James A. Weinberg, BMus, MME

ORGANIST SERVICES

After reviewing my services and rates, and confirming my availability for your date, submit the Contract Form to hire me to play for your wedding.

Consultation Session
You may choose to meet at the organ to audition pieces from my repertoire (see Fee Schedule for rates), or 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 below 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. Sheet music for specially requested songs is to be given to the organist at least 2 weeks prior to the ceremony and will remain the property of the bride and groom.

Rehearsal
The walk-through of the bridesmaids' processional, bridal march, and recessional should be at the beginning of the rehearsal, as the organist is generally not needed for the remainder of activities that take place. It would be appreciated if this is communicated to your wedding coordinator.

 For a wedding with a Scottish or Irish flavor...