Wedding Planning Season is upon us! And if you're in the middle of planning, I congratulate you!
Now, I may be a little biased, but I think the violin is the best instrument in the world. I think it should be a part of every wedding. Here are some things to keep in mind (and remember that the following applies equally well to planning music for other occasions):

1. How long will you need the musician to play?
2. Will the musician be playing in one venue or at multiple locations?
3. How far away is the location?
4. What type of music would you like? Or, if you are not sure yet, think about the mood that you want your occasion to have- formal? Relaxed?
5. Are there any limitations on the songs that can be played, or does the setlist need to be approved and/or coordinated with another person (anther musician, music director, etc.)?

Thinking about these details in advance will help your first meeting run smoothly and help the musician fulfill your musical vision for your special day.

​I look forward to playing for you!

​(Photo Credit: Danielle Durbin Film and Photo)

​One of my favorite things to do when I am not playing the violin is reading (not to brag, but according to my Goodreads account, as of today, I've read over 380 books in my life!). And when the weather gets awful, I believe the best thing to do is curl up on the couch with a good book. What could be better? Books about music!
*NOTE: the books below can be found at your favorite bookstore. Or on Amazon. This is NOT sponsored content.
**SECOND NOTE: I tried to provide descriptions that are helpful, but without any spoilers. Happy reading!

Below are some of my favorite books about music. Feel free to comment with your own recommendations! I'm always looking for more books!

1. The Violin Maker by John Marchese. Basically, the story of how baby violins are born. While giving an inside look at the magical crafting process, the author takes the reader on a journey through time and across the world examining the history of the violin.
2. Good-bye Paris by Anstey Harris. A cellist’s life is saved by music.
3. Hungarian Dances by Jessica Duchen: A violin teacher’s journey of self-discovery is set against a long-kept family secret about the origins of her beloved violin.
4. The Air You Breathe by Frances des Pontes Peebles. A friendship is bound by music.
5. Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert. While not directly about music, Ms. Gilbert reminds us to stop living in fear, follow your happiness no matter what, and just go for it-- words that all musicians at all levels need to hear.

Honorable Mentions:

1. The History of the Violin by William Sandys and Simon Andrew Forster
2. Ghost Variations by Jessica Duchen
3. A Passionate Journey: A Memoir by Robert Mann
4. The Violin: A Social History of the World's Most Versatile Instrument by David Schoenbaum

It’s that time of year- engagement season! Congratulations to everyone planning a wedding this year! Live violin music can add romance and a personalized touch to your special occasion.
Last summer, I had the opportunity to play for a very special couple during an engagement shoot with Danielle Durbin Photography (https://daniellefilmandphoto.com/).