What ensembles does Front Range Strings offer?
Our most popular ensembles are the string quartet, string trio, and string duo. However, if you have another instrument combination in mind, please let us know. We can often accommodate such requests.
String Quartet: two violins, viola, cello (see repertoire)
String Trio: two violins and cello, or violin, viola, cello (see repertoire)
String Duo: two violins, or violin, cello (see repertoire)
Which combination of instruments is best for my ceremony?
The best combination of instruments for your ceremony depends on the size and location of your venue. We are happy to guide you in choosing the right ensemble. In general, you should choose a quartet or a trio for large weddings and for outdoor ceremonies, as these ensembles deliver a richer, fuller sound. Duos should be reserved for smaller, more intimate gatherings. Listen Now
For what length of time do I need to book Front Range Strings?
For wedding ceremonies, we recommend a minimum of one hour. A one hour engagement typically includes 15 to 30 minutes of prelude music as your guests are being seated, music for the ceremony itself, and postlude music as your guests exit. If you anticipate that your ceremony will be more than 20 minutes in length, then you may wish to reserve our group for a longer period of time.
Can you perform for my cocktail hour or reception as well?
Absolutely! String music creates an elegant backdrop as guests mingle during cocktail hour and enjoy dinner at the reception. Our extensive library contains many hours of music in a variety of styles, so we can create just the mood you want. In addition, after the initial one hour engagement for the ceremony, our fee drops for addition hours, making it very affordable to have beautiful music for the whole of your event.
Will you perform outdoors?
Yes! We perform outdoors frequently. In order to protect our instruments, we do need complete shade, cover, and moderate temperatures. If you are planning an outdoor event, please let us know so we can discuss the details with you. We have several suggestions that can help ensure that your outdoor ceremony goes as planned. Please read the details on our outdoor policies here.
Will you travel to a venue outside of metro Denver/Boulder/Colorado Springs area?
Yes! We will travel to any venue in Colorado. We play frequently in Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Vail, Avon, Beaver Creek, Winter Park, Loveland, Fort Collins, and many other beautiful and sought-after wedding destinations. Whether your venue is a hotel ballroom, a country church, or a mountain top, we can provide the music. Our travel fees are very reasonable. Let us know where you’re getting married, and we can give you an exact quote.
I have a certain atmosphere or mood I’d like to create for my ceremony. Can you guide me in selecting pieces of music?
Of course! We can help you create the wedding of your dreams. Because we want you to be completely comfortable with the music you choose, all of our Wedding Music Packages include an in-depth personal consultation with our expert music coordinator. Whether you prefer to choose one of our Signature Wedding Programs, or to design your own unique program of music, we’ll work with you to ensure that your music compliments your day perfectly.
Which parts of the ceremony require music? Do I need to select each of these pieces myself?
Typically, specific songs are agreed upon for the following parts of the ceremony:
- Seating of the families
- Wedding party processional
- Bridal/couple processional
- Unity candle or communion
- Recessional
Some couples already have pieces in mind and select each song individually; others just envision a certain mood for their ceremony and find that one of Signature Wedding Programs is the easiest way to create the atmosphere they want. During your consultation, we will help you to determine just how creative you want to get. Whether you prefer to manage every detail yourself, or to delegate some of the decision making to us, we can recommend a Wedding Music Package to suit your needs.
Use our easy music planning worksheet to give our music coordinator a little bit of information about your venue, the size of your gathering, and your tastes. Then, we’ll work with you to make sure your music compliments your day perfectly.
Do I need to choose music for the prelude and postlude as well?
Most couples leave this up to us. We perform the prelude and postlude music as your guests mingle, as they are seated, and as they exit. Because this music serves to create an atmosphere rather than to accompany a specific part of the ceremony, we find that it sometimes works best when we choose pieces moment by moment, according to the “feel” of the gathering. We are very experienced at knowing just when a lively upbeat piece may be called for, and when something slower and more reflective is appropriate.
I have a particular piece of music in mind that I really want played at my wedding. Can you accommodate requests?
Yes! We want your day to be unique, and our extensive repertoire includes hundreds of songs. It’s very likely that we already have the piece you’re looking for in our library. If you would like a piece performed that is not in our library, we are happy to either purchase the music or arrange it ourselves when you choose the Prodigy Package.
I want my sister to sing at my wedding/the organist is included with the church fee. Can you perform with a vocalist/organist?
Yes. Sometimes string music is the perfect compliment to the other performers you wish to include in your ceremony. We are very flexible and can work with musicians of all kinds. Please let us know what you have in mind, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
What are your policies for outdoor performances?
Please read the details on our outdoor policies here.
Will you attend the wedding rehearsal?
For most weddings, we do not find it necessary to attend the rehearsal. We are very experienced at playing for weddings and can ensure that everything runs smoothly by addressing a few details during your consultation. If it would give you greater peace of mind, our wedding music coordinator can attend the rehearsal for an additional fee.
What do the musicians wear?
The musicians wear formal black attire. We always have a polished, professional look.
When will the musicians arrive?
The musicians will arrive approximately 30 minutes before they are scheduled to begin playing.
What do you require at the venue?
You will only need to provide us with a set of armless chairs and a well-lighted performing area. We provide the music stands, instruments, and other equipment we need to perform. We usually play without amplification for a warmer, more natural sound. Should you desire an amplification system, you must provide one.
What if one of the musicians is ill on the day of my event? I want everything to be perfect.
Not to worry! We have a long roster of accomplished musicians who play with us frequently and know our repertoire well. These musicians are ready to stand in should one of our members be unable to perform. When you book Front Range Strings, you can be confident that everything will go as planned.
How far in advance do I need to book your group?
It is not uncommon for couples to reserve their date with us six months to one year in advance. However, we are delighted to speak with couples who are working within a shorter time frame as well. The earlier you contact us, of course, the more likely we are to be available for your date and time. Spring and summer weekends fill up especially quickly.
Will I receive a contract?
Yes. When you book Front Range Strings, you are hiring reliable, professional musicians. You will receive a contract that outlines the details of our agreement to perform at your event. The contract ensures that you know exactly what to expect, and allows us to provide you with the highest level of service.
Is a deposit required?
Yes. We require a $200 non-refundable deposit to reserve your date.
When is the balance due?
The balance is due 30 days prior to your event. In our experience, it’s easier to fully enjoy your wedding when you’ve already taken care of the details.