Violinist Booking Guide
A violinist can provide a romantic soundtrack to a wedding, a classy accompaniment to a drinks reception or networking occasion or a spellbinding stage show for a knock-out corporate event. These versatile performers are an incredibly popular choice for all types of events so we have created a handy booking guide to help answer any questions you may have about booking one of these talented musicians!
Looking To Hire A Violinist?
What Events Are Violinists Suitable For?
A violinist is suitable for any occasion! Let’s take a look at how their talents can be utilised at different types of events and why they make such great entertainers.
Weddings
Violinists are often asked to play during wedding ceremonies. Their beautiful warm tones are perfect for creating a magical atmosphere as your guests arrive, as you walk down the aisle, as you sign the register and of course, as you walk back up the aisle as a married couple.
Drinks receptions come to life when a violinist provides the musical backdrop! They can easily blend into the background as they play at just the right volume to be heard, but not overwhelm your guests’ conversations.
If you don’t have the space or the budget for a string quartet, a violinist is the perfect alternative!
Parties and Corporate Events
Violinists make great all-round performers for parties and corporate events. Networking events and drinks receptions for gala dinners are an ideal time for them to perform. If you choose an electric violinist they will most likely play with backing tracks using a PA system to lift their sound above the general chatter in the room.
For evening events, violinists will provide a sensational performance to rouse the senses. LED light-up instruments and DJ collaborations create an experience for your guests that looks as spectacular as it sounds.
What Kind Of Music Does A Violinist Play?
Our violinists’ repertoires are extremely varied. Of course they are able to play classical music and will provide your guests with breathtaking renditions of everything from Bach to Gershwin for a classy accompaniment to your special occasion. But violinists are equally at home playing modern pop songs, house anthems, jazz, R&B and pretty much anything you can think of. Many violinists play Bollywood and traditional Jewish music too. They’ll tailor their setlist to suit your event and preferences. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to be impressed!
Should I Book An Acoustic Or Electric Violinist?
This very much comes down to personal preference and the vibe you’re trying to create. If you want a party atmosphere an electric violin will be necessary for the sound to carry across the dance floor. For a wedding ceremony, an acoustic violin will produce a more romantic sound. Drinks receptions can work with either type of instrument, depending on whether you have a microphone available (especially for outdoor events). Choose whether you’d like a modern or traditional feel to your occasion to help you decide.
How Much Does A Violinist Cost To Hire?
Depending on the level of expertise, experience and popularity of each musician, you can expect to pay between £400 and £1200 for a violinist. This can also vary with the amount of time you need them to play for and how far they have to travel to your venue.
How Long Will A Violinist Play For?
Violinists are really quite flexible with their set times, with many performing for as little as 20 minutes (perfect for your wedding ceremony) and others performing for 90 or more minutes, spread over a few hours. When you choose to book, explain how long you would like them to play so we can help you find a musician who can cater perfectly to your needs.
Can A Violinist Play Outside?
Yes they can! But please be aware that it’s extremely difficult to play in the cold with frozen fingers. Rain and strong sun are also damaging to expensive instruments and wind doesn’t really work with sheet music so ensure that there is some kind of shelter available for your violinist. If the weather really isn’t looking good, try to have some kind of contingency plan in place, but if it’s a warmish, dry day you’re good to go!
Will A Violinist Play With Backing Tracks?
Some classical pieces are designed to be played unaccompanied, but for the vast majority of other pieces and songs, violinists will play along to backing tracks for a rich and full sound with all the harmonies and rhythms of the original piece.
Will A Violinist Learn A Song For Me?
Many violinists will be happy to learn a special song for you but there will usually be a small fee involved. This is to cover the cost of any sheet music that needs to be purchased and the time taken to learn the music.
What Do I Need To Provide For The Violinist?
- Please provide bottled water or soft drinks for your violinist, as well as a lockable space for them to change and store their instrument in while it’s not in use. For extended bookings of over four hours we kindly ask for you to provide a hot meal.
- Ensure that there is a parking space available.
- If your violinist will be seated when they perform (usually for a wedding ceremony), they will need a comfortable seat or stool without arms.
- Electric violinists and those who play along with backing tracks will normally provide their own PA system (check with your adviser before you book) so there’s usually no need to source one.
How Long Does A Violinist Need To Set Up and When Will They Arrive?
Acoustic violinists will only need around 10-15 minutes to set up, but electric violinists will need longer – usually around 20-30 minutes.
Performers usually arrive around an hour before they are due on stage so they can familiarise themselves with the environment, introduce themselves and get changed and ready in this time.
How Much Space Does A Violinist Need?
What Will A Violinist Wear?
Most violinists are happy to wear whatever suits your theme. If you don’t specify what you’d like them to wear they will probably arrive in smart clothing, for example a suit or cocktail dress. Electric violinists often have bespoke clothing that becomes part of their act, like LED outfits.
When Do I Need To Book?
As with any type of act, we always recommend booking as early as possible as most musicians get booked up around a year in advance. However, if you need to book at short notice, there’s a good chance that we will be able to find you a fantastic violinist who is available!
How Do I Book A Violinist?
Booking is quick and easy! Once you’ve chosen the violinist you’d like to hire, fill in the enquiry form on their profile with the date and type of your event and we’ll get back to you ASAP. If you’d like to chat about your options or simply want to talk to someone on the phone, give us a bell on 0800 53 000 35 instead! Click the link below to start searching for your dream violinist.
