Each wedding (like each bride) is special and lovely in its own way! Here are a few recent celebrations, from Los Angeles to San Diego counties. And yes, that harp needs a strong grip and a big dolly!
Contact me for rates and availability for fall 2019!
I have always liked teaching, whether music, choir, handbells, geography (yes, that happened for years!) or harp. The joy of teaching comes not from the thought that I have imparted some great wisdom, but instead from the reaction of the student who finally ‘gets it’. That ‘mind blown’ moment of success, usually accompanied by a smile and a long ‘ohhhh!’ I also find that as I teach I continue to learn.
Two of my current students are at different stages in life, and each learns music from very different perspectives. One, a ‘seasoned’ health care professional, is very meticulous about all aspects of the lesson, from posture and position to theory, vibrations and tuning. The other, a middle school student, sees the introduction of a new tune as personal challenge, quickly absorbing each measure, line and page. Memorization will occur quickly, with beautiful style and presentation to follow.
Both students are wonderful to work with and both are correct in their individual approaches, given their age and life experience. We all see, hear and prioritize differently. Their differences require me to look at music and it’s presentation from different angles, to help understand different points of view and what is enjoyable about a new method or tune. I might teach the same lesson in two different ways to achieve that ‘aha’ from each student. It’s a little like comparing children; they all learn to walk and talk, but never the same way.
Many years ago my children attended (and I taught at) a school with a Latin motto ‘Siempre adelante’, meaning ‘always forward’. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach others, to challenge them and myself, to continue moving forward in a new discipline and see life from a different perspective. I love the view from behind the harp. Give it a try – you might get hooked! Contact me for information on lessons.
Happy Spring, everyone!
With a Grateful Heart…
Welcome to November, the time of intense college football rivalries, budding holiday travel plans, a hint of Christmas shopping and of course, Thanksgiving. Such a great American holiday, where we place a priority on giving thanks for the blessings bestowed upon us, and try not to eat our weight in turkey and pie.
There are many ways and things to be thankful for, depending on your point of view. I have a healthy, active mom who inspires me to get up and give back everyday. I have lots of siblings, a loving husband and three great kids. I’m thankful for their time, their support, their health, their laughter, their daily crazy photos and texts. But I’m also thankful for the lessons and experiences (not all positive) that make me stronger each day, whether in my craft, my faith or my community.
I recently played at a celebration of life for a woman who was clearly loved as a mom, grandma, friend and philanthropist. Family members and guests told many tales of her strength and humor, but I was struck that each person who spoke was ‘grateful’ for her friendship. What a lovely accolade. In that spirit I’ve been playing the song Give Thanks, by Henry Smith, quite often lately. Not only are the lyrics spot-on (‘give thanks with a grateful heart’), as is the central idea that thankfulness itself can enrich and strengthen our daily lives. Or at least that’s how I interpret it! An awesome reminder, and melody!
Whatever you’re thankful for – surviving fires, getting a sweet new puppy or a new job – don’t forget to have an active, grateful heart. Pass on your gratitude and help strengthen someone else. And be thankful you can!
Happy Thanksgiving!
“Fall is Here!”
Ever since I was young that phrase has given me a special delight. Growing up in a ‘sweater weather’ state my mom (and perhaps also Mother Nature) made the annual announcement, and for us kids it meant it was time for the half yearly closet-rotation, snow-tire rotation and football game tailgates…usually in that order. Back-to-school had rolled naturally into ‘fun with friends’, no matter the weather.
I continued the “FIH” tradition with my children early in their lives. But in California the statement is received quite differently. It conjures notions of football, yes, but more importantly less pool-time, close-toed shoes and possibly even long pants. My adult children, now living in all parts of the USA race to make the statement (rule 1 – it must, in fact, be true in your locale). So far New York usually wins, with Colorado a close second. I’m confident this tradition will carry on for another generation.
This time of year my sentimental side always returns to memories of fall parties, whether school or church fund-raisers, backyard Halloween gatherings with gremlins, intimate dinners with neighbors or the grand-daddy of them all, thanksgiving. Good times, with good food, a heated conversation here and there and of course, memorable music.
No matter what fall means to you, put a party in it. Big or small, we’ve all learned that indeed ‘sharing IS caring’ and we need a little more love and less judgment these days! Whether you’re already contemplating Christmas or still thinking about a good tailgate or wicked-fun Halloween, spread some joy with friends or family. Make the world – or just your home – a happier place.
Oh yes, and don’t forget the music! That’s where I come in! Book now for holiday gatherings. 
The great thing about having your own business is ownership of ideas. You make all decisions, set your own pace…and pray that others like your product!
Welcome to my business. I play the harp. I choose my own music, play my own way and usually practice with a dog snoring nearby and a dryer running. I take my music seriously, but not myself. My favorite events (or ‘gigs’ if I’m being cool) are those with people who love life and appreciate live music. Sure, weddings are great, but so are 80th birthday celebrations, private dinners and school fundraisers.
Music style is very personal, and sometimes confusing. If someone were to ask my favorite style of music I could only say ‘good music!’ And that’s what I hope you like, too. Classical, pop, sacred and theater tunes all have their moment in my playbook.
When selecting a style of music for your event, choose what you like, and don’t be afraid to mix it up. If you’re a bride who wants bridesmaids entering to Pachelbel but yourself to walk in to the theme from ‘The Godfather’ then choose it! It’s actually a really pretty song! Because like the old song says ‘ain’t nobody’s business if I do!’ If you have no idea what you want, ask your musical artist. Usually, one or their favorite songs will sound pretty good to you. At weddings I often play a welsh song that no one really knows, but it’s beautiful, and seems to match a variety of settings. It probably sounds good because over the years it has become a favorite, played with lots of love.
I hope to have some fun with this site, and give you a peek ‘backstage.’ I’ve had wonderful experiences and some interesting requests (no, I won’t wear wings). The worst thing about my job is the weight of the instrument. The best thing is the way you feel when you hear a harp. Simply divine.
Marti
Whether or not you have little ones at home, we all recognize ‘back to school’ time! It’s a time for new shoes, backpacks and lunchboxes, sports and homework. If you’re lucky you’ll have time to eat and sleep!
With all the activity choices out there I’d like to remind you of a good one; music. Pick up and instrument or join a choir. It provides a needed break from ‘screen time’, and allows students of all ages to be creative, learn a new language and enjoy (or overcome) the excitement of performance. As a music teacher for many years my favorite moments were when children realized their own talent. Sometimes it’s slow to appear, but music can be the best confidence builder out there. The more you play, sing, practice, the better you sound and the more people want to hear you!
Young or old, learn to play something, just for the fun of it. It’s never too early, or too late. My sister, a professional trumpet player, just picked up an alphorn. She now entertains hikers (and goats) in the highest altitudes of Colorado. My niece just picked up the banjo, and her brother in law the fiddle. I grew up playing flute and piccolo, each weighing in at less than two pounds. For some reason later in life I was more attracted to the 85 pound harp!
Whatever your preference, make some noise – the good kind!
