Thursday, 23rd February 2012
Which areas do you play in?
Based in Cardiff, the Abbey String Quartet usually performs in South Wales and the West Country, but we are available to play anywhere in the UK.
How much space does the quartet need?
A string quartet requires more space than one might imagine: it should be possible for four armless chairs to be arranged in a semicircle about two feet apart – the corner of a room is ideal. Adequate lighting is also very helpful to us.
How often do you take breaks?
We normally take short breaks as needed, but we can usually fit these around natural pauses during the event, for example during a group photo.
Do you need refreshments?
We kindly ask that during events lasting two hours or more, we are provided with soft drinks.
Can you play outdoors?
The quartet will gladly play outdoors during fine weather as long as a form of shelter, such as a large gazebo, is provided to protect our instruments from sun and rain.
What does the quartet normally wear?
All members of the quartet normally dress formally in all-black, and requests can be made for the gentlemen to wear dinner jackets or waistcoats with a choice of black, white and lilac shirts. If you would like us to match a particular colour scheme, please enquire at least four weeks before your event.
Are there any special arrangements for when the quartet plays during a wedding ceremony?
We kindly ask that the choice of music to be played during a ceremony is confirmed at least fourteen days in advance on the Musical Request Form, which will be sent to you together with the Booking Form. If you would like advice on making your selections, or would prefer us to make appropriate choices on your behalf, we will also gladly help.
I do not see the piece I would like on your repertoire page. Can you still play it?
Yes, requests for music not on the repertoire list can usually be catered for given a minimum of four weeks’ notice; there is no extra charge for this service, except for new arrangements which will be individually quoted for. Any new musical arrangements should be confirmed no later than four weeks prior to the event with Marc (mobile: 07764 522644), who will also advise on whether the requested piece will work as a string quartet arrangement.
How do I book the Abbey String Quartet?
Please contact us to find out our availability and to receive a quote for your event. If you then wish to proceed, we will post to you our Booking Form to be returned together with a non-refundable deposit of £100 (either as a cheque or as a bank transfer) to confirm the booking. The remaining balance is payable either in cash on the day or by cheque or bank transfer at least fourteen days in advance.
What happens if our wedding or event is running late?
We understand that functions do not always run to schedule and we will always endeavour to be accommodating. If the event is running considerably over the agreed completion time, an additional set of music can usually be agreed on the day for a small additional fee, given that the performers are available.
Do you have a set price list?
Because every event is different, it is preferable to agree our fee based on individual requirements. This can vary somewhat depending on the length of time we are asked to play and distance travelled. Please contact us to receive a quote for your event.
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The Abbey String Quartet is available to provide professional live music for weddings, civil ceremonies, blessings, receptions, banquets, social functions, charity events, balls, parties, corporate functions, business events, and all kinds of celebrations across Wales and England: South Wales –Swansea – Bridgend – Cardiff – Newport – Caerphilly – Abergavenny – Monmouth – Chepstow – Mid Wales – Brecon – Merthyr Tydfil – West-Wales – Pembrokeshire – South West – Bristol – Bath – Gloucester – Cheltenham – Hereford – Worcester – Birmingham – The Midlands and Somerset.