| Private Event Information |
| "You were a pure professional. Every detail was perfect. I've received so many compliments on the music you provided." -Alexis Pryor |
 |
How to Book Marguerite for an Event:
All dates are booked on a first-come first-served basis. No dates will be held without a signed
contract and deposit. Simply inquiring if your date is available does NOT hold the date for you
1. Inquire if your date is available. Prime dates fill quickly, so do this as soon as possible,
especially if your event is taking place during the summer months or on a holiday.The prices
listed on this site are guidelines only. Please contact me for an exact quote for your event.
2. Request that a contract be mailed to you.
3. Return the contract, along with your deposit. The deposit is 50% of the contracted fee. If
you do not return the contract and deposit, the agreement is cancelled, and your date will be
opened to other bookings.
4. Once I have received the signed contract and your deposit, the date and time is booked for
you.
5. For wedding ceremonies, make an appointment for your consultation to select the music to
be performed.
All dates are booked on a first-come first-served basis. No dates will be held without a signed
contract and deposit. Simply inquiring if your date is available does NOT hold the date for you
1. Inquire if your date is available. Prime dates fill quickly, so do this as soon as possible,
especially if your event is taking place during the summer months or on a holiday.The prices
listed on this site are guidelines only. Please contact me for an exact quote for your event.
2. Request that a contract be mailed to you.
3. Return the contract, along with your deposit. The deposit is 50% of the contracted fee. If
you do not return the contract and deposit, the agreement is cancelled, and your date will be
opened to other bookings.
4. Once I have received the signed contract and your deposit, the date and time is booked for
you.
5. For wedding ceremonies, make an appointment for your consultation to select the music to
be performed.
Why hire a Professional Musician?
On the day of your special event or wedding, every aspect needs to run as smooth as
possible. When you hire a professional to provide music, you can expect the highest quality
of professionalism and performance. While I welcome performing with a family member or
friend for a special piece, I would not recommend using students or amateurs for an
important event. While there are many highly talented students available to play at private
events, they do not posess the years of experience that a professional musician will have.
You may end up saving a few dollars, but there is a major difference in the quality of
performer you will receive. A professional musician makes your day run more smoothly by
providing their expertise and services. You can relax and be confident that the professionals
you have hired can adjust to your specific circumstances and provide you an excellent value.
When you hire me as your professional wedding musician you can expect:
A large and diverse repertoire. I have a long list of repertoire in many different styles - not
just classical. For a wedding ceremony, you can choose both traditional and non-traditional
musical selections. The music chosen for your wedding is a direct reflection of your
personality, and I can guide your selections with several options that will enhance your
ceremony. You can browse my repertoire page for a partial list of the music I regularly play
and to hear music samples.
Special Requests. You should never be forced to pick songs only from a musician's
pre-determined list. While my repertoire is already large, I am constantly adding to it. Many of
the new songs I learn are from a client's special request. Just ask, and I will be happy to
advise if your favorite song can be played on the harp! There are no additional fees for special
requests even if I need to arrange the music for the harp.. All that is needed is for you to
supply me with piano or harp sheet music if the song is not already in my music library.
A personal consultation to select your wedding ceremony music. This allows you to
meet me, and for me to get to know your musical preferences and style. During your
consultation, you will be able to hear a wide variety of music, and pick your favorites. You
get to hear exactly what the music will sound like before the big day, and with my
professional guidance you can make confident selections. In-person consultations are best,
but they can be done over the phone or through email if necessary.
Back-up equipment. Unfortunately, things can go wrong. A professional musician should
have a back-up for every piece of equipment they use. I have extra harps, amplifiers, music
binders, music stands, and benches. The last thing you should be worried about on your
wedding day is your musician's instrument being damaged and unplayable right before the
ceremony. If a disaster like this happens, a professional musician has a back-up. You and
your guests should never know!
Familiarity with venues, vendors, and traditions. I have performed at many different
venues throughout the Midwest and have worked with hundreds of other wedding vendors.
With this knowledge, I can advise you on selecting other people to assist with your wedding
and on the best way to incorporate the harp into the location you have selected. I have
experience with many different kinds of wedding ceremonies, and can help you plan the
service, whether you are having a full Catholic Mass or an intimate ceremony in your
backyard performed by a justice of the peace.
Professional appearance. I arrive at every event dressed professionally and at the
appropriate level of formality.
Music Coordination I work with a group of professional chamber musicians regularly for
weddings and private events. By using the musicians that I perform with regularly, the
performance will be of a higher quality. I am able to arrange music for the specific ensemble
that you select. Please inquire about what ensembles I would suggest for your event.
Examples of other musicians I work with include flute, violin, cello, clarinet, viola, harp (harp
ensembles) and Irish fiddle.
Amplification. You should be able to hear the music you are paying for, and for some
events, this means that the harp must be amplified. For wedding ceremonies, it is usually not
necessary, as people are generally quiet and paying attention to the music. When the harp is
providing background music for a reception or other event, it needs amplification. I have a
harp that is a completely electric instrument, meaning that I can literally just plug an amp into
it and play. No microphone stands, no feedback, no unsightly and cumbersome soundboard
or speakers. I have a larger amplifier for indoor events, and a smaller amplifier that is
battery-powered for outdoor events. There is never an extra charge for providing my
amplification systems.
Clear pricing. When you receive a quote from me, it always includes performance, travel,
and any miscellaneous charges specific to your event. This site also lists general pricing
guidelines, so you can get an idea of what my services cost. This should help you make an
informed decision about the musicians for your event and your budget.
Public performances. You should be able to hear any musician you are considering booking.
Sound clips on a website are good if you are planning long-distance, but it does not replace
hearing a live performance. I perform regularly in various locations around Miami, FL. I am
also happy to meet you in my home studio, so please call or email me to set up a private
appointment.
Dedication to your event. I truly enjoy playing for weddings and private events. I believe
that music can really add the final touch to important events and love being involved with
putting together a polished event.
A contract. Once you have made the decision to book, I will send you a contract in the mail.
Returning it within with your deposit books the date. A contract outlines the responsibilities
and requirements of both parties, and ensures that there are no miscommunications or
misunderstandings.
Formal education. I have been studying music since I was 5 years old and old enough to
begin reading music. I have several degrees in harp performance including a Bachelor's
Degree, Master's Degree and Performers Certificate. I also hold a Business Certificate which
has enabled me to not only be a performing harpist, but also an excellent booking agent.
On the day of your special event or wedding, every aspect needs to run as smooth as
possible. When you hire a professional to provide music, you can expect the highest quality
of professionalism and performance. While I welcome performing with a family member or
friend for a special piece, I would not recommend using students or amateurs for an
important event. While there are many highly talented students available to play at private
events, they do not posess the years of experience that a professional musician will have.
You may end up saving a few dollars, but there is a major difference in the quality of
performer you will receive. A professional musician makes your day run more smoothly by
providing their expertise and services. You can relax and be confident that the professionals
you have hired can adjust to your specific circumstances and provide you an excellent value.
When you hire me as your professional wedding musician you can expect:
A large and diverse repertoire. I have a long list of repertoire in many different styles - not
just classical. For a wedding ceremony, you can choose both traditional and non-traditional
musical selections. The music chosen for your wedding is a direct reflection of your
personality, and I can guide your selections with several options that will enhance your
ceremony. You can browse my repertoire page for a partial list of the music I regularly play
and to hear music samples.
Special Requests. You should never be forced to pick songs only from a musician's
pre-determined list. While my repertoire is already large, I am constantly adding to it. Many of
the new songs I learn are from a client's special request. Just ask, and I will be happy to
advise if your favorite song can be played on the harp! There are no additional fees for special
requests even if I need to arrange the music for the harp.. All that is needed is for you to
supply me with piano or harp sheet music if the song is not already in my music library.
A personal consultation to select your wedding ceremony music. This allows you to
meet me, and for me to get to know your musical preferences and style. During your
consultation, you will be able to hear a wide variety of music, and pick your favorites. You
get to hear exactly what the music will sound like before the big day, and with my
professional guidance you can make confident selections. In-person consultations are best,
but they can be done over the phone or through email if necessary.
Back-up equipment. Unfortunately, things can go wrong. A professional musician should
have a back-up for every piece of equipment they use. I have extra harps, amplifiers, music
binders, music stands, and benches. The last thing you should be worried about on your
wedding day is your musician's instrument being damaged and unplayable right before the
ceremony. If a disaster like this happens, a professional musician has a back-up. You and
your guests should never know!
Familiarity with venues, vendors, and traditions. I have performed at many different
venues throughout the Midwest and have worked with hundreds of other wedding vendors.
With this knowledge, I can advise you on selecting other people to assist with your wedding
and on the best way to incorporate the harp into the location you have selected. I have
experience with many different kinds of wedding ceremonies, and can help you plan the
service, whether you are having a full Catholic Mass or an intimate ceremony in your
backyard performed by a justice of the peace.
Professional appearance. I arrive at every event dressed professionally and at the
appropriate level of formality.
Music Coordination I work with a group of professional chamber musicians regularly for
weddings and private events. By using the musicians that I perform with regularly, the
performance will be of a higher quality. I am able to arrange music for the specific ensemble
that you select. Please inquire about what ensembles I would suggest for your event.
Examples of other musicians I work with include flute, violin, cello, clarinet, viola, harp (harp
ensembles) and Irish fiddle.
Amplification. You should be able to hear the music you are paying for, and for some
events, this means that the harp must be amplified. For wedding ceremonies, it is usually not
necessary, as people are generally quiet and paying attention to the music. When the harp is
providing background music for a reception or other event, it needs amplification. I have a
harp that is a completely electric instrument, meaning that I can literally just plug an amp into
it and play. No microphone stands, no feedback, no unsightly and cumbersome soundboard
or speakers. I have a larger amplifier for indoor events, and a smaller amplifier that is
battery-powered for outdoor events. There is never an extra charge for providing my
amplification systems.
Clear pricing. When you receive a quote from me, it always includes performance, travel,
and any miscellaneous charges specific to your event. This site also lists general pricing
guidelines, so you can get an idea of what my services cost. This should help you make an
informed decision about the musicians for your event and your budget.
Public performances. You should be able to hear any musician you are considering booking.
Sound clips on a website are good if you are planning long-distance, but it does not replace
hearing a live performance. I perform regularly in various locations around Miami, FL. I am
also happy to meet you in my home studio, so please call or email me to set up a private
appointment.
Dedication to your event. I truly enjoy playing for weddings and private events. I believe
that music can really add the final touch to important events and love being involved with
putting together a polished event.
A contract. Once you have made the decision to book, I will send you a contract in the mail.
Returning it within with your deposit books the date. A contract outlines the responsibilities
and requirements of both parties, and ensures that there are no miscommunications or
misunderstandings.
Formal education. I have been studying music since I was 5 years old and old enough to
begin reading music. I have several degrees in harp performance including a Bachelor's
Degree, Master's Degree and Performers Certificate. I also hold a Business Certificate which
has enabled me to not only be a performing harpist, but also an excellent booking agent.
Passion
I am a professional full-time harpist in Chicago, IL performing at a wide variety of
events and concerts. I perform regularly in Illinois, Georgia, Illinois, Wisconsin,
Michigan, Indiana and Colorado as well as special engagements in other locations. As a
dedicated teacher, I have a private harp studio and have previously taught at the People's
Music School, the University of Chicago, the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras and
was on faculty at the Frost School of Music, University of Miami from 2006-2008. I
am the co-founder of C.H.I, the Chicago Harp Institute with the Chicago Symphony
Orchestra's Principal Harpist, Sarah Bullen. It is my desire to pass on my gift for the
harp to eager young students, and to help adult students realize their potential and further
their enjoyment of the instrument.
Performance
Having performed professionally as a harpist for over 13 years, my base of clients is
extensive. I travel across the Chicago area for engagements. For your convenience, I
have over 50 sound samples on this website for you to listen to. I have a current listing
of upcoming performances listed on my site, please be sure to come see me play and
don't be afraid to ask me questions or request a special song!
Experience
The last thing you want to think about during your wedding or private party is telling the
musicians when, how, or what to play. I represent the most professional presentation of
harp playing and am willing to work diligently with my clients to make sure every
possible detail is arranged prior to your event. I pride myself on customizing music for
wedding and commitment ceremonies to fit the style of the wedding as well as the
couple's personal tastes. My repertoire is vast, and I am always looking for new music
to add to it through the special requests of my clients.
Quality
As one of Illinois' most recognized harpists by the American Harp Society as well as the
World Harp Congress, I am under great demand as a soloist, chamber musician,
orchestral principal harpist, as well as for private events and functions. With over 13
years of experience as a professional freelance harpist, I have extensive experience that
will ensure your event is musically perfect.
Ambience
The harp is the perfect instrument for weddings and private events. Its versatility
enables it to be the most delicate and romantic sound and at the same time it is possible
to play upbeat jazz standards! I specialize not only in classical music, but also in Jazz,
Celtic, popular, and chamber music.
Ensembles
While the harp is most often played alone as a solo instrument, it also makes a beautiful
ensemble with flute, violin, cello, voice, and other instruments. I work with a group of
top professional musicians in Chicago including musicians from major performing
ensembles in the Chicago area. I would be happy to inquire about their availability if you
are interested in an ensemble.
Talent
I have been involved with music almost my entire life, first starting on the piano and later
switching to the harp. A lot of people ask me how I got into playing the harp. My story
has two sides: First, I was a little girl dancing in the Nutcracker Ballet for many years
and always seeing the beautiful harp lady down in the orchestra pit. Something about
her (maybe the big solo in the Waltz of the Flowers) attracted me and I instantly wanted
to play the instrument. The second side of the story involves my mother: When she was
growing up, she knew some girls who played the harp. Since her family could not
afford the instrument she took piano lessons and grew up to be a very fine musician.
When her mother passed away, money was left in the will to buy her harp. My parents
took me and my two sisters to the American Harp Society's National conference to pick
out an instrument with the full understanding that we would all try it, and if we did not
like it the instrument would be sold. From the minute the harp was uncrated and
brought into our dining room, I fell in love with the instrument. Unlike most kids who
need to be reminded to practice an instrument, my parents actually had to request that I
stop practicing to do things like eat dinner with the family! Since that time, I've been
devoting my life to the harp. I moved to New York to attend music school where I
received a Bachelor's Degree, and Performer's Certificate while at the same time
studying and receiving a Business Certificate and Arts Leadership Certificate. After
completely these degrees, I moved to Chicago for my Master's Degree studying with the
Chicago Symphony Orchestra's principal harpist Sarah Bullen. After school I joined the
ranks of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, working in the administrative offices of the
Civic Orchestra of Chicago and at the same time developing myself as a professional
Chicago harpist and teacher. Recent performances include concerts with the Joffrey
Ballet, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Civic Orchestra, private events with Josh
Groban and a tour to Carnegie Hall with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Daniel
Barenboim. I have recently been appointed Principal Harpist of the Colorado Music
Festival where I will be in residence performing for six weeks in the summer. I was
also named the Principal Harpist of the New World Symphony in Miami, Florida.
I am a professional full-time harpist in Chicago, IL performing at a wide variety of
events and concerts. I perform regularly in Illinois, Georgia, Illinois, Wisconsin,
Michigan, Indiana and Colorado as well as special engagements in other locations. As a
dedicated teacher, I have a private harp studio and have previously taught at the People's
Music School, the University of Chicago, the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras and
was on faculty at the Frost School of Music, University of Miami from 2006-2008. I
am the co-founder of C.H.I, the Chicago Harp Institute with the Chicago Symphony
Orchestra's Principal Harpist, Sarah Bullen. It is my desire to pass on my gift for the
harp to eager young students, and to help adult students realize their potential and further
their enjoyment of the instrument.
Performance
Having performed professionally as a harpist for over 13 years, my base of clients is
extensive. I travel across the Chicago area for engagements. For your convenience, I
have over 50 sound samples on this website for you to listen to. I have a current listing
of upcoming performances listed on my site, please be sure to come see me play and
don't be afraid to ask me questions or request a special song!
Experience
The last thing you want to think about during your wedding or private party is telling the
musicians when, how, or what to play. I represent the most professional presentation of
harp playing and am willing to work diligently with my clients to make sure every
possible detail is arranged prior to your event. I pride myself on customizing music for
wedding and commitment ceremonies to fit the style of the wedding as well as the
couple's personal tastes. My repertoire is vast, and I am always looking for new music
to add to it through the special requests of my clients.
Quality
As one of Illinois' most recognized harpists by the American Harp Society as well as the
World Harp Congress, I am under great demand as a soloist, chamber musician,
orchestral principal harpist, as well as for private events and functions. With over 13
years of experience as a professional freelance harpist, I have extensive experience that
will ensure your event is musically perfect.
Ambience
The harp is the perfect instrument for weddings and private events. Its versatility
enables it to be the most delicate and romantic sound and at the same time it is possible
to play upbeat jazz standards! I specialize not only in classical music, but also in Jazz,
Celtic, popular, and chamber music.
Ensembles
While the harp is most often played alone as a solo instrument, it also makes a beautiful
ensemble with flute, violin, cello, voice, and other instruments. I work with a group of
top professional musicians in Chicago including musicians from major performing
ensembles in the Chicago area. I would be happy to inquire about their availability if you
are interested in an ensemble.
Talent
I have been involved with music almost my entire life, first starting on the piano and later
switching to the harp. A lot of people ask me how I got into playing the harp. My story
has two sides: First, I was a little girl dancing in the Nutcracker Ballet for many years
and always seeing the beautiful harp lady down in the orchestra pit. Something about
her (maybe the big solo in the Waltz of the Flowers) attracted me and I instantly wanted
to play the instrument. The second side of the story involves my mother: When she was
growing up, she knew some girls who played the harp. Since her family could not
afford the instrument she took piano lessons and grew up to be a very fine musician.
When her mother passed away, money was left in the will to buy her harp. My parents
took me and my two sisters to the American Harp Society's National conference to pick
out an instrument with the full understanding that we would all try it, and if we did not
like it the instrument would be sold. From the minute the harp was uncrated and
brought into our dining room, I fell in love with the instrument. Unlike most kids who
need to be reminded to practice an instrument, my parents actually had to request that I
stop practicing to do things like eat dinner with the family! Since that time, I've been
devoting my life to the harp. I moved to New York to attend music school where I
received a Bachelor's Degree, and Performer's Certificate while at the same time
studying and receiving a Business Certificate and Arts Leadership Certificate. After
completely these degrees, I moved to Chicago for my Master's Degree studying with the
Chicago Symphony Orchestra's principal harpist Sarah Bullen. After school I joined the
ranks of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, working in the administrative offices of the
Civic Orchestra of Chicago and at the same time developing myself as a professional
Chicago harpist and teacher. Recent performances include concerts with the Joffrey
Ballet, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Civic Orchestra, private events with Josh
Groban and a tour to Carnegie Hall with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Daniel
Barenboim. I have recently been appointed Principal Harpist of the Colorado Music
Festival where I will be in residence performing for six weeks in the summer. I was
also named the Principal Harpist of the New World Symphony in Miami, Florida.
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| Other Useful Information: |
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| Marguerite Lynn Williams marguerite@mlwharp.com 773-791-7520 Chicago Harpist ~ Marguerite Lynn Williams ~ Professional musician in Chicago, IL~ Providing elegant harp music for wedding ceremonies and special events. Harp Lessons, party entertainment, classical, jazz, Celtic and chamber music. |
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