The Essential Guide to Hiring a Wedding String Quartet (2025)
Live string music can bring a deeply personal, emotional atmosphere to your wedding; one that a playlist just can’t match.
Based entirely on genuine conversations between UK couples and string quartets hired on FixTheMusic, this guide shares real insights, quotes and tips to help you book the perfect ensemble for your big day.
TL;DR
- Typical price range: £600–£2,200 depending on group size and booking length
- When to book: 9–12 months in advance, especially for summer weekends
- Line-up options: Duo (budget), Trio (balanced), Quartet (fullest sound)
- Popular repertoire: Classical, Bridgerton-style pop, movie & game music, cultural songs
- Outdoor-friendly: Yes, if dry and shaded with temps above 16°C
- Custom song requests: Welcome, often for a small fee
- Trusted UK quartets on FixTheMusic: Angel Strings, Aphrodite Strings, Cymru String Quartet, The Manchester String Quartet
View more videos and read verified reviews of The Paragon String Quartet ➡️
Why Hire a String Quartet?
A great quartet adds more than just music. It sets the mood and connects with guests across generations. Whether it's a classical entrance or a surprise Bridgerton-style cover of your favourite pop track, string quartets are both versatile and impactful. One bride from London described it perfectly: "I got emotional when I saw you can play ‘Fadl Shaker’ – this is one of my favourite songs." Another couple planned a drinks reception set that blended Bridgerton covers with Ibiza anthems: a classy twist that delighted their guests.
Quartets typically cover all parts of the day:
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Ceremony: live music as guests arrive, for the processional, signing and exit
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Drinks reception: upbeat background set
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Wedding breakfast: light pop, jazz, or classical
They require minimal setup (just 4 armless chairs), no amplification for most venues, and suit everything from stately homes to intimate gardens.
Booking Timeline
Top string quartets in the UK (like Angel Strings or Aphrodite Strings) are often booked 9–12 months ahead, especially for summer Saturdays. Many couples on FixTheMusic confirm their quartet right after securing the venue. Using the platform lets you contact multiple groups with one enquiry and compare quotes quickly.
Prices: What to Expect
Pricing depends on group size, location, and duration. As a guide:
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A string duo for a ceremony only typically costs £600–£900.
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A string trio covering ceremony and drinks reception ranges from £1,100–£1,500.
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A string quartet for the full day can cost £1,800–£2,200.
For example, Angel Strings quoted £1,500 for a 1.5-hour London reception; their trio option was £1,250 and duo £980. Some quotes may include travel; others may add a small travel fee depending on the location.
View more videos and read verified reviews of Sweden String Quartet ➡️
Duo vs Trio vs Quartet – Which to Choose?
- Quartet (4 players): Full harmony and the richest sound
- Trio (3 players): Balanced and cost-effective
- Duo (2 players): Intimate, ideal for smaller venues or budgets
Many groups confirm a trio is a popular middle ground. “The trio is perfect for any event - a great alternative to a quartet if space or budget is limited,” noted The Manchester String Quartet.
Repertoire & Song Requests
Modern string quartets cover:
- Classical standards (Pachelbel, Vivaldi)
- Pop hits and Bridgerton-style covers
- Movie themes and game music (e.g. Zelda, Harry Potter)
- Cultural pieces (Bollywood, Arabic, Jewish)
Most ensembles are happy to learn custom songs: usually for a small fee (~£20–£40). One bride asked Angel Strings to play a meaningful Arabic song during the ceremony, which they arranged without hesitation. Another couple requested club classics, which were adapted for a drinks reception set with a modern twist.
Song planning is collaborative. One quartet advised:
- Guest arrival (30 mins): 7–10 songs
- Ceremony: 3–5 songs
- Drinks reception: ~20 songs/hour
You don’t need to choose every track. Share your key songs or preferred genres, and let the quartet craft the rest.
Logistics: Setup, Weather & More
- Chairs: 4 armless, provided by venue
- Outdoor play: Fine with cover, shade, and temps >16°C
- Breaks: For longer bookings, typically one 15-min break every 60–75 mins
- Attire: Most quartets wear formal black; some can coordinate colours on request
One bride requested neutral-toned outfits to match a garden theme. Angel Strings responded: "We’ll do our best to coordinate dresses or use black as backup."
View more videos and read verified reviews of Symphonic Strings ➡️
FAQs – Real Questions from Couples
How much space does a string quartet need?
A standard string quartet (4 players) typically requires an area of about 2m x 3m — enough space for four (armless) chairs arranged in a semi-circle and room for music stands. A string trio needs slightly less room, around 2m x 2.5m, while a duo can comfortably perform in a space as small as 1.5m x 2m. All configurations need flat ground, no obstructions and good lighting.
Can we choose the songs?
Yes, either the full set or just your must-haves.
Can they learn a new piece?
Usually, yes. Just give a few weeks’ notice.
Can the string quartet perform outside?
Yes, weather permitting. No rain, with cover and shade.
Do string quartets need power?
No, unless using electric instruments or a PA system (rare).
How long can they play?
Typically up to 3 hours with short breaks. Full-day coverage available.
Do they need food or drinks?
It's appreciated for bookings over 2–3 hours, especially if covering the dinner.
Final Tips from Real Weddings
- Confirm setup details early: Let the quartet know where to arrive, park and set up, especially if the venue has limited access.
- Use their expertise: They’ll guide music timing, adapt to ceremony delays and coordinate with planners or registrars.
- Don't overlook duos/trios: These are cost-effective and still deliver a strong musical impact.
- Trust the process: These musicians have done hundreds of weddings. One bride planning from abroad said, "You’ve been so helpful, I feel much more relaxed now knowing you're taking care of the music."
Highly rated string quartets on FixTheMusic:
With real performers, real conversations and a tailored approach, a string quartet doesn’t just fill the silence. Their music can underscore the most important moments from your big day.
Written using real enquiry threads between UK couples and string quartets on FixTheMusic.
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