How much do you pay an organist for a wedding?

Answer 1

It depends upon what part of the country, the size of the church, the skill of the organist, whether a choir or singers are to be performing too. In some areas of the UK, you could probably still end up paying as little as £40, though for a professional organist at a large London church, fees would be more like £150. Quite a sum, though not in relation to the cost of flowers, the reception, etc!

Answer 2

This largely depends on what sort of quality organist you would like for your wedding.

As in any profession, organists come in varying standards, but what you need to keep in mind is, this is a one-off occasion. There are no re-takes!

One thing that I know irritates organists, is that they are frequently not regarded as professionals, as you would say, for instance, regard an electrical or gas fitter. Just because they work in the charitable church surrounding, does not mean that they too are a charity. They also have bills to pay.

The going rate for a professional organist for a wedding (2009 rates) is £120 minimum, for a wedding with no recording (video or sound) and you are under a legal obligation to ensure there is no recording (i.e. if grandma pulls out her iphone and starts to record a bit you are breaking the law and the organist can claim against you). average fees are between £175 - £300. For this, you should get someone who is more than capable of servicing any music needs you require.

Answer 3

The couple.