It was the mother of the groom who originally contacted me about providing the music for this ceremony! During the planning process, it can work well to delegate certain tasks to family members (such as locating available musicians), and then have the couple make their choices from the information that others have gathered for them. Although the groom’s mother booked me, Rachael & Kollin still selected all of the music played for their ceremony.
Back to Allerton Park, for the third time this year! Their ceremony took place in the Sunken Garden, and they had a tent set up to keep the harp dry. It rained off and on during the wedding, but with a roof over the instrument, I was able to keep playing. (Grandparents took advantage of the covering, too!)
I played prelude music as guests arrived and took their seats, switching to “Canon in D” for the entrance of the bridesmaids, ring bearer, and flower girls. Rachael came down the aisle, escorted by her mother, to “All I Ask of You” from the Broadway musical Phantom of the Opera.
The officiant requested that I play some “moving music” as the bride, groom, and wedding party climbed the stairs at the end of the garden. He wanted them to feel comfortable and be able to take their time, so I went with “Sarabande” by Pachelbel. Although this piece is not nearly as well-known as his famous “Canon in D,” it is beautiful, and fit the time perfectly.
As they lit the unity candle (it even stayed lit a few moments outdoors!), I played the Josh Groban song “You Raise Me Up.” The ceremony concluded with the recessional “Trumpet Tune.”
For weddings in Allerton Park, or anywhere in Central Illinois, please contact me about having a harpist for your ceremony. You’ll find more information on my website: Central Illinois Wedding Musician. Happy planning!
