Pianist for Weddings + Events

Wedding + Event Music FAQ

What is your typical process for working with a new client?

We usually email to confirm the event details, so I can figure out the needs of the event (such as whether I need to bring a keyboard, amp, etc.) Clients let me know what style(s) of music they'd like and whether they have specific song requests. Once we decide it's a good fit, and I receive your returned contract and a deposit of half the total amount, your date is booked on my calendar!

What questions should clients think through before hiring a musician for their event?

- What genres of music do you want (specific artist examples are great), and are there specific song requests?

- What's your budget for the event, and how long will it be?

- What's the space like (in terms of size, ceiling height, indoors vs. outdoors, etc.) - this helps us know how much amplification we'll need.

- Also, are there electrical outlets near the performance area?

- Are you looking for a performance, or background music?

What’s included in wedding ceremony music?

The typical musical elements of a wedding ceremony are: 15-20 minutes of prelude music as guests arrive, processional (usually separate songs for the wedding party and bride), recessional, postlude and any other special music (like lighting of a unity candle, for example) during the ceremony that you would like.

I don’t know much about music - can you help me select music for my event?

I would be delighted to! I have a list of frequently played wedding music here, to get you started. You can select songs from the list, say, “please help me find more music like this one”, or give me some genres that you like as a starting point. I’m happy to help as much or as little as you like.

Can you play <insert song request here>?

Most likely! So much sheet music is readily available, and I can easily adapt most music for piano. Occasionally, some music doesn’t lend itself well to piano, and if that’s the case, I’ll let you know.

What if you can’t find the sheet music for a song I want played?

This is quite rare, but if I can’t find the sheet music, I am usually able to transcribe the music you’re looking for. Depending on how much time and effort is involved, there may be extra fees for this transcribing work, and I’ll be sure to clearly let you know details up front.

Do I have to provide sheet music or PDFs for you?

No, I am happy to handle that! If you happen to have something on hand, feel free to send it along, but it’s not necessary.

How long before my event do you need my musical selections?

Ideally we’ll start figuring it out around a month ahead, and everything should be finalized by 1 week beforehand.

Do you only perform solo, or can you play with other musicians as well?

I often perform solo, but if you have other instruments in mind, I know lots of other great musicians! There are additional fees for adding more musicians, which vary. Let me know what you’d like, and I’ll do my best to arrange the instrumentation you’re looking for!

What musical education and training do you have? How did you get started doing this type of work?

I have a Bachelor of Music degree in piano from Ithaca College, but more importantly, over 25 years of experience as a performer and accompanist. I've been playing the piano since I was very young, and began playing for parties and events over 25 years ago, when I was in high school - I've loved being a performer ever since!

At what types of events have you played piano?

So many kinds! I have played for weddings, funerals, bar/bat mitzvahs, private parties, corporate events, holiday parties, and also do educational concerts speaking about Brazilian music. I have played everything from traditional classical wedding music to Brazilian samba to Disney and video game tunes, all of which have been very enjoyable! Whatever event you dream up that includes music, we can make happen!

What payment options do you accept?

Zelle, Venmo, check, or cash are my preferred methods. You’ll receive all of the payment details with my contract.

What’s your cancellation policy?

Notice of cancellation must be provided in writing. If notice is received:

• More than 30 days prior to the event date: 50% of the deposit will be refunded.

• Between 1-30 days prior to the event date: deposit will not be refunded, but the client will not be responsible for the remainder of the Total Engagement Fee.

• Within 24 hours: client is responsible for the entire contracted fee

If I have to cancel due to emergency, I’ll refund the entire amount you’ve paid.

This all sounds great, how do I book you to play at my event?

Fill out the form below or email me at hello@rebeccahass.com with date/location/details. I just need a returned contract (which I send over ASAP once you confirm) and half of the total amount as a deposit to reserve your date, and the remaining balance is due on the day of the event.