Arco String Quartet - FAQs
Let us answer your questions about hiring our string quartet...What is a string quartet?
A string quartet consists of 4 musicians; 2 playing violin, 1 playing viola and 1 playing cello. String quartets are very popular for providing background music because of the high quality but un-obtrusive sound they produce.
To hear what our string quartet sounds like please click here.
We can also offer a string duo for smaller spaces or tighter budgets.
How far will you travel?
We are happy to play at events around the North East of England, throughout Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, County Durham and Teesside. On occasion we also travel further afield. Please contact us for more information.
Can you play at funerals?
Yes, we are happy to provide music for funerals as we understand that live music can make a big difference. Please contact us as soon as possible in the planning process to check our availability. We can generally access any hymns you would like or alternatively we have a wide range of music from classical to pop.
What kind of music will you play?
We have a very varied playlist, covering everything from traditional classical music through to pop tunes, film/TV covers, folk music and jazz. We will talk to you to select a range of appropriate music to fit your event. You can pick all the particular pieces you want us to play or just give us an idea of the type of music you like and let us do the rest. Please visit our music page for more information.
What will you wear?
We normally wear black trousers/skirts and tops with either purple, pink, turquoise or blue tops. However, we can change this to fit in with your event, for example by wearing different coloured tops, smart dresses, suits or more casual clothing if you prefer. For workshops in schools we generally wear smart casual clothing.
Can you play a particular piece of music for me?
With enough notice we are happy to learn your special piece of music to play at your event. Please phone or email us to discuss this in more detail before your event.
Can you move from one room to another?
Can you play outdoors?
We are more than happy to play outdoors. However, in wet or very windy weather we will need to move indoors, so it is a good idea to make sure there will be an alternative space available if the weather conspires against us.
How much does a string quartet cost?
We charge based on the length of time we are booked for. Prices start from £390. This covers all our costs, although for events a significant distance outside Tyne and Wear we may charge reasonable travel expenses. We can also provide a string duo (violin and cello), Prices for the duo start from £240.
Our school education workshops vary in length and content so for more information on pricing please contact us.
How do I book?
If you would like to book please get in touch with us to check our availability on the date of your event and request a booking form. We are formally booked for you once we receive the completed booking form and a deposit of £100.
When will you arrive at my event?
Can I hear you play before my event?
We regularly play at wedding fairs around the North East. Details of upcoming fairs are listed here and on our Facebook page. You can also here live recordings of us on our videos page. From time to time we give public performances at other events. We always post these events on our website and Facebook page.
When and how do we pay you?
How many breaks do you take?
We like to play as continuously as possible (where appropriate!) to give you and your guests uninterrupted background music. For engagements of more than 2 hours we may take a short break. Wherever possible we will try to fit this in around your event.
Do I need to feed you?
No. If we are playing for two hours or more we do ask for some light refreshments. This is nothing more than tea or coffee and water.
What happens if one of the players is ill on the day?
What happens if it snows on the day of our event?
We will always do our very best to get to your event, whatever the weather. To date, we have never missed an event because of the weather (or for any other reason!)
How far in advance do I need to book?
Arco String Quartet can become booked up early during busy periods, such as the summer months for weddings, so we recommend that you book as far in advance as possible to avoid disappointment. However, it is always worth checking with us as we do sometimes have availability up to 1 week before events.