Originally from Rochester, Michigan, Jennifer Hedberg-Keller began studying the harp with Patricia Terry-Ross of Wayne State University in the mid 1970’s. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree with Elizabeth Richter at Ball State University, and a Master of Music with Lucile Lawrence at Boston University. She is a full-time professional harpist and is a part-time instructor at Elgin Community College. Her musical experiences include orchestral, chamber music and theater work in addition to her many solo engagements at weddings, receptions, corporate events, and many other special occasions.

Wedding music usually falls into one of two categories: Ceremony and Non-Ceremony. Ceremony music is classical, and is directly connected with the wedding ceremony. Non-Ceremony music is usually popular music and is reserved for receptions, bridal showers, and engagement parties.

Ceremony Music:

Musically, a wedding ceremony ALWAYS includes the following:

• Prelude (usually about 15-20 minutes prior to the ceremony)
• Bridesmaids Processional
• Brides Processional
• Recessional
• Postlude (usually about 10-15 minutes after the ceremony)

Other ceremony events that may require music include

• Lighting of the Unity Candle
• Taking Roses to and/or Greeting the Parents (Sign of Peace)
• Taking Flowers to the Shrine of the Holy Family (Catholic ceremonies)
• Communion

As your harpist, I can provide music for all of these events either as a soloist or in conjunction with other musicians. A consultation to choose your music is included in the ceremony fee. Most traditional wedding music is available for harp, and there are some very appropriate and beautiful works written especially for the harp. During our consultation, you will only need to choose music for specific events in your ceremony. It is not necessary for you to select music for the prelude and postlude.

Non-Ceremony Music:

Popular music and jazz standards are generally reserved for the events listed below. This is normally the kind of repertoire I use for events like these, but classical or other types of music are available upon request.

• Receptions
• Bridal Showers
• Engagement Parties
• Any wedding-related event other than the ceremony

The harp gives popular music and jazz standards a very smooth, sophisticated sound. Requests for special songs are always welcome. Also, many people are concerned that the harp will not be heard at events like these. I do have my own amplification system, or I can usually use the "house" system at the location. I have had many compliments from my clients and their guests on how the wonderful the sound was, (and how nice it was to still be able to speak to the person next to you without having to shout.)

The longest block of time available for these events is three hours. At a wedding reception, this usually covers cocktails and dinner unless you have an exceptionally large party. One and two hour blocks of time are also available. (One hour is usually sufficient for just cocktails, and two are usually sufficient for just dinner.)