I began playing in Manhattan as a classical, rock, jazz and studio musician, and played on many pop recordings, commercials and film scores, plus in many famous venues in NYC.
In 2005 I moved to Asheville and completely changed my style and direction.
Wedding ceremonies, corporate occasions, private and public events are my specialties. I play a wide range of music on solo guitar in a highly unique style – easy to listen to and highly appropriate for most occasions. (I do not sing but can bring singers on request.)
Everything about me, services, rates, with music samples and ceremony suggestions are on my 3 websites.
Currently and in the past I have played at BILTMORE (all facilities), Richmond Hill Inn, and for events at The Arboretum, Renaissance Hotel, Grand Bohemian, Beaufort House, Chetola, Grove Park Inn, Battery Books/Champagne Bar, Old Edwards Inn, High Hampton Inn, Highlands Inn, Waynesville Country Club, The Farm, Claxton Farm, and most similar venues in WNC. I also play often in Manhattan and Florida, SC, TN, VA & GA.
My repertoire ranges from renaissance to Bach to Beatles, Broadway, film hits to pop rock! Please consider me when you wish elegant and engaging background and mood setting music.
BRIDES! I have created wedding ceremony music programs to help you plan and choose your music; you will find them on my website. My price includes (approximately) half hour of music while guests arrive; music selections for the procession of officiants and party members; Bridal entrance music; Celebratory theme after vows; Exit music; and hour of upbeat music while guests wait for the reception to begin. All Brides are different, all weddings differ, so I consult with you to customize your program!
I use the very best equipment from around the world, bring backups, and have high quality portable equipment (should you get married in the woods, the top of a mountain, or your back acerage, common choices here in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains or the east coast beaches!)
For engagements over 120 miles from asheville, please add $100 per 70 miles to cover increased round trip expenses; call or email for exact or negotiated amounts.
From my beginnings as a jazz, classical and rock musician in Manhattan, to my years as a studio musician playing on hundreds of tv ads, films, and records, I have developed a style that turns my classical guitar into a virtual orchestra!
Reviews (18)
Cocktail Party
in Winston Salem, NC
on 12/15/2012
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"James was an amazing performer...professional and talented. He played the perfect songs for our engagement party. Many people commented on how good he was. I would DEFinitely recommend him to others and use his services again. Thanks so much to James!"
- Madison O.
Corporate Function
in Asheville, NC
on 10/18/2012
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"The store manager and staff reported that James was easy to work with and enjoyable - said that they would definitely recommend him again!"
- Andrea B.
Wedding Reception
in Jefferson City, TN
on 07/15/2012
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"Will definitely work with James again. Very impressive repertory: classical, jazz, pop, you name it. He is a pro in all respects and a nice guy to boot. We were lucky to have the opportunity to work with him. Our guests loved him. "
- Darrell M.
Rehearsal Dinner
in Asheville, NC
on 07/06/2012
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"James Barr, and his talented guitar playing, created the perfect ambience for our rehearsal dinner. We highly recommend James to anyone who is searching for a musician for their special events. James exceeded all expectations. He even played backup for a last-minute song the bride and the sister of the bride sang to the groom. James is not only a gifted artist, but he also has a warm heart and a social presence that pleases all audience members. Our guests raved about James all night. We all loved him! We are immensely grateful to James for everything he did to create an unforgettable evening for us and our guests. All the best!"
- Kathleen N.
Wedding Ceremony
in Asheville, NC
on 05/05/2012
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"James was amazing! We were working from Texas on our Asheville wedding and James made it easy. He has an incredibly extensive playlist. James played for our small wedding and reception and his ability to modulate the volume, pace and mood was perfect in every way. James exceeded every expectation and his music made our day very special and memorable."
- Carol S.
Wedding Reception
in Highlands, NC
on 05/06/2012
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"Great job. Thank you for being part of our weekend."
- Randy K.
Wedding Ceremony
in Asheville, NC
on 07/31/2010
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"We love James! He made our wedding so special! Don't miss the opportunity to work with him!"
- Vicki G.
Wedding Ceremony
in Sumter, SC
on 06/05/2010
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"Mr Barr did a phenomenal job providing music for this wedding ceremony. In the venue used for this wedding (outdoor garden) his musical style was suited perfectly. His musicality was superb. His professionalism (very hot, thunderstorm prior to ceremony, no rehearsal, etc) was second to none. He was personable and accomodating. I would recommend him to anyone considering this type of performer for their wedding. My son and the bride were very pleased with Mr Barr (who by the way played through the entire picture taking process providing calm to the chaos of herding cats). Thanks you Mr Barr. PJ "
- Molly J.
Wedding Ceremony
in Lake Junaluska, NC
on 05/15/2010
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"James Barr was a huge factor in making the wedding a success. His music is absolutely beautiful and he worked so hard to make my daughter had the music she wanted. He was super accomodating. I really cannot say enought good things about him. I hope to go to a concert or get to hear him in another venue. I was so busy witht he wedding that I couldn't fully enjoy him music. I will say this....once he started playing my stress level went down because his music was so beautiful and calming! Would definately hire him to play again. "
- Belinda B.
Wedding Ceremony
in Chapel Hill, NC
on 11/03/2012
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"Very quick to respond to questions and emails. Very pleasant and cooperative. Great talent! Many of my wedding guests commented on how much they enjoyed James' guitar performance.
I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend James for a wedding ceremony. I was 100% pleased."
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In addition to Asheville, James E Barr will also travel to Edneyville, Enka, Skyland, Wilson, Flat Rock, Hendersonville, East Flat Rock, Gerton, Montreat, Naples, Saluda, Mountain Home, Ridgecrest, Bat Cave, Lake Lure, Mill Spring, Fletcher, Tryon, Dana, Chimney Rock, Fairview, Zirconia, Arden, Concord, Columbus, Chapel Hill, Etowah, Horse Shoe, Landrum, Tuxedo
and many other locations in and around the Asheville area.
James E Barr
was rated an average of 5.0 stars out of
5 by
18 GigMasters clients.
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