5 Mistakes People Make When Booking Musicians for Private Events (And How to Avoid Them)
Planning a private event—whether it's a wedding, birthday, or luxury dinner party—can be overwhelming. Music is one of the most powerful elements that can elevate the atmosphere, spark emotion, and leave a lasting impression. But too often, people make preventable mistakes when hiring musicians. As a professional violinist who’s performed at hundreds of events across Los Angeles, here are five common mistakes I’ve seen (and how to avoid them).
Mistake #1: Booking Based on Price Alone
I get it—budgets matter. But if you're making decisions based solely on who’s the cheapest, you might be setting yourself up for disappointment. Avoid it: Treat your entertainment as an investment in the experience. Ask yourself: Will this musician create the mood I want? Are they reliable and professional? A few extra dollars often makes the difference between "background noise" and an unforgettable moment.
Mistake #2: Not Seeing (or Hearing) a Live Performance Sample
Would you hire a photographer without seeing their work? The same logic applies to musicians. A short Instagram clip or YouTube video can reveal so much—tone, skill, stage presence, and professionalism. Avoid it: Always ask for recent video or audio clips from real events. Bonus points if you can catch them live (many perform at public venues).
Mistake #3: Not Confirming Setup Requirements
You’d be surprised how many events go sideways because the basics weren’t discussed: Will the musician need power? Do they bring their own sound system? How much space is needed? Where will they change or store gear? Avoid it: Ask for a tech/setup rider or a checklist. A good musician will already have one prepared and be clear about what's needed to make their performance smooth.
Mistake #4: Hiring a Musician Who Doesn’t Match the Vibe
A jazz violinist for a rooftop rave. A pop singer for a black-tie gala. Talent doesn’t matter if it doesn’t fit the feel of your event. Avoid it: Think about the mood you want: romantic? upbeat? elegant? Then choose a musician whose style aligns. If you're not sure, ask them for examples of past events similar to yours.
Mistake #5: Not Asking About a Backup Plan
Life happens. Flights get canceled. People get sick. What’s your musician’s contingency plan if they can’t make it? Avoid it: Ask this up front: “If something goes wrong, do you have a backup plan or network of musicians you trust?” A true professional won’t flinch—they’ll have answers ready.
Bonus: What To Look For in a Great Event Musician
When you're choosing an artist to elevate your celebration, look for someone who is: Experienced – Not just talented, but comfortable performing in unpredictable environments. Adaptable – Can switch up the energy depending on the room. Well-reviewed – Look for testimonials or reviews from past clients. Professional – Responds promptly, shows up early, and communicates clearly. Stylish and stage-ready – Because how they present themselves matters just as much as how they sound.
Final Thoughts
The right music can transform your event from nice to magical. As a violinist, I’m here not just to play beautiful music, but to enhance your vision and take one more thing off your plate. Planning an event in LA and want to avoid all these mistakes? Let’s chat. I’d love to help you create something unforgettable.