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If the value of your services is greater than what you’d spend on a wedding gift, then the gift of your services is out of line. If you’re comfortable with that, then tell them, just as you would anyone else, the cost. I’ve always done with with friends and it’s never been a problem.
Elena,
I’ve worked many times with an organist and I can recommend some great repertoire if you’re interested.
Barb
Meg, the idea of having the recording of the music in case it’s too cold is brilliant. I had 4 people this year schedule outdoor events in October. I’ve decided to call and remind them of their contractual agreement. I reserve the right to refuse to perform outdoors below 60º and used it this year. It’s very hard, in the moment to tell a bride who already has everything set up that I won’t go outdoors for her. It’s much easier to remind them ahead of time. I think many don’t read everything on the contract and are truly taken by surprize.
There’s a lot being said here about the distractions which reminds me of a regional orchestra that I played with for many years. At one point the board of directors sent out an edict that the men’s ties had to be black because someone found that the different colors of ties on the Sunday afternoon concerts was distracting to the audience. It’s amazing what people will start to complain about, isn’t it? What probably matters more than what other harpists think or “most audiences” is what orchestra management thinks. It’s a lot of money to spend on an instrument that might encourage the manager to call someone else next time.
My arrangements for harp almost always include a version for harps of this size. You’ll find the on line catalog at http://hornandharp.com/publications/. There are only a few that didn’t work for both G-g and C-c. The catalog should list each clearly. If you have questions about any, let me know.
I saw a small college performance of this. They left the harp out completely in that movement. That way, the color doesn’t change when the 2nd part is left out. I’ve also seen a synth used for the “missing harp” part. It’s really hard to balance the dynamics that way.
Suzanne Davids worked with Wendel Diebel and performed the bagatelles. She’d know the answer to your question.
Kelly Yousoufian of Michigan Harp Center has been willing to find music for us that’s published in Europe. She’s been able to track down some specific pieces for us. You might try her.
Anne,
If you don’t like atonal music, try some of Bernard Andrés’ music. He uses special effects in interesting ways while remaining tonal and melodic. His use of effects feel more naturally incorporated into the music as part of the music than an effect stuck there for the sake of using it. His more advanced music includes more of the effects found in the Andrés Notation Guide and you might like them. There’s a CD of his music that would give you a good idea of the music before you buy the sheet music if you aren’t sure.
There’s a tutorial on reading lead sheets on my website that might help you get started with ideas. Look at http://www.hornandharp.com/publications/tutorial.html. There are several resources there including two tutorials, one for Three Christmas Lullabies and another that works with the Anniversary Song.
Barbara
The music may be purchased from http://www.hornandharp.com/publications/hornharp.html.
Barbara Fackler
