and Frank play all over this town–from neo-burlesque revues to Tiki Oasis to the Academy Awards–and their music has been featured in "Six Feet Under" and "Entourage," but the sweet and cool Kings will be happy to bring their ultrahip retro style and sophistication to your shindig too. Be the envy of all the hepcats in your alley! A Martini Kings trio with vibes, bass, and drums played one of my house parties and enchanted everyone of every generation, but you can book anything from a duo to up to six players. Kick back with something (or someone) tall and cool and check their website for music samples, or call 818-917-8348 on your coconutphone for booking info.
Crawford Music–Django Jazz and So Much More Johnny Crawford and his dapper gang bring the spirit of the classic trad-jazz orchestra to your event! Mr. Crawford will put together any size ensemble from a Hot Club Quintet to a full-sized dance orchestra. Another MTG Recommendation! Call 323.962.0804 for more information and bookings, or go to his website to listen to RealAudio samples of his musical stylings. P.S.: Some of Johnny's boys played at my own wedding celebration, so you know they've got it going on.
The Jazz Three-O/Ken Belcher, Guitarist Ken's just a music guy–he plays as a soloist, teaches, and performs around town with various rock, hip-hop, cover, and jazz ensembles. I was particularly taken with the Jazz Three-O's great sound and their very cool renditions of what in lesser hands would have been just more tired wedding tunes. Megan Burford is the spot-on jazz vocalist and Graham Hitchcock brings home the bass. Listen to a couple cuts online or check out their performance schedule if you want to see them live. Email info@kenbelcher.com or call 206.335.7696 for more.

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Bluegrass and Acoustic Bands

Rocky Neck Bluegrass Band Sweet sounds from the winners of the 2009 Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Band contest are sure to delight your guests, particularly at oaksy, folksy Topanga venues like The 1909. They've got Americana of all sorts to offer, as well as Celtic, country, folk, jazz, and classical chops. Check out a few tracks on their website then call Lydia at 617.771.6359 for avail/info. Band members are also available as soloists.

Harpists

Pandora (currently no website) Pandora is a beautiful person with a beautiful harp and she plays beautifully; she'll bring a rich ambiance of sound and sight to your ceremony. Very friendly and very knowledgeable, too! Call 310.540.2112 for availability.
Harpist Shawna Selline Shawna plays both Celtic and concert harp exquisitely and has a deep understanding of how music helps us embrace ceremonial moments with joy. She is an accomplished performer and teacher, and has several recordings and books to her credit. Listen to mp3 clips of her work online or call 323.223.0879.
Harpist Andrea Thiele Andrea's extensive orchestral experience and dazzling instrument will add a peaceful, angelic touch to your wedding or reception. Call 310.709.7861 for booking info and check out her website for audio samples from her two CDs.
Harpist Julia Cunningham Julia's email monikker is "SoulHarp" and rightfully so. She has an extensive repetoire of contemporary and classical songs that will perfectly complement your ceremony, no matter what your musical tastes. Call 818.339.0148 for details.
Heather Jenkins Heather offers both classical and popular selections for your ceremony; she teaches harp too, so take a few lessons while you're at it. You can check out her site but she prefers phone contact via 818.886.3970.

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Guitarists

Guitarist Doc Dosco The Doctor Is In! Veteran jazz guitarist/vocalist Doc Dosco will bring a warm and intimate performance to your wedding or party; he plays solo jazz guitar, sings jazz standards, heads a 'straight ahead' instrumental jazz trio (also available for events) and will spangle up your room with jazz, standards, romantic ballads and many other styles by request. He saved our collective vendor behinds at a wedding that was delayed almost an hour by a bride's "wardrobe failure"; his cool head, extensive repetoire, and engaging playing kept everyone smiling and calm, and he never missed a beat. Thanks, Doc! Call 818 996-3032 and check out audio samples on the website.
Guitarist David Ellis The dapper David Ellis provides beautiful and harmonious solo classical guitar for your ceremony and reception (or folk, blues, flamenco, or rock, if you so desire.) He also teaches at McCabe's if you're feeling....plucky. You can reach him at 310.396.7467.
Guitarist John Nelson John has spent most of his life playing music; he offers numerous guitar styles and picks a mean banjo, too. You can download audio samples on his website or go catch a performance by Crossing Over, an acoustic ensemble that plays weekly at Chez Nous restaurant in Toluca Lake. 818.240.6645
Guitarist Jim Vita Jim's "contemporary classics" music is a real moodmaker; he offers his own arrangements of classical or contemporary selections for your ceremony and cocktail hour. Listen to samples on his website or call 909.597.0246 for availability.
Guitarist Jorge Del Pino Born in Ecuador, Jorge specializes in Latin Jazz, Rumba Flamenca, and Bossa Nova. You can listen to selections from his CD "Equinoccio Line" at the weblink above, or call 562.921.8414.
Guitarist Ken Belcher Ken's just a guitar guy–he plays as a soloist, teaches, and performs around town with various rock, hip-hop, cover, and jazz groups. Listen to a couple cuts online or check out his performance schedule if you want to see him live before you book. Email info@kenbelcher.com or call 206.335.7696 for more.

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Pianists and Keyboardists

Pianist Geoff Aymar You've heard him at the Beverly Hills Hotel Polo Lounge and the Beverly Regent Wilshire, now have him play for your ceremony or reception at any location! Inquire about availability at 310.567.7340, then go hear him play–he's the best.
Pianist Marjorie Poe With years of experience playing Broadway shows, Marjorie is an extraordinary keyboard accompanist who can make any singer or instrumentalist sound great. Call her at 818.989.2258 and tell her MarriageToGo said hi.
Pianist Alan Ascher Call 323.938.9450. Alan has an amazing repetoire and a charming personality. He plays piano well, too! A delight to work with.

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Bagpipes and Celtic Music

Ian Whitelaw/A Celtic Traveler.Com The Best Bagpipes in Town! The ineffably cool Ian Whitelaw has performed extensively around the world and will play at any wedding location in formal, semi-formal, or folk highland dress. Check out his website or call him at 310.634.9726. And please–no peeking under the kilt without express permission. An MTG Recommendation!
Kevin R. Blandford Memorial Pipe Band If you need even more Celtic noise than one bagpiper can provide, get a whole band and some drums to boot with this non-profit bagpiper corps. They can provide full band, mini-band or soloists as well, and because they're non-profit hiring them is tax-deductible. Please contact Matt Nonnemacher at 909.559.1787 or the email link on the Band's website. Music of the Isles and Americas (currently no website or email address available.) Gary and Pamela Spangler are a charming duet (or they can make it a trio) offering elegant music for formal and festive occasions. Traditional and contemporary favorites with an enchanting Celtic flavor. Please call them at 562.867.2877.

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Classical String Ensembles and Quartets

Pat Maki Players–Elegant Classical and Popular Music For Special Occasions The Pat Maki Players comprises a wide range of professional soloists and ensembles for events, concerts, and recording gigs; you can hear audio samples of different instrumental solos and combos on the website to help you decide what you'd like. I've always been impressed by Pat Maki musicians; they know their stuff and do it well. 310.326.5761.
The Arroyo String Quartet I'm pretty spoiled when it comes to classical music; as a wedding presider, I get to hear some of the best musicians in town. Sadly, I also get to hear some of the worst–scratchy, out-of-tune quartets are far more common than you know, and there's nothing worse than cringing as you're walking down the aisle to a botched Bridal March. I think Arroyo String Quartet is in the "Best In Town" category, but you don't have to believe me–in 2005 L.A. Weekly nominated them for Best Classical Artist, and you can listen to mp3 demos on their website. Call 626.355.0407, 818.846.5599, or 888.8.ARROYO for booking information and thanks for the great music, ASQ.
Cellist Catherine Cavella and Malibu String Ensemble The sweet, deep sound of the cello creates a warm mood; Catherine is a highly-regarded player here in Los Angeles and her ensemble players are just as wow. Call her at 323.683.5653 for information and availability.
La Folia Chamber Ensemble The euphonious music of La Folia's flute, guitar, and violin will add elegance and sweetness to your ceremony or reception. They offer a wide-ranging repetoire of music from John Dowland to The Grateful Dead, and they'll work with you to create a musical program that fits your personal style. Call Jerry Acosta at 818.761.5560 for rates and availability.
The Anna Stafford String Quartet This female foursome is fantastic, with a wide ranging repetoire and an elegant look. Anna also plays solo with styles from modern jazz to Celtic to gypsy to rock, and custom arrangements of your favorite songs are also available. 818.445.1723.

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Cover Bands: R&B/Soul/Pop/Rock

Soulicious–Dynamic Live Music for All Occasions Soulicious is one of the tightest, most energetic bands I've ever had the pleasure of hearing. Unlike those painful wedding bands we've all experienced, Soulicious doesn't have to fake it–you and your guests will be dancing before you can shout, "I Feel Good!" Excellent vocalists. Check out the downloadable press kit on the website and call band manager Chantel Steinreich at JDS Entertainment to book: 818.601.2788.
The Ravelers–Classic Rock Band You'll love Rob, Pat, Martie, and Hai–together as The Ravelers for 20 years, friends for even longer than that–their classic rock standards, and their great sense of fun. They have an extensive repetoire, will learn requests, and can set the mood whether your guests want to dance or just chat and listen. Call 909.593.5956 for avail; you can listen to audio clips on their website or review their live gig schedule to check them out in person.

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Mariachis/Bolero Ensembles

El Mariachi Conmemorativo–Victor H. Perez Vargas You won't find more dapper, more on the ball mariachis than Victor's ensemble; their beautiful sound might just inspire you to say "Ole!" instead of "I do." 323.804.1000 Trio Los Franco–"Lo Mejor En Musica Romantica" This trio will melt your heart with beautifully sung boleros; sigh-ai-ai! Call Luis Franco on his cell 323.627.3518 or telephone 562.484.0199; you can also check them out live at La Parrilla Restaurant in Alhambra (call La Parrilla at 626.289.2412 to inquire about appearance times.)

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Barbershop Quartets and Vocal Ensembles

The Oceanaires–Barbershop Quartet and Men's a capella Chorus What could be sweeter than Sweet Adeline, My Wild Irish Rose, and Always filing the air at your wedding or reception? The Oceanaires' traditional barbershop-style four-part (or more part!) harmonies will thrill your ears and heart with the delight of classic love songs. Don't forget to Let Them Call You Sweetheart with a singing Valentine on Valentine's Day! Call 310.474.9505 for availability and booking information.

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Gospel Singers

Robert T. Graves (no website available) Robert is not only one of the friendly faces behind the marriage license counter at the LAX County Clerk's office, he also sings his heart with gospel music for your wedding. Call 310.400.2373, email thaweddinsinga@yahoo.com, or pop in and say hi next time you're near the LAX office (don't ask him to sing, however.)

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Music and Entertainment Booking Services

Susan de Boismilon and Randy Stern–de Bois Entertainment Susan and Randy's bands are pros–set bands that play together every week, not randomly assigned freelancers–so the music is hot and tight. They can also hook you up with any type of entertainment you need for your event or reception, and with over 20 years of experience in the business they'll give you excellent guidance in choosing the perfect artists. I love the online video/audio previews of their event bands and many of their musical ensembles; they offer lots of fun special entertainment options as well (glass blowers! fire eaters! full cabaret acts!) so get with them soon and plan a blast. Call their Sunset Strip offices at 310.860.9370 to set up a consultation.
Cover to Cover Music and Entertainment/Dave Burns Cover2Cover will find the perfect music and entertainment for your Ventura County event: classical ensembles, theme bands, clowns, karaoke hosts, celebrity look-alikes, and more. Call 805.492.8150 or check out their selection online.
David Adelstein, Adel Music And Entertainment David not only DJs and play music himself, but also leads a company of well-regarded professional DJs to host your reception (including Spanish or Armenian bilingual hosts.) He also offers a large selection of other entertainment–dance acts, classical and ethnic music combos, costume characters, henna artists, magicians, impersonators, you name it–with great value to boot. 818.343.8125 or inquire via the online contact form.

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DJ Services

Musically Yours Entertainment Okay, I find the Musically Yours website a bit modest; let me tell you how they provided top-of-the-line equipment–Bose tower speakers and excellent lavaliere mics–and how Tim, our DJ, looked great, sounded great, and was right on target with every cue and every level during both ceremony and reception. They cover Ventura and L.A. Counties and I'd love to work with them again, so call 805.659.4235 to book them now.
RedShoe Ian Gotler and Tony Liebetrau (DJ Ig and DJT, respectively) are the minds behind RedShoe Productions and they both rock the house. Wanna to give them a spin before they spin for you? Check out the RedShoe Radio link on their homepage or visit them on MySpace. Info: 213.610.4174 or email via their website.
Gold Dust Entertainment Married DJs Jeff and Jennifer Kantor are friendly, professional, and handle all their gigs themselves–this means your music needs won't get farmed out to a fill-in DJ at the last minute, so no unpleasant surprises. We very much appreciate their level of personal service, the wide array of equipment, and all the smart little things they offer–like an online availability calendar and a posted copy of their service contract, so you know exactly what to expect. Call 800.700.2877 or visit the aforementioned availability calendar online to get started.
James Loram/Last Dance Entertainment James Loram not only is a serious DJ, but will also double as your one-stop event planner and day-of show runner. I liked James even before I met him because he did all those little things that inspire my confidence: he contacted me the day before the event to check in and say hi, he prioritized reviewing our ceremony cues and sound check, he had top equipment and knew how to use it, and he even had a lapel mike with fresh batteries all waiting for me–-aaah. He really knows how to make a wedding officiant (and wedding clients) happy! James' motto is "perfection requires planning" and James will help you achieve your perfect event; call him at 1.877.798.5338 or go groove to the music on his website while you check out the details online.
Jake Smith Anyone can buy some stereo equipment and call themselves a D.J., and sadly there are far too many out there who are painfully loud, boring, and vulgar. Working with Jake, I heaved a wistful sigh with a wish that all D.J.s could be like him. Yep–he's a DJDeity. He knows his music, he has great equipment, he knows how to keep the volume at the right level for whatever's going on (be it conversation, dancing, or both) he's charming and energetic and a pleasure to have around. Call him and heave a sigh from me: 805.486.2980. An MTG Recommendation!
Scott Norris, Coastline Music DJ Entertainment Service Scott is a pro: courteous, professional, tasteful and on cue. His training as a musician has given him a sophisticated ear, so your ceremony and reception will sound just right. 310.396.0527 during office hours or voicemail 310.560.2244.
David Adelstein, Adel Music And Entertainment I met David when he was playing keyboard at a neighbor/client's wedding; he's a great guy, skilled, personable, and knowledgeable, and he did a great job. Imagine my delight when I discovered he also DJs himself, and leads a company of well-regarded professional DJs to host your reception (including Spanish or Armenian bilingual hosts.) He can also offer you a large selection of other entertainment–dance acts, classical and ethnic music combos, costume characters, henna artists, magicians, impersonators, you name it–with great value to boot. Adel Music's motto is "Entertainment Done Right," and we agree–he will do it right. 818.343.8125 or inquire via the online contact form.
BeatChapel/Pandora (Chris Kozmik) Electro/Techno/Hard House. I'd say more, but you wouldn't be able to hear me over the music. Visit Chris's MySpace page to hear for yourself: http://myspace.com/chriskozmik or call 949.278.1745.
Steve Sharp–That D.J. True to his name, the talented Mr. Sharp is right on cue every time; a smart, pleasant, and professional guy to work with. Call him at 805.486.2980.
Jeff Ames–Off The Record Entertainment Refined and elegant, Jeff Ames brings a touch of class and loads of experience to every location...and we say that on the record. He can be reached at 310.456.8342 or 818.707.6112.
Step In Time Productions D.J. and dance lessons for your wedding celebration and booking assistance for clowns, dancers, and magicians for any special event! Call Avner Uzan at 310.55.DANCE and let him set up all your entertainment.
Jim & Carrie Caldwell/Soundtrax Productions This husband-and-wife team provide DJ and karaoke for your ceremony and reception; Oldies, Big Band, Top 40, Disco, Country, Rock, Hip-Hop, and more. They mostly range in Ventura County but have been known to make it into Northern L.A. if needed. 805.487.0251
Black Tie DJ Entertainment Owner and Disc Jockey Sharon Elias will hook you up with professional, insured, well-groomed, courteous, and helpful D.J.s for your event. Need we say more? 818.995.5790 to start the music.

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