Ten Essential Tips for Hiring a String Quartet for Your Wedding

May 17
00:26

2024

John Cena Smith

John Cena Smith

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Choosing the perfect string quartet for your wedding can be a daunting task, given the myriad of options and the importance of selecting the right music for each part of your ceremony. To help you navigate this process, here are ten essential tips from Amy Gordon, a member of the renowned Hallion Quartet.

Book Early

Secure Your Quartet in Advance

Booking your string quartet well in advance is crucial. The most sought-after quartets are often reserved up to a year ahead,Ten Essential Tips for Hiring a String Quartet for Your Wedding Articles especially during the busy summer months. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a contract and be required to pay a 30% deposit. This ensures you have secured a top-notch quartet and allows ample time to finalize the details later.

Assessing Quality

How to Determine Quartet Excellence

Unlike many wedding bands, professional quartets typically perform at private events, making it challenging to hear them live before booking. Here are some tips to ensure you hire a high-quality quartet:

  • Educational Background: Check their biography for information on their music education. Top quartets usually have members who studied at reputable music colleges.
  • Testimonials: Look for recent testimonials from satisfied clients on their website or profile page.
  • Professional Presentation: Their profile should include professional photos, smart attire, and high-quality audio samples.
  • Reputable Agency: Consider booking through a well-known music agency. These agencies work only with professional and experienced quartets and can provide a backup in case of any issues.

Budget Considerations

Understanding Costs

Professional quartets typically charge between £450 and £600. If quoted less, proceed with caution and try to see them perform live. If a quartet is beyond your budget, consider hiring a trio or duo, which can be more affordable and suitable for smaller venues.

Setting the Mood

Creating the Desired Atmosphere

Think about the mood you want to create with your music. Whether you prefer a relaxed, sophisticated, conversational, contemporary, or a mix of old and new, communicate this to your quartet.

Music Selection

Choosing the Right Pieces

Experienced quartets can provide a comprehensive list of music suggestions, saving you time. They can play a variety of genres, including classical, pop, folk, Broadway, romantic, and popular music. Discuss any specific requests or styles you prefer.

Approval from Officials

Getting the Green Light

Always seek approval for your music choices from your church minister or registrar. Note that religious music is not permitted in civil ceremonies.

Day-of Schedule

Coordinating with the Venue

  • Setup Time: Quartets typically need 15-20 minutes to set up. Ensure the venue arranges appropriate seating.
  • Performance Duration: Confirm the total performance time (usually 2-3 hours) and the number of breaks (at least 5 minutes per hour).
  • Event Schedule: Provide a detailed schedule if the quartet is playing in multiple locations or sessions.

Outdoor Performances

Planning for Open-Air Music

If you want the quartet to play outside, discuss this in advance. Instruments worth thousands of pounds need protection from the elements, such as a gazebo or awning. Have a backup plan in case of inclement weather.

Balance Payment

Handling Final Payments

If paying the balance on the day, designate an usher or the best man to handle the payment and pass it to the musicians.

Music Ideas for Your Wedding Ceremony

Suggested Pieces for Different Stages

Here are some music suggestions for various parts of your wedding ceremony:

The Processional (Bride's Entrance)

  • Trumpet Voluntary by Clarke
  • Salut d’Amour by Elgar
  • Air from the Water Music Suite by Handel
  • Arrival of the Queen of Sheba by Handel
  • Hornpipe from the Water Music Suite by Handel
  • Wedding March from the Marriage of Figaro by Mozart
  • Trumpet Tune by Purcell
  • Spring from the Four Seasons by Vivaldi
  • Wedding March from Lohengrin by Wagner

The Signing of the Register

  • Air on the G String by Bach
  • Chanson de Matin by Elgar
  • Pavane by Faure
  • Morning from Peer Gynt Suite by Grieg
  • 4th Movement of Eine Kleine Nachtmusik by Mozart
  • Canon in D by Pachelbel

The Recessional (Newly-Wed Couple's Exit)

  • Trumpet Voluntary by Clarke
  • Hornpipe from the Water Music Suite by Handel
  • Wedding March (from A Midsummer Night’s Dream) by Mendelssohn
  • Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 by Bach

Interesting Stats

Little-Known Facts

  • Popularity of String Quartets: According to a survey by The Knot, 78% of couples who hired live musicians for their wedding chose a string quartet for their ceremony (The Knot, 2021).
  • Cost of Wedding Music: The average cost of wedding music in the UK is around £500, with string quartets being one of the most popular choices (Bridebook, 2022).

By following these tips, you can ensure that your wedding music is both memorable and perfectly suited to your special day. For more information on hiring wedding musicians, visit The Knot and Bridebook.

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