String Quartets

Typically, the string quartet will wear all-black, although they can easily plan an outfit that fits your events dress code, such as a summer outfit or traditional dress.

A string quartet will not need much space–provide an area of approximately 2 x 3 meters with chairs set in a semi-circle, and ensure that the chairs have no armrests so they can move their arms freely while performing. The standard layout for an ensemble is to sit in a semi-circle facing the guests. Looking from the guests perspective first will be a violin on the left, second violin to the right of that, then followed by the viola, and finally, the cello is on the right. If you are holding your wedding or corporate event outdoors, your musicians will require some cover like a gazebo especially, if it is likely to be a hot day.

​You can take a look at the best string quartets on our website, check out their videos and repertoires, and where they are based. You can have a choice of acoustic or electric quartets for weddings and corporate entertainment. Go to our get in touch page and provide as much information as possible about your event, and we will get you the best price possible for your quartet, trio, or duo.

An average cost for a classically trained string quartet for weddings is between £600 and £900. It would typically cover the arrival of guests at the ceremony and music while signing the register and for the afternoon drinks reception.
The price will be determined by, the distance the musicians will have to travel and the time of year. There is also the option of a string trio which includes two violins to harmonise with each other and a cello to provide a strong bass line in the background. Then there is the option for a string duo ensemble which can be a choice of the violin for the melody, and a cello for the bass line or two violins, which will create a stronger harmony and can play of each other. Finally, a solo musician could be a violinist or a cellist, or possibly another string instrument.

​Refreshments such as soft drinks, tea or coffee, and food in some cases if it is likely to be a long day like for some corporate events which may run for some time.
Check that they can park as close to the venue as possible to save time unloading their instruments.
In the summer months, weddings are often outdoors, but it is worth noting that your musicians will need some shade to perform under like a gazebo. Also, remember that musicians will not be able to play outside in cold weather. If you hire an electric string quartet, then an electrical supply will be required in proximity to their performance area.
​Make sure all chairs have no armrests as we discussed earlier, and if possible, check if the venue has somewhere for them to change.

All our string ensembles and any other live bands for hire will have deputies to cover any musician that cannot make the day of the event through illness or for any over reason.

The simple answer is yes, we think it is a good idea to speak to the musicians beforehand to check on the finer details you may require for your event. With the best string quartets available, it is always a good idea once you have a date in place for a wedding or an event to book a string quartet or any artists as early as possible, especially if it falls between the months of May-October, which is the wedding season.

If you hire an acoustic string quartet, then they will not require any technical equipment or PA system, but they will bring it themselves if you request it. As for an electric string quartet a PA is included in the price as standard.

All our wedding musicians, acousticwedding singers and string quartets have full public liability insurance.

​Booking a string quartet, or to hire a band is simple through Music8. A deposit will be required to secure the services of your musicians, payable by bank transfer. We will then have a contract drawn up for you and the musicians. Final payment of the outstanding balance will be required the week of the event.
Please feel free to get in touch for a free no-obligation quote.
If you require any information on any of our string quartets, please do get in touch. We are always happy to help. We can accommodate your budget, with the options of a quartet, trio, or duo, and even a soloist.