Ensemble Instrumentation
String Quintet - Two Violins, Viola, Cello, Double Bass
String Quartet - Two Violins, Viola, Cello
String Trio (Traditional) - Violin, Viola, Cello
String Trio - Two Violins, Cello
String Trio - Violin, Viola, Double Bass
String Duo - Violin, Cello
String Soloists - Violin OR Cello
String Quartet with Trumpet
Violin/Guitar/Bass Trio
Violin/Guitar Duo
Other Ensemble Suggestions
Flute/Violin/Guitar Trio
Flute/Violin/Cello Trio
Trumpet/Violin/Cello Trio
Flute/Cello Duo
Choosing the Right Ensemble for You
Below are a few standard wedding selections for strings. Compare the sound of each group performing the same selection. Notice the similarities and differences. How will those similarities and differences affect your decision? Is your wedding ceremony outdoors or indoors? How many guests are you expecting? Are you seating the musicians in front of the guests, behind the guests, or off to the side? Is the group performing at your ceremony only, or at your cocktail hour and dinner as well? These questions will affect how many musicians you want, how "big" or "full" you want their sound to be, and how easy they will be able to move from place to place. Of course, your budget will be a major factor in your decision, but knowing how each group sounds will give you the best chance at finding the perfect ensemble for you.
Strings are by far the most popular instruments for weddings. From the solo violin or cello, all the way to a small orchestra, string ensembles are elegant and can help shape a more traditional atmosphere. That doesn't mean they are limited to classical music. Our strings can perform jazz, popular, and classical melodies to add that touch of personalization to every event. We also offer special string groups that you may not have considered. Protecting the Instruments
To protect stringed instruments from damage, they need to be out of direct sunlight in a shaded area. Direct sunlight tends to fade the varnish of stringed instruments and can also cause cracks and seams to open. If shade is not available, renting an 8' x 8' (for duos/trios) or 10' x 10' (for quartets) canopy may be necessary. We can provide you with the appropriate canopy for a small fee.
Also, to protect against cracks and opening of seams, most stringed instruments should not be in temperatures below 60 degrees F. If you are planning an outdoor wedding in early May or late September, you may need an 8' x 8' or 10' x 10' canopy that has side walls that roll down. Also, have portable heaters ready to go just in case. If it is chilly, just roll down three sides of the canopy, point the opening towards the guests, and turn on the heater.
Strings for the Outdoor Ceremony
Washington Celebrations ensembles perform for many outdoor ceremonies. Our area possesses many beautiful and elegant locations for the perfect outdoor wedding. Weather can bring certain challenges and unpredictable elements to these events. With some advanced planning, an outdoor wedding can go smoothly, even if the weather does not cooperate.
Another variable to consider when planning for an outdoor ceremony is sound projection. Unlike a church or fine concert hall, the outdoors has little acoustic support for the sound of string instruments (Brass Quintets are a great option in this case). Depending on the number of guests you are expecting, sound reinforcement may be necessary to adequately hear string instrumentalists. This can be done either by choosing a larger ensemble (i.e. more instruments) or by using a sound system/PA (amplification). Consider that electrical outlets are sometimes necessary for amplification, although many musicians use battery operated amplifiers. Be sure to communicate your musicians if you feel that sound reinforcement may be necessary. Sound systems can be of great use if you are also planning to mike your officiant. Certainly, we can provide ceremony sound systems at your request.
Even in venues where shaded areas are present, these areas may not be in an optimal place for sound projection (i.e. too far away from the guests). In this case, you may want to use a canopy to have the musicians closer to the guests. Just point the opening of the canopy towards the guests. Also, the sides of the canopy can block the wind, allowing for facilitation of music page turns. A word of warning: if the winds are too strong, canopies can blow away if not well secured!
Sound Projection
Generally speaking, for large outdoor weddings, we recommended a string trio (2 violins/cello or violin/viola/cello), string quartet (2 violins/viola/cello), or trumpet with strings to adequately project the sound. If the wedding is small, a duo (violin/cello, flute/cello) or even a soloist can work just fine.
Proper placement of the instruments is critical. Placing the musicians on or next to a hard surface, such as a patio or against a wall will aid in stronger sound projection. For a large wedding, raising the musicians up on a platform can also help with their projection.
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