Wedding Ceremony Music FAQs

Timing for ceremony groups

wedding musicAll ceremony musicians and ensembles have a one-hour minimum. Traditionally the ceremony is a 15 minute processional, 30-minute ceremony & a 15 minute recessional. Music is generally played during the prelude, the processional and the recessional,

  • Prelude – usually 10 to 15 pieces (20-30 minutes).
  • Processional – customary to play 2 to 4 pieces; one piece during the sitting of grandmothers, one for the bridesmaids and ring bearer, and one for the entrance of the bride.
  • Ceremony – a piece can be played for the lighting of candles
  • Recessional/Postlude – usually 2 to 5 pieces; one for the exit of the new couple and 3 to 4 for family and friends while they are leaving the site
  • Additional time can be added for extended ceremonies or a cocktail hour.

Outdoor performances

Because musical instruments are expensive and delicate, the buyer must provide protection from rain, direct sunlight, excessive temperatures and high winds for the musicians and their property during the entire event. This is primarily for the protection of the instruments; temperatures between 68° and 95° with minimal winds are usually fine. They will make every effort to play in the venue selected; however, if any musician feels they or their instrument is endangered, the musician will move to a safe location until weather conditions improve.

Selecting the music for the wedding

You are encouraged to choose the music for your wedding. Music speaks sometimes more clearly than words. The music you select for your wedding ceremony can be religious, classical or contemporary. For music selections, you should review the ensemble’s repertoire list, listen to the excerpts and make your selections. Do not worry about the length of the music selections as they can shorten or lengthen the music. All of the groups are willing to help you make decisions about music selections and the order for the ceremony. The ensemble leader will be happy to discuss the music and any other logistics for the event.

Do ensembles attend wedding rehearsals?

No. That is not typically possible or necessary. Prior to the wedding, you and the group you chose will go over in detail every aspect of the ceremony. However, it is important that you have someone serving as a coordinator who can help with cues as well as alert the group to any last minute changes when they arrive for the wedding. If you find absolutely necessary for one of the group to attend the wedding rehearsal, an extra fee will be applied.

Does setting up the string quartet is included in the price for one hour? And what does the one-hour price include?

Setting up the quartet is included in the package and not part of the hour of service. In other words, there is no extra charge for setting up time. It takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes to set up the quartet (communicating with wedding organizer, arranging chairs and stands, sitting, tuning instruments, and getting ready).

For example: If the wedding ceremony starts at 6 pm (parents, grandparents, wedding party walk down the isle)

  • The quartet will be at the site of the wedding at 5:10pm
  • Set up at 5:10pm
  • Begin playing at 5:30-5:40pm for the sitting of family and guests *
  • Wedding begins at 6:00pm
  • The quartet may play during some of the parts of the ceremony (lighting of candles or any other parts)
  • The quartet will also play for the recessional and during the time guest and family leave the wedding site

In other words, the amount of money agreed in the contract will cover the time for setting up and specifically the time from the moment we begin playing (*) to the very end of the ceremony. If the wedding takes 10-15 minutes more than the specified time signed in the contract there usually will be no extra charge.


Next Steps…

Contact us for more information on how we can help you to find the perfect music for your wedding, event, or social occasion and answer any questions you may have.

We will promptly provide you with a personalized list of DJs and/or bands that are available for your date with information and pricing.