Planning

What’s the best way to determine what music to have at my ceremony/event?

If you are planning a ceremony, keep in mind your ceremony outline so we can talk about the placement of music. For both events and ceremonies, let us know any music restrictions to be aware of. Then we can help you select music that fits both your unique style, and the ceremony/event guidelines. Also think about songs or pieces that have a special significance to you; if we don’t already have the music in our repertoire, we can arrange it for string trio—anything from pop tunes to waltzes to songs of a particular cultural heritage. Know also that we can extend our playing time to include music for a cocktail hour, dinner, or reception.

How early should I book the music for my event?

People generally book ceremony musicians at least 6 months in advance, and we set the music 3 months before the ceremony. Although we’re less likely to be available on short notice, we’ve also played events within one week of being contacted.

Is it important to see the Trio in person before the event?

It’s generally not necessary with veteran event musicians. You can rely on our years of experience and referrals from individuals and industry professionals. (If the groups you’re interested in, though, are not typically event musicians, then seeing them in person is advised.) If you’d like references from a number of the Trio’s previous clients, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

What do you offer over the competition?

The benefit of over 15 years of professional event-music experience. You will gain the satisfaction of knowing you are getting the music you want, at the very best value, and that you will enjoy unforgettable performances. We aren’t a “pick-up” group; this is what we do, and we do it well. Because we are experienced, we have excellent timing and instincts, and we can also make quick adjustments for unforeseen changes of plan. Also, because we are a trio, we are easier to schedule than a string quartet and, often, less expensive. And, finally, our clients often tell us how easy and personable we are to work with!

How do I book the Trio?

You can email us through our contact page or phone us at 612-205-3529. Tell us what kind of event you are interested in and we’ll let you know our services and prices, and, if you request, we can send you a contract. To reserve the Trio for your event, send in a completed contract and a non-refundable deposit. Then we’ll set up a date to talk about music selection.

Details and More

How much space does the Trio need? Where do we place them?

The Trio needs approximately 6×9 sq.ft. away from any foot traffic. If you are planning a ceremony, make sure that the trio can see at least the ceremony itself; if possible (but not necessary), place the Trio such that we can also see the entrance of the participants. Most people place us near the altar; we have also played ceremonies from behind the attending guests. If you are planning an event, many people have placed us in foyers, in a corner, or by a window out of the way of guests.

What else do we need to provide for the Trio?

We need three chairs without arms and average reading light. That’s it. If we will be playing in low light, please let us know; we have stand lights we can bring for ourselves

What will the musicians wear?

Concert black. If you like, we can dress in high formal (tuxes and eveningwear).

Does the Trio play outdoor functions?

Yes.  However, please be aware that musicians MUST be protected from moisture, direct sunlight, and temperature extremes. Our instruments are very valuable and can be damaged in any of these conditions.  We cannot play unsheltered in even misting rain or in conditions below 60 degrees.  A very shaded area or a canopy is required to block the direct sunlight or light rain.  Note: tree shade is usually not sufficient, and trees can also drop leaves, bugs, etc. that are distracting during a performance.  In addition, as you think about where to place the Trio, please think about how the sun will move and where the shade will be throughout your event.

As an added service, the Trio can provide our own shelter, including setup and take-down.  Our shelter is a 10′ x 10′ white canopy, with optional walls on two sides to provide additional protection from wind, rain, or direct rain.  Please check with your venue about their policies regarding tents/canopies, including rules regarding use of stakes to secure the shelter.

Does the Trio need a microphone?

Typically, no. Our instruments carry very well in almost all venues, including outdoors. We can easily adjust our volume according the needs of the space and the event.  If you have any concerns in this regard, we advise you to speak with the coordinator at your venue to find out what their experience has been with how well sound carries in the space you plan to use.

Do the musicians come to ceremony rehearsals?

It is not necessary for the musicians to come to the ceremony rehearsal. We can discuss the details of the ceremony music by email or over the phone to ensure that your ceremony/event runs smoothly. We always go over the cues with the officiant or event planner just beforehand to be absolutely sure of when exactly to play the music you’ve requested. Because of our experience, we are excellent at adjusting music for late appearances, seatings, various aisle lengths, presentations, straggling flower girls, etc. If you like, arrangements can be made for extra rehearsals at an additional cost.

How do I inform the musicians of any adjustments to the schedule at the event?

Many people like to appoint someone to be a liaison to the Trio. This person often greets us when we arrive, and can deliver discrete messages about changes as we play so that we can adjust according to your needs.

What do I do if there’s a last-minute emergency before the event?

We carry a cell phone to all our engagements. You can reach us, even en route, at 612-205-3529.

What happens if I need to cancel or postpone my event?

If you need to cancel your event, we will refund you your money minus the deposit. If you are postponing your event, we’ll hang on to the deposit until your new date is set. Some event planners need to move up their event dates; we make a priority to try to accommodate this as well.

Do I need to tip the musicians?

Tips are neither required nor expected, and we do not include a gratuity in our contracts. If you are especially pleased with our services, we are very appreciative of any gratuity.

What is your break policy?

The Trio does not require a break for wedding/commitment ceremonies. For extended events, there is one 10 minute break every hour OR as arranged to best fit your schedule.

What does the Trio do if something happens to one of the musicians before our event?

All three of us know a lot of exceptional musicians, and in an emergency, we can find a violinist, violist, or cellist from one of the many orchestras, music schools, or music businesses we’ve worked with. We’ll let you know if we need to make a substitution.

Other questions?

You can email us through our contact page or phone us at 612-205-3529.