Frequently Asked Questions
This page is to help you in answering some questions you might have. Please contact us if you require any further information.
How do we book?
Please get in touch, and we will send you our availability, fees and a reservation form. Complete the reservation form, email it to us and we shall respond with a booking confirmation and the ways in which you can pay the non-refundable deposit of £99. A small part of the balance is payable 14 days before your event and the remainder is payable on the night.
Why do prices vary between different string quartets?
Pricing corresponds to the level of professionalism and experience. We offer a unique service, owning the largest string quartet repertoires we know of in Britain. Underlying this performing experience is many years of national and international concert performances as individual musicians. The result of our level of professionalism will be more than evident at your function. We are confident and capable in any setting from church services to garden parties.
Will you perform outside, and do you have any requirements?
If requested we would be delighted to perform outside. The British weather however presents its own unique challenges at all times of the year. Being professional musicians we perform using the finest instruments sometimes having a combined value of over £100,000. They are irreplaceable and must be protected from UV rays (Sun) and rain, making outside cover essential. Being unable to perform in the open, a marquee, awning, large umbrella, extended canopy or the inside of a doorway is required. Level ground, protection from high winds, adequate lighting and 4 chairs without arms are also necessary. Performances may be moved indoors due to weather conditions.
How long can we book you for?
We normally take bookings for between one and six hours, although as a general rule we have no maximum length of booking.
Will you attend any rehearsals for our wedding ceremony?
We do not normally attend wedding rehearsals. Having played at hundreds of weddings, this is not normally necessary. Our vast experience and flexibility mean we will be in step with what is happening during the ceremony. We are highly skilled in timing the processional music to the right length. We may discuss preferences and details regarding the ceremony with you by phone or email in the weeks leading up to the ceremony. On the day, we liaise with the registrar or Vicar, for example, for cues. If you still require attendance and advice at a rehearsal, there is a minimum charge of £120 plus travel costs for consultation of up to 2 hours at your venue(s).
What does a string quartet consist of?
A string quartet is made up of two violins, a viola and a cello.
Will you perform at more than one venue?
Yes we often travel between more than one venue. If required this would be done within the total time period that you book us for.
How many breaks will you take?
We would normally take a 15 minute break for every two hours booked. For example during a four hour booking we would take one 15 minute break at a convenient time so as not to disrupt your event. For a two hour booking we would not take any breaks unless we were requested to perform as two one hour sets.
What is your attire?
We are well-presented and highly experienced musicians. Our usual attire is formal black, but we can wear brighter colours if you prefer.
We would like some music which isn't on your repertoires lists?
We can obtain it for you! We offer a professional music arrangement service for pieces which we don't have in our repertoires. We would normally require 1 months notice, and there would be an arrangement fee charged by the professional arranger for this service. Please contact us for further information.
Do you play at other events other than weddings?
Yes. We are regularly booked to play at corporate events and a wide range of private functions including parties, anniversaries, business dinners and trade shows.