Saira - Classical Wedding and Event Singer

FAQs

What is included in the service?

• An extensive repertoire list for you to select pieces from and unlimited consultation to ensure you have selected the perfect songs for your ceremony
• A choice of classical, contemporary, jazz and musical theatre pieces ideal for both church and civil weddings. Saira is also happy to perform requested pieces
• Saira can provide speakers and sound system if you would like her to perform with instrumental backing tracks
• If required, she can organise other musicians and will liaise with them directly
• On the day, Saira liaises with venue contacts and other musicians to ensure the music during the ceremony is carried out seamlessly
• Selected songs performed beautifully
• Couples will receive a framed copy of their favourite song performed during the wedding, complete with their names, wedding date and original artwork by Ashton Springer. An example is included in the photos section

What are the performance options?
Saira is able to perform during the ceremony or as a featured performer during cocktails or at the reception. She also offers a background set for the drinks reception where she sings classical crossover, musical theatre, jazz and ballads whilst guests are enjoying a drink and a chat with each other. This is a great cost effective way of utilising Saira's voice for your wedding.

During what part of the ceremony does Saira usually perform?
For civil ceremonies Saira normally perform about 3 songs and these could be as the bride walks down the aisle, instead of a reading, during the signing of the registry and/or during the processional. This is entirely up to you and how you want the ceremony to be structured. For Catholic ceremonies, options include during the Liturgy of the Word (Gospel Acclamation), signing of the Marriage licence, Liturgy of the Eucharist and/or the Concluding Rite.

Does Saira perform during the drinks reception?
Yes she does. Many guests request Saira to sing during the ceremony as a soloist and also afterwards as a background singer during the drinks reception. She provides all the equipment needed including PA system, background tracks and microphone.

What if I am not sure which songs I want?
Saira loves to work with clients to find out the types of songs they like and to suggest pieces. Her repertoire list includes examples of all the songs so you can easily listen to each piece.

What style of music to do you offer?
Opera arias such as 'Oh mio babbino caro', classical church pieces such as 'Ave Maria' and 'Panis Angelicus', contemporary songs such as 'Songbird', jazz pieces such as 'It had to be you' and musical theatre such as 'A million dreams'. With her classical training Saira can easily sing different styles of music.

What are the accompaniment options?

• Unaccompanied: This can create a powerful effect in a Church
• With instrumental accompaniment tracks: Saira can provide an extensive range of high quality instrumental backing tracks and speakers, which is a simple, professional and cost effective option.
• String quartets: Saira has a number of string quartets that she can suggest. As well as providing accompaniment, the string quartet can play as guests arrive or after the ceremony. If you have already organised a quartet, Saira is happy to perform with them and will require a short rehearsal on the day to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Does Saira travel?
Given she is originally from Australia, Saira is used to travelling and more than happy to travel to your wedding. Travel fees apply for weddings located out of Greater London.

Does Saira need any amplification equipment on the day?
As a professional opera singer, Saira can easily project her voice in the wedding ceremony venue and therefore does not need any amplification equipment. For large corporate events or concerts she supplies a cordless handheld microphone and PA system. Saira also uses a microphone for background sets to ensure the balance of voice and backing tracks are right for the group and venue size.

How much time does Saira need to prepare for an event?
As long as the songs selected are from her repertoire list, Saira is able to perform with a lead time of a couple of days.

What does Saira wear on the day?
From the range of performances Saira has done over the years, she has a large selection of dresses in varying colours, lengths and styles and is more than happy to coordinate her outfit with the colour themes on the day.