The Wedding Violinist

🎻 Everything You Need to Know About Having a Violinist Play at Your Wedding

Live music adds a touch of magic to any wedding day — perhaps you've always dreamed of a violinist playing you down the aisle, afterall few instruments capture romance and elegance quite like the violin. Just think Bridgerton!

If you’re considering hiring a violinist for your wedding ceremony, drinks reception, or wedding breakfast, here are some of the most common questions couples ask me — and as a very experienced wedding musician I am here to answer them for you to help you plan the perfect musical experience.

Q: Why should I hire a violinist for my wedding?

A: A violinist brings a timeless, emotional sound that can transform your ceremony and reception. Whether performing classical pieces like Canon in D or romantic covers of your favorite modern songs, like A Thousand Years or Can't Help Falling in Love the violin adds intimacy, elegance, and a personal touch that recorded music simply cannot match. An experienced musician will know exactly when to start playing and when to 'fade out'. They will curate a set list that perfectly matches and elevates your vibe.

Most violinists will have a big repetoire that they will share with you. They will be happy to work wth you to make the perfect set list that becomes the soundtrack to your day. Most will offer to create a bespoke arrangement of a special song that they don't already play. A good and experienced wedding violinist will be open to discuss and support all your ideas but always be prepared to take their advice onboard. Very occassionally a song choice might not work on the violin... For example rap music doesn't sound so great on the violin due to lack of melody!

Q: When during the wedding should a violinist play?

A: The ceremony, the drinks reception and the wedding breakfast. But there are things to consider with all three.

The ceremony

Guest arrival: Typically a violinist would play music as your guests arrive at the venue, between 20-30 minutes. This is a good opportunity to have a bit of classical music and perhaps some relaxed pop covers. Setting a romantic and uplifting atmosphere. This is also another opportunity to have some special requests. A bride may want to surprise the groom with a special song played just before she enters. Or, recently I had the pleasure of playing a recording of the couple's children saying a message to the groom just before the bride entered! Not a dry eye in the house!

The Processional: This is the big moment! Some folks know exactly what they want but if you don't have a clue then ask your violinist. They can offer some suggestions from their repetoire. A traditional, classical choice is Canon in D or 'Here comes the bride' by Wagner. They have gone a bit out of fashion in recent years as more contemporary songs have become more popular but they have a timeless quality and sound great on violin! Alternatively other lovely choices are A Thousand Years or Wildest Dreams or for a classical piece with a modern twist, how about Max Richter's 'Spring Recomposed', as heard on Bridgerton.

If you have lots of bridesmaids, flower girls and page boys, you could also consider having 2 pieces of music. However, be warned this can be a bit trickier for a musician to stop and start smoothly, especially if they are using backing tracks but it is possible.

• Something to note: the processional has the most impact when it is planned and everyone takes their time. Space out the bridesmaids and if you can, time it beforehand.

  If the aisle is super short (looking at you Cley Windmill!) then consider allowing the violinist to play for a bit before you enter.

  I recently had a bride who wanted to make her entrance at a very specific moment in Canon in D, she held her nerve and waited for that moment before the big reveal. It built up the tension and her appearance was glorious.

  Or in contrast, if the ailse is super long (outdoors at Oxnead!) think about how long the song is that you have requested. You dont want to run the risk of running out of music..! As always, speak to the violinist and let them know the venue and length of aisle and how many will be in the bridal party.

The Signing: During the signing of the registar is a lovely moment to feature the violinist. It is best to chose 2 - 3 songs. Usually 2 is plenty, but if you plan to have lots of photos at this point then best to have back up. Again, this is a moment to share a bit about yourselves as a couple by chosing songs that mean something to you.

The Exit. I usually advise on something upbeat at this point. There will be lots of cheering and celebrations and a lively song will keep the energy up as you walk back down the ailse.

It is worth noting at this point, most violinists will use backing tracks. Personally I chose tracks that are laid back versions of songs, accompanied by piano or acoustic guitar. This is my 'vibe' but others may be different. They may use tracks with drums and bass on them. If you want the song to sound as close to the original as possible then let the musician know. Check out their videos to find out what they sound like.

Drinks reception

This is another lovely time to have live music to create a lively, sophisticated atmosphere while guests mingle. Quite often the bride & groom miss a lot of the music at this point because they are having photos, but it's great for their guests to soak up the atmosphere and give them something to watch. What I find often happens at this point is guests have competitions to guess what song I am playing, as it's an instrumental version it can take a minute for them to realise! There are also often impromptu sing-a-longs!

Wedding Breakfast

Live music at this point is a great time for the married couple to actually enjoy the music. However, it can get pretty noisey during the meal so the violinist may need a bit of amplification if it's a big guest list. Let your violinist know how many guests will be attending so they can make a decision.

*I also missed off the confetti shot and married couple entrance to the wedding breakfast. These are other opportunities to have some upbeat, uplifting music.

Evening

Some violinists will also offer an electric set for the evening, performing music to get people dancing. Either playing to tracks or even with a DJ or possibly other musicians. This can be an amazing interactive experience.

Q: Can I request specific songs?

A: Absolutely! Most wedding violinists are happy to learn one or two special requests — especially for key moments like walking down the aisle. Make sure to ask your violinist how many they will offer outside of their set list and be sure to send your requests a month before the wedding so there’s time for preparation. They may need to create a backing track and will need to practice.

Some couples like to curate the whole set list by chosing songs off the rep list. I think most violinists would be OK with this, but you don't need to do it, trust that the violinist will have a great set list already. I usually suggest that you let me know which songs on my list you DON'T want to hear and some that you do and I will curate the rest of the set.

Over the years I have been introduced to some great new songs by couples!

Q: How long can a violinist play for?

A: This will depend on the player, but most will need a short break every 45 minutes to an hour. On their break they may be able to play music through their speaker from their own playlist, or if you have your own, you can ask them to play it for you. Check with them what platform they use to play music. For example, if you have a spotify playlist but they don't have a premium account then adverts will interupt the music which you don't want!

Q: Do violinists need any special setup or equipment?

A: For acoustic performances, the violinist just needs a small, shaded area (if outside) and a chair. They will almost defintely bring a small amplifier/speaker to play their backing tracks through and possibly their instrument too. I use a battery powered speaker but always check in advance what power access might be needed. During the reception we are always very grateful to be offered a drink and if it is a long booking then something to eat too.

Q: Can a violinist perform outdoors?

A: Yes — but there are a few things to keep in mind. Violins are sensitive to temperature, humidity and the sun so shaded or covered areas are best. Always plan for weather contingencies, a violin and bow cannot get wet so any chance of rain best to have cover like a tent, gazebo or indoor backup space.

Q: How do I find a violinist?

A: Firstly, ask your friends and family for any local recommendations. If you have seen someone playing live already then don't be shy, even if it's not at another wedding, get their card! Even if they do not do weddings, they will almost definitely know someone who does. I love busking and have booked many weddings from people approaching me and taking a card. If you use Facebook then going to your region's wedding page is a good start. 'My Norfolk Wedding' is a great resource for Norfolk where I am based. Suppliers are quick to promote themselves, not just musicians but everything you could think of! Also searching tags on instagram.

There are online agencies too like encoremusicians.com or lastminutemusicians.com You can search by area, date, and specific instruments too. These sites offer some support and protection but in some cases they charge a fee on top of the musicians fee so may be more expensive.

Something to consider

As a musician, over the years I have probably spent more time travelling to gigs around the country/world than actually performing.. this is a consideration for your wedding. If you can find someone local to your wedding then this will usually be cheaper than paying for someone to drive across the country, and is a greener option too.

Q: How much does it cost to hire a violinist for a wedding?

A: Prices vary depending on experience, location, and how long you’d like them to perform. As a general guide prices will start from:

• Ceremony only: £300 +

• Ceremony + drinks reception £400 +

• Ceremony + drinks reception + wedding breakfast £700+

Keep in mind that travel, special requests, or collaborations with other musicians can affect pricing.

These days you can expect to pay a deposit to secure the booking and then final payment will be expected before the wedding. I doubt there are many musicians who would turn down cash on the day BUT make sure someone organised is in charge of the envelope and they make themselves know to the violinist ASAP so they don't have to hunt it down at the end.

Other things to consider.

Contact details.

I'd always suggest giving contact details of someone other than the bride and groom. Just in case of emergencies so the vioinist doesn't need to bother you if they get stuck in traffic or can't find the venue etc.

On that note, if the venue is hard to find then provide directions, including where to park. If there are two venues (church and reception venue) the violinist will need to get out of the church ahead of the guests so they can be set up and ready at the next venue.

VIBE

Not all wedding violinists are the same! Think about what vibe you are after. Do you want romantic, slowed down acoustic pop songs or are you after traditional classical music? Or perhaps you want upbeat, high energy electric violin with beats! Many violinists will offer all of these options but others may specialise in just one or two. For example, not every violinist plays electric violin. Check out their videos and if you have something specific in mind, then ask them if they can do it. I have had couples send me videos that they love and asked if I can do something similar.

All that said, if you don't have anything in your mind beyond 'I want violin!' and everything beyond that is a bit overwhelming then don't fret! Most violinists will know how to create something magical without too much input.

I play both acoustic and electric violin. My main vibe is slowed down acoustic pop covers combined with some classical and some more upbeat jazzy/bluesy covers of pop and rock songs, all performed on acoustic violin with piano or guitar backing tracks. I describe it as 'Bridgerton with a bit more oomph'! However, I can also perform an electric set using upbeat backing tracks. (I dont currently have a video for this set up so I don't get booked for it as often... it's on my to-do list!)

Haggling.

Pretty much every violinist/musician I know is incredibly professional, highly trained and very experienced in what they do. Music is not their hobby, this is how they make a living and they take it very seriously. This will be reflected in how much they cost. Before you ask for a discounted price ask yourself this; did you ask the flourist/venue/dress maker etc for a discount? If not then don't ask the musician, especially if you're getting married on a saturday in the height of summer! That being said, if you consider yourself a Master Haggler then give it a go, you might get lucky.

Don't leave your music till the end to organise, good musicians get booked up quickly. If you have found someone you love then book them as soon as you can.

Every year there always seems to be one or two crazy days when everyone wants a violinist or a string quartet and they're all busy performing elsewhere!

A live professional musician is worth every penny for what they bring to an event both on and off stage. Many of your guests may have never seen a live violinist perform so on the day the musician may have more impact on your guests than other aspects of a wedding so don't leave the music as an after thought.

If you would like to ask me more questions about a wedding or any other event then get in touch today @bertiebow on socials or through my website www.bertiebow.com or send me an email bertiebow@gmail.com