How Much Does a Wedding Pianist Cost? Insights from Platinum Pianist Petra Persolja

pianobypetra
Oct 19
2 min read

Planning the perfect wedding means thinking about every detail—including the music. For many couples, one of the most common questions is: “How much does a wedding pianist cost?”

Award-winning wedding pianist Petra Persolja, founder of Platinum Pianist, shares insights to help couples understand the investment and value of live piano music for their special day.

💍 What Influences Wedding Pianist Rates?

The cost of hiring a pianist for your wedding can vary widely depending on several factors:

Performance DurationA pianist may perform for just the ceremony, or extend to cocktail hour and the reception. Naturally, longer performances influence pricing.
Event Location & TravelDestination weddings, outdoor venues, or locations requiring special transport can affect the overall rate. Petra travels throughout Southern California and beyond, bringing a signature white piano shell and professional sound setup to any venue.
Custom Music ArrangementsCouples often request personalized arrangements—transforming pop songs into romantic ballads or creating a unique medley. Customization requires preparation time, which is reflected in pricing.
Premium Equipment & SetupSome couples want a grand piano feel even when there’s no piano on site. Petra provides an elegant white piano shell, ambient lighting, and professional sound, ensuring the music experience is both visually and audibly stunning

Platinum Pianist playing for a couple during their first dance

🎵 Typical Wedding Pianist Pricing

While rates vary, here’s a general idea for wedding piano players in California:

Ceremony only: $850 – $1,200
Ceremony + cocktail hour: $1,000 – $2,000
Full-day or extended performance: $2,000- $ 4,000

Keep in mind: hiring a pianist is more than just paying for live musi, it’s investing in a seamless, stress-free experience, personalized arrangements, and unforgettable ambiance.

🍹 Why Hire a Professional Pianist?

When couples search for a pianist for hire near me or a wedding pianist in San Diego, they’re looking for more than notes—they want an elevated, memorable experience.

A professional wedding pianist:

Reads the room and sets the perfect atmosphere for your guests
Offers flexible repertoire for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and receptions
Provides premium sound equipment and setup for indoor or outdoor venues
Ensures a stress-free process from consultation to final note

🎹 Optional Add-Ons & Piano Rental for Weddings

Some clients request piano rentals or additional equipment to match their venue aesthetic. Platinum Pianist provides:

White piano shell setup for a grand feel anywhere
Ambient lighting and sound
Custom color and dress coordination for a cohesive event experience

Whether it’s a garden wedding in Oceanside or a luxurious ballroom in Los Angeles, Petra ensures every musical moment is perfect.

💎 Booking Your Wedding Pianist

Investing in a wedding pianist is about creating lasting memories. Couples often report that live piano elevates the ceremony and cocktail hour, leaving guests talking about the music long after the event ends.