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W e d d i n g FAQ's
What
is a string quartet?
A string quartet is an ensemble of four instruments: two violins, a viola, and a cello. Composers have been writing music for this combination of instruments for over 200 years. For weddings, Pachelbel's "Canon" and the "Water Music Suite" by Handel sound wonderful played by a string quartet, as does the music of Bach and Mendelssohn and Wagner. Music of George Gershwin, Andrew Lloyd-Webber, and the Beatles has also been beautifully arranged for this ensemble.
How will a string quartet fit into a wedding celebration?
The sound of a string quartet is smooth, romantic and refined. Whether your event is an intimate gathering or is a lavish formal affair, music can be used to create an elegant atmosphere throughout your special day and will make an impression that will last long after the wedding celebration is over.There are many places where music is the perfect complement:
As your guests gather, prelude music can be uplifting or reflective. Special music can be used to signal the beginning of the wedding ceremony as parents and family members are seated. The bridal party and of course the bride have their own processional music.
During the ceremony, music is often played at the lighting of the unity candle, during a rose presentation, prayer, reading, and Communion, or simply as a solo. The officiator at your service may offer suggestions for appropriate places for music.
Joyful music ends the ceremony and sends the newly married couple out triumphantly!
Following the ceremony, the mood can quickly change for the reception with festive, light, romantic music as guests enjoy their first refreshments.
Later, during a meal, music is proper with every menu. Quieter musical selections are nice as people eat and converse at lunch or dinner. Your choices are endless.
How do I select music especially if I don't know much about
music?
No matter how much or how little you know, your personal taste is vital in deciding what music you want played at each point in your wedding celebration.First, think about the mood and tone you want to set: joyous and uplifting, quiet and reflective, or a combination of each as the celebration unfolds.
Listen to recordings of suggested wedding music. Pay special attention to the music at the next wedding you go to. Look over The Exeter String Quartet repertoire page for ideas.
Contact the quartet business manager who can work directly with you to select music that has special meaning for you and will enhance the occasion. The Exeter String Quartet's repertoire is extensive and varied with music from Baroque to contemporary love songs, and everything in between.
What does The Exeter String Quartet need on the day of
the wedding?
Your event is special, and the quartet will dress appropriately for the occasion. The men will wear black tuxedos, white dinner jackets or dark suits and the women will be in dressy clothes, usually black, floor length if you wish.The quartet requires four chairs with flat seats and no arms, shade if we are outdoors and electricity if we are playing indoors. As we work with you to plan the music, we will talk to the coordinator at the church and/or the reception place to work out these details and to insure a smooth flow.
What other questions do you have?
The Exeter String Quartet has been providing music for weddings and parties for over 15 years. The manager is happy to provide you with information and to offer her expertise and experience as you plan and prepare for your special day.Contact manager Christine Macomber by phone in the San Francisco Bay Area at
(510) 839-3828 or by e-mail at ccpm@california.com
Christine
Macomber, Manager .....
(510)
839-3828
.. . .ccpm@sonic.com