How to Hire a Violinist Near You

By Nataly Merezhuk

Understand all the details of succesfully finding and hiring a wedding violinist near you.

I have performed as a violin player for hire for nine years. I know that the right violinist can change the mood of your wedding day. They not only prep the guests for what to expect during the prelude, but make your most cherished moments shine. Let’s go over what booking a violinist looks like.

Improviser or classical violinist?

Violinists fall into roughly two categories:

  • Classically trained musicians
  • Improvisers

When picking a violin player for your wedding ceremony, you likely want someone who can play loudly and improvise. Why do you need a loud improviser? People often discuss wedding music long before your special day, but unexpected things can come up.

Another factor is the space—will you get hitched at the DC War Memorial or in a gorgeous ballroom at the Willard? This means the wedding ceremony violinist will need amplification.

Here are some things to consider when hiring a solo violinist:

Classical Violinist

Classically trained violinists use expensive wooden instruments and can perform any notated music. They limit their performance styles to the sheet music they have. This usually includes classical music and popular pop songs.

Classical violinists play beautifully with perfect technique, and they need a good sounding space. If your event is in a smaller space or indoors, I highly recommend going with a classical violinist. Here are the pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

  • Beautiful sound and technique
  • Performs difficult classical pieces
  • Can be part of a string quartet

Cons:

  • Limited song choices
  • Does not improvise
  • Acoustic instruments without amplification

Improvisers

Improvising violinists come from different backgrounds - folk, jazz, and rarely, classical. They perform on acoustic or electric instruments that can put up with a wider array of environments. Some can read notated music, and all can play by ear.

Some have perfect classical technique, others go for a rougher, freer, sound. Most violinists of this type have a pickup or microphone for their instruments and an amp. This allows them to perform in bigger spaces, outdoors, or at large gatherings.

Pros:

  • Can play anything by ear
  • Can amplify their instrument
  • Can perform with non-traditional instruments (guitar, bass, etc)

Cons:

  • Might not have refined technique
  • Might not be able to read sheet music

Cost of Violinist for Wedding Ceremony

Base Rate

So how much does a violinist cost for a wedding? Professional violinists for weddings cost between $300-1000 for the first hour and $150-500 per additional hour. Several factors influence the final rate, with the top being location and experience.

I like being upfront about my rates, you can view them here .

Minimum Performance Time

Usually wedding musicians have a minimum performance time. My minimum is one hour, but for some it is two or three. It takes a lot to prepare for a performance. This means communicating with clients like you, gathering song lists, traveling to the performance location.

Special Requests & Amplification

Special song requests and equipment requirements can also cost extra. I like to roll this into my rate so you don’t need to worry about calculating the total. Like I said above, especially for strictly classical musicians, it can be hard to accommodate unusual song choices.

Performance Timelines

Performing wedding ceremony music is completely different from say, a corporate event or other special events. When I perform at weddings, I am constantly on the lookout for what’s going on. Are all the guests settled in, is anyone running late? Is the planner or point of contact flagging me down to start the processional?

Think of what music you would want for:

  • The guests arriving
  • Your family arriving
  • You walking down the aisle
  • First dance accompaniment
  • Reception music

Music Selection Process

Most violin players maintain extensive repertoires spanning multiple genres. If you are having a traditional ceremony, there is a list of classical pieces you can select from:

  • Canon In D
  • The Wedding March
  • Ave Maria

If you’re going for a more pop or jazzy vibe, these selections are usually popular:

  • A Thousand Years
  • La Vie En Rose
  • Marry You

I immensely enjoy custom song requests and will take any opportunity to play something unique or quirky. Some of my favorites have included arranging The Rainbow Connection for viola, cello, and clarinet and adapting the Fantastic Mister Fox soundtrack.

I will help you create a timeline for the different parts of your celebration. For most violinists custom song requests usually require 4-6 weeks’ notice for preparation and arrangement. I am able to turn around custom requests for solo violin performances within 24 hours.

Booking Timeline

Start your search 6-8 months before your wedding date. Do this especially if you’re looking for an electric violinist who can improvise and provide a professional sound system.

How to find a violinist

Finding a local violinist can take a few hours to a few days. A few good places to look are:

  • University music departments
  • Wedding directories
  • Social media

To find an experienced professional, I suggest checking a wedding directory. Then, look for their social media accounts and reach out using their preferred method. Just a note - Instagram messages usually go to the ‘Requests’ folder and are easy to miss. Better to use email or give them a call.

Book their services

Once you’ve narrowed it down to your preferred performer, it’s important to lock in the date. A few dates are always extra popular in a given year, if yours is one of them - make sure to act fast.

Technical Requirements

Here are some technical requirements to ensure the performance goes smoothly:

  • 8x6 foot performance space
  • Armless chair if seated
  • Access to power for electric violin
  • Climate-controlled area
  • 60-minute setup window
  • Protection from direct sunlight
  • Clear path to and from the performance area

Sound Considerations

Different venue spaces require different approaches. Make sure you think through the details before hiring a violinist:

  • Indoor ceremonies usually do not need amplification
  • Outdoor events usually require proper sound systems
  • Large spaces need powerful speakers
  • Adjust the background music volume based on the guest count
  • Multiple performance locations need setup planning

Questions for Your Consultation

When meeting potential violinists, it’s important to understand their background. If you are looking for a powerful and immersive sound along with backing tracks, make sure they can provide that. If you are looking for specific classical repertoire, ask them about it. Consider asking these questions:

  • Are comfortable improvising?
  • What styles of music do you perform?
  • Can you provide sample recordings?
  • Do you have a pickup for your instrument?
  • Do you provide your own sound system?
  • Do you need power for your sound system?
  • Do you have backup equipment?
  • How do you handle inclement weather during performances?
  • What is your cancellation policy?
  • How do you coordinate with other vendors?
  • What is your backup musician policy?

You can find my answers to these questions on the FAQ page.

Making Your Decision

When reviewing potential violinists, consider these factors:

  • Listen to performance samples
  • Read past client reviews
  • Confirm their availability
  • Review their song list
  • Understand their setup needs
  • Verify their insurance coverage

A professional will provide you with all this information upfront and in a timely manner. Take a look around my website to listen to performance samples, read reviews, and confirm my availability.

Contract Details

When booking, ensure your agreement includes:

  • Performance duration
  • Arrival and setup times
  • Break schedule
  • Payment terms
  • Cancellation policy
  • Weather contingency plans
  • Music selection deadlines
  • Equipment provisions

Day-of Coordination

Your wedding is special, and you shouldn’t worry about coordination during it. Give the violinist a point of contact to coordinate with, this can be your:

  • Wedding planner
  • Venue coordinator
  • Officiant
  • Other musicians (DJ, reception band)
  • Audio/visual team
  • Photography team
  • Videography team

Conclusion

So how much is a violinist for a wedding? The right violinist is worth every dollar. Consider hiring me - I will bring classical technique, custom song selections, and a beautiful sound to your wedding celebration.