Question 1

What instruments make up a string quartet?

Answer

2 violins, a viola and a cello.

Question 2

What do string quartets require?

Answer

String quartets will require chairs — armless dining chairs are perfect. String quartets do not provide their own lighting, so they will need good overhead lighting (please note that candles are not sufficiently bright). They will also require a secure dressing room to change and leave belongings. Some string quartets will request some simple food and drink on the day, especially at longer bookings. Your string quartet will usually make you aware of this in advance of the event.

Question 3

Can string quartets play outdoors?

Answer

Yes, most string quartets will be able to play outside during the summer months (May to September) but please bear the following in mind. String quartets require a completely flat surface, so if they are playing on grass, please check that it is a level surface. There should be cover from the elements. If it becomes too cold for playing outdoors (anything below about 16°C), the string quartet may request to move indoors as the cold can damage their instruments.

Question 4

Do string quartets use a PA system?

Answer

Generally, string quartets don’t use any amplification, but if your event has a large number of guests and your venue has a PA system, they may be able to liaise with venue staff so the instruments are ‘miked up’.

Question 5

Do some string quartets offer a trio or duo option?

Answer

Some string quartets offer the option to reduce in size to a trio or a duo. The primary advantage of this to the booker is the lower cost of these options. A trio usually consists of a violin, viola and cello, but can also consist of 2 violins and a cello. A duo will often be made up of a violin and cello. These options are also suitable for venues with limited performance space. Please note though, that trios and duos usually have more limited repertoire than full quartets. With regard to sound, there isn't much noticeable difference between a string trio and full string quartet.

Question 6

Can string quartets arrange a particular song request I would like to be played?

Answer

Most string quartets offer this as an option if the request is not on their repertoire list. There will probably be a charge for the arrangement and rehearsal of your requested song(s).

Question 7

Do string quartets always use the same players?

Answer

Very few quartets will always use the same four players, as most string quartet players are freelancers will other commitments. Most string quartets have a small pool of trusted musicians who can deputise if some regular members are unavailable.

Question 8

How much space do string quartets require?

Answer

2m x 3m is ideal for the performance area.

Question 9

Where can the string quartets perform?

Answer

FixTheMusic has selected Europe's best string quartets and made it easy for you to book them for your wedding or event. Our string groups are available from London and the south east (Kent, Hampshire, Surrey and Sussex) to the Midlands and further north (including in Liverpool, Manchester and Leeds). Tell us about your event and amazing string ensembles will get in touch with you with a bespoke offer for your event.

Question 10

Can the string quartet play in more than one location on the day?

Answer

This is certainly possible but needs to be discussed in advance of the event. Each location will need chairs and allow several minutes for the string quartet to set up after they move.

Question 11

Do some string quartets play on electric instruments?

Answer

A variation on the traditional string quartet is the electric string quartet with players performing on electric instruments. Many string quartets can offer this as an option. Electric string quartets offer a more visually engaging and contemporary feel. They are also suitable if your event has a large number of guests as they can amplify their sound to accommodate the extra background noise.

Question 12

How long do string quartets take to set up?

Answer

String quartets will usually arrive at least 45 mins before they are due to play, to allow enough time to set up.

Question 13

Can we come and hear the string quartet play somewhere before we book?

Answer

This is not possible as most string quartets only play at private functions. You should only book a string quartet with excellent audio and video samples.

Question 14

Do string quartets take breaks?

Answer

Yes, string quartets usually take a 10-15 minute break every 45 minutes to an hour. They may require longer breaks for longer bookings. It is best to leave the exact timing of breaks to the string quartet, as they will be able to judge this appropriately.

Question 15

Can string quartets be booked for 1 hour or less?

Answer

Yes, but the price will usually be the same as a 2-hour booking. For best value, you should book a string quartet for at least 2 hours.

Question 16

What do string quartet players wear?

Answer

String quartet players usually wear formal attire, but they can often accommodate your own dress requirements if notified well in advance of the event.

Question 17

Can string quartets perform instrumental pop covers from Netflix's Bridgerton television series?

Answer

String quartets are certainly able to perform pop covers made famous by Vitamin String Quartet and featured in the Bridgerton TV series. Popular covers from Bridgerton include songs by Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish and Taylor Swift. With the increasing popularity of this TV series, many clients are requesting string quartet covers of these songs for weddings in the UK.

Question 18

How can I hire a string quartet for my event?

Answer

Make an enquiry on FixTheMusic (we're a free platform for hiring oustranding professional musicians) and available string quartets will send you their offers within a matter of hours.

Question 19

Do string quartets have public liability insurance?

Answer

Yes – all FixTheMusic string quartets have public liability insurance, usually of up to 10 million GBP/EUR.