Click on the "A" following each querstion to read one answer in particular, or scroll down to read all the answers.

Q: What type of functions do the Cadenza Strings ensembles play at? A
Q: How far in advance should I contact Cadenza Strings to book an ensemble for my event? A
Q: What is the availability of the Cadenza Strings musicians like? A
Q: What is the cost of hiring a Cadenza Strings ensemble? A
Q: What is the booking procedure? A
Q: When is the payment due? A
Q: How do I know which ensemble is best to hire for my event? A
Q: Will the group require any sound equipment? A
Q: Can a Cadenza Strings musician help with choosing repertoire for a wedding ceremony? A
Q: Can the musicians attend a wedding rehearsal? A
Q: I would like a Cadenza Strings ensemble to play for my wedding ceremony and reception/dinner. They are at different locations. How does this work, and what are the charges? A
Q: When hiring an ensemble for a wedding ceremony, how do I know how long to book the musicians for? A
Q: Can a Cadenza Strings ensemble travel to an event outside of Ottawa or Montreal? A
Q: Can a Cadenza Strings ensemble play outdoors? A
Q: When will the hired musicians arrive? A
Q: What will the musicians wear? A
Q: What will the musicians require at the location? A

What type of functions do the Cadenza Strings ensembles play at?

We play at events of all types: weddings ceremonies, receptions, birthday parties, garden parties, concerts, dinners, business events, and more!

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How far in advance should I contact Cadenza Strings to book an ensemble for my event?

It is best to book as far in advance as possible, as there is always the possibility that someone else will want to book an ensemble on the same date as your event. However, do not hesitate to contact us about any date, no matter how last-minute - we may be able to help!

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What is the cost of hiring a Cadenza Strings ensemble?

The fee is based on the number of musicians hired and the length of time hired for. Please contact us for a quote.

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What is the booking procedure?

When booking an ensemble for an event, a contract and non-refundable Administration Fee are required.
Email us for more details.

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When is the payment due?

A non-refundable Administration Fee is due at the time of booking. The balance is due on the day of the event the ensemble is hired for.

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How do I know which ensemble is best to hire for my event?

The type of function, your budget, and the number of people attending should be considered when deciding which ensemble to book for an event. For smaller gatherings, a duo or trio is often sufficient, while a quartet is optimal (especially if there are many people attending, or guests will be talking) and may even need to be amplified (see next question). Feel free to contact us to speak about your particular needs.

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Will the group require any sound equipment?

Under most circumstances the ensemble will not require amplification, however for certain types of gatherings, it may be better to arrange for the group to be amplified. We would be happy to discuss the options with you.

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Can a Cadenza Strings musician help with choosing repertoire for a wedding ceremony?

One of our musicians would be happy to help choose the pieces to be played. We have played for many wedding ceremonies, and can help plan out the music for both traditional and non-traditional weddings. Music consultation is usually done via email (with reference to our Weddings page), or occasionally telephone. If the client wishes to have a meeting with a Cadenza Strings representative, this is also possible. Please note that a fee will be charged for our time.

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Can the musicians attend a wedding rehearsal?

Generally, it is unnecessary for the musicians to be present at the rehearsal. We are experienced in playing during ceremonies, and will normally coordinate with the officiant on the day of the wedding. However, if you feel uncomfortable with this arrangement, you can request a representative of the ensemble (or the entire ensemble) to be present. Please note that a fee will be charged for our time.

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I would like a Cadenza Strings ensemble to play for my wedding ceremony and reception/dinner. They are at different locations. How does this work, and what are the charges?

If the gap between the two events does not exceed three hours, a fee is charged, because the musicians cannot accept additional engagements while waiting to play for your reception. The musicians are able to travel between venues.

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When hiring an ensemble for a wedding ceremony, how do I know how long to book the musicians for?

Cadenza Strings has 3 categories for ceremony bookings, with regard to length: 70 minutes (for ceremonies of 10-40 minutes in length, + 30 minutes of prelude/postlude music), 90 minutes (for ceremonies of 40-60 minutes in length, + 30 minutes of prelude/postlude music), and 120 minutes (for ceremonies of 40-60 minutes in length, + 30 minutes of prelude/postlude music). If you are unsure of the ceremony length, it is always better to book for longer, to avoid losing your musicians part way through the ceremony if it runs late!

If the musicians do not have an immediate engagement and are able to stay past the predetermined end time of the booking, the client will be charged an Overtime Fee.

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Can a Cadenza Strings ensemble travel to an event outside of Ottawa or Montreal?

We are generally able to travel to events up to one hour's drive from the cities of Ottawa or Montreal, but a transportation fee will apply. This fee will vary depending on the distance from Ottawa or Montreal, the ensemble hired, and the length of time booked for.

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Can a Cadenza Strings ensemble play outdoors?

Provided the weather is not too humid or cold, we can play for outdoor events. In hot weather, we require shade so that our instruments are protected from the sun. The client should have an alternative indoor location available in case of bad weather. If it is raining, humid or cold (below 15ºC) outside, the musicians will not perform unless given an alternate indoor location. Their instruments are too valuable to risk damage due to exposure.

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When will the hired musicians arrive?

The musicians will arrive approximately 15-20 minutes before the booked time in order to set up, unless more time is required. The client is not charged for the 15-20 minute set-up time.

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What will the musicians wear?

We usually dress in white tops and black pants or skirt for weddings, and all black for other events (see image on the right). Of course, if a client requests casual attire or a different colour scheme, we can certainly try to accomodate!

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What will the musicians require at the location?

We will require an armless chair for each musician hired, and sufficient light to read music by. If hiring a soloist with piano accompaniment, a [tuned!] piano or keyboard is necessary. Both grand and upright pianos are acceptable.

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If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to send us an email!