In front of a packed house (they even had to set up extra chairs in the aisles, balcony & lobby!), Sarah and Ben were married at Immanuel United Methodist Church in South Bend, Indiana. For their May 12th ceremony, they booked not only me as their harpist, but a trio of harp, violin & cello.
Harp & violin is our most popular duet, and adding the cello gives the whole group a deeper and fuller sound. Especially with a large guest list (this wedding was well over 300), an ensemble like this really makes an impact, and guarantees that, no matter how far back they are seated, all of your guests will be able to hear the music for your ceremony!
The trio played a half-hour prelude as guests arrived, and when we were given the cue that the family was lined up and ready to enter, we switched to Bach's "Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring" for their processional. The bridal party followed to "Canon in D."
When Sarah booked with us, she was originally interested in having non-traditional music. When it came time for her to make her selections, she changed her mind and opted for the famous "Here Comes the Bride." It's important to choose musicians who are versatile and have a wide-ranging repertoire of options ~ you may change your mind several times throughout the planning process!
The unity candle was lit to "Meditation" from Massenet's opera Thais. This is one of my favorite pieces to play with a violinist, as the melody just soars! The pairing of the harp with the sustaining string instruments works perfectly here. A cousin of the groom played the organ and sang for the Lord's Prayer and communion. The recessional was also traditional: Mendelssohn's "Wedding March." The newlyweds came back into the sanctuary after the recessional, and dismissed their guests individually as the trio continued postlude music.
No matter how large or small your wedding, the harp (or a larger ensemble along with a harpist) can provide all of the music for your ceremony! Visit my website ~ South Bend Wedding Music ~ for details.
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