Funerals and Memorial Services

"My heart, which is full of overflowing, has often been solaced and refreshed by music when sick and weary."

 -Martin Luther

Planning a funeral is a stressful time in everybody’s life. There is never an “easy” way to get through a funeral. There is always heartache and sorrow - and love. The number of things that have to be done in such a short amount of time can be overwhelming, especially when the death was unexpected. Thankfully, there are people such as the funeral director, pastor, relatives and family who are always a source of comfort.

Another source of comfort during this difficult time comes in the form of music. It seems to be able to help loved ones cope with such an intense situation. Music can be cathartic in the healing process.

If the deceased’s family decides to have the funeral at church, then the music minister usually takes care of choosing the music for the service. What happens when the family doesn’t want a church service, but wants a memorable and meaningful service at the funeral home instead?

Gerra can plan a beautiful service that’s held at the funeral home. She will work with the family, minister, and funeral director, to plan a service that will remain in the hearts of family and friends for years to come. She can even design and implement a beautiful program that can be kept as a memorial to the deceased. This bulletin includes a photograph of the deceased, the order of service, poetry or biblical references, family members’ names, etc.

For a service held in the funeral home, Gerra will sing and play her Yamaha keyboard. It mimics harps, violins and piano. Soothing and beautiful. She has a collection of songs which are very appropriate and touching. Although she can sing any song requested by the family, she loves to sing the old Baptist hymns such as “His Eye is on the Sparrow” and “Precious Lord, Take my Hand.” Secular songs are often requested, too. “Wind Beneath my Wings” and “Danny Boy” are some of the songs that Gerra has done in the past. Songs that were special to the deceased are often requested. Gerra’s repertoire is vast, and she is able to sing in several languages. She welcomes other musicians who may wish to be a part of the service.

Gerra is able to accommodate funerals that are held on Saturday mornings, or on any evening from September through the first week of June because of her teaching schedule. During the summer, she is available at any time. Gerra lives in Cranberry Township, but is happy to travel to Pittsburgh, Oakmont, Butler, South Fayette, Mt. Lebanon, Peters Township, Bethel Park, Mars, Bridgeville, Dormont, Springdale, New Kensington, Canonsburg and surrounding Greater Pittsburgh areas. Gerra has provided music for funerals for several locations of Beinhauser Funeral Homes,  Ross G. Walker Funeral Home, Rusiewicz Funeral Homes, Krupa Funeral Home, Giunta-Bertucci Funeral Home, Cicholski-Zidek Funeral Home, Krynicki Funeral Home and Churchfield-Peters Funeral Home.

Gerra Performs For The President

In March of 2008 Gerra was invited to perform for President George W. Bush at a fund raiser in Sewickley PA. You can read more about her experience and view additional photographs by clicking here.

We Travel Anywhere!

Gerra has performed at events all over the US.  Although she is located in Cranberry Township PA, she is able to provide her service throughout the United States. Naturally, a minimal travel charge will apply to events located outside the local area. Feel free to browse through some of the more common venues that Gerra has performed at by clicking here.