How many members are in your group?  If you hire me for your event, I will be the one showing up to play. I do not farm out my work to others.

What is your usual attire?  My attire is formal, unless requested otherwise.

Do you offer live sample performances?  I play bridal shows in Suffolk County at several venues on a monthly basis. They are free to attend, and provide an excellent opportunity to hear me live and speak with me in person. There is always a current listing of dates and venues on my website.  You may also call or email to set up an appointment to come to my house for a consultation.

Do you play for LGBT weddings and events?  I most certainly do, and have.

How much time do you usually need for setup?  I arrive early, allowing myself 20-30 minutes to set up and tune.

How much space do you usually require?  Roughly, an area 4 feet by 6 feet will be enough for my harp, music stand, and bench.  The area also needs to be flat, dry, and level.

Do you charge for travel expenses?  The fee I quote you includes any expenses for travel. Tipping is always appreciated, but not required.

What areas do you cover?  Throughout the year, I cover all of Long Island and the Tri-State area.  I book weddings and events in New Mexico select dates during the year, as well.  I am also willing to travel for Destination weddings and nationwide events.  Please inquire as to availability and rates.

I would also like harp for my cocktail hour/reception.  Is this possible?  Absolutely.  As well as ceremonies, I frequently play for cocktail and hospitality hours, and have even played during receptions (most often for smaller weddings at restaurants, second weddings, etc.).  Please inquire as to my rates.

I do not hear the song I like in your sample list.  Can you play it for my event?  Almost definitely.  The audio and video on my site are but a small sampling of my ever-growing repertoire.  Keeping in mind that some songs just will not sound good on the harp, if there is something you would like me to play which is not on my site, please ask, allowing me six weeks to order the music and learn it for your event. 

Will you play outdoors?  Yes.  Late-spring, summer, and early-fall days can be gorgeous for an outdoor wedding or party.  Several aspects to be aware of:  I need to set up in a shady area that is level and dry.  The direct sunlight of a summer afternoon is extremely detrimental to the health of my harp.  If the harp will be set up on a lawn, the grass must be dry.  Please bear in mind I will move my harp indoors at the first drop of rain.  The harp is an expensive wooden instrument which can stand no precipitation of any sort. 

Do I need to provide any equipment for you?  For most situations, no (see next question). I bring all my own equipment, including music stand, bench, and light for my stand (some rooms can be rather dim). I will need to set up near a power outlet if you have requested the harp be amplified.

I am getting married at the beach. Will you play on the sand?  There are several variables involved with beach weddings. I'll need to know how far the harp must be moved on the sand before reaching the actual ceremony site. Sand and sea air are horrible for an expensive wooden instrument. The harp cannot rest directly on the sand. In the event I agree to play the wedding, the client MUST provide a clean, dry board, at least one inch thick and 6 feet by 6 feet, for the harp, my music stand, and my bench, for the entire time I am hired to play.

Do you work with other musicians?  There are quite a few musicians I can call upon should you desire a combo. These include a flutist, violinist, 'cellist, and vocalist (ceremony only), or any combination thereof. I handle all the paperwork, and you will deal directly with me.

My aunt/grandmother/friend would like to sing a song with the harp. Is this okay?  Yes, but you are responsible for sending me the music at least six weeks before the actual event. If they wish to rehearse with the harp, they are welcome to call or email to set up an appointment to come out to my house.

Will you work with the organist at the church?  Absolutely. Please provide the organist's phone number and we will consult with each other regarding your music.

Do I need to feed you?  No. While an offer of a cold beverage is always welcomed, I generally do not eat while playing, and usually bring my own water.

How do I pay you?  I prefer to be paid via cash or check. Postal money-orders are also acceptable.

Do you accept payment by credit card?  Payment by credit card will only be accepted if agreed upon at the time of booking and is so stated on your contract.  Your deposit must still be made via check, unless full payment is made within ten days of booking.  All credit card payments must be made in full through PayPal before the day of your wedding.  A service charge may apply.

What happens if you get sick the day of my wedding?  I have yet to miss a booked event for any reason in all my 33 years of playing.  But, should some serious illness or accident occur that prevents me from fulfilling the terms of my contract, I will do my very best to find another harpist who will fill in for me at the last minute.  You will then pay this harpist the balance due, and I will give her the deposit you sent with your contract.   If no harpist is available, I will return your deposit to you.  You may wish to discuss emergency cancellations with your DJ or band, who would most likely be able to provide last-minute music.

I have a stupid question . . .  There are no stupid questions. Ask away. It's your day. I want you to be happy.