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How
do I book a String Ensemble?
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Thanks
for your interest in using Olympic Productions for booking musical
entertainment for your next event. The following is some general information
about the various string groups OP books. (You will be tested on this
materials at the end of the exam!)
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What
is a string ensemble?
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A string
ensemble, otherswise known as a "string quartet" or "string
trio" is a group of highly qualifed full-time string musicians
(violin, viola, cello) that combine to create an elegant classical
musical experience. Musicians in these bands are come from various
backgrounds, and usually have music degrees from major music schools.
These ensembles are extremely popular for weddings.
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What
kinds of music do string ensembles play?
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All
of the following ensembles play a wide variety of popular classical
pieces with some jazz standards and possibly a few novelty songs including
ragtime. Some folk music (Irish, Celtic) and modern new-age background
music might be featured. Some groups specialize in one or more of
the above styles. This type of music is especially listenable and
varies from slow to fast tempos. A band will start a reception with
slower background and listening music (during a meal) and might get
more up-tempo as the event progresses.
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How
big is a string ensemble?
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String
Quartets (4pc) are more usual, and feature 2 violins, viola and cello.
A good string trio (violin, viola, cello) can be a surprizingly full
sound. These groups are completely acoustic, and rather dependent
on the acoustics of the location. Rooms with a bit of an echo, can
fill the music, while a "dead" room (with lots of carpet)
can be a bit disappointing. Outdoor events are challenging, as the
wind can direct the sound, and the sheet music! The sun and the rain
are not friends of string instruments. These instruments can cost
thousands of dollars to replace. Outdoor events are possible with
good covering (tents with side covers, dedicated to the entertainment)
and timing of the event.
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What
if I want both classical and jazz or rock as well at my event?
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If your
really want the latest artists, you can use a DJ, but a real band
is unmatched in excitement and personality. Hiring a string ensemble
for the ceremony and beginning of the reception along with a band
or DJ is popular, and a bit expensive. A solo violin, harp, or piano
can also give you a great "classical" ceremony. If you are
going to have a dance event, you probably need a band.
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How
long should I book a band?
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Wedding
ceremonies last 1/2 hour to 2 hours. Wedding receptions, and private
parties generally last 3-4 hours. An extra hour can generally be added
on for an additional reasonable fee (unless the group has to be somewhere
else.) Ocassionally groups will be booked for less than1 hour, but
you may pay nearly as much as more time. Getting there, and setting
up is a big part of the cost.
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O.K.
How much does a string ensemble cost?
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The
cost of a string ensemble can be anywhere between approximately $400.00-1500.00
depending on size of group, location of event (travel distance), loading
ease, time of day, day of week, or even time of year. These groups
are extremely in demand, and should be booked well ahead of time (weeks
or months ahead). These groups are especially booked in the spring
and summer months for weddings and private parties, along with Christmas
parties in December.
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Enough
already, what do I do next?
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Look
over the materials about the groups that are featured. We can find
out who's available. Remember, a group can get booked at anytime,
so it is always better to confirm your music as soon as possible.
1) We can FAX (preferable), E-mail, or send more information. If you
do not have a FAX machine, there is usually a KINKOS nearby that we
can send to. We can play music over the phone, or send tapes (this
is costly and more difficult because we have so many bands).
2) If a group is available, we can FAX or send a contract. You should
FAX or send it back. A deposit should be sent as soon as possible
to OP. The balance can be payable to the group, at the start of the
event (it can get stressful trying to find the person with the check
after the event has started).
3) You can get in touch with the band after signing a contract. We
will give you contact numbers to get all parking and loading instructions
worked out. After that, it's MOZART TIME! CALL OLYMPIC PRODUCTIONS
AT: (206)634-1142
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