Bands & DJs

James Dier (a.k.a. $mall ¢hange) is a favorite among other DJs, which says a lot about his prowess behind the turntables. He has played for raucous crowds at many of the city’s top clubs, but he also caters to betrothed music heads who appreciate that his eclectic collection includes rare records such as Gloria Jones’s 1964 version of “Tainted Love.” From $1,800. $

917-412-1862; djsmallchange.com

The ever-popular 45 Riots hand-selects musicians to fit the taste and budget of each couple. With a mix of high-energy music from hip-hop to house and Top 40 to rock, you’re sure to find a diverse sound for your wedding. Prices upon request.

149 Madison Ave., 11th Fl.; 917-969-0742; 45riots.com

For 15 years, Gary Hoffmann has owned and operated a company of DJs who spin every genre under the sun. They aim to keep the stress low and the dance floor packed. From $2,000. $

74events.com

This orchestra has 39 years of experience in the wedding business and is known for its soulful sounds of R&B, Motown, funk, soul, pop, and jazz. The group boasts a sizzling horn section and vocals and instrumentation that make for a bumping dance floor. Prices upon request.

New York, NY; 516-365-5664; 747orchestra.com

Founder Carol Moore has spun for Prince and Ian Schrager parties throughout her career, and you can hire her or the stable of DJs, instrumental soloists, and small ensembles she represents. One such artist is DJ Michael, whom Diana Ross routinely hires for her parties. Moore also specializes in Brazilian and Persian music, and can provide Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking DJs.

212-946-5119; astarrynight.com

With past bookings by musical luminaries including Paul McCartney and Clive Davis, the ten members of Sterling can be trusted to put on a high-quality show replete with Top 40, as well as some R&B, country, and classic rock. Prices start at $6,900.

201-585-7897; asterlingband.com

Praised by Steven Spielberg and Quincy Jones alike, Juilliard graduate and Broadway trumpeter Gross offers 12 versatile bands. All perform the latest hits with spot-on precision. The result is a lively evening of diverse vocals and harmonies, performed with unmistakable energy. From $2,500 to $15,000.

718-229-5522; a-1musicandkengrossorchestras.com

Donner does everything from classical and rock to cabaret, soul, and Top 40. His client list includes Jimmy Buffett, Tom Cruise, Yo-Yo Ma, and corporate heavyweights such as Cartier, Brooks Brothers, and Saks Fifth Avenue. DJ services and specialty bands (mariachi, Greek, etc.) are also available. From $5,000.

212-752-2920; alexdonner.com

Hire one of ten bands (and even more soloists) represented by Alex Levin to immediately create a classically romantic atmosphere: They all specialize in retro sounds, including jazz, swing, and soul. For example, soul-inspired band the Lovesome re-create Ray Charles and Patsy Cline standards, while the Smoke Rings play George Gershwin and Cole Porter tunes from the ’20s.

917-974-7761; alexlevinmusic.com

“No lights, no fog, no gimmicks” is the motto of this cheese-free DJ group, which formed after members Paul and Nicole Sinclair couldn’t find an inconspicuous DJ to perform at their own wedding. Along with partner John Sinclair, they take a backseat approach while ensuring the music is perfect and the mic isn’t overused. From $1,500. $

ariamelody.com

Helmed by Adam Michaels, this outfit offers groups of energetic musicians who play a mix of Motown, rock, jazz, big-band classics, and Top 40 dance. They’ve performed for celebrities like Martin Scorsese and Jennifer Garner. Prices upon request.

917-679-8636; aroundtownent.com

Past clients rave about this boutique company, which sends out a small but experienced team of DJs to spin everything from big-band jazz to contemporary Top 40. Prices range from $1,450 to $3,000 for five hours. Lighting services and photo booth also available. $

617-453-8821; beattrainproductions.com

Brendan O’Keefe is the man behind this small entertainment agency, which includes DJs, pianists, guitarists, and jazz and chamber ensembles. Most BOK-Music musicians are graduates of Juilliard or other fine conservatories and have performed on Broadway. Live ensembles start at $625 for the bandleader and $500 for each additional musician, soloists at $625, and DJs at $1,120. $

914-723-0739; bok-music.com

This band performs contemporary dance music, rock, swing, and R&B, as well as specialty sounds such as reggae, Latin, and klezmer. It can also supply jazz and classical duos, trios, and quartets for ceremony and cocktail music and can play 100 percent continuous music (no breaks). It will often coordinate live sound with its own DJ at no additional cost. From $2,500 to $12,000. $

212-447-6543; budmaltin.com

The legendary Greenwich Village venue that’s hosted Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan has a house band rocking five nights a week, and they are available for weddings. The group can play all styles of popular music, and can multi-task by offering classical during the ceremony, jazz during cocktails, and top 40 during the reception (or whatever combination you’d prefer).

115 Macdougal St., at Minetta Ln.; 212-254-3706; cafewhaweddings.com

This group can deliver a string ensemble, cocktail pianist, roving guitarist, or practically any ensemble type imaginable. Among its talented musicians are singers, harpists, and all the standard string and brass performers. Prices upon request.

917-952-8180; campanellaensemble.com

Under the direction of Gerard Carelli — a former Rainbow Room bandleader who’s played with stars such as Ray Charles and Rosemary Clooney — this orchestra specializes in Rat Pack jazz but is also proficient in styles ranging from Bach to Beyoncé. Prices from $2,000. $

914-242-0540; carellicollective.com

With glowing references from wedding-planning heavyweights, owner John Hubela’s company (formerly known as the Compact Disc Jockeys) can provide music for any kind of affair. His collection contains Ella Fitzgerald, Lady Gaga, and everyone in between. Average price is about $1,250. $

917-685-1112; cdjmusic.com

Aside from their library of over 20,000 songs from every genre imaginable, these DJs will also work closely with couples to brainstorm a timeline of their evening — and are known to check in with them during the event to ensure that everyone’s having a good time. From $1,800.

646-285-8631; classiceventsmusic.com

Band leader Kim Sozzi draws on her experience as a recording artist to re-create songs exactly the way they sound on the radio. Some members of her seven-to 12-piece band (originally founded by Sozzi's father) have been performing together for more than 25 years; hence their diverse repertoire of songs. Prices upon request.

212-579-0096; creationsmusic.com

This traditional Cuban dance orchestra, led by pianist and composer Leonel “Papo” Ortega, provides high energy and original instrumentation with a vast arsenal of music in English, Spanish, and French. From $3,000.

201-394-1881; cubanoson.com

These guys first met at Oberlin College, where they formed a cover band. Since then, they’ve built a reputation as a genuine rock band that also happens to play weddings. Members have performed with the Walkmen, the Cars, and Yeah Yeah Yeahs. Over time, they’ve added classic rock, soul, and Motown to their set list. Prices upon request.

917-848-2145; dexterlakeclubband.com

For big-spending couples who take their partying seriously, there’s Cassidy. This in-demand DJ spun at the 2009 Inaugural Ball and has worked gigs for Jay-Z, Alicia Keys, and Diddy. While his first love is hip-hop, he plays plenty of ’70s and ’80s soul, funk, and R&B, too. Prices upon request.

djcassidy.com

One of Manhattan’s first female club DJs, Regine has kicked off First Fridays at the Guggenheim, spun a benefit for the Dalai Lama at Lincoln Center, and played at parties for celebrities such as Keith Richards, Cher, and Bruce Willis. She’ll create a personalized soundtrack for each phase of the ceremony and reception. Prices from $2,500, with Sunday, Friday, and seasonal discounts.

djdinaregine.com

DJ Foosh got his start at house parties and has moved up to international fashion shows. His eclectic taste leans toward world music, as well as funk and soul classics. Matrix series co-stars Laurence Fishburne and Gina Torres hired him for their wedding. From $1,750.

646-327-0202

Johnny Stuart has been sought after for decades and is regularly called on to set the mood at InStyle cover shoots for celebs such as Beyoncé and Rihanna and at New York Fashion Week. Destination weddings are no problem — he’s played nuptials and weddings expos as far away as Jamaica, Hawaii, and Ecuador. From $2,800.

646-554-5148; johnnystuart.com

DJ Olivier Meiji has experience spinning for parties worldwide, from Brazil to Bulgaria, including a residency in Saint-Tropez. Now based in New York, he offers three levels of DJ packages, some including extra speakers, effect lighting, TVs, and more. All options include a consultation about preferred artists, songs, and the general vibe. Prices start at $2,500.

929-248-2428; djservicesnyc.com

A serious vinyl collector, DJ Shakey (a.k.a. Julie Covello) happily entertains diverse requests and plays all styles, from pop hits to underground club music. Not into the whole emceeing thing? Covello will happily stay silent while she spins her variety of crowd-pleasing tunes. From $1,500. $

201-679-9736; djshakey.com

This band plays a mélange of songs, ranging from smooth singing (think Bruno Mars and Frank Sinatra) to the best of ’80s rock, plus Motown and alternative. Winters also works one-on-one with couples to craft the songs for every stage of the wedding. Price is $1,400 per player with a minimum of eight players (seasonal pricing is available).

914-588-7286; dougwintersmusic.com

This cooperative represents artists, musicians, and bands and offers everything from classical ensembles to vintage groups to full-throttle dance bands. Past gigs include The Martha Stewart Show and Clinton Foundation and Alvin Ailey parties, in addition to countless weddings. Prices upon request.

888-800-3526; elanartists.com

Empire Beats plays classic rhythm-and-blues hits along with its own original songs. Available as a five- to nine-piece band, as well as smaller combos for cocktails, dinners, and ceremonies, Mark Boquist and his crew are guaranteed to keep guests dancing for hours. Prices upon request.

917-586-3830; empirebeatsnyc.com

Launched in 1992 and led by David Swirsky, this small team of DJs is great at reading the crowd and knowledgeable about how to make the most of numerous New York venues. These DJs spin everything from world music to pop to swing and everywhere from country estates to the U.N. From $2,000.

212-953-9367; expresswaymusic.com

Jason Fioto, a regular at Manhattan clubs Marquee and 1 Oak, heads this entertainment company, which provides tunes for about 50 nuptials a year. Clients include luxury brands such as David Yurman and Louis Vuitton. From $3,000.

212-505-7593; generationevents.com

This energetic bandleader (and lover of all things retro) offers a big selection of combos, including a party-starting 10-to-17-piece big band playing swing, jazz, disco, contemporary, rock, R&B, and Motown. Prices upon request.

718-779-7865; georgegee.com

Fronted by talented singer-accordionist Annette Ezekiel Kogan, this lively six-member “klezmer-rock” band seamlessly mixes traditional klezmer music with modern tunes. Inspired by Eastern European rock, Golem’s versions of “Soul Man” and “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” make for an unforgettable reception wrap-up. From $3,000.

323-484-6536; golemweddings.com

If the goal is just to throw an awesome party, couples say this full-service entertainment company will ensure every guest is on the floor. It can supply a custom package of music (DJs and bands), lighting, décor, props, and games. Prices upon request.

212-695-6990; gothameventsnyc.com

This second-generation, family-owned agency offers any kind of big-day entertainment a couple could dream up — including dynamic dance bands, string quartets, lively orchestras, DJs, emcees, and more. Its musicians have performed with such artists as Billy Joel and Stevie Wonder and have been featured on Saturday Night Live. Prices upon request.

212-354-4100; halprince.com

This company is the exclusive entertainment provider at high-end spots such as the St. Regis and the Pierre. The group can provide virtually any style of band or DJ. Former clients run the gamut from Diddy to Vera Wang; the company also provided music for Billy Joel’s nuptials. Prices upon request.

212-767-0600; hanklane.com

Harbor Lights Music offers a roster of bands and orchestras, a slew of DJs, and classical and jazz ensembles to accommodate virtually any style and taste. The focus is on getting your guests on the dance floor: Top 40, R&B, mainstream hip-hop, Motown, ’70s jams, and big-band swing are all in the repertoire. Potential clients can preview the company’s bands at their local performances or by checking out online videos before booking. Prices upon request.

914-479-0077; harborlightsmusic.com

When bicoastal DJ Eko isn’t working a wedding, she’s playing Coachella, opening for Bruno Mars, on a mini-tour in Japan, or curating a function at the Guggenheim. From $3,000.

408-406-8399; heartbeatseverywhere.com

For a couple on a tight budget, the illustrious music school can connect you with current students or recent alumni to play classical, jazz, and contemporary arrangements. Many will travel throughout the tristate area, but prices start at $300 per hour for one soloist for weddings within Manhattan.

212-799-5000, ext. 313; juilliard.edu/hire-performer

This company’s DJs bring your vision of celebration to the dance floor. They’ve spun for A-list celebrities from Palm Beach to New York to the south of France. Prices upon request.

917-449-3435; jarrellentertainment.com

With past gigs as the resident DJ at Bergdorf Goodman, Pianos, and (Le) Poisson Rouge, McElfresh has turned his attention to weddings, playing 100 a year. He and his team of stylish NYC DJs offer a customized musical experience while avoiding the typical wedding clichés.

jaymcelfresh.com

Saxophonist Jeffreys and his troupe of talented musicians can pivot between swing, ’70s hits, Motown classics, and more contemporary tunes. He also offers classical quartets, jazz groups, and solo artists. Prices upon request.

973-618-0410; jeffjeffreysmusic.com

This production company has performed at more than 10,000 events and can provide DJs, emcees, live music, lighting, photo booths, video, and ­photography — and recently added indoor sparkler fountains. Prices upon request.

914-428-9231; jimmydee.com

Ready to salsa? This ten-piece group has a repertoire of classic salsa, mambo, and boogaloo hits from greats like Hectór Lavoe and Buena Vista Social Club. They’ve played internationally but are based in New York and play shows around the city multiple nights a week, so couples can check out their sound and get their dance on in the process.

lapachamambo.com

Old souls can set the mood with this urbane band, whose swinging tunes evoke a bygone era in partying. Led by vocalist Shawn Aileen Clark, Lapis Luna plays vintage jazz, swing, bossa nova, and songs from the ’30s, ’40s, and ’50s. Its repertoire includes icons like Duke Ellington, George Gershwin, and Cole Porter. Prices upon request.

lapisluna.com

Best known for the band Atomic Funk Project, this company created a collective of multiple bands and DJs around New York City. Couples can work with the agency to personalize a music package that suits their needs and budget, with add-ons like a string section or specialty lighting. Even the most basic option offers a customized song list and MC. Prices upon request.

800-249-MUSIC; livemusicpros.com

This Latin-leaning group — which has headlined at Merkin Concert Hall and played Carnegie Hall — can start off an evening with classical flute and acoustic guitar, move to jazz, then build to a six-piece rhythm ensemble. Its multicultural numbers include samba, salsa, and bossa nova. From $2,500. $

917-254-6818; losacustilocos.com

Soul-music connoisseur Jon Oliver is one of the founding DJs of all-vinyl-records dance party I Love Vinyl. He’s been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings and the New York Times and received WeddingWire’s Couples’ Choice Award from 2014 through 2017. Prices start at $3,000.

646-504-9640; lovejunkiesnyc.com

Lucy Music is a boutique company run by Aaron Thurston, bandleader of alt-hit cover outfit the Engagements. In addition to Thurston’s own band, Lucy Music’s collective of multi-instrumentalists includes the Affections (dance rock), the Loyales (classic soul R&B), Baby Soda (“street jazz”), and several other tribute groups known for getting guests to shake it with abandon at wedding receptions. From $5,900.

718-941-2295; weddingbandnyc.com

This close-knit eight-member group is a rare hybrid of religious and secular performers. While the musicians can play every type of Hebrew hora and simcha track, they also have a huge repertoire of contemporary favorites from Katy Perry to Jay-Z. Prices upon request.

917-991-3440; madison35.com

This four-band company has played the Super Bowl pregame show and the U.S. Open tennis tournament. The Celebration Strings group offers a mix that includes pop and rock as well as classical pieces — all played on string instruments. Prices upon request.

917-838-8383; manhattanswing.com

Even the music snobs on your guest list will happily get down to this band’s covers of Phoenix, Arcade Fire, David Bowie, Queen, Talking Heads, and the Clash. Mixtape offers a six- to ten-piece configuration and can add horns or strings for your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Bluegrass is also available. From $7,500 for a six-piece band.

347-750-6994; mixtapecoverband.com

Couples get a choice of four versatile, spirited bands from this outfit. Each has an enormous song list, including swing, Motown, disco, contemporary dance music, and Top 40 hits. Satisfied clients include Sumner Redstone and the cast of The Sopranos. From $8,000 to $20,000.

718-428-7478; nycswing.biz

What began as a single orchestra has grown into a company that includes multiple dance bands, jazz ensembles, and DJs. The original orchestra can be booked with 7 to 12 musicians; the most popular configuration features four-piece horn arrangements and four-part vocal harmonies. Prices upon request.

865 West End Ave., Ste. 6A ; 212-749-2364; newyorkedge.com

These groups include a piano trio, a vibraphone quartet, and a jazz-vocal quintet. They’ve been keeping things swinging for the past two decades at weddings and high-end events such as MoMA openings, and can play a variety of jazz genres and styles. Prices upon request.

212-989-5281; newyorkjazzbands.com

The husband-and-wife owners of Nite-Time met while playing a wedding and now headline a group of musicians who have shared the stage with Sheryl Crow, Gavin DeGraw, and Blood, Sweat & Tears. Nite-Time offers custom­izable packages to fit various budgets, styles, and musical tastes, including a variety of ensemble options for ceremonies and cocktail hours. From $2,500 to $10,000. $

212-864-6784; nite-time.com

This talented Argentine percussionist, who has performed with Broadway legends such as Chita Rivera and Tommy Tune, has been known to turn a reception into a sultry dance party with his Latin jazz, bossa nova, samba, salsa, and contemporary numbers. Prices upon request.

914-263-3563; norbertgoldberg.com

Founded in 1993, this company makes choosing between a band and a DJ a nonissue. With a customizable stable of DJs and live musicians (including its flagship band, the New Millennials), it can help couples create the musical ambience they desire. Its musicians are happy to travel and have done numerous celebrity and royal weddings. From $8,000.

212-229-1009; onthemove.com

This full-service boutique operation encourages brides and grooms to think outside the string quartet (although it offers classical musicians as well). Founder Julie Feldman, a harpist with a music degree from Columbia University, can mix and match styles and instruments to create one-of-a-kind, genre-defying sets — think the Beatles as imagined by a brass quintet or harpists accompanying a live DJ. Prices upon request.

917-257-5711; orchestrationsinc.com

This orchestra can rock the house with an ensemble of up to 22 pieces (the musicians have been lauded for their big-band skills by the jazz press). Those seeking something more modest can hire just a few members to play classical, jazz, classic rock, or swing. Brothers Edward and Bill Kinslow direct the proceedings. Prices upon request.

917-543-4807

Performing since 1962, big-band leader Duchin will work with most budgets to provide dance bands that can play anything from the Great American Songbook to contemporary hits. Prices upon request.

212-972-2260; duchinentertainment.com

You won’t find another DJ like Michael Cumella — he’s just about the only one around who plays early 78s on century-old crank-up horn phonographs, though he’s also happy to play contemporary hits. From $500 for the cocktail hour. $

646-228-5780; michaelcumella.com

Local husband-and-wife DJs Abby Klein and Tom Shiner have spun at some of the city’s coolest venues (think Wythe Hotel, the Gramercy Park Hotel, the Tribeca Rooftop, and the Ace Hotel) and for the likes of the Beastie Boys and Bloomingdale’s. From $1,600. $

646-580-0261; playsomethinggood.com

This live-band production company has put on private shows for the likes of Prince and Missy Elliott. Its six- to ten-piece ensembles play hits from every genre, taking care to avoid played-to-death songs. Prices start at $7,500 for an eight-piece band.

914-720-5047; projectorangemusic.com

“Wedding music doesn’t have to suck” is the credo of this DJ collective, founded after the members attended too many celebrations that had weak, uninspired playlists. Expect them to set the tone for a ­bona-fide dance party — with international cuts of the K-pop, Bhangra, and Ukrainian folk-music variety, as requested. Packages start at $2,000.

215-301-7350; rmxts.com

Whatever you need to hear, these folks deliver, whether it’s Coltrane and Frank Sinatra for the grandparents, Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin for the parents, or NSync and One Direction for the young and young at heart. They can also provide quieter, ambient music for cocktail hours as well as special versions of the tarantella.

elanartists.com/rhythm_collective

Playing for big-brand customers like Tiffany’s, MoMA, and Gucci, this company has been providing live Brazilian and Caribbean entertainment in New York for more than 30 years. Samba and capoeira performers, steel-drum and calypso bands, and stilt walkers and fire dancers are all available. Prices upon request.

718-928-4186; sambanovo.com

For a stress-free experience, book this no-risk wedding-DJ service, which comes with insurance, a host of backup DJs, and a dedicated music manager. For three years in a row, it was selected for The Knot’s “Best of Weddings” and WeddingWire’s Bride’s Choice Award. The full package includes setup, breakdown, and equipment. Prices upon request.

347-294-3417; scratchweddings.com

This group, which ranges from three to 14 pieces based on a couple’s needs, aims for a “cooler than ­average” song list that eschews the cheesy while still keeping everyone on the dance floor. Different configurations of the band can play throughout the night — strings during the ceremony, say, jazz during cocktails, and the full band for reception — with packages ranging from $1,980 to $12,000.

59 Conseylea St., #B3; 917-834-2122; silverarrowband.com

This perpetually hip group plays a wide range of music — from Rat Pack classics, Motown, and Top 40 to rock and roll. Its seasoned musicians regularly tour on the international circuit, and it boasts a rhythm section led by Skid Row drummer Rob Affuso. Prices upon request.

New York, NY, 10019; 800-466-7685; soulsystemorchestras.com

Customers report that their take on “Drunk in Love” will tear your tent down, but that’s just one of the songs in Sound House’s repertoire that get the crowd screaming: Their range of hits includes Motown and classic rock on through to Rihanna, Tupac Shakur, and Drake, with salsa and merengue in the arsenal as well.

elanartists.com/soundhouse

Sound Society is an elite music agency. We partner with highly selective clients to create unique, upscale events that are distinctive and unrepeatable. Our artists are among the world’s most gifted touring and studio musicians. They deliver unrivaled entertainment experiences that get people dancing – and talking.

330 Broome Street, New York, NY, 10002; 347-282-0399; soundsociety.band

Once a regular at Gracie Mansion, Josh Sparber has also played to Stockholm crowds and for the BBC in London. His upbeat and wide-ranging tastes include everything from funk, doo-wop, and northern soul to house and hip-hop. Rates start at $2,000.

917-575-5484; twerkinghard.com

Covering traditional to contemporary genres, Star Talent represents ten bands with diverse specialties and offers DJs and string ensembles as well. Its bands have performed at the weddings of both Paula Abdul’s and Stevie Wonder’s daughters. Five-piece bands start at $4,500.

590 Madison Ave., 21st Fl.; 212-541-3770; startalentinc.com

After more than 25 years in the business, Valerie Romanoff and her team can shift easily from classic R&B and jazz to hip-hop, rock, and Top 40 hits. Their string ensembles can create a custom sound with a mix of classical and pop music. One played at the wedding of Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas. From $13,000.

212-595-0999; starlightmusicnyc.com

Wexler’s upbeat band includes professional nightclub, Broadway, and studio musicians. Playing original arrangements and familiar favorites, it can deftly handle a slew of genres: Motown, soul, Latin, rock, and R&B. Ensembles include eight to 14 musicians, and fees range from $6,000 to $15,000.

914-945-0567; stevewexlermusic.com

This company is composed of acts — including DJs, steel-drum trios, jazz and classical orchestras, and a cover band — that are as well versed in the songs of Jay-Z as they are in those of Louis Armstrong. Prices upon request.

914-693-2309; stolenmoments.com

This company has more than ten ensembles, ranging from solo harpists to Motown bands. The crown jewel is its ten-piece orchestra, which has performed at presidential inaugurations. Prices upon request.

212-757-3299; stuartwhiteproductions.com

New to the city, this couple paid the bills busking on the L train platform. Now they entertain wedding guests with their jazzy repertoire, which features American icons like Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong, alongside oldies from the Beatles and Beach Boys. The duo pride themselves on memorizing arrangements, so they won’t be staring at an iPad while playing for your guests. Prices start at $1,299. $

347-464-1340; sydneyandjake.com

This top salsa band mixes hot Latin rhythms with passionate vocal harmonies and melodies. It plays a variety of styles, including Cuban, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Colombian, and Brazilian, as well as modern hits. Jazz, reggae, funk, swing, classical, and other genres are also available. From $3,000. $

917-254-6818; tentumbao.com

This trio met as conservatory students, and the members now play weddings to augment their professional gigs in the pits of such Broadway shows as Wicked and Phantom of the Opera. Wedding offerings range from Bach to Gershwin to contemporary pop. From $450.

917-232-7891; gainsboroughtrio.com

This outfit is perfect for couples more likely to frequent Bemelmans Bar than the Bowery Ballroom. Vocalist Malino headlines all performances with his Harry Connick Jr.–like sound. The veteran five-piece ensemble, which can expand into a full orchestra, has played together for over 15 years and performs jazz, swing, classic rock, and big band. Prices from $4,500.

212-673-9334; malino.com

This klezmer band, led by Adrianne Greenbaum, is traditional enough for Bubbie and Zadie but high-energy enough to keep your younger guests in good spirits. Choose from one strolling musician or keep adding up to a seven-piece ensemble to play a selection of klezmer, classical, and jazz offerings. From $800 to $6,000. $

203-257-9194; klezmerflute.com

A dance band specializing in Motown, soul, swing, reggae, and dance music, this group has members who have played with Aretha Franklin and Janet Jackson. A DJ is also available. Prices upon request.

212-627-5387; therhythmdogs.com

This peppy band loves jamming to Motown, R&B, and Top 40 hits. Its “rock and soul” style, cultivated over 15-plus years, has generated a huge following: celebrities including Denzel Washington and Martha Stewart are fans. From $5,000 to $12,000.

212-337-2123, ext. 4; stingersband.com

This classic party band delivers a custom experience to more than 60 weddings every year, mixing high-energy Top 40 tunes with Motown. From $10,000 for a ten-piece band.

917-887-5459; storytellersnyc.com

Songs from Bruno and Ariana to Aretha and Sinatra are just a fraction of the music covered by this veteran band, which features anywhere from three to eight members as well as a DJ. The group is known for its eclectic style and dance-inspiring rhythms. From $2,700. $

845-783-0130; theaband.com

This husband-and-wife team is a great choice for multicultural weddings: They can emcee in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. Their four teams of DJs spin nearly 150 weddings a year. Additional services include plasma screens, photo booths, LED uplighting, and videography. From $1,250. $

201-997-0077; tocdjs.com

This Long Island–based orchestra specializes in swing and ballroom music with a dash of Motown and contemporary thrown in, for weddings on the North and South Forks. Its DJ-and-band combination is especially popular. Prices upon request.

631-722-4824; trevordavison.com

These DJs hand over complete control of music selection and timing, so they’re a favorite among couples with strong opinions about their wedding soundtrack. Event prices start at $1,100 and include five hours of music. $

718-204-1938; ultimatesounddjs.com

Founder Adrian Tau (also known as DJ Upscale) has produced the music for hundreds of weddings, consulting on everything from first-dance songs to live artists. Supplement his spinning with singer Angel Gabrielle or harpist Erin Hill, who has played with Enya and Kanye West.

203-293-6038; upscalesalsa.com

This event-production company’s four bands are known for danceable covers of classics and energetic performances: They’ll play five-hour sets without breaks. Versatile and eclectic, they have played with such boldface names as Queen Latifah, Tina Turner, and Tony Bennett and performed at Chelsea Clinton’s wedding. Anything from a soloist to a 24-piece orchestra is available. Prices upon request.

201-768-9100; vali.com

These concert-quality classical and jazz ensembles play elegant or upbeat music and have been on The Late Show With David Letterman. Jessica Meyer, the Juilliard-trained founder, helps couples work out the musical details. From $350 per musician for the first hour; $150 per musician for each additional hour. $

877-888-3687; venusensembles.com

This group delivers a down-to-earth party with an eclectic set list honoring classic rock, soul, Motown, pop, and folk from the ’50s, ’60s, and ’70s — so everyone in your family will be happy and on their feet. Expect tunes from the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Van Morrison, and the Jackson 5. Prices from $2,200. $

347-878-5764; windandwheels.band