String Quartet Pricing: Hourly Rates & Packages Explained
A complete guide to string quartet pricing. Learn about hourly rates, flat-fee wedding packages, travel expenses, and how to budget for live musicians.
String Quartet Pricing: Hourly Rates & Packages Explained
When planning a wedding or high-end event, one of the most common questions is: “How much does a string quartet cost?”
While pricing varies by city and the experience level of the musicians, the way professional ensembles structure their fees is remarkably consistent. Understanding these models—Hourly Rates vs. Flat Packages—will help you budget effectively for live music.
1. The Hourly Rate Model
Most corporate events, cocktail hours, and private dinners are billed on an hourly basis.
Why Hourly?
Hourly billing is transparent. You pay for the time the musicians are required to be on-site, including brief breaks (usually 10 minutes per hour).
Standard Hourly Ranges
| Region | First Hour (Base) | Subsequent Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major Metro (DC/NYC/SF) | $900 - $1,400 | $500 - $700 |
| Mid-Sized Cities | $700 - $1,000 | $400 - $550 |
Note: Most professional ensembles have a minimum of one hour even if the event is shorter.
2. Flat Wedding Ceremony Packages
For wedding ceremonies, most couples prefer a flat-fee package. This is the “Sweet Spot” for wedding planning because it removes the stress of timing.
What’s Typically Included:
- Prelude Music (20-30m): Music played as your guests arrive.
- Processional: The formal entrance music for the family, wedding party, and couple.
- Interlude Music: Any music during the ceremony (e.g., lighting a unity candle).
- Recessional: The celebratory song as the couple walks back up the aisle.
- Postlude (10-15m): Music played as guests exit the ceremony area.
Average Package Cost
In high-demand markets like Washington DC, a professional string quartet ceremony package usually ranges from $950 to $1,250.
Are You in the DMV Area?
If your wedding is in DC, Maryland, or Virginia, check out my detailed local guide which includes specific travel fees for venues like Middleburg and Annapolis.
3. Factors That Influence the Price
Several variables can impact your final quote:
Ensemble Size
- String Quartet (4): High harmonic richness, full sound. (Most Expensive)
- String Trio (3): Great balance of sound and cost.
- String Duo (2): Intimate, best for small spaces.
- Solo Violin (1): Simplest and most economical.
Date and Time
Booking a string quartet for a Saturday evening in June will likely cost more than a Friday afternoon in November. Seasonal demand is a major factor in musician availability and pricing.
Travel and Parking
Professional musicians travel with high-value instruments. If your venue is outside the ensemble’s local radius or requires paid parking (common in urban centers), these costs will be passed on or billed separately.
4. Watch Out for “Hidden” Charges
Before you sign a contract, ensure these items are clarified:
- Custom Arrangements: If you want a specific pop song that isn’t in their library, there may be a fee to arrange it for strings.
- Outdoor Performance: Most pros require a “protection fee” or specific rider requirements (shade, level ground) for outdoor events.
- Overtime: Know the rate for extra time before the event starts.
Summary: How to Choose?
- Choose a Flat Package for your ceremony to ensure peaceful, focused transitions.
- Choose Hourly Billing for cocktail hours, dinners, and receptions where the timeline is more flexible.
Live music is an investment in the atmosphere and memory of your day. By understanding these pricing structures, you can find the perfect ensemble that fits your vision and your budget.