How we work and Frequently Asked Questions

HOW WE WORK

Quote and Schedule

When you receive a quote it includes our preparation, mileage/travel, cartage, set-up, warm-up, and performance time. We arrive approximately one hour before our contracted start time to set up and warm up. Arrival time may vary depending on the complexity of the set-up or if special rehearsal time is needed.

outdoor Instrument protection

We love playing outdoors, especially in beautiful mountain environments! However, please note that our valuable instruments and equipment cannot be exposed to direct sun, high winds, temperatures below 50 degrees, any type of precipitation or extreme weather conditions. Therefore, protection from the elements is required and must be provided by the client.  A large patio type umbrella, pop up tent, extended canopy or inside a doorway is acceptable.

amplification

We will work with you closely to advise about amplification. Many of our ensembles (such as a the classic string quartet) are all acoustic and our sound can fill a large room or travel a fair distance in an outside setting. Amplification is recommended for large outdoor events, with over 150 people. A power source may be required for a contemporary ensemble, depending on instrumentation (such as electric guitar, keyboard, voice). If amplification is necessary or desired, the client is responsible for supplying the sound system with technical support. In most cases, this is easy to arrange.

Booking

If you wish to book, we will send you a Performance Agreement stating the date. time, place, and type of ensemble. It will also let you know our policies and requirements. We require a non-refundable deposit of 50% to confirm your booking. A price list of our services can be provided at your request. The balance is payable 30 days prior to the day of performance. We accept personal checks, PayPal, Zelle, and Venmo transfers. Our rates depend on what kind of ensemble you request and how long we play.  Fees generally range from $1,000-$5,000+.

SONG SELECTIONS

For a wedding ceremony, we’ll ask you for:

  • Prelude music – 6-7 pieces. You can make selections from our repertoire or we can choose for you based on your preference for classical or more pops/contemporary

  • One piece for family, special guests (optional) - The song while family and special guests are being seated. This is optional, and they can also be seated during the last piece of the Prelude.

  • One piece for the Wedding Party - Officiant, bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls, ring bearers

  • One piece for the Bride’s Processional - This is the song the bride will walk down the isle to

  • Interlude (optional) - A piece during the ceremony for a ritual such as a candle lighting, tree planting, prayer, etc.

  • One piece for the Recessional - This is the celebratory song we will play as the couple is officially pronounced and recesses down the isle

  • Postlude (optional) 1-2 pieces while guests depart the ceremony location.

  • Cocktail Reception – 12-15 pieces. You can pick music or make selections from our repertoire. We are also happy to choose music for you based on your preference for classical or more pops/contemporary.

For a corporate event, cocktail party, holiday party, reception, etc…

  • Our ensemble will choose repertoire based on your preference for classical or more pops / contemporary. We are also happy to take specific song requests from our repertoire list and beyond.

FREquently Asked Questions

Can you play special requests which are not included in your repertoire?

Absolutely. We are constantly learning new songs based on demand. If you have a favorite piece of music that is not on the repertoire list, we will attempt to acquire it (subject to availability) or for an additional cost, we can have it specially arranged.

What happens if one of the players is sick or unavailable on the day of the performance?

In this very unlikely scenario, we have a large network of professional musicians, and we can engage a substitute player without compromising the standard of our performance.

Do you attend wedding rehearsals?

There is no need for us to be at your rehearsal. We are experienced and will get information from you in advance, such as the number of people in your wedding party, etc. We time the music according to your needs - each song can be shortened or lengthened and will conclude at the right time for the ceremony to flow smoothly. However, if you wish us to take part in the rehearsal (depending on availability of players) we are happy to do so. Our standard fees would apply.

Do I need to meet with you to discuss our plans?

You are always welcome to meet with Megan, our coordinator, in-person at a mutually available location or over zoom. We enjoy the personal contact, but in most cases, all logistics can be coordinated by email or over the phone.

Can I hear you play before making a booking?

We understand the importance of your desire to receive quality when booking. While we perform over 60 times a year most of our bookings are private, which we respect. All of our players are conservatory trained professionals with years of experience. We plan to have audio and video recordings soon! In the meantime, we are happy to provide you with references, reviews, and testimonials.

If you have any additional questions, please contact us and we would be happy to answer them.