When a family in Tyne and Wear begins to think about music for a funeral wake, they are often looking for someone who can hold the mood of the room gently, neither overwhelming the gathering nor leaving it feeling bare.
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Choosing a musician for a wake in Tyne and Wear is worth approaching with care. A good musician will speak with you beforehand about the person who has died, taking time to understand what music meant to them or to your family. Whether the reception is held in Gateshead or Sunderland, they should be willing to learn a particular song, adapt their volume to a smaller room, and read the atmosphere on the day. Acoustic guitar, piano, strings or a solo vocalist can all work well, depending on the venue and the feel you are hoping to create. It is worth asking specifically what is included in their quote and how long they will play. Tyne and Wear is a relatively compact county, and most musicians based here will travel comfortably between Newcastle, Jarrow, North Shields and the surrounding areas without difficulty. Families sometimes draw on musicians from neighbouring Northumberland or County Durham as well, which broadens your options considerably. If the wake is in a community hall, a pub function room or a crematorium reception space, do check with the venue about any restrictions on amplification before you confirm your booking.
Many families need musicians for a wake following a service at one of these crematoriums.
Most musicians in Tyne and Wear charge somewhere between one hundred and fifty and four hundred pounds for a wake reception, depending on the type of performer, how long they play and whether they bring their own equipment. Solo acoustic performers tend to sit at the lower end, whilst duos or musicians requiring a sound system may cost more. It is always worth asking for an itemised quote so you know exactly what is covered.
Wherever possible, giving at least two to three weeks notice is helpful, as good musicians in the area do get booked up, particularly at weekends. That said, many musicians understand the nature of bereavement and will do their best to accommodate families at shorter notice if their diary allows. It is always worth making enquiries even if the timescale feels tight.
Most musicians will include a pre-booking conversation to discuss repertoire, travel to the venue, a set period of playing, and their own instrument. Some will bring a small amplifier or PA system, though this is worth confirming in advance, especially if the venue is larger. Any requests for specific songs should be discussed early, as a musician may need time to learn or arrange a piece that is meaningful to your family.
Many musicians who work at wakes and celebrations of life are genuinely willing to learn a song that held particular meaning for the person you are remembering. It is worth raising this early in your conversation with them, giving as much notice as you can. Most will make every effort to honour that request, and hearing a favourite piece played live can be one of the most moving moments of a reception.
Yes, many musicians based in the county are happy to travel to all parts of Tyne and Wear, including South Shields, Sunderland and the areas between. Some are also willing to travel into neighbouring Northumberland or County Durham if needed. It is sensible to confirm the travel arrangements when you first make contact, and to check whether any mileage costs are included in the quoted fee.
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