Frequent questions and answers about .....
Weddings
Will you be attending the wedding rehearsal?
It is generally not necessary or helpful for us to attend the rehearsal and the general quote does not usually include that service. These are usually designed to practice the positioning of the wedding party and not for timing the pieces. Many times people don't do an actual run through of the music. Timing on wedding day often tends to be slightly different anyway and I(we) are experienced at stopping at any point as needed. When we arrive at the venue we will have a quick discussion with the officiant or wedding coordinator to get signals straight as to when to start the processional, etc. If your ceremony is in the Cedar Rapids area and you would prefer to have someone at the rehearsal, Mike is sometimes able to add this service when he is available. If your wedding rehearsal is on a Friday, there are frequently other rehearsals or performances booked at that time so you would need to inquire. Since our general rate does not include this service, there will be an additional fee asked that would reflect the additional day.
Will you collaborate with other musicians?
Generally, that is not our preferred mode of operation, but we do on occasion. If we do, that would require a rehearsal which will be an additional charge and will be dependent on schedule availability. Ask us if you have any questions or desires in that area.
Do I need to pick out the pre-service music?
Not unless you want to. We generally pick things from our repertoire. If you have special requests we will accommodate if possible. We do encourage you to select music for the processionals, recessionals, and other parts of the service as needed. If you have no preference we can offer suggestions.
Can I change my mind on the music?
You may make changes during the planning process. We do feel most comfortable (at least in the case of the violin duo) if any special requests that are not currently on our list are made a month in advance or more and that there be minimal changes 10 days prior to the event to ensure the best quality.
Do you bring a sound system?
We do not currently have our own microphones or sound system. In the majority of venues 1 or 2 musicians will produce enough sound within the acoustic that is available. If you are desiring the sound of strings, you are likely not interested in a sound that is overpowering. If you feel that your venue does require additional amplification it will be up to you to secure and provide that equipment. In most cases a single microphone with a stand is adequate. We are experienced and willing to work with whatever equipment is available.
Venues
Do you play outside?
We do at times play outdoor events, but we do need to know that in advance. Outdoor events can be quite beautiful and string music can be a lovely touch, however, there are a few requirements we need to take into consideration to be enjoyable and effective for both musicians and guests. Our instruments are mainly constructed of wood, glue, and a delicate varnish. Extreme hot or cool temperatures, high humidity, or any kind of precipitation can create the need for expensive repairs and will certainly bring down the quality of the music on your special day. In lieu of that, outdoor events work generally best scheduled between late April until late September. Temperature needs to be somewhere between 65 and 90 degrees, and there needs to be no precipitation. In addition we might need some sort of covering to protect from rain, any mist, or sun - both for the instruments and ourselves. We want to be able to focus on making the music special and not be too concerned about the elements. We may choose to play on different instruments which are still sensitive to the elements, but to a a somewhat lesser degree. Sound quality would be somewhat lesser as well but certainly adequate.
What equipment is needed?
We often play standing, but may need chairs without arms. We can provide music stands and stand lights if the area lighting is dim.
When will you be arriving at the venue?
Depending on the needs, we will be at the venue at least 20 to 30 minutes before we will begin playing depending on other needed arrangements.
What will musicians be wearing?
Unless specified, we will dress formally to fit the occasion. If you have specific requests or colors for attire, do let us know. Formal concert black is usually the default.
Terms and payment
How much do you charge?
You can contact us for an exact estimate once we know your requirements. Since every ceremony is unique we prefer to tailor the rates to reflect your specific requirements so once we know what those are we will be better equipped to give you an estimate. Charge is by the event and not per song. If your event is out of town we may charge a general rate rather than figuring mileage. In any case, the usual minimum charge is $125 per musician involved. Ask about a combined package for the wedding ceremony and reception/cocktail hour. Check and cash are the excepted terms of payment.
I only need music for 15 minutes of the wedding. Would that be a lower rate?
No. Booking your day and time may have meant that we have said "no" to something else. We have still needed to take the time to travel and get ready for the event and it is not polite to leave during the ceremony, so the time is used whether we are playing or not. We generally charge for an hour as the minimum booking rate, except in the occasion of the Violinogram.
Aren't the fees a bit high for only being at the ceremony a short time?
Sometimes it is good to know exactly what you are paying for, since rarely is the time spent at the event the only time spent working on your event. The fee covers all the time spent in communicating and arranging details, time spent putting together or learning special requests, as well as time spent practicing or polishing the music handpicked for your event. To offer you this product took many years of hard work, experience, countless lessons, education both during the year and in summer programs, and practicing. All of the musicians Mike hires or plays with at weddings and events have played many weddings before and have college level music training on their instrument. I think you will find the quality to be high and the rates to be extremely reasonable and competitive with those in the area.
How do I book?
You should contact us first to check on availability. It may be sometimes that Mike is available for solo, but the violin duo will not be. Once you know we are available and we have offered you a quote, we will issue you a contract (at least in the case of weddings). We will ask you to return the contract to us, along with a deposit of 25% of the total bill. That will secure the date with us. The remainder of the fee must be paid in full by the day of the event.
Please note that Mike is contracted with Orchestra Iowa and that season runs from September through early June. The schedule for the upcoming season is usually released around March or April preceding. While booking early is encouraged, for dates that fall during that season in certain months, it may not be possible to give a confirmation until the Orchestra schedule is released.
Other questions
Do you play for any events besides weddings?
Yes, we are available for memorial services, back ground music for receptions, or other ideas you might have. Depending on your venue size, sometimes one or two violins is the perfect choice for background music that is present but does not over-power conversations. Mike is also available to play as a strolling violinist without music. Due to the nature of memorial services and the inability to plan far in advance, the deposit and contract will be waived. Please contact us for a quote.
What about wedding receptions?
Yes, we are able to play for wedding receptions. If we are hired for both the ceremony and reception we may be able to offer you a reduced combined rate. If you have hired Mike to play alone for the ceremony, then he could play for the reception either staying in one place, or "movable" as a strolling violinist. Click here for more details.
What is the best way to contact you?
Most of the particulars can be discussed via email or phone. You can indicate your preferred contact method. If you would like to have an initial meeting in person after reading the material on the website, that can be arranged.
For any questions you don't see answered, do not hesitate to contact us.
Will you be attending the wedding rehearsal?
It is generally not necessary or helpful for us to attend the rehearsal and the general quote does not usually include that service. These are usually designed to practice the positioning of the wedding party and not for timing the pieces. Many times people don't do an actual run through of the music. Timing on wedding day often tends to be slightly different anyway and I(we) are experienced at stopping at any point as needed. When we arrive at the venue we will have a quick discussion with the officiant or wedding coordinator to get signals straight as to when to start the processional, etc. If your ceremony is in the Cedar Rapids area and you would prefer to have someone at the rehearsal, Mike is sometimes able to add this service when he is available. If your wedding rehearsal is on a Friday, there are frequently other rehearsals or performances booked at that time so you would need to inquire. Since our general rate does not include this service, there will be an additional fee asked that would reflect the additional day.
Will you collaborate with other musicians?
Generally, that is not our preferred mode of operation, but we do on occasion. If we do, that would require a rehearsal which will be an additional charge and will be dependent on schedule availability. Ask us if you have any questions or desires in that area.
Do I need to pick out the pre-service music?
Not unless you want to. We generally pick things from our repertoire. If you have special requests we will accommodate if possible. We do encourage you to select music for the processionals, recessionals, and other parts of the service as needed. If you have no preference we can offer suggestions.
Can I change my mind on the music?
You may make changes during the planning process. We do feel most comfortable (at least in the case of the violin duo) if any special requests that are not currently on our list are made a month in advance or more and that there be minimal changes 10 days prior to the event to ensure the best quality.
Do you bring a sound system?
We do not currently have our own microphones or sound system. In the majority of venues 1 or 2 musicians will produce enough sound within the acoustic that is available. If you are desiring the sound of strings, you are likely not interested in a sound that is overpowering. If you feel that your venue does require additional amplification it will be up to you to secure and provide that equipment. In most cases a single microphone with a stand is adequate. We are experienced and willing to work with whatever equipment is available.
Venues
Do you play outside?
We do at times play outdoor events, but we do need to know that in advance. Outdoor events can be quite beautiful and string music can be a lovely touch, however, there are a few requirements we need to take into consideration to be enjoyable and effective for both musicians and guests. Our instruments are mainly constructed of wood, glue, and a delicate varnish. Extreme hot or cool temperatures, high humidity, or any kind of precipitation can create the need for expensive repairs and will certainly bring down the quality of the music on your special day. In lieu of that, outdoor events work generally best scheduled between late April until late September. Temperature needs to be somewhere between 65 and 90 degrees, and there needs to be no precipitation. In addition we might need some sort of covering to protect from rain, any mist, or sun - both for the instruments and ourselves. We want to be able to focus on making the music special and not be too concerned about the elements. We may choose to play on different instruments which are still sensitive to the elements, but to a a somewhat lesser degree. Sound quality would be somewhat lesser as well but certainly adequate.
What equipment is needed?
We often play standing, but may need chairs without arms. We can provide music stands and stand lights if the area lighting is dim.
When will you be arriving at the venue?
Depending on the needs, we will be at the venue at least 20 to 30 minutes before we will begin playing depending on other needed arrangements.
What will musicians be wearing?
Unless specified, we will dress formally to fit the occasion. If you have specific requests or colors for attire, do let us know. Formal concert black is usually the default.
Terms and payment
How much do you charge?
You can contact us for an exact estimate once we know your requirements. Since every ceremony is unique we prefer to tailor the rates to reflect your specific requirements so once we know what those are we will be better equipped to give you an estimate. Charge is by the event and not per song. If your event is out of town we may charge a general rate rather than figuring mileage. In any case, the usual minimum charge is $125 per musician involved. Ask about a combined package for the wedding ceremony and reception/cocktail hour. Check and cash are the excepted terms of payment.
I only need music for 15 minutes of the wedding. Would that be a lower rate?
No. Booking your day and time may have meant that we have said "no" to something else. We have still needed to take the time to travel and get ready for the event and it is not polite to leave during the ceremony, so the time is used whether we are playing or not. We generally charge for an hour as the minimum booking rate, except in the occasion of the Violinogram.
Aren't the fees a bit high for only being at the ceremony a short time?
Sometimes it is good to know exactly what you are paying for, since rarely is the time spent at the event the only time spent working on your event. The fee covers all the time spent in communicating and arranging details, time spent putting together or learning special requests, as well as time spent practicing or polishing the music handpicked for your event. To offer you this product took many years of hard work, experience, countless lessons, education both during the year and in summer programs, and practicing. All of the musicians Mike hires or plays with at weddings and events have played many weddings before and have college level music training on their instrument. I think you will find the quality to be high and the rates to be extremely reasonable and competitive with those in the area.
How do I book?
You should contact us first to check on availability. It may be sometimes that Mike is available for solo, but the violin duo will not be. Once you know we are available and we have offered you a quote, we will issue you a contract (at least in the case of weddings). We will ask you to return the contract to us, along with a deposit of 25% of the total bill. That will secure the date with us. The remainder of the fee must be paid in full by the day of the event.
Please note that Mike is contracted with Orchestra Iowa and that season runs from September through early June. The schedule for the upcoming season is usually released around March or April preceding. While booking early is encouraged, for dates that fall during that season in certain months, it may not be possible to give a confirmation until the Orchestra schedule is released.
Other questions
Do you play for any events besides weddings?
Yes, we are available for memorial services, back ground music for receptions, or other ideas you might have. Depending on your venue size, sometimes one or two violins is the perfect choice for background music that is present but does not over-power conversations. Mike is also available to play as a strolling violinist without music. Due to the nature of memorial services and the inability to plan far in advance, the deposit and contract will be waived. Please contact us for a quote.
What about wedding receptions?
Yes, we are able to play for wedding receptions. If we are hired for both the ceremony and reception we may be able to offer you a reduced combined rate. If you have hired Mike to play alone for the ceremony, then he could play for the reception either staying in one place, or "movable" as a strolling violinist. Click here for more details.
What is the best way to contact you?
Most of the particulars can be discussed via email or phone. You can indicate your preferred contact method. If you would like to have an initial meeting in person after reading the material on the website, that can be arranged.
For any questions you don't see answered, do not hesitate to contact us.