FAQ

What factors go into your pricing?

            My pricing includes the cost of sheet music, harp maintenance, many hours spent learning or arranging music for your event, insurance, gas and mileage, equipment, costs of operating a business, cartage (the difficult process of moving a harp to other locations), and years of education.

Why do weddings cost more than other events?

            The music for your wedding is 100% customizable, which means more time spent on my part finding, arranging, and learning songs to give you the wedding music of your dreams! Also, the timing of weddings can be unpredictable and musicians must be ready to adapt to timing delays.

What is included in a wedding package?

            A free consultation, 30 minutes of seating/prelude music, all processionals and ceremony music like unity candle or communion etc, recessional and guest exit music, fully customizable song choices, cartage, and travel up to 50 miles.

Why do outdoor events cost more?

            Exposure to the elements (including direct sunlight, humidity, dirt, or extreme temperatures) greatly increases wear and tear on the harp, which contributes to the cost of insurance and more frequent harp maintenance.

Can I choose my own songs?

            Absolutely, and I hope that you do! My number one goal for your wedding is that you have the music that is most meaningful to you, whether its classical, pop, or any other genre. It is most helpful for me if there is sheet music available for your desired song, but I’m happy to try to arrange something for you too. If you don’t have any songs you’re particularly attached to, I can make a list of suggestions for you—or you can tell me “just play something pretty!” and I’ll be happy to take care of it for you.

Why should I consider having live music instead of a playlist?

            Live music instantly makes an event more upscale and classy. Also, in a wedding, live musicians can adapt for timing where recorded music can’t. Don’t forget…visually, harps are absolutely stunning and very photogenic!

What experience do you have?

            I have been playing the violin/viola for 27 years, and the harp for 18 years! I have 18 years of experience playing for events including weddings, background music at country clubs, onstage for theater productions, solo recitals, and hundreds of orchestra concerts. I have a masters degree in music performance.

Can you accompany someone else for my wedding music?

            Yes, but we will need to rehearse together beforehand. If you have a guest coming from out of town and would like them to sing or play with me in your event, please plan for them to arrive a few days early so that we can practice together. I want the music for your event to be the highest quality I can give you, and rehearsal is a MUST for that to happen!

What things do we need to provide for you to set up?

            I need about 6 square feet to fit me, my harp, my bench, a music stand, and (depending on the event) an amp and other equipment. Keep in mind that the harp is about 6 feet tall and needs to tip back to be played. I also need adequate lighting to see my strings to be able to play. I will need to arrive early to deliver the harp, tune (harpists have 47 strings that need to each be tuned individually) and warm up. For outdoor events, I will need a flat surface to put the harp on and access to a covering offering shade. If you would like me to use an amp, I will need access to an electrical outlet.

Are there any limitations on what you can play or where you can go?

            Unfortunately, due to risk of damage to the harp, it cannot go to beaches or other places without level ground. It is also not possible to hike long distances over unpaved or uneven ground with the harp. Stairs can also be very difficult to navigate with the harp. Therefore, I will need to approve the venue before booking for harp. For outdoor events, I will not be able to play if there is high wind, snow, rain, high humidity, or temperatures above 85* or below 65* F as all of these could potentially damage the harp or make it impossible to keep in tune. Additionally, if there is not parking, I may not be able to get the harp to your event!