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Austin Charnis Guitar
- Brewster, NY
- Guitarist
- Travels up to 200 miles
- $400 - $1500
Overview
Austin Charnis is a professional classical guitarist who specializes in providing a wide variety of live music for weddings and events. By using a hands-on approach to selecting special and meaningful music for any type of occasion, Austin's playing is sure to keep your guests entertained from start to finish. He has an incredibly diverse list of songs to choose from, and will learn to play just about anything you ask him to. Austin has received numerous awards voted by real couples for his 5-star rated work in the Hudson Valley and Westchester wedding scenes. In addition to live music, Austin Charnis Guitar also provides microphones/sound and DJ/MC services.
26 Reviews
We had a wonderful experience working with Austin. He is an amazingly talented guitarist who helped make our wedding day everything we envisioned and so much more!
We were planning a small intimate wedding and were looking for a guitarist for our ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. We were very fortunate to find Austin. His reviews were exceptional, so we decided to listen to some of his music samples. We were impressed with his music and set up a meeting with him. He was very personable, provided valuable input and was very flexible with our requests. He played the perfect assortment of music throughout the day, including a song that he learned especially for us and requests from the group. He had a great sense for the vibe in the room and changed things up throughout the night. Everyone had so much fun!
We are so happy that we chose Austin to be part of our special day. We highly recommend him to anyone looking for a musician! We hope to work with him again in the future!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much, Natalie! It was such a special day and I'm so glad you and your guests were happy with the music. I had a lot of fun learning and performing "At Last" and "Glasgow Love Theme", both of which are now on my song list. The impromptu karaoke session in the wine cellar was a moment I will certainly never forget! Wishing you all the best, and hoping to take you up on working together again very soon :)
Austin did the ceremony music for our wedding this past June and we couldn’t have been happier with our choice! He was easy to work with, friendly, and a really, really talented musician. And we received SO many compliments from our guests on how much they enjoyed the music he played!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much Sarah! I am so glad you were happy with the music and your guests enjoyed it! Your ceremony was beautiful, and such an awesome location. I was honored to be a part of it! Enjoy married life!!
After my initial request on GigSalad, Austin was very prompt and flexible. More importantly, his playing at the event was exceptional. The event was a memorial service and his musical selections were perfect and his playing is beautiful. Being able to have Austin perform added so much to the service, we recommend him highly.
Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much for the kind words, Francis. It was an honor to be able to perform at this beautiful event.
-Austin
First off we planned our wedding in about two weeks, and when we originally began we hadn’t thought twice about having music until my husbands mother gave us the suggestion. We are super low key people and were unsure if a musician would fit the vibe, but when we found Austin we knew right away he was the perfect addition to our little elopement / micro wedding. He was so kind and flexible and easy to reach. He made us so comfortable. We got to choose our own set of songs and when they would be played, and let me tell you it made the day even more magical. Hearing Moon River while we read our vows to each other absolutely melted my heart and made me cry even harder than I already was! Thank you, Austin, for being a part of our day. I hope we can work with you again one day!!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much, Brittany and Brandon! I’m so glad we connected and that I was able help make your day even more special! I loved how intimate your ceremony was. Wishing you all the best!!
It was such a pleasure to have Austin at our event. He played everything we wanted and then some. I had a young 9 year old guitar lover who had questions for Austin and he was more than willing to answer. He is personable, talented and a very nice chill guy. Looking forward to having him again!
We had the best experience working with Austin. He is so talented, professional, responsive, and really tied our whole event together. Our guests loved not only his music, but how personable he is. We couldn't have asked for a better experience from initial phone call to event. Thank you, Austin!
Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thanks so much, Carly! It was such a pleasure performing at your intimate ceremony and conversing with your wonderful guests! Wishing you and Sean all the best!
I found Austin online while searching for the perfect music for our wedding day. I loved his work and after speaking to him I knew he would provide us exactly what we were looking for. Austin is really personable and super talented, you will not be disappointed. Our guests enjoyed the music. We highly recommend Austin Charnis Guitar!
Guitarist, Jazz Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much Anne Marie! I'm so glad we were able to connect. It was a spectacular Hudson Valley day and I was honored to be a part of it. Wishing you all the best!
Austin was a pleasure to work with, his guitar background music was perfect for our Easter event at the club.
Guitarist, Jazz Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thanks so much, Elizabeth. It was a pleasure performing at the club and I’m so glad I got to be part of this event!
There are not enough stars in the galaxy to rate Austin! His professionalism, dedication and skill will make your special day or event come alive! I cannot put into words how his playing and presence at my wedding was a complete game changer. Look no further for somebody to be attentive to you, your guests and the event. He communicated with us from day one and helped us orchestrate and pick the absolute best songs, best play list and when to play them. His knowledge of music is unparalleled to none! Whether it was songs you've heard before, or beautiful renditions of already written songs, Austin's skill are incomparable. Look no further for somebody to fill even the biggest shoes of your special event, this guy is the real deal and as good as they get. I am forever grateful for having him there for my special day, as I'm sure you will feel the same for yours! Thank you again Austin Charnis Guitar for kicking some serious ass and for making people cry......in the best way possible of course! It wouldn't have been the same without you! we love you
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Why thank you, sir! It was extra special playing your ceremony and I’m so glad you and Kim were happy with the music ❤️ Also grateful I got to add 2 amazing professional songs to my list from this. Your review made me laugh a lot too! Enjoy married life!!
Austin was incredible to work with for our wedding ceremony! We had many acoustic options to choose from, varying in genre and tempo, that allowed us to customize the mood and set the tone perfectly for our wedding. Austin was prompt with his responses and very professional. It was so special to have him as part of our day!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thanks so much Kathryn! Your wedding was beautiful and I was honored to be a part of it. Playing the ceremony on your dad's guitar made it even more special. Enjoy married life!!
We hired Austin to play at a luncheon. He was wonderful to work with. Austin was professional, adaptable, and timely. He was able to adjust his playing style and set list throughout the event to fit the clients needs. He was the most professional and timely musician we have worked with. Thank you!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thanks so much for the incredibly kind words Lee! I really enjoyed performing at this. You and your team were a pleasure to work with and I look forward to our next event together!!
I cannot adequately describe the importance of Austin Charnis' role in creating the kind of Celebration of Life I envisioned for my husband.
From Austin's technical expertise on sound equipment and his flexibility in producing Taps at the precise moment the Missing Man air formation peaked overhead, to his amazing guitar adaptations of all the music my husband loved, Austin was pitch perfect and so kind.
Austin supplied an extra portable microphone to put our guests at ease so they could participate from their tables. I watched two guests with extreme fear of speaking in public take the mike and comfortably add to the afternoon.
With all the busyness of speakers, film, air salute, and testimonials, I never lost awareness of how astounding a guitarist Austin is. When it all ended, I only wish we could have sat for yet another hour to listen to more from Austin's magical guitar.
Jazz Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thanks so much for your amazing feedback, Wilda! This was truly one of the most exciting and heartwarming events I have ever been a part of. So glad I was able to contribute to this beautiful celebration.
Austin played for our wedding ceremony and we would highly recommend him for any event! He was great to work with and had a great variety of songs to pick from. Many of our guests complimented how beautiful the music was.
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much Allison! I'm so glad you and your guests enjoyed the music. Your ceremony in the rose garden was absolutely stunning, and it was my honor to be a part of it. Wishing you all the best!
We are so happy we decided to book Austin. He was so easy to communicate with and was so flexible about all of our music choices - he has a long list of songs in his repertoire, but was even kind enough to learn a brand new song that we specially requested because it was meaningful to us. And of course, he sounded beautiful on the day of. If you want a special and unique addition to your wedding day music, I would definitely go with Austin.
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Hannah and Frank! Your ceremony was beautiful and cocktail hour was a lot of fun. It was a pleasure working with you and putting together this eclectic playlist. Wishing you all the best! Congratulations again!!
Austin was completely professional and a pleasure to deal with. He was responsive to our requests, the music was just what we were hoping for and added much enjoyment to our event. We would certainly recommend him to others with enthusiasm.
Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much for the kind words Elaine. So happy you and Steve were happy with the music. All the best!
Austin performed acoustic guitar and provided the sound for our outdoor wedding ceremony and cocktail hour this past fall and his performance helped to create exactly the atmosphere that my husband and I were looking for! From the very start, Austin was quick to respond and provided us with clear options for the music choices we were looking for. Even when we had to postpone our wedding due to COVID-19, Austin was accommodating and supportive. I highly recommend Austin to anyone looking for beautiful music to set the mood for any event!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much Heather! I am so glad you were happy with the music and microphones! It was an absolute pleasure working with you and Dan and I wish you both all the best. Enjoy married life!!
Austin is amazing! He was the best decision we could have made. Not only is he incredibly talented, but he personalizes the experience, is easy to work with and went above and beyond to be helpful at every turn. I was having trouble picking sounds and the guidance and help he provided was just what we needed. He even learned a song for us last minute to which I am eternally grateful. Would book again and again!
Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much Danielle! It was most certainly my pleasure playing your ceremony and I'm so glad you were happy with the music! Congratulations again and again, and enjoy married life!!
Thank you for bringing out cocktail our to the next level of elegance and class. Our guests loved the added touch of the live music, perfect mix and blend of songs. Austin was SUPER easy to work with and communicate with. Thanks for making our special day the best it could have been!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Tyler! Your venue was amazing and it was an absolute pleasure to play for you and your guests. So glad you were happy with the music. All the best!
Austin was so easy to work with was on time plays guitar like no other!!! Simply amazing. Don’t hesitate to book him. Perfecto.
Thanks Austin ❤️
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Lisa! You were a pleasure to work with and I’m so glad I got to be a part of your daughter’s wedding! Congratulations!
Austin was exactly what I was looking for in a musician for my parent's anniversary party! Everyone complimented his talent, professionalism and selection of music! Thanks again!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Linda! It was an honor playing for this very special party. So glad you and your guests were happy with the music!
Excellent musician, very professional, great to work with!
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Barbara! You were great to work with too and it was a beautiful event!
We hired Austin to play classical guitar at out wedding during cocktail hour. He was professional, warm, flexible, and an overall pleasure to work with. His performance delivered the distinct, tasteful ambiance we were aiming for. If you're inundated with daunting choices, scratch this one off the list – Austin is the man for the job.
Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Scott! It was more than a pleasure playing at your sister's cocktail hour! And even more that I got to stay for the reception and party with you all :)
Austin was fantastic and did an amazing job performing music for our ceremony and cocktail hour. He's talented, professional and a super nice guy. We needed a musician last minute and Austin was able to accommodate us on short notice and gave great recommendations on song selection. We couldn't be happier with our experience!
Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Sabrina! Your wedding was seriously amazing and I'm so glad I got to be a part of it!
Austin made our wedding a unique experience. He was able to compose classical guitar pieces from our requests. My wife and I love classic rock, from bands like Led Zeppelin, and Austin was able to transform those songs into classical guitar masterpieces that we still listen to today on our wedding video. He is great to work with and has competitive prices. You want to impress your guests Austin is your man.
Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you Dan! It sure was fun playing all that Zeppelin at your wedding!
Austin played my wedding ceremony. He was very professional and took a special request made by my wife with aplomb and it everything was amazing. That day was going to be special to me but Austin's playing made it a little bit more special for my wife and I. I highly recommend Austin for any event you may need.
Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much Pat! So glad I help make your day even more special :)
Austin Charnis was one of the best wedding choices we could have possibly made for our wedding. He was very professional, punctual, and beyond talented. He even went the extra mile to learn new songs for both my husband and I to walk down the aisle to. He was consistently in contact with us and helped walk us through each step along the way. I would recommend Austin amillion times over!!
Guitarist, Classical Guitarist
Response from Austin Charnis Guitar:
Thank you so much Rebecca! Your ceremony was absolutely beautiful. I was honored to be a part of it and really loved the songs you chose. That was my first time playing Mariah Carey on guitar but hopefully not the last!
Booking Info
Price Range: $400 - $1500
Gig Length: 30 - 300 minutes
Languages: English, Spanish
Insurance: $1,000,000 - Liability coverage provided at all gigs
What to Expect
Eclectic live music catered to your tastes and delivered professionally using the highest quality of sound on the market. Austin Charnis Guitar offers virtually every style of music to fit and set any mood, whether it's upbeat, relaxed or right in between.
About
Austin Charnis is a classical and contemporary guitarist from Westchester, New York. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Music Business from SUNY Fredonia in 2009, and studied performance with Professor James Piorkowski of the School of Music. Although he started out as a rock guitarist in high school, Charnis discovered his love for classical guitar while studying with Mr. Peter Press, his mentor and teacher who prepared him for his audition to the Fredonia School of Music in just one summer of training.
While many musicians dream of becoming concert stars and YouTube sensations, Austin's dream has always been to perform at weddings and events. He loves to play the music people want to hear, and puts his own spin on songs to make his interpretations exciting and memorable. His repertoire revolves around a wide variety of traditional and contemporary South American selections, but also includes all types of rock, pop blues, jazz and pretty much any other style you can imagine. Austin is also heavily involved in the Hudson Valley wedding music scene, and is a multiple recipient of the WeddingWire “Couple’s Choice” award and The Knot “Best of Weddings” award.
No detail is too small for Austin to focus on. He will work with you carefully from the very start of the process to ensure that your vision is at the forefront. On the day of your wedding he will be there early, prepared and dressed for the part. If you hire him to play guitar, he'll have every piece of equipment you can imagine. If you hire him to do the sound for your ceremony, he won't bring one microphone, he'll bring 3! He will work with the venue staff and planners to test the sound to make sure it's nothing short of perfect, because that's what your wedding should be. Austin's main sound-system is a top of the line wireless "Maui 5 Go" PA system, which does not require electricity. He also always has backup speakers, instruments and additional equipment on hand in case they are needed.
Additional Booking Notes
I provide all of my own equipment. My main system is an LD "MAUI 5 GO" portable line-array PA system, which is wireless and battery operated.
If I am providing microphones, I will require electricity for the wireless receiver.
The only items I may require occasionally are a small table and chair, but I am also happy to provide these myself.
Past Booked Events
December 08, 2023 • 6:00pm - 9:30pm | Dinner Party |
November 26, 2022 • 11:30am - 2:30pm | Bar/Bat Mitzvah Party |
November 27, 2021 • 12:00pm - 1:00pm | Birthday Party |
August 14, 2021 • 5:30pm - 7:30pm | Wedding Ceremony |
July 17, 2021 • 1:00pm - 4:00pm | Anniversary Party |
July 10, 2021 • 5:00pm - 8:00pm | Personal Occasion |
June 15, 2021 • 6:00pm - 7:30pm | Personal Occasion |
Set List
Sample Wedding Ceremony - Traditional
Prelude: Trumpet Voluntary, Clarke
Processional: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, Bach
Bride's Entrance: Canon in D, Pachelbel
Recessional: The Wedding March, Wagner
Postlude: Ode to Joy, Beethoven
Sample Wedding Ceremony - Contemporary
Prelude: Three Little Birds, Bob Marley
Processional: Cherry Wine, Hosier
Bride's Entrance: Can't Help Falling In Love, Elvis Presley
Recessional: Here Comes the Sun, The Beatles
Postlude: Going to California, Led Zeppelin
Sample Cocktail Hour
The Girl From Ipanema
Quiet Nights of Quiet Stars
Somewhere Over the Rainbow
Michelle
Moon River
My Cherie Amour
What a Wonderful World
Love Me Tender
Wonderful Tonight
Little Martha
Can You Feel the Love Tonight
When I'm 64
A Thousand Years
Danza Brasileira
Spanish Romance (Romanza)
Sons De Carillhoes
Variations on a Theme of Mozart
Influences & Inspiration
David Russell
Tommy Emmanuel
Jimmy Page
George Harrison
Denis Azabagic
Elena Papandreou
Roland Dyens
Chet Atkins
Victor Villadangos
Yamandu Costa
and MANY more!
Setup Requirements
None! I provide everything that I need.