Client Interview with Linda Smith

Q - How long have you been doing what you do and how did you become a wedding pianist?

A - Growing up in a home (classical piano lessons starting at age 7) and a church filled with music, I learned early on the power that music has to connect us with our spirit, to connect us to an event, to worship, or to God.  I often had the privilege of accompanying singers/choirs; in fact, my accompanying skills gave me entrance into the select choirs and small ensembles both in high school and college.

Shortly after graduating from college I met my husband-to-be and found myself planning the music for my own wedding.  Music being such a big part of who I am, I found myself choosing music that really spoke to my heart and reflected my values/beliefs.  When the wedding day finally arrived, the music relaxed and drew me in.  The emotions "my music" released in me totally enhanced the experience of marrying my sweetheart and created memories that live in my heart today.

Over the next 20+ years of teaching private piano, I was often hired to play for weddings/events, as well as accompanying singers/musicals.   Having learned the emotional connection music makes between a bride and her wedding, I encouraged every bride to be involved in the music choices for her ceremony.  Then in 2002 I felt God directing me to leave the world of piano teaching and to "just go play the piano."  This was so empowering; I was finally doing what I feel I was designed to do!

(You have probably figured out by now that my relationship to God is the highest value in my life.   I am a believer in Jesus Christ and strive to glorifty Him in all that I do.  I am definitely a work in progress, but my relationship with God gives me purpose and direction in life).

Since leaving my piano teaching career I have played for hundreds of weddings and events, always striving to customize the music to capture the emotion and individual vision of my brides/clients.  When this connection is made between music and bride, the anticipation of the wedding is enhanced and stress is reduced, (especially since a professional-that would be me!-is involved).  The joy of the wedding remains long after the cermony, as memories are rekindled every time she hears "her" music.  And I love to play the music that touches her heart!  For me it becomes both joy given and received!

In 2010 I added a violinist to my music offerings.  The combination of strings and piano adds a special elegance to the atmosphere.  So you have a choice of piano solo or piano/violin duo.

Q - What sets you apart from all the other wedding pianist out there?

A - When you book my piano services for your wedding/event you don't just get a pianist; you get me! - my soul, my artistry, my support and encouragement, my ability to seamlessly follow the entrances of each member of the Bridal Party.  I play the music, not just the notes.  I "play the sunset".  I am also experienced in playing for a Catholic Wedding Mass.

In addition, you get my commitment to play "your music", even if it means finding and learning a new piece(s).

I am very well connected with the top wedding/event planners, vendors and venues in the Portland area and can recommend professionals that I know and trust to give you outstanding service.

I have a passion for what I do - I love to connect my brides/clients with memorable events in their life through the gift of music that touches their heart!  The result:  "Your music, My passion, Shared joy!"

Q - Where do you play music in the ceremony?

A - I play music as the guests are being seated, for each entrance of the Bridal Party, music during the ceremony (unity candle, sand ceremony, communion, vocalist...), music for the recessional and as the guests are leaving.

I am also available to continue playing throught the cocktail hour, dinner and reception if desired.  Brides will often have me play for the ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner, then hire a DJ for the dancing and party.    And if there is no piano at the venue, I have an electronic piano available.

Q - What's your style?

A - My strength and love is classical music, but I have accumulated a wide repertoire of music, including sacred, popular and timeless love songs, Broadway show tunes, country, light jazz, Sinatra...I play artistically, playing the music not just the notes.  The music comes from my soul - sometimes I feel like my soul is singing!

Q - This all sounds so wonderful.  But, it also seems expensive.  Am I going to be able to afford this?

A - When you look at your over-all budget for your wedding, the music portion is only about 3-4% of your total budget.  When you consider the elegance of live music, the memories created and the emotional impact of "your music", it doesn't sound that expensive now, does it?  This is a unique event in your life and you want it to be the fulfillment of your dreams!

In addition, the stress that is relieved from having a professional who knows where music is needed and who can help you sort through the choices available is huge.  You trade emotional stress for anticipated joy!

Call or visit with me for your complimentary "get acquainted" session and we can talk about your music vision and create a music path of songs that touch your heart!

Q - Who do you work best with?

A - Brides/clients who want and appreciate the elegance of live music, whether that be piano solo or piano/violin duo, are a perfect candidate for me.  I am especially delighted when the bride has specific music in mind, because that makes the wedding totally hers!

Brides who know the value of music in uniting extended family are also a great fit for me.  Playing a favorite love song of your parents, new in-laws or grandparents is a wonderful way to include those special people in your life.

Q - Who is not going to benefit from my help in planning their wedding music?

A - Please know that I absolutely delight in playing the music that brides and their families love for their wedding ceremony/reception, but we have to be a match for one another if we're going to capture the moments you will cherish forever with the music that you love.

So, if you're a chronice skeptic, don't understand the value and elegance of live music, or have trouble seeing how music can draw guests/families togehter and create magical memories, this is not going to be a good fit.  It's absolutely OK if you think that you're in this category, but you need to do some soul-searching and thinking before we get started.  Otherwise, I won't be able to help you the way you need it.  You must know that you are deserving of the gifts that are there for you before you can recieve them.

Q - Will you work with the vendors I've already found or people I really want to work with?

A - Of course!  I will work with your fabulous vendors and coordinate my efforts with theirs to create a smooth flowing ceremony.  It is not necessary to work only with people I know; however, I do have amazing vendors at my fingertips that I can easily match to your needs.

Q - Do you have a contract?  Do I need to make a deposit?

A - Yes, I use a contract form the Musician's Union.  I ask for a $100 deposit and a signed contract in order to hold your date.  The balance is due one week before the wedding date.  The deposit is non-refundable after 30 days.

Q - This sounds like everything we've been looking for.  What happens next to start the wedding planning process?

A - Fabulous!  The next step is for you to call me at 503-534-2763, or you can e-mail me at lindasmith@notesofcelebration.com to set up a "Get Acquainted" complimentary session.  I want to hear about your vision for your dream wedding and your ideas for music.

I'll be happy to take you through my packages to see which is the best fit for you.

Q - May we contact some of your former clients to see what it's like to work with you?

A - Yes, absolutely!  My brides and their families have become raving fans of the the elegance and joy that my music provides and love to speak to other potential brides about the ease of working with me.  You can also look at client testimonials on my website - www.notesofcelebration.com - or on wedding wire - www.weddingwire.com.

Q - We have a couple more questions before getting started...can I call you to discuss this further?

A - Of course!  Each wedding is unique and distinctive; the music is customized completely to your desires.  Please feel free to call me with any questions or ideas you may have at 503-645-2763 or you can e-mail me to discuss your wedding/event at lindasmith@notesofcelebration.com.

I can't wait to meet you!   And congratulations on your engagement!

Best wishes, Linda

Linda Smith, Notes of Celebration

www.notesofcelebration.com

lindasmith@notesofcelebration.com