sonja@swharpist.com
Please submit this form for all wedding inquiries, with as many details as possible. All other inquiries can reach out directly to my email listed below. I look forward to hearing from you!
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Contact Sonja
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- Highly skilled - I have my Master’s degree in harp performance from the University of North Texas, which is one of the top schools for music in the country.
- Quality musician - I play professional level harp arrangements with great ease and artistry. You’ll never see me looking stressed or nervous as I play!
- Experience - I have over a decade of experience playing harp music for weddings, receptions, private events, proposals, tea parties, open houses, graduation ceremonies, concerts etc. here in the St. Louis area. You can read my reviews here on my site!
- Equipment - I provide the highest quality equipment for my services to ensure the best performance and sound possible. My harp is a professional model, and is frequently regulated and well maintained with new strings for a beautiful and warm sound. I use a music stand and bench that match, so visually everything looks clean and coordinated. I use an iPad Pro for my music, for seamless transitions between pieces. You won’t see any sheets of paper flying away in the wind, and won’t find any stacks of music near my feet.
- Easy to work with - I realize that planning a wedding or event can be time consuming and overwhelming, but I am here to help! I am happy to provide recommendations, or even put your set list completely together, in order to help your planning be more manageable.
What sets YOU apart from other freelance harpists?
I charge what my service is worth. My rate is comparable to other harp professionals with the same amount of collegiate training and experience.
- Preparation - Harp is one of the most difficult instruments to master, and takes a lot of dedicated time and practice (especially when making arrangements of special requests or learning brand new songs).
- Service - I am a highly proficient harpist, and play with finesse and artistry. I am able to comfortably multi-task and improvise, and don’t get caught up in looking at the music on my music stand.
- Cartage - The loading/unloading of a harp can be physically demanding, but also “wears down” the instrument, affecting the regulation.
- Harp maintenance - Harpists get their harps regulated by a professional “harp doctor” at least once a year (sometimes twice!) to ensure that everything is sounding at its best, with all mechanical parts working properly. A basic regulation for one harp costs several hundred dollars…not including additional repairs needed for damage. Imagine what the bill looks like if you own several harps…
- Harp strings - These can break unexpectedly and are quite an investment to replace. Depending on the length of the string, replacements can cost anywhere between $6 to $30 EACH…and concert grand harps have 47 strings!
What factors comprise a harp quote?
The harp that I play on most frequently is my classic Italian-made Salvi Minerva harp, which is crafted with ornate carvings on the column. It is a professional model concert grand harp, worth about $39K! It is perfect for more intimate settings and creates a timeless, romantic, and soothing atmosphere.
My electric harp provides a more contemporary look with its iridescent pearl color. This harp is played with custom harp backing tracks for a more modern and upbeat soundscape - which is great for cocktail hours, corporate events, or receptions!
My electric harp provides a more contemporary look with its iridescent pearl color. This harp is played with custom harp backing tracks for a more modern and upbeat soundscape - which is great for cocktail hours, corporate events, or receptions!
What kind of harp do you use?
I am classically trained musician, but I play a variety of Classical, Traditional, Popular, Disney, and light Jazz music! I pride myself on my extensive repertoire list due to my love of all music genres. My can download my full repertoire list here. The list is not exclusive, and I am constantly updating my selections! I also play therapeutic music for healing and treatment sessions.
What kind of music do you play?
I am happy to accommodate special requests as long as the music is available in print, and I am given at least two weeks notice! What song would you like to hear on the harp?
DO YOU PLAY SPECIAL REQUESTS?
One of the best features of the harp is that it projects well, without being overpowering. I can provide additional amplification if needed, at no additional charge.
IS THE HARP LOUD ENOUGH?
My largest harp weighs about 100lbs! I move my own instrument, using a custom “harp dolly”. It is not difficult to move short distances, but I sometimes need assistance for rough terrain or going up/down stairs.
how do you move your harp?
The harp is just as unique an instrument visually, as it is aurally - so please don’t squish me in the corner! I require an area of approximately 5 X 5 feet for the set-up of my harp, bench, music stand, and sound system.
HOW MUCH SPACE IS REQUIRED FOR THE HARP?
Yes! But, I require a flat, stable, and dry surface for any outdoor service. There must also be a backup location in the event of inclement weather - outdoor services are "weather permitting", and I will not play if there is risk that my harp could be damaged. Outdoor services will need to be moved inside due to the following conditions: precipitation or the chance of precipitation at/or above 40%, winds at 20+mph, and temperatures below 50°F and above 95°F. Shade must be provided (umbrella, awning, plant etc.) for all outdoor services that are at/or above 80°F. Please note that extreme cold and humidity may interfere with my ability to play, as it affects finger dexterity.
DO YOU PLAY OUTDOORS?
I do not. In my several years experience of playing for hundreds of weddings, I have found that my attendance is not necessary at the rehearsal. At your ceremony, I am able to perfectly tailor each music selection to fit what is needed, and seamlessly transition into the next piece without hesitation. My only request is that I be seated in a position where I have a clear view of the aisle.
do you come to the wedding rehearsal?
A signed contract and a 50% non-refundable deposit are required to secure your booking in my calendar. Card payments can be made securely through your client portal. The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to service.
WHAT IS REQUIRED TO SECURE YOUR SERVICES?
I accept bookings 6-8 months in advance. You should book as far in advance as possible to guarantee my service, especially for events on either Friday or Saturday, or for events during a Holiday Season (Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, Mother’s Day, etc.). However, last minute bookings are always welcome if I am available! You can check my availability by contacting me through my inquiry form.
