ENSEMBLES FOR HIRE
Musicians and Ensembles for your WEDDING or SPECIAL EVENT in the Pikes Peak Region and along the Front Range in Southern Colorado;
El Paso County including Colorado Springs, Monument, Falcon, Woodland Park, Fountain, Security, Peyton, Black Forest
Our ensembles perform both classical music, as well as popular contemporary songs, bringing artistry and professionalism to your event.
Strings, Woodwinds, Brass
SOLOS, DUOS, TRIOS, QUARTETS, QUINTETS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
El Paso County including Colorado Springs, Monument, Falcon, Woodland Park, Fountain, Security, Peyton, Black Forest
Our ensembles perform both classical music, as well as popular contemporary songs, bringing artistry and professionalism to your event.
Strings, Woodwinds, Brass
SOLOS, DUOS, TRIOS, QUARTETS, QUINTETS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long In advance do I need to book?
We recommend booking at least 6 months in advance. If your event date is closer than that don’t hesitate to inquire anyway regarding availability.
What is the booking process?
First, please contact us and let us know your event details. If we’re available for your date, we’ll respond with a quote and request additional details. Once the details are confirmed, we’ll send over a contract. The contract needs to be sent back along with a 50% deposit within 7 days.
I don’t know much about classical music, what do you usually play?
We will be happy to share links with you for you to listen to in advance. We play classical, popular, Broadway, movie themes, and more.
How do I go about planning my musical selections?
We will provide phone consultations with helpful suggestions. Our organization has been in business for years and we know what music selections tend to work best. Using our extensive repertoire list and experience, a we can help make your event memorable.
Can you play a certain song I have in mind?
We can play nearly anything with enough preparation time! Let us know what you want to hear, and we’ll give you a quote.
What are your rates?
Rates depend on many factors including the number of musicians, the length of time and location. For 1-5 musicians (solo, duo, trio, quartet, quintet): minimum rate is $125 per musician for one hour, indoors, single location, within El Paso County, $50 for each additional hour, maximum 2 1/2 hours with a 10 minute break for each hour. Sample Pricing: String Quartet (4 musicians) for wedding ceremony and reception, indoors, for two and a half hours, in El Paso; $800. Cover required for outdoor events. Tent rental $100 per event. Additional fees for travel beyond El Paso County and on holidays. Email or call to discuss the needs for your wedding or event.
What time will you arrive at our event?
We’ll be there 20 minutes before the contracted start time to tune and take care of set up.
What do you need in terms of set up?
Please provide armless chairs for each musician. Consider placing the musicians in a part of the room where there is enough lighting. We will bring our own music stands and stand lights, if needed. A location for instrument cases is often helpful.
Do you require electricity or amplification?
Electricity is needed only if lights will be dimmed for the special mood you are creating for the event. Musicians will bring their own stand lights and electrical cords, and will only need a source of electricity. Generally, no amplification is needed for our musicians. However, if your event is to take place in a very large venue, it would be a good idea to discuss microphones and a sound amplification system
Approximately how much space do the musicians require?
A good rule of thumb is to plan for an area measuring 10 feet X 10 feet for 4 musicians.
I have a special song(s) that I would like sung at my wedding. Can your musicians accompany a vocalist, instrumental soloist or the church organ?
Yes, our musicians can accompany vocalists or other instrumentalists. A rehearsal with the soloist is an absolute necessity. Generally, this rehearsal can take place at the wedding venue, prior to the prelude music. The amount of rehearsal time needed depends upon the number of songs, the length and difficulty of the selections and the experience of the soloist. A rehearsal fee may be applicable depending on these factors.
What is the attire your musicians?
The musicians will always come to your event well groomed and professional. Unless you specify otherwise, the musicians will wear concert black.
Can I change the details of my event once the contract has been signed?
During the busiest seasons, our musicians may be playing several engagements on one day. There are situations when the time or date of your event cannot be changed. On the other hand, we are more than happy to work with you on any changes that may be possible.
Do you attend wedding rehearsals?
Generally, no. This is an additional expense to you that is not necessary. Our musicians are very experienced and have played hundreds of weddings. A member will discuss your musical choices with you on the phone and will arrive at your event early to coordinate cues with your wedding planner, or person in charge of your event. If a wedding rehearsal is requested, a quote can be provided.
What is the cancellation policy?
According to the contract you will sign, cancellation of the agreement will automatically forfeit the 50% deposit. Cancellation of the agreement within 5 days of the written performance date will legally bind the Purchaser to pay the musicians remaining amount agreed upon in the contract.
I would like musicians to play at my wedding and reception but they are at different locations. How does this work and what are the charges?
It is possible for the musicians to move from one location to another. The fee will be based upon the entire time the musicians are hired for your event from the beginning of the prelude music until the end of the reception. They will need to be paid for the entire time between the wedding and reception. This is because the musicians would not be able to accept an additional engagement while waiting to play your reception.
Are there special needs for Outdoor Performances?
Yes, most of our summer events are outdoors. We will need to have plenty of shade and a dry, flat area. We have a canopy option if you have no shaded area. There is a fee for the canopy rental. The temperature must be between 55 and 95 degrees Instruments cannot be in direct sun or exposed to any precipitation. Low temperatures can be very damaging to the instruments. Wood instrument varnish can melt and the wood can crack if exposed to the elements. In order to insure the safety of the instruments, the will need a covered performance location that protects the instruments from any occasional rain droplets as well as direct sun. A shady tree location is sufficient unless precipitation occurs. A temperature below 55 degrees is too low for a quality performance. We love to play in the great Colorado outdoors. We have played on mountain tops, meadows and urban venues. There are some caveats in regards to both travel and weather. The weather in Colorado is well known to change quickly and can be unpredictable. Contact us to discuss outdoor events in more detail.
What is the proper length of time needed for wedding prelude music (music played as guests are arriving)?
The general length of time for prelude music is 15 to 30 minutes.
When do the musicians take breaks?
The contract specifies 10 minutes of break during each hour of performance. This is merely a rule of thumb. Sometimes, breaks can be coordinated during cake cutting, speakers or at the end of the event.
Should I tip the musicians?
Tips are always greatly appreciated but not required.
Do you work with wedding coordinators or events planners?
Absolutely. Planning the musical selections, coordinating cues and communicating with all involved parties greatly helps to ensure that your special event comes off just as beautifully as you envision.
Do you travel outside of El Paso County or to the mountains and resorts?
Yes, we love to play in the beautiful Colorado (and other states) mountains! Extra fees apply for events outside El Paso County, dirt roads, gondolas, snowcat rides, shuttles, etc. For some mountain locations, overnight accommodations and per deum may apply depending on the distance.
Where can I see/hear your musicians perform?
You can check out our musicians performing with our full orchestra on our Soundcloud and Youtube channels.
MORE ABOUT WEATHER AND OUTDOOR CONDITIONS
Weather Conditions
1. Temperature can change quickly in Colorado. A violin is made of very old wood and cannont survive in cold or heat. Our contract states that the temperature must be above 60 degrees F. and below 95 degrees F. This is set in stone as we cannot risk damage to our instruments. We even bring a thermometer to each event. We realize that this may not fit your plans
2. Direct sunlight can be very harmful to our instruments. Some of our players use instruments that are over 150 years old. We require shade when we play. Some venues have shade trees, patios, etc. We also have a canopy that can be rented. Your wedding coordinator may also work with rental companies to provide tents or canopies.
3. Precipitation is also very harmful to our instruments. We cannot be exposed to any rain, snow, sleet, mist, etc.If we feel the conditions are dangerous we will move to a safer area. The decisions to move is up to the onsight musicians and not the client or the wedding coordinator.
3. A dry location is also required. We cannot sit on wet grass.
Things you should consider for outdoor events:
1. Have a back up plan.
We have played hundreds of successful outdoor events. In the event of rain, snow, cold, heat, etc. you should be prepared to have a back up plan. Sometimes there is an alternative indoor location. We can also play from inside an adjacent structure and open the windows.
2. Understand the risk
We are happy to play for your event but you must remember that the risk of bad weather is yours. We pay our players no matter what. The musicians are paid for their time. Please note the we do not compromise on any of these conditions.
3. No weather refunds
In legal terms bad weather is considered and "act of God". You do not get your money back if on the day of your event the weather is not acceptable for us to play outdoors.
Have a question we didn’t answer here? Contact us!
We recommend booking at least 6 months in advance. If your event date is closer than that don’t hesitate to inquire anyway regarding availability.
What is the booking process?
First, please contact us and let us know your event details. If we’re available for your date, we’ll respond with a quote and request additional details. Once the details are confirmed, we’ll send over a contract. The contract needs to be sent back along with a 50% deposit within 7 days.
I don’t know much about classical music, what do you usually play?
We will be happy to share links with you for you to listen to in advance. We play classical, popular, Broadway, movie themes, and more.
How do I go about planning my musical selections?
We will provide phone consultations with helpful suggestions. Our organization has been in business for years and we know what music selections tend to work best. Using our extensive repertoire list and experience, a we can help make your event memorable.
Can you play a certain song I have in mind?
We can play nearly anything with enough preparation time! Let us know what you want to hear, and we’ll give you a quote.
What are your rates?
Rates depend on many factors including the number of musicians, the length of time and location. For 1-5 musicians (solo, duo, trio, quartet, quintet): minimum rate is $125 per musician for one hour, indoors, single location, within El Paso County, $50 for each additional hour, maximum 2 1/2 hours with a 10 minute break for each hour. Sample Pricing: String Quartet (4 musicians) for wedding ceremony and reception, indoors, for two and a half hours, in El Paso; $800. Cover required for outdoor events. Tent rental $100 per event. Additional fees for travel beyond El Paso County and on holidays. Email or call to discuss the needs for your wedding or event.
What time will you arrive at our event?
We’ll be there 20 minutes before the contracted start time to tune and take care of set up.
What do you need in terms of set up?
Please provide armless chairs for each musician. Consider placing the musicians in a part of the room where there is enough lighting. We will bring our own music stands and stand lights, if needed. A location for instrument cases is often helpful.
Do you require electricity or amplification?
Electricity is needed only if lights will be dimmed for the special mood you are creating for the event. Musicians will bring their own stand lights and electrical cords, and will only need a source of electricity. Generally, no amplification is needed for our musicians. However, if your event is to take place in a very large venue, it would be a good idea to discuss microphones and a sound amplification system
Approximately how much space do the musicians require?
A good rule of thumb is to plan for an area measuring 10 feet X 10 feet for 4 musicians.
I have a special song(s) that I would like sung at my wedding. Can your musicians accompany a vocalist, instrumental soloist or the church organ?
Yes, our musicians can accompany vocalists or other instrumentalists. A rehearsal with the soloist is an absolute necessity. Generally, this rehearsal can take place at the wedding venue, prior to the prelude music. The amount of rehearsal time needed depends upon the number of songs, the length and difficulty of the selections and the experience of the soloist. A rehearsal fee may be applicable depending on these factors.
What is the attire your musicians?
The musicians will always come to your event well groomed and professional. Unless you specify otherwise, the musicians will wear concert black.
Can I change the details of my event once the contract has been signed?
During the busiest seasons, our musicians may be playing several engagements on one day. There are situations when the time or date of your event cannot be changed. On the other hand, we are more than happy to work with you on any changes that may be possible.
Do you attend wedding rehearsals?
Generally, no. This is an additional expense to you that is not necessary. Our musicians are very experienced and have played hundreds of weddings. A member will discuss your musical choices with you on the phone and will arrive at your event early to coordinate cues with your wedding planner, or person in charge of your event. If a wedding rehearsal is requested, a quote can be provided.
What is the cancellation policy?
According to the contract you will sign, cancellation of the agreement will automatically forfeit the 50% deposit. Cancellation of the agreement within 5 days of the written performance date will legally bind the Purchaser to pay the musicians remaining amount agreed upon in the contract.
I would like musicians to play at my wedding and reception but they are at different locations. How does this work and what are the charges?
It is possible for the musicians to move from one location to another. The fee will be based upon the entire time the musicians are hired for your event from the beginning of the prelude music until the end of the reception. They will need to be paid for the entire time between the wedding and reception. This is because the musicians would not be able to accept an additional engagement while waiting to play your reception.
Are there special needs for Outdoor Performances?
Yes, most of our summer events are outdoors. We will need to have plenty of shade and a dry, flat area. We have a canopy option if you have no shaded area. There is a fee for the canopy rental. The temperature must be between 55 and 95 degrees Instruments cannot be in direct sun or exposed to any precipitation. Low temperatures can be very damaging to the instruments. Wood instrument varnish can melt and the wood can crack if exposed to the elements. In order to insure the safety of the instruments, the will need a covered performance location that protects the instruments from any occasional rain droplets as well as direct sun. A shady tree location is sufficient unless precipitation occurs. A temperature below 55 degrees is too low for a quality performance. We love to play in the great Colorado outdoors. We have played on mountain tops, meadows and urban venues. There are some caveats in regards to both travel and weather. The weather in Colorado is well known to change quickly and can be unpredictable. Contact us to discuss outdoor events in more detail.
What is the proper length of time needed for wedding prelude music (music played as guests are arriving)?
The general length of time for prelude music is 15 to 30 minutes.
When do the musicians take breaks?
The contract specifies 10 minutes of break during each hour of performance. This is merely a rule of thumb. Sometimes, breaks can be coordinated during cake cutting, speakers or at the end of the event.
Should I tip the musicians?
Tips are always greatly appreciated but not required.
Do you work with wedding coordinators or events planners?
Absolutely. Planning the musical selections, coordinating cues and communicating with all involved parties greatly helps to ensure that your special event comes off just as beautifully as you envision.
Do you travel outside of El Paso County or to the mountains and resorts?
Yes, we love to play in the beautiful Colorado (and other states) mountains! Extra fees apply for events outside El Paso County, dirt roads, gondolas, snowcat rides, shuttles, etc. For some mountain locations, overnight accommodations and per deum may apply depending on the distance.
Where can I see/hear your musicians perform?
You can check out our musicians performing with our full orchestra on our Soundcloud and Youtube channels.
MORE ABOUT WEATHER AND OUTDOOR CONDITIONS
Weather Conditions
1. Temperature can change quickly in Colorado. A violin is made of very old wood and cannont survive in cold or heat. Our contract states that the temperature must be above 60 degrees F. and below 95 degrees F. This is set in stone as we cannot risk damage to our instruments. We even bring a thermometer to each event. We realize that this may not fit your plans
2. Direct sunlight can be very harmful to our instruments. Some of our players use instruments that are over 150 years old. We require shade when we play. Some venues have shade trees, patios, etc. We also have a canopy that can be rented. Your wedding coordinator may also work with rental companies to provide tents or canopies.
3. Precipitation is also very harmful to our instruments. We cannot be exposed to any rain, snow, sleet, mist, etc.If we feel the conditions are dangerous we will move to a safer area. The decisions to move is up to the onsight musicians and not the client or the wedding coordinator.
3. A dry location is also required. We cannot sit on wet grass.
Things you should consider for outdoor events:
1. Have a back up plan.
We have played hundreds of successful outdoor events. In the event of rain, snow, cold, heat, etc. you should be prepared to have a back up plan. Sometimes there is an alternative indoor location. We can also play from inside an adjacent structure and open the windows.
2. Understand the risk
We are happy to play for your event but you must remember that the risk of bad weather is yours. We pay our players no matter what. The musicians are paid for their time. Please note the we do not compromise on any of these conditions.
3. No weather refunds
In legal terms bad weather is considered and "act of God". You do not get your money back if on the day of your event the weather is not acceptable for us to play outdoors.
Have a question we didn’t answer here? Contact us!
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