String Quartets for Hire

Hire a String Quartet in the UK

A string quartet brings a level of elegance that few other ensembles can match. The standard lineup of two violins, a viola and a cello covers the full musical range, producing a rich, balanced sound that works beautifully in churches, country houses, hotel ballrooms and outdoor spaces alike. Unlike larger bands, a quartet needs almost no technical setup: four chairs, a flat surface and enough space for the players is usually all that is required, making them one of the most practical options for venues with limited power or noise restrictions.

String quartets for weddings

Weddings account for the majority of string quartet bookings, and it is easy to see why. A quartet can play guests into the venue, accompany the processional, provide music during the signing of the register and then continue into the drinks reception. Many couples choose a classical piece for the ceremony itself and then switch to pop or film arrangements for the reception. Popular choices for the walk down the aisle include Pachelbel's Canon in D, Handel's Arrival of the Queen of Sheba and modern alternatives like A Thousand Years by Christina Perri. If you are also looking for musicians to cover the evening reception, consider pairing your quartet with a wedding band or singing guitarist later in the day.

Classical, modern and electric quartets

The repertoire of a modern string quartet goes far beyond the classical canon. Most groups listed here offer a mix of traditional composers alongside arrangements of chart hits, film scores, musicals and even dance music. If you have a specific song in mind for a key moment, many quartets will learn new pieces on request. Some groups also offer electric string quartets, which use amplified or solid-body instruments for a more contemporary, high-energy sound. Electric quartets are particularly popular at corporate events, product launches and parties where a visual spectacle matters as much as the music. For a different approach to ceremony music, you might also consider a harpist or wedding ceremony musician.

Duos, trios and larger ensembles

Not every event calls for a full four-piece quartet. A string duo (typically violin and cello) or trio (two violins and a cello, or violin, viola and cello) can be a better fit for smaller venues, intimate ceremonies or tighter budgets. At the other end of the scale, some ensembles offer quintets or larger lineups for grand occasions. Many of the groups on this page are flexible about their configuration, so it is always worth asking what options are available. If you want a soloist rather than a group, browse our violinists or cellists for individual players.

Corporate events and private parties

String quartets are not just for weddings. They are a popular choice for corporate drinks receptions, awards dinners, charity galas and product launches, where live music needs to enhance the atmosphere without overwhelming conversation. A quartet playing at a moderate volume lets guests network comfortably while still enjoying the benefits of live performance. For private celebrations such as milestone birthdays, anniversary dinners or garden parties, a string group adds a sense of occasion that recorded music cannot replicate. If you are organising a larger event and want to combine a quartet with other entertainment, a pianist during the meal followed by a jazz band for the evening is a combination that works well.

How much does it cost to hire a string quartet?

The average price for a string quartet is currently £578, with prices across the site ranging from £100 to £4248. The cost depends on several factors: the number of players (a duo will cost less than a full quartet), the length of the performance, travel distance to your venue and whether the booking falls on a peak date such as a Saturday in summer. Most quartets quote for a standard two-hour booking, typically played as two sets of 45 minutes with a break. Longer bookings or requests for additional sets will usually increase the fee. You can use the price comparison section on this page to see current rates across all 110 ensembles and filter by your budget.

What to check before you book

When comparing string quartets, listen to the audio and video clips on each listing to get a sense of the group's style and sound quality. Check their repertoire list to make sure they cover the genres you want. If you are planning an outdoor event, confirm the group is comfortable playing outside and discuss contingency plans for weather. String instruments are sensitive to rain, wind and direct sunlight, so a covered area or a backup indoor option is important. Ask about setup time (most quartets need around 30 minutes), whether they require parking close to the venue and if they need access to refreshments during the event. Booking well ahead of your date is always advisable, particularly during wedding season from May to October when the best ensembles fill their diaries quickly.