brideLIFE 5 - Weddings in Barbados

ENTERTAINMENT
David Collins
Music of the
Heart
DAVID COLLINS - GUITARIST
“Music, at its essence, is what give us memories.” Stevie Wonder
Music. One of the most integral elements for any
wedding or event, but one that tends to be overlooked.
Music not only sets the tone for the day and creates a
subtle ambiance for the bride to walk down the aisle; it
entertains guests while they are arriving at the ceremony
and waiting for the bride, accompanies the signing of the
register and brings a romantic feel to the day. “Music
makes the wedding and creates the atmosphere for the
event,” explains David Collins, classically trained guitarist
and the only musician in Barbados who plays classical and
finger-style guitar, providing not only instrumental music
but vocals as well.
A one-stop shop, David supplies all the sound equipment
needed, as well as visiting the venue in advance to find
out where he will be setting up and meeting the bride &
groom to make sure all details are taken care of. “When
playing, it’s important to consider the location – will it be
too loud if I am close to the guests? How will the space
convey sound to the back of the room? It’s not just about
sitting down and playing – there are many angles to take
into account.”
Taking great pride in his musicianship, he practises often
and is dedicated to providing a professional service from
the first contact through to the actual event, taking
performing at weddings very seriously: “it reminds me
of the close link music has with creating memories. I
feel lucky to be able to share these special moments in
people’s lives.”
Rather than apply a ‘cookie-cutter’ approach to the
music choices for a wedding, David likes to consult
with the couple to find out more about their taste in
music, their favourite artists and special songs that have
meaning to them and makes recommendations to the
couple.
Most weddings have a general format with music playing
a part throughout; as guests arrive at the ceremony, the
procession down the aisle, the signing of the register, a
sand or candle ceremony and the reception. Different
pieces are chosen for each, and David can make
suggestions for a DJ or a band that suits the couple’s
taste if required.
While many couples that choose to get married in the
Caribbean may want something very ‘island-style’ such
as a steelpan band, David explains that a guitar can
be quite versatile and adds a level of sophistication:
“Entertainment is an integral part of any event; the
sound of a guitar is much softer than the harsh tones
of steelpan, and can be altered to suit all the different
elements during a wedding. It’s also the perfect choice
when space is a premium such as churches or more
intimate venues.”
BRIDELIFE WEDDINGS IN BARBADOS | ISSUE 5 45