How to Choose the Perfect String Ensemble for Your Wedding or Event
QUARTET | TRIO | DUO | SOLO
Choosing the right string ensemble is like picking the perfect outfit for your event — it sets the tone, adds flair, and makes everything feel just right!
Whether you’re tying the knot, hosting a luxe gala, or throwing a chic private dinner, live strings can elevate your event from lovely to goosebumps-worthy. But how do you know which size group is just right? Should you go sleek and simple with a duo, or all-out elegant with a quartet?
Let’s break it down and help you find your musical match made in heaven.
Learn More About Your Options
1. String Soloist: Intimate Elegance
Violin or Cello
BEST FOR:
Smaller events with fewer than 30 guests
Clients or couples on a tighter budget who still want live string music magic to add to the aesthetics
Shorter length bookings — once guests are on a buzz and mingling, voices get louder and the acoustic music gets softer.
To add aesthetic to an intimate setting.
KEEP IN MIND:
The musician will only be playing the melody line of a song or piece of music. Think of it like singer by themselves with no band — there will be no harmonies to accompany the melody.
We don’t accept bookings longer than 1.5 hours for this option.
If you would like to soloist to perform longer, or you know you would like to add backing tracks and amplification, we can arrange this for an extra fee. Please scroll to ‘Budget and Fees’ for more information about our Deluxe Strings package.
2. String Duo: Sweet and Simple
Violin and Cello
BEST FOR:
Smaller events, perfect for those close-knit moments with 50 guests or less.
Spaces where subtlety is key (like a private room or petite chapel)
Clients or couples on a tighter budget who still want live string music magic to add to the aesthetics.
Shorter length bookings — once guests are on a buzz and mingling, voices get louder and the acoustic music gets softer.
KEEP IN MIND:
Less musicians means less volume. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding or cocktail hour with 100 chattering guests, your duo may struggle to be heard — unless you amplify them (psst: we have a blog post all about what’s required for sound gear).
Musical arrangements may feel a little “stripped back” — still lovely, but not as lush as a larger group.
3. String Trio: The Goldilocks Option
Violin, Viola and Cello
BEST FOR:
Medium-sized venues or receptions.
Events with up to 100 guests.
Clients who want a fuller sound but also want to keep an eye on budget, this one’s a great option for you! You’ll still get harmony, texture, and a touch of grandeur — without needing to hire a full quartet.
Here’s a video of our Vivid Strings Trio in action from a recent event with 200 guests (yes, they were amplified by the venue’s AV team — it makes a huge difference!)
4. String Quartet: The Classic Powerhouse (and our favourite!)
Ah, the quartet. Two violins, a viola, and a cello. This is the go-to for those timeless wedding vibes or elegant black-tie events. Full harmony, rich textures, and versatility galore — from Bach to Beyoncé.
BEST FOR:
Large guest lists and venues where sound needs to travel — think up to 150 guests.
Formal ceremonies, receptions, or corporate galas where sound is key! Full harmony, rich textures, and versatility galore — from Bach to Beyoncé.
Clients who want that “wow” factor in not just sound, but visuals too. This is the go-to for those timeless wedding vibes or elegant black-tie events.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Most of our music is originally arranged for quartet, so you get every note as intended — no compromises, just deliciously layered string goodness!
Things to Consider When Choosing!
Venue Size & Setup
Bigger isn’t always better — unless we’re talking about sound coverage. If you’re in a grand ballroom or vast outdoor garden, a string quartet (plus amplification!) may be the way to go. For small chapels or tight corners near the altar, a duo or trio is more practical. It’s always a good idea to let us know your venue and guest count at the time of enquiry so we can assist you in the right ensemble for you — the last thing we want is for you and your guests not to hear us!
And don’t forget to consider where the musicians will sit (and have chairs for us!) If your space is tight, that could affect your ensemble size.
Guest Count
More guests = more chatter = more sound required to rise above the buzz. A string duo might suit an elopement or backyard vow exchange, but if you’re inviting 150+ of your nearest and dearest, treat them to the full-bodied sound of a string quartet.
Budget and Fees
We get it — both weddings and events can add up big time! Our wedding and event music is the same price, so you can rest assured that we don’t add on a ‘wedding tax’.
Here’s an example of our current pricing for a one hour booking in Australia (all GST-inclusive, because nobody likes surprise fees):
• Solo - $800
Duo – $1100
• Trio – $1500
• Quartet – $1800
These prices include all the basics: set-up and pack-down time, music prep, song request from our music list and 30 minutes of travel to your venue. We’re always happy to talk through options that suit your budget and vision.
These prices do not include amplification or backing tracks.
We offer Deluxe Strings options for background music — sleek attire (hired especially for your occasion), standing or roaming, performing alongside backing tracks with amplification. This is perfect if you want the ultimate impact!
• Solo - $1500
Duo – $2500
• Trio – $3500
• Quartet – $4500
These prices include all the basics: musicians, set-up and pack-down time, music prep, coordinated outfits, music requests and 30 minutes of travel to your venue.
We can provide a basic PA setup for these ensembles, or we can work together with the venue’s in-house sound team to have an elevated sound.
Music Style & Repertoire
At Vivid Strings, our music library is written primarily for string quartet. So if you book a duo or trio, we adapt by trimming a part from our arrangements.
Can we still play your dream song as a duo? Most likely yes — 90% of the time, we make it work! Just note that you might miss a few of the harmonic bells and whistles compared to the quartet version. We will let you know if your particular request won’t sound particularly appealing and suggest alternatives.
Want to check a specific song? Just ask! If it’s not in our music list, then we can discuss whether it’s possible to either purchase the chart online or curate it specially with our in-house composer.
…
Whatever you choose, live strings will add heart, atmosphere, and style to your event. And the best part? We’re here to help you decide. Send us your questions, your venue details, your music playlist — we will tailor a recommendation that fits your day perfectly. So, let’s chat! We love talking all things music + events. Drop us a line and we’ll help you find the perfect fit.