Allegria Ensemble

The sound of elegant music floating in the air welcomes you, then... 

seamlessly, the music changes for the walk down the aisle and the ceremony has begun. Enjoy hearing that special song for a meditative moment. Lively fanfares celebrate "the Kiss" and guests congratulate the new couple. Happily, your guests will be able to hear each other in conversation with un-amplified music. Mingle and chat over cocktails and dinner as live music sets the festive ambience with live music in the background.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can you perform music for a non-traditional ceremony?
Yes. We will provide music for any type of ceremony, indoors or out, civil, religious, or other creative event you have in mind. 

Will the musicians perform outdoors?   
Yes, provided there is shelter from wind, rain, and hot sun, and the outside temperature is above 65 degrees. Outdoor events scheduled in May and October are strongly encouraged to have a heated, indoor venue available as a backup. You want to keep the grandparents comfortable and save your bridesmaids from turning blue in the cold.  Plan for the worst and hope for the best.  

Can I hear what your music sounds like? 
Yes. You can listen here to samples of the quartet, trio, and duo to get an idea of our sound and variety. Our repertoire lists for each ensemble include links to the tunes on YouTube if you aren't already familiar with the tune. Contact us to receive a link to the most up-to-date list.

How do I choose the musicians and the music?   
We can help you select the number of musicians, the particular instruments, and the repertoire that is appropriate to the venue and fits your budget. We provide a music planning worksheet to help you with ideas to organize music for your event. You can choose the specific tunes, or describe your preferences and we'll draft a playlist for you. Contact us for the most up-to-date repertoire list. If you don't see a particular tune you want, contact us about adding it.  

Will the musicians perform special requests?  
Yes, we are happy to accommodate special requests arranged in advance. You may provide sheet music, or we can order it, or we can create a new custom arrangement for an additional fee. Each combination has its unique list of tunes.

STRING QUARTET:   Two Violins, Viola, and Cello
TRIO:   Two Violins and Cello; or Violin, Viola and Cello; or Oboe, Violin, Cello 
DUO:     Violin and Cello; or Viola and Cello; or Two Violins  
SOLO:   Violin, or Viola, or Cello

Will the same musicians on the recordings be at my event? 
Yes. In the unlikely case of a last minute change, we have carefully screened substitutes to ensure that your event music goes smoothly.

How will the musicians dress?  
We can offer you a choice of very formal tuxedos and fancy black concert dresses; or white and black; or business attire so we have a look appropriate to your occasion. 

Can the musicians perform with my organist,  singer, or friend who is a musician?  
Yes, provided it's arranged in advance and includes rehearsal time. As experienced professionals we are accustomed to working with a variety of other musicians.   

Do the musicians attend the wedding rehearsal? 
One musician can attend the rehearsal, but generally it's not required. We arrive a half hour before the event with a playlist that you've approved in advance so we're ready to go. We'll pin down the final cues with your officiant before the ceremony. When everyone is ready to begin, we follow your program. 

Do the musicians need electricity?
No. We play un-amplified instruments so no need to plug in.  We have battery powered lights to use in dimly lit settings.

Is the music suitable for a cocktail reception or dinner? 
Yes, we have pop tunes, lighter classical music, rags, and jazz for a more relaxed feel.  Your guests will especially appreciate being able to have conversations without shouting to be heard.

Will the musicians travel from one venue to another?  
Yes. We can perform for a wedding at one location, then move to a reception site elsewhere.  There may be a travel fee added depending on time and distance. 

What is the fee to hire Allegría Ensemble? 
Fees vary depending on the number of musicians, the length of time needed, and the travel distance. Additional services such as creating a new music arrangement, a sound system, or attending the wedding rehearsal are optional.  See our Prices to get a rough idea, then contact us for a custom quote.

Is there a travel fee? 
A travel fee will apply to events more than 15 miles from State College.

How do I reserve the musicians for my event? 
First, contact us to see if we have your date available. After discussing what you have in mind, we'll put everything in writing and send you a written proposal with the fee. Return a signed copy of the agreement with your deposit to hold the date in our calendar.

What if I need to make changes? 
Call or email us about the new details. If they're minor, our email trail will suffice for a change notification. If they're more significant and change the budget in a big way, we may re-write the agreement so everything is clear. 

What if my event is cancelled?
Events cancelled more than three months in advance will be released with no penalty.  Deposits are non-refundable.

Can you provide references?
Yes, most happily. Also, see our reviews for comments from our clients. 

I still have more questions.
Contact us for more answers.