Q. Do you play music as guests arrive in the church/venue?
A. Scarlet String Quartet plays beautiful classical music as guests arrive which creates a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere while your guests wait. If you are delayed in any way, you can relax knowing the guests will be gently entertained.
We arrive at the church/venue 30 minutes before the ceremony.

Q. How do I choose music for the ceremony?
A. For the ceremony we have a repertoire list you can choose from, and I can help you decide on music if needed.

Here is a church ceremony sample list of where the music can be played to give you an idea:

Processional: Canon, Pachelbel
Lighting of both candles: Lascia Chio Pianga
Lighting of the Unity Candle: Inis Oirr
Offertory: Gabriel’s Oboe, Morricone
Sign of Peace: Ag Criost an Siol
Communion: Intermezzo, Jesu Joy of Mans Desiring, Bach (2 pieces here)
Signing of the Registry: Spring, Vivaldi and Cant Help Falling in Love (2 pieces here)
Recessional: Arrival of the Queen of Sheba, Handel

Q.Can you play a a contemporary piece which is not in your repertoire?
A.Yes we can play your favorite song or piece of music to create the perfect musical selection.
We are happy to arrange popular pieces if they are suitable for strings.

Q. Do you play for civil ceremonies?
A.Yes. For civil ceremonies we can play for 30 mins before the ceremony as guests arrive, during the ceremony and afterwards can play for the drinks reception.
Here is a sample list for a civil ceremony. There is more flexibility with a civil ceremony for where music can be played, so this can be discussed with us to help you plan a beautiful ceremony.

Entrance: Canon, Pachelbel
Lighting of first candles: Gabriel’s Oboe, Morricone
Between readings: Halleluia, Leonard Cohen
After vows/lighting of the single candle: Inis Oirr
Signing of the Registry: Cant help falling in love
Recessional: All you need is love

Q. Is it ok to only have instrumental music for the ceremony? Do I need a singer? Or can I have a mix of both?
A.We usually play instrumental music, and this is a beautiful addition to the ceremony. It is not essential to have a singer. We can lead a hymn if the congregation are happy to sing.

Q. Can you play with a singer?
A. Yes. We can accompany a singer if you choose to have one. We can recommend excellent singers, or can book one for you. If you have a friend or family member who would like to sing a song we are happy to accompany them. We meet before the ceremony on the day of the ceremony to rehearse. If there is need to rehearse on another day there may be a small fee.
If there is a singer we also play for the Responsorial Psalm and the Alleluia.

Q. Do you play music other than classical for the reception?
A.Yes. For the reception we can play a lively mix of light Classics, Tango, Jazz Standards, Show tunes, Irish trad and contemporary songs. Click HERE to see our repertoire list

Q. How long do you play for the drinks reception?
A. We arrive before the guests, ready to play as they arrive, and can play until the dinner is called. This is usually 1 ½ – 2hrs

Q.Will you perform outdoors?
A.Yes! weather permitting.
The instruments are delicate so the slightest rain can cause damage and if the sun is very strong during an extended period of playing, a shaded area will be needed.

Q.Will the quartet travel?
A.Yes, we play all over, although when the distance is further than 2hrs from Cork we would usually play for both wedding and drinks reception, not only the ceremony.

Q.Are there any special requirements?
A.We just need space to set up where it is safe and we have room to swing our bows

Q. How do I book the quartet?
A. Email us or give us a call and give as many details as you can about your upcoming event. Date, Venue, if you want quartet, trio, duo or singer. If you are not sure what would be good for your event we can discuss. Once you have contacted us and given us some details we can prepare an accurate quote. If you like the quote and want to proceed with your booking you will be emailed a booking form to fill out and send back with a deposit.

Q.When can I book you?
A. RIGHT NOW!