photo by John Andrews Photograhy
What’s included when I book Elle Musique for my wedding?
When you select Elle Musique, you are receiving over 20 years of wedding music expertise. Our comprehensive services are included in all wedding packages:
- unlimited music selection consultation (we can meet in person, or handle details via phone & email)
- 20 minutes of prelude music prior to processional
- special selections* during your ceremony
- 10 minutes of postlude music following recessional
Are you also available to play the cocktail hour or reception following the ceremony?
Yes – it’s always fun for us to see the big party after the big event! We also offers discounts if the ceremony and cocktail hour are held at the same venue.
Can I hire two different ensembles for my ceremony and reception?
Absolutely. We’ve had couples who’ve hired a string quartet to play their ceremony and a string trio to play their cocktail hour/reception. Others have booked a duo for their ceremony and a trio or quartet for their cocktail hour/reception.
What if my wedding and reception are in two different locations?
We often play weddings where travel is necessary between the ceremony and reception. Since we are booked by the event, there are no additional travel fees if it’s within a short distance from the ceremony venue.
How long do you play before and after the ceremony?
We usually provide 20 minutes of prelude music prior to the start of the ceremony. This allows ample time for your guests to be seated. After the ceremony, we provide approximately 10 minutes of postlude music.
What if my wedding starts late?
In the rare event that your wedding ceremony is delayed, we have extra prelude music to serenade guests with while they wait. And don’t worry – no musicians will leave in the middle of your ceremony because we never book weddings back to back. Please keep in mind that overtime is charged at the rate of $25 per musician per half hour.
How do I choose the music for our wedding?
It’s your special day – we will assist you in selecting music that reflects your taste and style or creates the ambience you desire. We offer recommendations for each segment of your ceremony, from start to finish. For your convenience, we’ve created a wealth of resources (available on our client website) to guide you in your music selection. Be sure to check with the music director of your church or synagogue for any music restrictions. Once you’ve finalized your choices, please complete and return our convenient online Wedding Music Planner.
Do you attend the wedding rehearsal?
In our experience, we find it is not usually necessary for our musicians to attend the wedding rehearsal. If requested, we will arrange for an Elle Musique member to attend your rehearsal, pending no schedule conflicts (an additional fee applies for this service).
What set up do you require for peformance?
We need one armless chair per musician and a 10′x10′ area free of pedestrian traffic. We have battery-operated lights for low lighting conditions. If we are using our 150 watt PA system, we also need access to an electrical outlet (we also offer battery powered amplification).
What time do you arrive before your scheduled performance time?
We typically arrive 30-40 minutes before our start time to set up, warm up and go over any last minute details with your event planner and/or officiant.
What is your attire?
We dress in formal black, unless you request other colors.
Do you perform outdoors?
Yes, we love playing outdoors. We do, however, need temperatures of at least 65 degrees, shade from direct sunlight and protection from rain or mist as these conditions can damage our instruments. If your venue has no protection, we recently purchased a portable canopy for sun protection.
Do you require breaks?
For wedding ceremonies, we do not require breaks. For reception and party bookings of 2 hours or more, we require one 10 minute break for every 50 minutes of playing. This ensures that we perform our best and don’t sustain any playing injuries. If the quartet is booked, we can also arrange for continuous music by breaking into smaller ensembles (duo or trio).
Do you play with amplification?
For most ceremonies, the acoustics of the venue rarely require us to play with amplification. For receptions and parties, we recommend our ensemble play with amplification if the venue has poor acoustics (ex. – carpeting) or if a large number of guests will be in attendance. It’s wonderful when everyone can enjoy the music you so carefully planned! Our PA system is suitable for events with up to 150 people. We also have a wireless microphone which you are welcome to use for speeches or toasts.
Do you perform with singers or other instrumentalists?
Yes, we often accommodate requests to perform with singers and other instrumentalists. Our quartet also includes a pianist who is available for accompanying. We can recommend specific musicians, play with others you’ve booked or even play with guests attending your event. We discuss the musical selections with all parties, then meet for a rehearsal before the start time to ensure a polished performance. There is a $25 fee per musician for the additional rehearsal time.
What if an Elle Musique member has a schedule conflict or is ill?
In the event of schedule conflict or illness, we have professional musicians ready to substitute for Elle Musique members.
Do we need to meet in person?
We love meeting clients in person, but can easily handle booking and planning details via email and/or phone if preferred.
Will you help with the music selection?
With pleasure! We know that the music selection process can seem daunting, but we will walk you through it, offering suggestions to help you personalize your event. If you prefer, we can also select the music for you.
How does Elle Musique differ from other music ensemble companies?
Elle Musique is not a book agency. You work directly with us, guaranteeing that each detail is covered. Our fees are also lower than those of a book agency as there is no “middleman” to pay. The members of Elle Musique have played together for years. We have developed a unique musical relationship, resulting an a dynamic, polished sound. Booking agencies often contract individual musicians to play an event (not a pre-formed well-rehearsed ensemble). In addition, we’ve performed at hundreds of events, and can assure you our professional experience is extensive and diverse.
