Auckland Wedding Ceremony Musicians for a Magical Day
Ceremony Musicians 2023
If you’re planning your big day, chances are you’ve thought about your wedding ceremony. From the minute your guests arrive, the memories start happening, and what better way to create beautiful memories than live music. Ceremony musicians serenade your guests with live music while they eagerly await your arrival, setting the tone for a perfect day. When you arrive, they will sing you down the aisle to the tune of your favourite song, allowing you to truly personalise the moment, and have your most sentimental song be played live. Ceremony artists also create the perfect soundtrack for your signing of the registry, exit song, and canapes/cocktail hour after the ceremony. Planning a wedding is stressful enough as it is, so let us take some of the hassle out of it. We’ve compiled the ultimate list of Auckland Wedding ceremony musicians to create the perfect moments on your wedding day.
Soloists
For an incredibly intimate atmosphere, soloists are the perfect option. They accompany themselves on the acoustic guitar, delivering your favourite songs in a heartfelt singer-songwriter style. Prepare to be captivated as their soulful performances leave your guests in awe.
Sam Allen
Experience the exceptional talent of Sam, a versatile artist who excels as both a solo acoustic guitarist and vocalist. With ease, he transitions from delivering beautiful acoustic renditions of classic tunes to infusing the best of pop, hip hop, funk, and soul with his unique soulful sensibility. Despite being in his 20s, Sam is already considered a veteran of the New Zealand music scene, with experience performing on cruise ships and holding prestigious residencies at venues in New Zealand. His repertoire features a diverse range of artists including Kanye West, Justin Timberlake, Pharrell Williams, and John Legend. Sam Allen seamlessly weaves together influences from hip hop and R&B into his soulful style, creating a captivating musical experience.
“We recently had Sam Allen perform at our 2019/20 Season Awards Party and he was absolutely amazing. 300 guests attended and all of the feedback was extremely positive. We will definitely be recommending him.”
Sam Allen Artist Profile
Daniel John
Experience the soothing and romantic ambiance created by Daniel John, whose soulful and velvety voice, accompanied by his acoustic guitar, evokes the essence of Ed Sheeran. After honing his craft as a recording artist in Los Angeles, Daniel is now available for bookings in Auckland. His diverse setlist showcases songs by renowned artists such as Ed Sheeran, Jason Mraz, Vance Joy, James Arthur, and Maroon 5.
“Daniel John's vocals accompanied by his acoustic guitar are incredible and he created such a relaxed and easy-going atmosphere. We asked Dan to learn a song for us that wasn't in his original repertoire list because it has significant meaning to us and his version was just incredible. We simply couldn’t have been happier to have Dan as part of our special day.”
Luna
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Luna. Blending Spanish and English, she effortlessly showcases her cultural identity through her music. Drawing inspiration from her artistic upbringing and influenced by the Latin American music in her family home, Luna's unique style fuses reggaeton, jazz, and R&B. Her music tells tales of youth and love, resonating with listeners on a personal level. With a repertoire that includes songs from iconic artists such as The Beatles, Amy Winehouse, Camila Cabello, and Justin Bieber, Luna infuses her performances with her iconic Latin twist, creating a truly unforgettable experience. Also available as a duo with a percussionist, Luna can cater to a wide range of events.
“Luna was a great fit for our New World Beer & Cider Tasting event, her choice of songs really suited the mood of the event and the guests loved it. She really made the event atmosphere memorable. Thank you Luna, I’m sure we will see you again!”
Ge Luz
Since 2003, Ge Luz, a talented Brazilian singer, has been captivating audiences with his performances. His repertoire includes a mix of classic hits, bossa nova, samba, and jazz, encompassing the quintessential sounds of Brazil. Ge Luz's acoustic guitar and mesmerising vocals create an ideal atmosphere for entertaining guests during canapes or setting a captivating mood with live music during dinner. The beautiful South American melodies offer a refreshing departure from the typical classic pop songs often heard from acoustic musicians, perfectly complementing a glass of champagne. Whether performing solo or as a duo with a percussionist, Ge Luz provides a chilled-out and romantic musical experience suitable for any occasion.
Ge Luz Artist Profile
Jesse Coynash
Jesse Coynash stands as one of New Zealand's top solo artists, offering a relaxed and sophisticated acoustic ambiance for your wedding ceremony. With extensive international experience, Coynash showcased his talent as the lead guitarist and backing singer for Neil Finn on the Dizzy Heights World Tour 2014, performing in 20 countries and even appearing on Later...With Jools Holland. He also performed alongside Dave Dobbyn internationally from 2015 to 2017. Specializing in acoustic renditions of songs by diverse artists like Bob Marley, Chris Isaak, L.A.B, Amy Winehouse, and Fleetwood Mac, Jesse has been captivating audiences for a decade.
“Yes it went vey well. We loved Jesse’s vibe, his voice and guitar playing is superb. Also, the duet we did went great. So thanks very much!”
Lauren Collins
Lauren Collins possesses a mesmerizing talent for delivering acoustic renditions of popular hits, enveloping audiences in a captivating and serene atmosphere. Through her skilled interpretations of modern classics by acclaimed artists like Ed Sheeran, Norah Jones, Bruno Mars, and Coldplay, Lauren creates an inviting space that draws listeners in. Her exceptional voice, characterized by its rich tone and delicate style, exudes a magnetic quality, captivating all who hear it. Since her debut in 2018, Lauren has graced countless stages in New Zealand and the UK, leaving a lasting impression wherever she performs.
“Lauren played at our engagement party and did a fantastic job. Having not met Lauren before she was professional, well presented and lovely from the get go. Efficient to setup and read the room with great song choices all night. It was lovely to have guests approach me throughout the evening with great feedback as well. Thank you, I highly recommend Lauren.”
Lauren Collins Artist Profile
Matt Stone
Matt Stone is a highly versatile musician, perfect for setting the tone on your special day. With a decade of experience in the New Zealand music scene, Matt excels as an acoustic guitarist, pianist, and vocalist. His repertoire spans a wide range of songs and styles, allowing him to cater to diverse musical preferences. Whether you prefer guitar-based singer-songwriter tunes from artists like Crowded House, Cat Stevens, and Simon & Garfunkel, or piano-based classics from Billy Joel, Elton John, and Ray Charles, Matt has you covered. Matt will tailor his performance to meet your requirements and create the perfect ambiance for your wedding ceremony.
“Matt, thank you so much for playing at our wedding! We are sorry we did not get a moment to come and thank you in person. We had many people tell us the following day how much they enjoyed listening to you play. Thank you again”
Matt Stone Artist Profile
Ant Utama
Ant Utama, a German-based Kiwi singer, brings his talents back to New Zealand every year, escaping the European winter to perform during the Kiwi summer. Currently based in Cologne, Germany, Ant has gained extensive experience in both countries, including a notable appearance on 'The Voice' Germany. As a consummate performer, Ant captivates audiences with his acoustic renditions of popular hits by artists like Ed Sheeran, Bruno Mars, and Coldplay. His music sets the perfect romantic atmosphere for your wedding ceremony, creating unforgettable moments. With Ant Utama's exceptional musical abilities and his ability to connect with the audience, you can trust that he will deliver a memorable performance that adds a touch of magic to your special day.
“A perfect evening with that gave goosebumps to our guests. We are very happy to recommend Ant, he is a kind and very professional artist. The voice and the music are just perfect. Thank you!”
Ant Utama Artist Profile
Mal McCallum
Mal is a seasoned music professional with a wealth of experience in creating unforgettable moments weddings across New Zealand and Australia. Having spent 13 years living in Australia, he has honed his skills and delighted audiences in both countries. With his mastery of guitars, keyboards, and bass, Mal specialises in acoustic guitar performances. His repertoire includes beloved artists such as James Taylor, Eagles, Bob Dylan, John Mayer, and many more.
“Everything did go well! Mal is a great artist and more so as he looked as he really enjoyed playing and being there. Totally recommend him!”
Mal McCallum Artist Profile
Duos
Experience the magic of gorgeous harmonies and intimate performances with acoustic duos. These talented duos offer the perfect blend of voices, creating stunning renditions of your favourite songs. While still maintaining a stripped-back and intimate feel, they bring a slightly fuller approach to the music compared to soloists. With their seamless weaving harmonies and captivating duets, acoustic duos are the ideal choice for ceremonies and canapé hours.
The Pickups Duo
Prepare to be immersed in a soulful and multidimensional musical experience with The Pickups duo. Their sound effortlessly traverses the captivating realms of Stevie Wonder, Stevie Nicks, Prince, and Michael Jackson, creating a truly unique and mesmerising blend. While The Pickups are renowned for their energetic performances as a full five-piece band, Andy and Victor offer a special treat with their acoustic duo arrangements. With the magic of acoustic guitar and Victor's distinctive, limitless voice, they breathe new life into songs performed by iconic male and female recording artists.
“The Pickups are an incredible band. They played at our wedding and blew our socks off with how talented they are. Such awesome songs were played, and Victor's ability and range as a singer was amazing. Having The Pickups play at our wedding was one of the first plans we had made, and with a heap of our guests commenting on how great the band was, this has completely justified why we wanted them on our special day, incredible!”
The Pickups Duo Artist Profile
Allenby Park is an exceptional acoustic duo that delivers captivating music infused with a delightful groove. Whether you're seeking a relaxed atmosphere for a summer afternoon or a lively and groovy experience, they are adept at creating the perfect vibe. With an extensive repertoire, Allenby Park skillfully covers songs by renowned artists such as John Legend, Ed Sheeran, Stevie Wonder, Kings of Leon, Toto, Prince, and Bob Marley. Their diverse selection ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy and adds an extra touch of excitement to your wedding ceremony.
“Allenby Park performed during our welcome function welcoming guests from America to New Zealand. Their ability to showcase the sounds of New Zealand and set the mood to the crowd was impressive. Our client was shocked when so many guests started dancing later on in the evening after saying they were not a ‘dancey crowd’. Truly spectacular!”
Prepare to be captivated by the irresistible allure of Belle Isle as they deliver a mesmerizing acoustic experience enriched with a soulful sound and enchanting harmonies. Since their inception in 2016, this dynamic duo has been renowned for their exceptional talent in crafting acoustic renditions of timeless classics from legendary artists such as Fleetwood Mac, Eric Clapton, The Eagles, and Simon & Garfunkel. They seamlessly blend these iconic hits with contemporary crowd favorites from acclaimed artists like Ed Sheeran and Sam Smith, ensuring a diverse repertoire that appeals to all. What sets Belle Isle apart is their extraordinary vocal abilities, with both members sharing the role of lead vocals, creating a captivating and harmonious exchange throughout every performance. Prepare to be immersed in a world of musical brilliance as Belle Isle serenades you with their exceptional artistry.
“Belle Isle is such a lovely couple with amazing music! We had such an awesome atmosphere at our wedding with Belle Isle playing! Not to mention all the comments on how wonderful they were! Communication was amazing but their music was the top!”
High Society
High Society Duo delivers a remarkable blend of laid-back soul, timeless classics, and acoustic renditions of modern songs. Ra Charmian, a gifted vocalist with a decade of experience performing at prestigious hotels across 10 different countries, brings a level of artistry that is unparalleled. Teaming up with the multi-instrumentalist Hayden Booth, High Society Duo showcases their acoustic prowess to create a truly unique musical experience. With their repertoire consisting of soulful gems from artists like Amy Winehouse, timeless melodies from the likes of Frank Sinatra, Bob Marley's infectious rhythms, and the enigmatic songs of Prince, High Society Duo offers the perfect selection of songs to set a relaxed and soulful ambiance for your ceremony.
“High Society were spot on for our Tall Blacks dinner at the SKYCITY Convention Centre. Our guests commented on how much they enjoyed the music and how it made the evening for them. They delivered three sets that matched this event perfectly. I can’t wait to organise another event so we can have Ra and Hayden back again to entertain us with their mix of laid back soul.”
High Society Artist Profile
Golden Hour specializes in creating the ideal chilled out and romantic atmosphere perfect for wedding ceremonies. With their captivating blend of acoustic guitar and mesmerizing vocals, Golden Hour excels in the genres of Pop and Jazz. Their seamless harmonies, enhanced by additional percussion and a vocal harmonizer, add a touch of elegance and sophistication to their performances, creating a tasteful ambience that sets the perfect mood. Prepare to be enchanted as Golden Hour delivers delightful renditions of hit songs by renowned artists such as Bill Withers, Dua Lipa, Fleetwood Mac, and Aretha Franklin. From beloved classics to popular Top 40 hits and medleys, Golden Hour ensures a memorable and enjoyable musical experience for your special day.
“This was the best entertainment we have ever had after a long three day conference.”
Alter Ego
Experience the captivating talent of Alter Ego, an Auckland-based duo that will elevate your wedding ceremony to new heights. With two exceptional vocalists and their mastery of guitar and keyboards, Alter Ego is a versatile musical powerhouse. Their extensive songlist encompasses an impressive range of artists, including the likes of Sam Smith, Queen, The Eagles, Crowded House, Stevie Wonder, and Maroon 5, to name just a few. Their musical prowess knows no bounds, ensuring a diverse and dynamic performance that caters to all musical tastes.
“Goody Two Shoes were great fun. They were easy to work with and adaptable to our changes in timing and the different groups of people that ventured onto the dance floor. We would recommend them for future events internally and externally.”
Alter Ego Artist Profile
Prepare to be delighted by the versatile and dynamic sound of acoustic duo Jaime and Chet. Their musical repertoire can be best described as "everything under the sun," as they skillfully cover a wide range of genres with finesse. From Toto to Tiki Taane, Bob Marley to Bon Jovi, Jaime and Chet bring an extensive repertoire that caters to all audiences. With their upbeat energy, Jaime and Chet create an atmosphere that is both lively and heartwarming. Their performances set the perfect tone for a wonderful ceremony, filling the air with happiness and leaving your guests brimming with joy.
“Jamie and Chet were amazing! They had the whole wedding party up dancing the whole night and played banger after banger song. All our guests are still talking about how good the music was but also how lovely and relatable Jamie and Chet were even allowing some of the guests to be back up singers! Overall was an amazing wedding night and I would 200% recommended Jamie and Chet for your event.”
Quartets
Experience the epitome of traditional glamour as a string quartet serenades you while you gracefully walk down the aisle. Whether you envision traditional arrangements of modern songs or have a cherished classical piece, a string quartet infuses your ceremony with an enchanting old-world charm. Here, we present our handpicked selections for a remarkable wedding string quartet performance.
The Black Quartet
The Black Quartet is a group of exceptionally talented young musicians who bring a sophisticated and versatile approach to the classic ensemble style. Their contemporary interpretation breathes new life into traditional arrangements. Their impressive portfolio includes collaborations with renowned artists such as Kanye West, Six60, and Ladyhawke. What sets them apart is not only their exceptional musicianship but also the cool, contemporary style and attitude they infuse into their art form. The Black Quartet is sure to add a touch of modern flair and sophistication to any event.
“A massive thank you to The Black Quartet for their superb performance at Tourism New Zealand’s Business Events National Awards Dinner. They created a wonderful atmosphere and added another layer of sophistication to the event. Many of the guests commented on the caliber of the beautiful music and the great selection of classic kiwi songs they performed.”
Zest Quartet
Zest String Quartet specializes in creating an atmosphere of effortless elegance that immerses your guests in the present moment. With their versatility, dynamism, and sophistication, their music sets the stage for a truly intimate experience that lingers in the memories of your guests long after the event has ended. Their repertoire spans from the timeless classics of Mozart and Bach to the enchanting melodies of Moon River and the vibrant rhythms of Bollywood. With such a diverse range, Zest String Quartet ensures that they can cater to the musical preferences of all audiences.
“A big thank you to Zest String Quartet, they were fantastic and really made the Church part of the day that bit more special.”
Zest Quartet Artist Profile
The Nikau String Quartet
The Nikau String Quartet is a remarkable wedding ensemble based in Auckland, dedicated to creating unforgettable musical moments. Their deep love for music shines through as they perform a wide array of classics by Bach and exude the elegance of classy jazz, showcasing their exceptional versatility in setting the perfect mood. With over a decade of experience enchanting wedding ceremonies and functions, they pride themselves on their reliability and affordability. The members of the Nikau Quartet are all accomplished, classically trained musicians who bring their expertise to every performance.
“Thank you so much for playing so beautifully at our wedding. We were so happy with having you there! Thank you also for arranging to play Lijosio and Such Great Heights for us. Both these songs have special significance for us so it meant so much that you took the time to play them for us, and played them so beautifully! Thank you for going the extra mile to do this. We really do appreciate it!”
The Nikau String Quartet Artist Profile
Acoustic and Jazz Bands
Elevate your wedding ceremony with a touch of sophistication and glamour by choosing a jazz artist to create a captivating ambiance. These exceptional performers embody the spirit of a bygone era, adding a unique charm to your special day. Here are our top recommendations for jazz artists to enhance your Auckland wedding ceremony:
Spectrum
With their captivating performances, Spectrum brings a sophisticated and upscale ambience to your wedding, transporting you and your guests to a bygone era of elegance and glamour. Their musical finesse and impeccable style create the perfect soundtrack for a memorable and enchanting celebration. Renowned for their exceptional talent, Spectrum delivers an unparalleled musical experience by seamlessly blending jazz standards and Latin influences with their own contemporary groove, leaving a lasting impression on all who listen. Drawing from the repertoire of jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald, Norah Jones, Diana Krall, and Karrin Allyson, these skilled and seasoned musicians possess the versatility to cater to a diverse range of audiences.
“Spectrum have been one of the most popular “core” bands at Coopers Creek Vineyard’s annual Summer Sunday Jazz festivals. Now into their 2nd decade of performing there, the lively musicality of the band, featuring Maria’s strong vocal lead along with good song selection, has ensured a loyal following of music and wine lovers.”
Twistin’ the Swing
Add a touch of vintage beauty to your wedding day with Twistin' the Swing, a vibrant and spirited jazz ensemble specializing in acoustic gypsy jazz. Drawing inspiration from the legendary Django Reinhardt, swing music of the 1930s-40s, and Romani songs, they transport you to an era filled with timeless charm. Their innate sense of rhythm, impeccable musicality, and dynamic interplay create an atmosphere that is both captivating and invigorating. Twistin' the Swing effortlessly transitions between lively up-tempo numbers, capturing the essence of gypsy jazz's infectious energy, and heartfelt slow melodic ballads, evoking a sense of romance. With their unique blend of talent and charm, Twistin' the Swing brings a magical and distinctive touch to your wedding, reminiscent of the enchanting ambiance of 1930s France.
“Twistin the Swing played at our wedding recently in Auckland and were absolutely amazing! We had an Italian themed outdoor wedding in a beautiful courtyard and wanted music that would help us feel like we were actually in Italy. They were truly perfect and exceeded our expectations!! They were sophisticated and fun and very professional to work with. I would highly recommend them to anyone wanting a gypsy or swing style band or something just a little bit different for a wedding.”
Twistin’ the Swing Artist Profile
Mark Baynes
Create an unforgettable experience at your wedding by choosing Mark Baynes, an esteemed and sought-after pianist in Auckland. With over two decades of experience, Mark has established himself as a legendary figure in the jazz scene. Mark's performances exude sophistication, adding a touch of elegance to your wedding ambiance. His mastery of the piano will elevate your special day to new heights. His repertoire primarily focuses on timeless jazz classics composed by revered artists such as Gershwin, Duke Ellington, Herbie Hancock, Cole Porter, Louis Armstrong, and Fats Domino. He also incorporates iconic pop songs from legendary musicians like The Beatles, Bill Withers, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Burt Bacharach, among others. This diverse range of music ensures that every guest will find something to enjoy, making your wedding a truly unforgettable event.
“Georgia and Mark have created a new dimension in our restaurant. Their performances are consistently warm, energetic and rich. Their professional approach and ability to read different audiences must also be mentioned. This duo is a serious draw card for customers.”
Mark Baynes Artist Profile
Andy Smith Trio
Immerse your wedding in an upmarket and elegant ambience with The Andy Smith Trio. Their captivating music sets the perfect tone for your special day and leaves a lasting impression on your guests. The Andy Smith Trio offers a diverse selection of jazz and Latin music, ensuring there's something for everyone's taste. Get ready to create unforgettable memories with the remarkable talent and captivating performances of The Andy Smith Trio. With their unique approach to jazz standards and lively arrangements of popular tunes, they bring a vibrant energy to every performance.
“The band were awesome! Really friendly and played the perfect tunes to suit the crowd. Would definitely use them again.”
Andy Smith Trio Artist Profile
The Madeleines
Experience a truly unique and unforgettable ceremony performance with The Madeleines, who bring a captivating essence of golden age glamour. Specializing in jazz and swing music from the 1920s to the 1960s, this talented ensemble is known for their beautiful costumes, sophisticated harmonies, and impeccable choreography. Choose The Madeleines for an enchanting journey through the golden age of music, where their exceptional performances and meticulous attention to detail will create an atmosphere of nostalgia and pure delight at your event.
“Thé Madeleines are outstanding. One of the best live acts in Auckland. Literally sounds like you’re listening to a record they are that fantastic. Great stage presence and was an absolute thrill to have them in stage in waiheke. They’re welcome back anytime”
The Madeleines Artist Profile
Nairobi Trio
Experience the Nairobi Trio, masters of instrumental renditions of the greatest hits from legendary artists such as The Beatles, Elton John, and Van Morrison. This talented group, consisting of acoustic guitar, double bass, and violin, has accumulated 20 years of expertise, establishing themselves as one of New Zealand's most experienced and professional musical ensembles. Elevate your wedding ceremony with the Nairobi Trio, bringing an unparalleled level of class and creativity. Their unique instrumental approach adds a distinctive flair to the music, creating an atmosphere that is both elegant and captivating.
“Thanks to you all, once more, for making our 50th wedding anniversary an absolutely memorable day... to have had that special time was a bit like having Santa's sleigh suddenly arrive in one's living room! I couldn't believe my eyes.”
Nairobi Trio Artist Profile
Allana Goldsmith Group
Embark on a journey of cultural richness and musical excellence at your wedding with the remarkable talent of Allana Goldsmith. As a highly regarded Māori artist, Allana brings a fusion of jazz standards performed in both English and Māori, showcasing her deep connection to her heritage. Allana possesses a warm contralto voice that effortlessly channels the essence of the great jazz goddesses of the past, mesmerizing listeners with her stunning vocal prowess. With a decade of experience performing in jazz bands across the vibrant Auckland scene, Allana's expertise and professionalism shine through in every note she sings.
“Allana Goldsmith Group performed at a recent formal evening event at the museum. I cannot recommend them strongly enough. They chose a perfect repertoire for the evening and varied their songs according to the mood of the crowd. The selection ranged from ambient atmospheric to uptempo that had guests dancing at the end of the night. One of the group even played some taonga puoro (traditional Maori instruments) to connect to the kaupapa of the event, and when coupled with Allana's beautiful voice it was truly magical!”
Allana Goldsmith Group Artist Profile
Quantum Blue Duo
Experience the perfect blend of elegance and old-world glamour at your wedding ceremony with the mesmerizing performances of the Quantum Blue Duo, featuring Clo Chaperon as the vocalist and Dr. Mark Baynes on the piano. This dynamic duo presents a repertoire that encompasses a wide range of beautiful songs, carefully selected to enhance the ambiance of your special day. They skillfully combine well-known jazz standards from the American songbook with relaxed arrangements of contemporary hits, creating a truly unique musical experience.
“Quantum Duo were fantastic! The duo were the perfect opening to the evening. The musicians were very easy to deal with (as were the team at Findaband). I can’t thank you enough for helping us make this aspect of the event a success!”