James Coates

I am available for weddings, anniversaries, holiday gatherings and community events.

During weddings, I am available to provide:
*Entrance Music (while guests are seated, prior to the ceremony)
*Ceremony Music (while wedding party walks down the aisle)
*Processional Music (after the bride-and-groom announcement)
*Transitional/Cocktail Hour Music
*Reception/Dinner Music
*First Dances
*Songs can be gathered from my repertoire, or I am happy to learn new songs for an additional fee

Wedding & Event Logistics:
*I am LGBTQ+ friendly. Love is love.
*I provide a performance agreement to be signed by myself and the client
*I humbly request a 20% deposit for all wedding bookings
*I arrive 2 hours prior to ceremony to set-up and accommodate any last-minute changes
*I provide all sound equipment necessary for my performance
*I require a working power source within 50 feet of my performance area
*I am available to make short announcements throughout the wedding
*I accept payment in cash, check, Venmo or CashApp
*Please direct any other questions to (email hidden) or (phone number hidden) (calls & text OK)

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, I've grown to love the outdoors and spend most of my free time hiking, swimming and exploring the natural beauty that Washington state has to offer.

My musical journey began at two-years-old when my father, a piano tuner, began to teach me how to play. A few years later my grandmother would pass away. Among her things I found a small classical guitar that I claimed as my own.

Guitar lessons, again from my father, followed, and later came songwriting, recording, touring and, eventually, performing at wedding ceremonies and receptions all over Washington and Oregon.

I love weddings because they combine my favorite things: music, family, friendship and love. To be a part of that incredible moment when two people join their lives together is a privilege and responsibility I don't take lightly.

It's my goal as an artist and a performer to enhance whatever moment I am adding music to. Whether you're listening to a song of mine on Spotify as you head out on a road trip or listening to me play your favorite song as you walk down the aisle, it's an honor and a thrill, every time.

I love playing other events, too. I've played anniversary parties, holiday gatherings, retirement homes, even a hooka bar in Tampa, Florida one time. Music is versatile and atmospheric: It can enhance any moment.

See "What to Expect" and please direct any other technical questions to (email hidden) or (phone number hidden) (text & calls OK).