Music Policies

Who do I contact?
The Basilica of St. Lawrence employs a full-time musician. Andrew Davis, Director of Music Ministries, has held the position since May of 2000. He is our choir director and organist and is responsible for all liturgical music. He holds membership in two professional organizations: the American Guild of Organists, and the National Association of Pastoral Musicians. He can assist you in choosing and planning the music for your wedding liturgy.

When should I contact the Music Director?
Many priests request that couples choose music at the end of their marriage preparation counseling or after they have completed a marriage-encounter retreat. You may call or email Andrew 4 to 5 months prior to the wedding date to schedule a conference. The music arrangements should be finalized one month prior to your wedding date.

What is the Director of Music Ministry fee?
This fee covers the consultation with the Music Director, planning, rehearsal and wedding liturgy. The fee is paid directly to Andrew Davis and is due one month prior to the wedding date. The current fee will be listed on your Fee Schedule which will be attached to your Wedding Iquiry reply.

What kind of music may I choose?
A wedding liturgy is first and foremost a time of worship. The primary goal of music is to glorify God. Use of popular music, such as movie scores or radio play-lists is not appropriate. The Music Director will assist you in choosing and planning the music for your wedding liturgy.

What changes if the wedding occurs during Lent or Advent?
Lent and Advent are penitential seasons of the Church. Typically, the music during these times is more reflective; often described as simpler; or even less joyful. During Lent, brass instruments are not permitted, and the singing of Alleluia is omitted. Advent is a time when the Church prepares to celebrate the birth of Christ, it is a time of anticipation and waiting.

Do I have to use organ for my wedding?
Yes. The organ is the principal instrument of worship in the Roman Catholic Church and is the principal instrument at the Basilica of St. Lawrence.

Am I required to hire the Music Director from the Basilica, or can I bring my own organist?
The Basilica of St. Lawrence employs a professional full-time music director/organist. He is responsible for all liturgical music at St. Lawrence. It is standard practice among professional church musicians to respect the positions held by their colleagues. On occasion, at the Music Director's discretion, organists from other parishes/denominations have been permitted.  Nevertheless, such a decision will not negate the Music Director's fee.

What if I want to use other instruments at my wedding, is this allowed?
Yes! Other instruments are allowed; brass, strings, and winds have been played at Basilica weddings. However, if your wedding is during Lent or Advent some consideration must be taken. The cost of additional musicians is not included in the music director fee. The Music Director will discuss your music ideas during your conference and guide you in making all arrangements for your wedding liturgy.

Who will play these instruments?
The music director has many professional contacts in the Asheville area and can help you find additional instrumental and vocal performers.

Can a professional event or wedding planner help in making music decisions?
Professional event planners can be very helpful in many aspects of your wedding day. However, they often lack knowledge and expertise in the area of liturgical music. They do not have the authority to book musicians for your wedding liturgy. All music requests and suggestions should be brought to the attention of the Music Director during your consultation/conference.