“ John played his Kora at our wedding. His music was so enchanting. It created a time of pure magic! When I think of our wedding, I can still hear John’s music. It is a beautiful part of the memory that will stay with us forever.”
- Joyce and Charles Henley.
“John, you made or wedding so romantic and magical with your angelic kora music! We can never thank you enough.”
- Robin and Seth Rabinowitz.
Joyful musical accompaniment
to make your special day
even more special!
If you are planning a truly special and unique event, perhaps some truly special and unique instrumentation is in order? The kora has a joyful and etherial sound. At once stately and elegant, playful and romantic, it will cast a web of delight to unite all in attendance in fellowship and joy.
Nearly as far back as a thousand years, the kora set the tone in the royal courts of the emperors of West Africa. It was present at all community celebrations including weddings, births and initiations. It was played in courts of law to ground and harmonize disgruntled plaintiffs. It inspired celebrants at parties to dance and sing and soothed children gathered in village courtyards each night before bed.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Will You Play Outdors?
Yes! provided that the weather conditions are reasonable. Many of the weddings that I play are outdoors. .Shelter from rain (or possible rain) is a must to protect sensitive instruments and equipment. On hot days, shelter from direct sun is preferred, but not essential. Access to an electric outlet is not required for amplification as I have a battery powered sound system!
Do You Play Standard Wedding Music?
No. People come to me because they want something different! I play traditional West African classical and folk music and original compositions. The music can be jazzy, stately, elegant, celebratory, contemplative... We can work together to choose just the right feel. I can even improvise pieces especially for the moment!
What Area Do you Service?
I am willing to travel anywhere! ...provided the fee is commensurate. Most of the weddings I play are in the New England Area, however.
Can We Meet In Person Before Our Wedding?
Yes. I provide a complimentary phone consultation for up to an hour. If a live consultation is desired, special arrangements can be made.
What Is Your Payment Policy?
I ask for a deposit of 50% of the quoted fee to be returned with the contract. The balance is due on the day services are rendered. In the unlikely event that the client cancels the event, all but $100 of the deposit will be returned if notice of cancellation is received sooner than 30 days before the wedding date. Cash, check, Credit card and PayPal payments are accepted.
How Far In Advance Should I Book?
I have no restrictions regarding how far in advance you book my services. I often book up to a year in advance but if it so happens that I am available, I will play your wedding the next day!
What Is Your Fee?
Generally, when people hire me for there wedding 'ceremony,' I am asked to play as people arrive and are seated, during the processional and recessional and while people exit the ceremony site. Additionally, I am often requested to provide music for ‘cocktails’ following the reception and sometimes during dinner. This is infinitely customizable, however, and is all up to you! Travel expenses and many other variables also play a role in the fee structure. Therefore, every wedding quote is different. Generally, however, the fee ranges from $300 to $2500. For more information about fees, Please click here.
When Will The Musician Arrive?
I usually arrive at least an hour before I am scheduled to play. This allows time for a leisurely set-up and the resolution of any unexpected or last minute details.
I’d Like To Book Your Services! What is the next step?
Call or email me with all of the details about how you would like me to contribute to your special event. Once I have this information, I will work up a quote. Once you have received the quote and have indicated your interest in contracting my services I will reserve your date for one week. Once a signed contract is returned to me along
with the deposit, your date is reserved and you can rest assured that this detail of your special day is all set!
Please, don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions you might have!
I look forward to talking with you about how I can make your special day even more special!!
Email: johnhughesarts@mac.com
Phone:
(802) 380-5683
Wedding Music
What do the newlyweds have to say about my music?
“We were looking for something truly special and unusual for our wedding music and boy did we find it in John Hughes! Everybody fell in love with him and his music! You couldn’t ask to meet a nicer guy or a better musician!”
- Dan & Elizabeth Ardley
“All my parents can talk about is how beautiful the ceremony music was and how interesting his instrument was...! John was totally professional, on time and sounded great for the cocktail hour also. His price was lower than the other musicians we were considering. We couldn’t have been happier!”
- George and Alli Granger
“We were looking for something truly special and unusual for our wedding music and boy did we find it in John Hughes!”
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Also available: Kora & Cello Duo
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