We are frequently asked which ensemble is best. However, there’s not a one-size-fits-all answer to this one!
The string quartet is best known as the classic wedding ensemble which includes two violins, a viola, and a cello. This quartet is the quintessential wedding ensemble. If you want classic traditional elegance, the string quartet is the perfect way to go. While these instruments are two of the most popular options amongst couples on their wedding day, there are many other wonderful options. Since we are on the subject of the string quartet, let’s start there.
String Quartet
The string quartet, comprised of four instruments, is a beautiful ensemble that holds a lot of volume – usually enough volume for 200+ guests at an outdoor ceremony. The string quartet is four string instruments set up into a classic configuration that we recognize from so many wedding movies. The sound is so pretty!
Another advantage to the string quartet is the variety of music arrangements that can be played with a string quartet. For example, if you want some new modern music, you have the best chance of finding it with a string quartet.
The string quartet is versatile. Guests swoon when they hear Canon in D on the string quartet for the bridal entrance, and they cheer when the ensemble surprises the crowd. It can be a classical and modern atmosphere all at the same wedding!
The one drawback: is the budget. Four musicians are more of an investment, but not to worry! We have equally harmonious arrangements that can be played by a string trio, a duet, and a soloist for a wedding ceremony, so you’re being more budget-conscious.
String Trio
The string trio is a string quartet without the viola, which is two violins and a cello. The string trio has volume and illuminates an exquisite sound. An advantage of hiring a string trio is the budget-friendly element compared to that of a quartet.
We find that the trio pulls off the same elegance as the quartet without quite the price tag, so if you want to minimize costs but still give your guests an elegant evening, the string trio is a great option!
While there are slightly fewer modern songs arranged for a trio, we are more than happy to accommodate and can integrate more modern music into the arrangement for your wedding day. Ask about the song list for the trio before booking, and we will do our best to make the wedding music of your dreams become a reality!
Duets
If you want to stick to two musicians and still play some killer covers of pop songs, we recommend pairing a violin with an accompanying instrument! While this is a great option, the violin violin duet is also the most classical duet that we offer. The violin is a melody instrument that plays the vocals. If you pair it with a guitar, a piano, or a harp, then you still have all the melody and the accompaniment. That’s all you need to pull off pop music successfully (well… as long as you have two skilled players who have a lot of experience playing modern music on strings! Pop music is generally not easy to pull off on strings, so make sure you hear video samples first and hire professionals. It’s not as easy as it looks.
Soloist
We play a lot of solo violin at weddings! One helpful tip is to make sure, when you’re browsing YouTube videos for ideas for your solo violinist, that you’re hearing only a violin. Many solo violin recordings have other instruments in the background. It’s important to us that you’re able to hear exactly how that solo violin is going to sound!
A solo violin can be a pure gorgeous sound! Looking to hear a cover of a rock song at your wedding? We do have that option on violin, but it might not quite sound like the original!
Other Soloist Options
The Organ
It never underestimates the impact of a good organist. From the prelude to the exit of the wedding party, a good organist can make your ceremony a beautiful and exhilarating experience. Organists typically provide music (at least in part) from stem to stern, and fortunately, almost any other kind of instrument sounds good to them. If it’s a church wedding, most parishes will have an organist or other musician on staff who will work with you to guide your choices, and in most cases, they’ll also have a Rolodex of instrumentalists on hand if you’d like something more than organ or piano solo.
Brass.
Whether it’s a soloist or a quintet, brass players dress up any part of a service in which they play. From pre-service music to descants on hymns, or dramatic swells as you’re leaving the church, nothing comes close to creating the same experience. Brass players sound good on their own and they sound great with organ.
Cello Solo
Bach Cello Suites and The Swan by Saint-Saens are two very romantic options from the solo cello for a wedding!
Harp Solo
This is a fantastic instrument for creating wonderfully intimate experiences. Even in large spaces, a harp brings a calming effect that can’t be matched. It’s great for quieter portions of the service, including the procession, and can also be used to dramatic effect during songs and hymns. Because the harp is relatively quiet, it can be difficult to balance with other instruments in large spaces. That said, it sounds good with most other instruments as well as simply on its own.
Trumpet
Utilizing the trumpet as a stand-alone instrument allows for a one-of-a-kind performance that will leave your wedding guests in awe.
Guitar Solo
The guitar is so versatile. It offers many songs that sound great and that mimic the originals, and this instrument can be classical or popular.
Piano or Keyboard Solo
If your venue has a piano, take advantage of it! It’s kind of sad to see a piano sitting there and not being played. If your venue doesn’t have a piano, a keyboard rental is a great option!
Flute.
The flute creates a lovely, tender environment that can be as fresh as a day in spring. Like the harp, it tends to be quieter than other instruments, but its higher pitch tends to carry and it can work well with an organ, piano, harp, guitar, or strings.
