Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of music does your group play?
We have a library of over two hundred titles ranging from Classical to the latest broadway hits. Feel free to search our catalog of music at our Repertoire page, or if you have a special request, we will be able to arrange it for you.
Do you take requests?
Yes, all groups invite special requests.
My fiancé and I have a favorite song. Can you play it at our wedding?
Yes. Some requests need advanced notice to appropriate the music. And, some requests require a special arrangement for the performing ensemble. These special arrangements incur a fee of $50 per song.
My cousin Sophie is a singer. Can your group play our favorite song with her when she sings it at our wedding?
This would depend on the song and cousin Sophie's expertise. That said, we do accompany most singers. Our rehearsal time is limited, so, the better prepared the singer, the better the performance.
Where can I hear your group?
To hear a sample of a string quartet, you may listen to our demo CD which is available through this website free of charge. To listen to, download, or order a free copy of our demo CD, please visit our Free Demo CD page.
Do you do live auditions?
If you are interested in hiring a group on a weekly or bi-monthly basis, we will come and play a live audition. However, for one-time engagements, the demo CD works well.
What kind of groups can I choose from for my event?
We can provide any combination of instruments for your needs, provided music is available for that combination. Our specialty is string groups, such as quartets, trios, and duos. These groups feature violins, a viola, and a cello. A quartet has two violins, a viola, and a cello. A trio has one violin, a viola, and a cello. Sometimes a flute is substituted for one of the violins, especially in a quartet or trio. A very popular group combination is two violins and a cello. However, for the best selection of literature, and the fullest sound, the traditional string quartet is the best choice. Often, a bride will add a trumpet to a string quartet for use in the fanfares of the wedding ceremony. Some brides like the sound of a harp, or guitar added to the strings.
How many musicians should I hire to play at my event?
This would depend on what kind of event you are having, and how much space you can provide at your venue, and how much money you want to spend. The average bride hires 3-5 musicians, while the host of a retirement party may hire a small dance band of 8-10 musicians. For a cost estimate, based on the length of time and number of musicians hired, please visit our Price Guidelines page.
My fiancé and I have a favorite song. Can you play it at our wedding?
Yes. Some requests need advanced notice to appropriate the music. And, some requests require a special arrangement for the performing ensemble. These special arrangements incur a fee of $50 per song.
My fiancé loves the guitar, and I've always wanted a string quartet to play at my wedding. How can we both get what we want?
Many brides hire a guitar or harp player to play during the larger groups' breaks. Thus, you get continuous music and variety as well.
Do you provide your own amplification?
We have our own amplification system which we provide, at no charge. If more than one sound amplification system is needed at the event, then a nominal fee of $50 will be charged. You can find more information on the extra charge of the amplification system on our Pricing page.
We will have our own amplification system at our event. Will your group be able to use our system?
Yes, we should be able to work with any amplification system you provide.
What do I need to provide for your group at my party or wedding?
You will need to provide each of us with an armless chair. We need approximately 12 X 12 sq ft. of playing space for the average quartet. Preferably, this space should be out of traffic paths. If the lighting is poor, we will provide our own lights, but we will need an electrical outlet within ten to twelve feet of the playing area. Details are available on our Service Guidelines page.
My party will be on the patio in the afternoon. Is this a problem?
No, as long as you provide the group with enough umbrellas, or a shade device to allow each member to be covered from the direct sunlight. We will even set up on lawns under large trees provided the ground is level. See our Service Guidelines page for details.
