Although most of my weddings choose solo harp, there are a handful each year that opt for a larger ensemble. The harp and violin duet is certainly the most popular, and for good reason! With the harp taking the harmony, the violin can create soaring, sustained melodies alongside the harp’s tonal texture. It’s a beautiful combination!
For this wedding at Swan Lake Resort outside Plymouth, Indiana, Ashleigh and Calin had the harp and violin duet for the ceremony, followed by solo harp for the cocktail hour. We played classical duets as guests were seated, then “Sheep May Safely Graze” by J.S. Bach for the family entrance.
The wedding party processional was “Canon in D,” and Ashleigh entered to the traditional Wagner “Bridal Chorus.” The bride and groom planted a tree for their unity ceremony, with another Bach piece – “Arioso” – playing in the background. The recessional was a solo harp piece, “Great Day.” The postlude returned to harp and violin duets, including Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy.”
The cocktail hour was planned for outside, but the sky kept getting grayer. Many guests chose to move inside, and I followed with the harp. Although rain wasn’t forecast, about ten minutes after the ceremony concluded, it started pouring! No interruption to the music or the wedding festivities – the cocktail hour continued inside the lobby at Swan Lake! During the cocktail hour, I played a variety of classical and popular songs from the 1940s through the present.
Whether you prefer solo harp or the sound of a group of instruments, I can provide the perfect ensemble for your wedding! Contact me to discuss your needs and preferences via my website: Northern Indiana Wedding Music.