Hiring a classical musician will add elegance and sophistication to your wedding, party or corporate event. These highly trained musicians are able to play some of the most beautiful music ever written by the great composers such as Mozart, Bach, Beethoven and Handel, but you might be surprised at how versatile they are. Films scores, rock songs and even dance tracks take on a different persona when played on a classical instrument so you can effortlessly delight your guests with beautiful arrangements of all their favourite songs.
This guide will answer any questions you may have about hiring a classical musician. Jump to the section you’re interested in or read through the whole guide to find out everything there is to know!
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What Types Of Musician Are Available?
At Entertainment Nation we have a wide variety of the top classical musicians available for hire in the UK. Let’s run though some of your options to help you decide what’s right for you.
Pianists
One of the most versatile classical instruments, the piano is the ideal accompaniment to a romantic walk down the aisle or a classy musical backdrop to your cocktail hour. Our fabulous pianists are able to play everything from Chopin to The Killers, with pretty much every genre covered in between.
Guitarists
Playing everything from Bach to The Beatles, a classical guitarist will create a relaxing ambience at any event. Whether you want pure classical guitar or a musician who sings as well, you’re sure to find the perfect act for you!
Violinists and String Quartets
A string quartet is probably the most quintessentially romantic addition to weddings and also works brilliantly as background music to luxury parties and events. Consisting of 2 violins, viola and cello these talented instrumentalists perform a surprising selection of music and are equally adept at performing works by Hayden as they are modern tracks by artists such as Dua Lipa and Muse. Check out some of their incredible performances on their profiles!
Don’t have the budget or the space for all four performers? Most quartets are available as duos or trios and we also have a wide range of solo violinists, who perform with backing tracks for a full sound, while still delivering a lustrous melody for all to enjoy.
Harpists
The spellbinding sound of a harp will enchant your guests and create a tasteful ambience at any event. From fairytale weddings to refined parties, our harpists will bring a little bit of heaven to your day. Like our other instrumentalists they play classical pieces as well as contemporary renditions of modern songs.
Classical Singers
For a glamour-soaked occasion, why not hire a sublime classical singer? These talented and expertly-trained musicians will sing opera numbers and classical-pop crossovers to create a totally unforgettable occasion.
Orchestras
Suited to huge corporate parties, our orchestras are anything but ordinary. Playing innovative arrangements of huge pop, rock and dance tracks these acts are a treat for both the eyes and the ears! Available from 8 musicians all the way up to 55, with full brass, string, woodwind and percussion sections, if you really want to make an impact, an orchestra is the way to go.
Saxophonists
Not technically classical, but certainly loved by all, the saxophone is one of the most versatile instruments on our roster. Not only can saxophonists perform club party classics and chilled Ibiza style backdrops to drinks receptions but they can also provide jazz lounge sets and expressive soulful renditions of pop ballads, folk songs and more.
What Services Will The Musicians Provide?
Most musicians will perform for an hour and a half in total, usually as two 45-minute sets. There is some degree of flexibility here, depending on how you want to incorporate their music into your day.
At weddings, many people ask their musician to accompany them down the aisle, perform for the signing of the register and then play their recessional music too. This leaves plenty of time for an additional set during your drinks reception or wedding breakfast.
Nearly all our classical musicians will perform unamplified (singers excluded), meaning that they are suitable for smaller rather than larger events. They are ideal for weddings, outdoor parties or light background music at a cocktail event but will struggle to be heard over hundreds of people mingling! Many of our string players are happy to perform on electric instruments, meaning their sound can be lifted above the chatter. If this is something you’re interested in, ask our helpful advisers!
What Equipment Will They Need?
All our musicians will bring their own instruments with them – even pianists will bring an electric piano! (If your venue has their own piano that you’d like them to use they would actually prefer this and will be more than happy to play it.) There are however, certain things that classical musicians will need in order to perform for you. These are:
- A suitable chair – String players, guitarists, harpists and pianists will all require something to sit on. Please ensure that the chair is sturdy and comfortable. It’s extremely difficult to play on a chair with arms so this is important to consider when asking your venue about this.
- A lockable room – Instruments are extremely expensive, often costing thousands of pounds so it’s reasonable for musicians to ask for a room where their precious livelihood can be locked away safely while they’re not on stage.
- A power source – If you are using mics for singers or to amplify the sound of a musician, then a power source will be needed.
- A hot meal – If a musician will be at your event for three hours or more, we kindly request that a hot meal is provided for them. This doesn’t have to be the same food as you are providing for your guests, but it will help fuel their performance!
How Much Space Does A Musician Need?
This very much depends on the size of the instrument. Obviously some instruments like pianos and harps are pretty big so they will require more space. String players need a lot more space than you’d imagine to include ample elbow room, plus, cellos are huge! We would recommend that each instrumentalist need a 6ft x 6ft space, plus the size of their instrument, to ensure that they are comfortable and are far enough away from passing guests and staff so they don’t get jostled.
What Makes A Quality Musician?
To be really top-quality, a classical musician will probably have studied at music college or will have a degree or diploma in music. Most of our acts are trained to this level so you can be assured that whoever you hire, they’ll put on a spectacular show.
However, if a classical musician didn’t attend music school it doesn’t make them less talented. Just because they’ve never performed at the Proms doesn’t mean they aren’t perfect for you. You should look at their relevant experience and reviews more than anything. Check out their videos and sound clips, and if you love what you hear, hire them!
Can Classical Musicians Play Outside?
This is very much weather dependent. It’s practically impossible to play an instrument with frozen fingers, so cold weather makes things very difficult. Rain is likely to cause damage to valuable instruments and wind is a complete no-no when it comes to sheet music. The short answer to this question is yes, classical musicians can play outdoors as long as its sunny and calm or if there is adequate protection to keep them warm and dry!
How Much Do Classical Musicians Cost?
Depending on their experience, availability, popularity and how far they have to travel, a solo musician is likely to cost anywhere in the region of £250 to £700. Larger ensembles such as string or vocal quartets will be around the £550 to £2000 mark.
How Do I Book?
Booking is quick and easy. Once you’ve found an act you love, fill in the simple enquiry form on their profile and we’ll get back to you ASAP. Alternatively, give us a ring on 0800 53 000 35 or email info@entertainment-nation.co.uk.
