Will we meet the musicians or contractor before our event?
Rhapsody Ensembles offers unlimited phone and e-mail consultations to assist you in planning the music for your event. It is seldom necessary to meet in person. For an additional fee, the ensemble may attend the event rehearsal if the ensemble is available to do so.
Will the musicians play outdoors?
The musicians will play outdoors provided that the weather conditions are acceptable. Unsatisfactory conditions include temperatures under 60 degrees, rain or excessive humidity, excessive wind, and other conditions which either impede the musicians’ ability to perform, or put their instruments in danger of being damaged. The instruments must also be protected from direct sunlight by a tent or another mutually agreed upon source of shade. You should also have an alternative indoor location available in the event of weather complications. Beach weddings have additional caveats. We love Beach Weddings, by the way.
What will the musicians provide and what will we need to provide at the event?
The musicians will provide all sheet music, music stands and beautiful music! You will need to arrange for one armless chair for each musician, adequate light and space, and shade if the event is outdoors. If no piano is available, our pianist will provide a keyboard if necessary. Cartage fees will apply if this is the case. Cartage fees will also apply if a portable PA or amplification unit is required.
What if you don’t have a certain musical piece that I want played at my event?
If it’s possible for us to order the music in a format that will work for the ensemble that you have selected, we will do that at no extra charge to you. If this piece or repertoire requires custom arranging in order to be played by the selected ensemble, there will be an extra fee for Cathleen to arrange or compose this custom piece. If we feel a certain piece will not work for the selected ensemble, we will let you know.
Will any of the musicians be students?
All of the musicians are professional musicians who perform in orchestras, chamber groups, and solo recitals in addition to playing at weddings/formal events. It is possible that a musician may be working on an advanced degree while performing professionally, but we do not hire student level (undergraduate) performers.
What will the musicians wear?
Our standard attire for weddings and formal events is tuxedo for men and formal but conservative black for women. (Cocktail or evening length.) For less formal events, men may wear a jacket and tie. Rarely, we do get a request for more casual dress. Let us know what you would prefer.
When will the musicians arrive for my event?
The musicians will arrive one hour prior to start time. The setup time for a classical group is minimal. The musicians of Rhapsody Ensembles are prompt and professional and often arrive early to check out the venue and performance area.
What is the setup time for the musicians and should we take that into account when deciding the hiring time?
The setup time is minimal. It may take less than fifteen minutes. The only possible delays are if there is a question about where we should set up or if the chairs are not provided by the venue as requested. Things run very smoothly if we discuss the logistics ahead of time. The musicians should be in an area with adequate space and light, out of the way of guests/wedding party/wait staff. They should be in a position to see as much of the processional route as possible in the case of a ceremony. You need not worry about setup time in considering hiring length.
Do the musicians require a source of electricity?
It simply depends. There are some cases [when] for example, the guitar may be appreciated more fully with minor amplification. If a soloist is singing, a microphone and PA system will be required. If a pianist is asked to play or provide electronic keyboards for the event, he/she will require amplification and electricity. Portable amplification requires an additional cartage fee.
How will the musicians know when to begin the processional music?
If you have a wedding coordinator, he/she will take care of notifying us when everyone is ready. Sometimes this is left to the clergyman or music director. Generally, Kathleen will cue the musicians, and continue to do so throughout the ceremony.
How will the musicians know when to change pieces during the processional?
We always find out how many mothers, bridesmaids, etc. there are and simply watch and change when appropriate. The musicians of Rhapsody Ensembles have collectively played at hundreds of weddings and are used to protocol and procedure.
How will the musicians know when to play certain pieces/requests?
We will discuss with you ahead of time the proper placement and timing of pieces in your repertoire. We will work out any needed cues and timing details with either the clergyman or the wedding coordinator during setup. This is standard procedure.
Is it necessary for the musicians to be in contact with the clergy person (or officiant) prior to the event day?
No. We will work out all details the day of the event during setup and run- through.
How long before the ceremony should the prelude music begin?
You should hire the musicians to begin playing between 15-30 minutes prior to starting time depending on your preference and when you think guests will arrive at the location.
Where should the musicians be located during a ceremony or event?
The musicians should be in an area with adequate space and light, out of the way of guests/wedding party/wait staff. In the case of a ceremony, they should be positioned to see as much of the processional route as possible to facilitate cues and start/end times for individual pieces. Please consult your church/venue for specific restrictions. For example, some churches do not want musicians on the altar. It is best to discuss beforehand any concerns regarding placement with us. We often assess the situation upon arrival and find the best location.
Our family member or friend is a singer and we would like you to accompany him/her during the ceremony. Is this possible?
It is possible. Prior to your event, the soloist/singer will need to consult with Rhapsody Ensembles’ music director to ensure that his/her selected music and singing style is compatible with the selected ensemble’s repertoire, and that it is arranged in the proper key. Custom arrangements require an additional fee. Should the singer/soloist feel more comfortable rehearsing prior to the event with the ensemble, the musicians will need to be paid separately for attending and performing a rehearsal.
What is the amount of deposit you require?
Rhapsody Ensembles requires a 50% deposit to secure your date.
What ensemble do you recommend?
It completely depends on the event and the personal preferences of those involved. For weddings (for example), some brides love the larger stately sound of an elegant string trio or quartet. Others prefer the more intimate sound of cello and flute, or flute and guitar. Piano, flute and voice is (of course!) a personal favorite. Classical guitar goes well with any instrument, and the angelic sound of a harp alone or with an ensemble sounds heavenly. We have played Renaissance weddings, and Celtic themed repertoires. Our classical literature is always gorgeous; a bit of jazz can be added to kick things up a bit. Ambiance and dimension is created through live music. Cathy has written entire scores for custom ensembles… really, the sky is the limit. We will thoroughly discuss all ensemble options with you. Live music is easily interchanged, ensembles can consist of almost anything you desire!
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