Going rate for playing for weddings and social groups?

Question

Hi, All! I'm trying to get established (again) as a guitarist/singer for various events such as weddings, social club meetings, etc. Does anyone have an idea of what one charges for this type of thing? For example, doing a few songs as part of a wedding...what's the fee? Playing 45 - 60 minutes for a business women's group...what's the fee?

I hope to get up and running soon but, as noted, I have NO idea what the going rate is for such things. Any help would be MUCH appreciated. THANKS!!!

Answer 1

I own such a business 100 miles north of NYC. Going rate for the players who work for me (classical) starts at $150 for the first hour, and after two hours, the per-hour rate declines somewhat. A violinist who plays for me for 4 hours takes home $500. I own the business, and therefore take leader's pay - which I usually reinvest, or spend on advertising, etc. Periodically, I take a leader's dividend for myself.

We are all people with undergraduate and graduate degrees from fine conservatories, and many years experience, and fine credentials. We certainly did not start out getting this rate, and there are clients who will hire college kids who undercut us. Cheap is cheap. However, with the huge repertoire and professionalism that we provide to the client, we are worth what we charge - and in line with our competition.

Answer 2

Well alot depends on what area of the counrty you are in, and how many people are in your group. In the midwest, doing a solo gig... a few songs for a wedding (3 songs?) during the ceremony? Well I usually go around 20 bucks a song.... its the reception where you make the money. A 4 hour reception as a single can bring you around $500. Djs get about the same... the money goes up of course if you have a full band.
Again here in the midwest, doing a buisness party for around an hour you should charge around 150. Hope this helps alittle.