Question 1

Are you fully insured?

Accepted Answer

We carry general liability insurance that covers all our performances. This is required by San Francisco City Hall and many other venues.

Question 2

Do you learn new songs?

Accepted Answer

Special requests are always welcome! If we can't find sheet music for the requested song, we can create a custom arrangement for you. We pride ourselves on performing high-quality arrangements that sound great and that the musicians also really enjoy playing!

Question 3

What do you wear?

Accepted Answer

Our musicians usually wear dressy "concert" black. But we can also wear black and white, office-dressy, tuxedos, or other colors to coordinate with the style and formality of your event.

Question 4

How early do you come to set up?

Accepted Answer

We arrive at least 30 minutes prior to our performance for most events, which provides ample time to set up and review cues. Usually our group leader arrives a bit earlier to check for any issues with set-up/lighting/shade/parking, especially if we haven't performed at the venue before. But most logistics are worked out well ahead of time to avoid surprises or issues on the event day!

Question 5

How much do live musicians cost?

Accepted Answer

A standard wedding service or the first hour of performance costs $400-700 per musician, with the lower end of the range being for larger ensembles and shorter travel distances. Additional performance time is typically $90 per hour per musician. These rates vary based on travel time, as well as the service and preparation required. For each performer, the actual time commitment for a 1-hour performance is usually 4-6 hours (or more) due to travel, preparation, and set-up time.

Question 6

Do you perform outdoors?

Accepted Answer

We perform at outdoor venues frequently, although we do have restrictions on weather conditions in which we can perform (see our website FAQ page for more details). We require shade to protect our instruments, and cannot perform in very high or low temperatures, high winds, rain, or very dense fog. We can provide a white 10'x10' tent canopy if the venue does not offer a shaded spot or umbrellas.

Question 7

What makes you different from other musicians?

Accepted Answer

Bay Area Strings provides premier string ensembles with musicians who give every performance their best! Unlike some booking agencies that throw together unfamiliar musicians of varying skill levels, our musicians are versatile professionals who work together regularly. We pride ourselves on our extensive repertoire of high-quality song arrangements that both the audience and musicians enjoy.

Question 8

What types of ensembles do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We perform as a string quartet, string trio, or violin-cello duet. The recommended group for your event depends on the venue, guest count, budget, and repertoire choices. A quartet offers the most varied repertoire and complex sound. A trio is a great option to reduce cost with only slightly reduced sound. A duet provides a sparser sound best for small venues. More details on our website!

Bay Area Strings

About Bay Area Strings

Jen Mathers

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Frequently asked questions

Are you fully insured?

Do you learn new songs?

What do you wear?

How early do you come to set up?

How much do live musicians cost?

Do you perform outdoors?

What makes you different from other musicians?

What types of ensembles do you offer?

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