String Quartet FAQ (Ireland)

Everything couples and event planners ask about hiring a string quartet — costs, setup, repertoire, bookings & more.

General Questions

1. What instruments are in a string quartet?

If we are to be technical about this then a “String quartet, is a musical composition for two violins, viola, and cello in several (usually four) movements. It has been the predominant genre of chamber music since about 1750.” according to the Encyclopedia Britannica.

What instruments are in a string quartet?

Possibly the most famous contemporary string quartet is the Vitamin String Quartet.

They record covers of pop music. My own personal favourite would be their cover of ‘Somewhere Only We Know’ by Keane. Have a listen!

2. What is the difference between the quartet and a trio?

Typically, a trio is violin, viola and cello. Consider:

Less repertoire exists for string trio than quartet
Sound is not as full or rich as a quartet
Cost for a string trio is usually lower

3. What kind of events do string quartets play for?

String quartets in Ireland commonly play:

Wedding ceremonies
Champagne / drinks receptions
Corporate events
Private functions/parties
Funerals

4. Can a string quartet provide testimonials and reviews?

Yes — check the quartet’s website and their Google Business Profile. A quick Google search for the quartet’s name usually surfaces reviews.

5. How does a string quartet dress?

Professionals usually perform in black tie. Many can accommodate specific themes on request.

Typical concert attire for a string quartet

6. What areas does a string quartet usually cover?

Local is best for value. A Dublin quartet will often travel up to ~2 hours; greater distances add travel/time costs.

7. What time will the quartet arrive?

Typically ~1 hour before start time to set up and be ready as guests arrive.

Arrival and setup timing for a string quartet

8. What happens if a member gets sick?

Quartets arrange a professional deputy (“dep”) to cover. This is standard practice.

Equipment & Setup | Venue Questions

9. How much space does a string quartet need?

About 2m × 3m, on a flat, well-lit surface.

Typical 2 by 3 metre footprint needed for a quartet

10. Can a string quartet play outdoors?

Yes, weather permitting — provide shade and a dry surface. Instruments must be protected from heat and moisture.

String quartet performing under a gazebo outdoors

11. Would a tent be sufficient backup in case of rain?

Not usually. Rain + humidity are bad for string instruments. Always have an indoor Plan B.

12. Does a quartet need chairs?

Yes — four armless chairs. Venues almost always provide them.

Armless chairs required for quartet seating

13. My ceremony & reception are in different locations — how is that charged?

Quotes include travel/turnaround time between venues.

14. Do I need to provide food?

Optional for short bookings; appreciated for longer bookings (ceremony + reception/meal).

15. Do quartets need a PA?

Not for ceremonies or typical receptions. Large corporate events may require liaison with the AV team.

Booking Questions

16. How much does it cost to hire a string quartet?

Rule of thumb from ~€600. Final price depends on duration, travel, date, and any special requests.

Typical pricing range for string quartets

17. Do quartets charge travel fees?

Yes — often itemised or included within the total.

18. Typical prices for ceremony/reception?

Varies by ceremony type and location. A local quartet offers the best value.

Example: string quartet wedding prices in Cork

Civil ceremony: €600–€700
Humanist ceremony: €600–€700
Church ceremony: €650–€750
Reception: €650–€750
Civil ceremony + reception (same venue): €950–€1,100
Church ceremony + reception (two venues): €1,050–€1,200

19. Will I need to pay a deposit?

Yes — often €50–€200 to secure the date (online payment or bank transfer).

20. How far in advance should I book?

Book as early as possible. Bank holiday weekends can fill 12+ months out; mid-week dates have more availability.

21. Why do prices vary between quartets?

Distance, date, and the quartet’s experience/popularity all influence pricing.

22. Do string quartets play at wedding receptions?

Yes. Many couples book ceremony + reception for continuity and better value.

Quartet providing wedding reception music

23. What is the cancellation policy?

Policies vary. Deposits are generally non-refundable; date changes are usually possible if the quartet is available.

24. Do quartets perform beyond weddings?

Absolutely — graduations, corporate events, TV/film, and recording sessions are all common.

25. Do I need to meet in person?

No. Most details are handled by email/phone/Zoom. Repertoire lists are typically on the quartet’s site.

Music & Repertoire

26. What do quartets play for receptions/dinners?

Usually a blend of classical and popular music — tailored to your preferences.

Reception playlist ideas for string quartet

27. Can a quartet play special requests?

Yes if sheet music exists; custom arrangements may be possible (often with a fee).

28. Is a string quartet a good idea for a wedding?

It’s one of the most popular options — elegant, versatile, and can accompany a singer/instrument.

29. Can they play seasonal music (e.g., Christmas carols)?

Yes — it adds lovely atmosphere.

30. What is the most popular classical wedding repertoire?

Pachelbel — Canon in D
Ave Maria — Bach or Gounod
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring — Bach
Hallelujah — Leonard Cohen
Bridal Chorus (Entrance) — Wagner
Air — Bach
Amazing Grace — John Newton
Mendelssohn — Wedding March

31. What are the popular pop songs for wedding string quartets?

Marry You — Bruno Mars
All You Need Is Love — The Beatles
Don’t Stop Believin’ — Journey
Dreams — Fleetwood Mac
Perfect — Ed Sheeran
Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) — Stevie Wonder
All of Me — John Legend
A Thousand Years — Christina Perri

32. I’m not sure what type of music I want. Where can I go for ideas?

That’s easy — browse the ChurchMusic.ie string quartet page for audio/video ideas.

33. Can a string quartet play with a singer?

Yes. Quartets regularly accompany vocalists and can recommend singers. If you have your own singer, introduce them early to coordinate. Friends/relatives can also be accompanied.

34. When should we make the music selections?

Start thinking ~6 months ahead; most quartets need final picks about one month before.

String Quartet Wedding Music Questions

35. Which parts of a wedding ceremony need music?

Typical church ceremony (7–8 pieces):

Processional
Lighting of the Candles
Offertory
Sign of Peace
Communion (x2)
Signing of the Register
Recessional

Civil ceremony (4–5 pieces), for example:

Processional
Candles (or similar)
Between Readings
Signing of Register
Recessional

36. My wedding is only 20 minutes long. Can I get a discount?

Quartets usually charge a day/session rate, as they can’t take another booking for that date.

37. I’m having a full Catholic wedding Mass — extra charges?

Quartets are familiar with the Mass format. Fees assume a reasonably punctual start time.

38. Will the string quartet need to attend the wedding rehearsal?

Not necessary. Any special notes can be handled with the celebrant on the day.

39. How will the quartet know when to start the music?

Usually the photographer gives the nod to begin the processional; the quartet checks in with celebrant & photographer.

40. What happens if my selected processional is longer/shorter?

Quartets extend or musically “button” pieces to fit real-world timings.

41. Can you accompany a vocalist or solo instrument?

Yes — with notice (ideally 3 months). Extra rehearsals in advance may incur a fee.

42. How long will the quartet play for the prelude?

Usually ~20 minutes.

43. What if the wedding starts late?

A brief delay is fine; 30+ minutes late may incur extra charges (see your agreement).

44. How many pieces are needed for the recessional?

One is standard; a second can often be accommodated if requested.

String Quartet Funeral Music Questions

45. How much notice does a string quartet need for a funeral?

As much as possible; 24 hours is often workable. Phone and email together are best.

String quartet providing music at a funeral

46. What music can a quartet play for a funeral ceremony?

Quartets can perform the regular selection of church music for funerals. If suitable sheet music is available, specific requests are often possible.

47. How much will a string quartet cost for a funeral?

Typically €600–€700 depending on location and logistics.

48. Can string quartets organise a singer for a funeral?

Yes — quartets often work with regular vocalists and can organise this. Also see our guide to classical church songs.

↑ Back to top

From the blog