James A. Weinberg, BMus, MME

If you choose the package that includes an in-person consultation session, we will schedule a meeting at the organ or piano to audition pieces from my repertoire. Otherwise you may listen to recordings and inform me of your choices by phone or email. Couples frequently elect to have me choose their music.

The couple can greatly assist the process prior to the consultation by listening to and identifying the style of music which most appeals to their tastes. Specific composers (like "Bach/Gounod") and periods (like "Romantic") and names of works (such as "Ave Maria") will greatly aid the organist and make the consultation session more productive. See Repertoire for suggested pieces with sound samples. You may also bring sheet music of favorite songs, tapes, or programs from other weddings when we meet.

If you are having your ceremony in church, use discretion when requesting love songs and other secular music, keeping in mind the sacred nature of the event and place. Your minister or wedding coordinator might offer guidance on this subject as well. Rules defining restrictions vary from church to church, so ultimately these decisions should be made in conjunction with the officiating minister. If your ceremony is at a mansion, country club, garden, etc.—or simply less religious in tone— I'm very open to non-traditional styles of music.

Brides often ask me if I think attending their rehearsal is essential. Of course I understand the desire to save a few dollars, but this may not be the best corner to cut! The bridesmaids' processional, bridal march, and recessional are very important to walk through in real time. This familiarizes everyone with their musical cues and allows me to time the specific events and determine how many measures to play or whether repeats are necessary. Your wedding coordinator should also be aware of the tunes being used for such things as the seating of the mothers and the assembling of the groomsmen at the altar. Practicing entrances and exits at the rehearsal always makes for a smoother ceremony!

*I hope that my credentials will instill confidence in my performance skills, but should you have any reservations— and since I do not currently have a CD of my playing—I will meet with you (at no charge) to assure you of my keyboard proficiency. Additionally, I will gladly provide references. (Click on "Testimonials" in 1st column.) And you are always welcome to come hear me play every Sunday from 10:30-12:00 at Holy Cross Anglican Church on Highway 96 in Franklin.