How did you get started, how long have you been doing this?
I had the dream to play the harp ever since I can remember. I started my musical education on piano before I convinced my parents that my love was for the harp. I began harp studies in 2004 and it was a perfect match. When I discovered that my harp music could be involved with weddings I was thrilled! I have now been playing for weddings professionally for about 3 years.
What is your favorite part about your job?
Oh so many favorites, where to begin?! First, I love people. My job involves many people. I love getting to know my brides, their fiance, mother, friends, etc. I have the privilege to be a part of the happiest day of a couples life. It is wonderful to share my music, knowing that I am adding to their day and bringing joy to people. I love that the harp is so unique and I get to share it’s music.
And, I love weddings. It’s amazing that they are my job, I love hearing all the stories of planning and then arriving on the big day seeing all the loveliness.
Why should a bride hire a live musician? Can’t the venue just play a cd while the guests are arriving?
Yes, any venue can play any cd and no one will notice. But, you can be sure that with the beauty of the harp and it’s lovely music being played, your guests will notice. Any sort of live music for your ceremony is wonderful, but (in my humble opinion :) the harp is the perfect wedding instrument, it will create the perfect ambiance.
The biggest plus to having live musicians is how smooth the ceremony will go. A professional musician will be watching for just the right moment when the ceremony is to start, can easily continue a song if the flower girls take those extra 2 minutes to shyly make their way down the aisle. And most important, a musician will be able to beautifully end the song once the bride has reached her to-be-husband. No awkward waiting for the recorded song to end or be suddenly turned off. Live music is that extra special touch.
What is something unique to your service that you are extra proud of?
I am very easy going about music selections! This is your wedding, you pick any special song you want and I will search high and low to play it. Or, if you have no clue about songs that’s fine, I have lots of wedding experience and can recommend the best songs.
And, you may be surprised at how amazing “Here Comes the Bride” sounds on harp! It’s nothing like you’ve heard it before.
Anything else you wanna say?
Enjoy this time of planning your wedding. It is a very special part of your life, and while it may involve stress, take the time to have fun planning and make the wedding your own. But remember, the wedding is one day, your marriage will prayerfully be lifelong. Focus on your relationship as a couple soon to be husband and wife. It is a joyful union you are preparing for!
“Love never fails… but it’s something worth fighting for.”
Lydia Covey | Performing Harpist
903-261-3097
Web | lydiaharpist@gmail.com | Twitter
