Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about the Quartet.

The Carlysle String Quartet on stage.

1) Do you only provide strings, or can we get other instruments as well?

Our common format is all strings, however we have used flute and voice in the past.

The flute can replace the first violinist (the melody line). This works well in all formats: string quartet, string trio, and also duo. All the repertoire remains the same (see repertoire list).

Vocals can also be popular for wedding ceremonies as feature items during the ceremony, and we can provide a soprano or tenor to perform with the strings if you wish.

 

2) What is the difference between a string quartet and a string trio?

A string quartet consists of two violins, a viola, and a cello. A string trio can either consist of two violins and a cello or one violin, viola and cello.

 

3) Should I hire a string quartet or string trio?

It's really up to you. A string trio will be cheaper, however this combination limits the repertoire slightly, and many of the pieces played won't sound quite as nice and complete as a quartet would. Having said this, a string trio is still certainly adequate, and has proved to be a very popular combination for all events.

 

4) What is in a string duo?

A string duo exists as either two violins, or violin and cello. However it's highly recommended that you choose the violin/cello combination, as the repertory is wider for this combination. The added bass of the cello also adds more depth and variety of timbre.

 

5) What about a solo instrument?

This is always an option, although the duo combination is recommended. A solo instrument can sound a little lonely, and has a harder time creating bubbly background music for a celebration! However if a more mellow, reflective mood is what you would like then a solo instrument will be adequate.

Take note that repertoire is much more limited for a solo instrument. If you would like jazzy or popular music, then a string trio or quartet is the way to go. Also, the cost of hiring a soloist is not much less than hiring a string duo, as the rates are higher for solo performance.

 

6) Can we request certain pieces?

Of course. Have a look at our repertoire list, and let us know which pieces from it you would like to be performed. This is especially common for wedding ceremonies. If you request a piece that isn't on our repertoire list and would like us to arrange it for you, sufficient notice must be given, and there will be a small arranging fee.

See our repertoire page for more details and refer to the section on Arrangements.

 

7) Can the Quartet attend the rehearsal for wedding ceremonies?

The Quartet's musicians generally do not attend the rehearsal, as it is normally unnecessary. However, should you have specific directions that require rehearsal, pre-function attendance is possible for an additional fee. The normal arrangement is to discuss the proceedings of the day beforehand, and to arrive 15 minutes before we are scheduled to start playing on the day in order to set up and confirm details. During this time we always meet with the minister or celebrant to touch base.

 

8) Do we need to provide anything for you?

Yes. We need armless chairs provided for us, and sufficient lighting. Lighting is hardly ever an issue, unless you would like us to play outdoors at night. If it is an outdoor event, we require shelter, even if there is no rain. A nice sunny day may be pleasant for all, but our delicate instruments don't like to be exposed to the sun for too long! We need some sort of shade; be aware that a little tree may not be big enough for four musicians!

 

9) What will you wear?

Musicians in the string quartet perform in formal, elegant black.

 

10) Do you need amplification?

No. Amplification tends to cause far more bother than it is worth; even if it's a large party, unamplified will be sufficient. People generally prefer live background music of our nature to be on the soft side rather than too loud!

 

11) Do we have to decide where you will be playing?

No. When we arrive 15 minutes before scheduled to play, this is one of the things we sort out. If you have any preferences, do let us know.

 

12) Will you be playing the entire time?

The musicians require scheduled breaks if booked for longer than an hour. This isn't applicable to wedding ceremonies, as the string quartet isn't playing most of the time. Division of time normally occurs in corporate functions, wedding receptions and parties. We usually play for the first hour straight, then take a ten-minute break, and play until the next hour, etc. If your event includes speeches, we will try to line up our break with the speeches, so that you will get the most playing time possible.

 

13) Do you only play classical music?

No, we have a selection of light pop and jazz as well. These genres work best in string quartet or string trio form. We are happy to arrange pieces for you that we don't have on our repertoire list as a small cost (see repertoire page and refer to the section on Arrangements).

 

14) If the Quartet isn't available for my function, are you able to recommend any other groups?

Certainly. If we are unavailable for your function, we can give you some telephone numbers of other musicians who will be able to help you.