How much does a string quartet cost for a wedding?
One of the most common questions couples ask us is:
"How much does a string quartet cost for a wedding?"
The answer depends on several factors, including the length of performance, location, travel requirements, the experience of the musicians and what you would like included in your package.
As a general guide, professional wedding string quartets in the UK typically cost somewhere between £700 and £1,200, although prices vary depending on the musicians, location and requirements of your wedding day.
At The Fern Quartet, we believe in being transparent about our pricing, so you can understand exactly what is included and choose the option that works best for your celebration.
Below you will find our fees for 2026 & 2027, as well as everything that is included.
These prices are inclusive of travel to Leeds, Sheffield, Wakefield and York, and some other parts of Yorkshire.
What affects the price of a wedding string quartet?
When comparing quotes from different string quartets, it is useful to consider what is included rather than looking only at the headline price.
Number of musicians
A string quartet consists of four professional musicians:
Two violinists
One viola player
One cellist
This creates the rich, full sound that couples associate with a traditional string quartet.
We can offer smaller ensembles such as string duos or trios, which can be a beautiful option for smaller weddings, but a full quartet provides the widest range of repertoire and the most impressive sound.
Length of performance
The cost will depend on whether you would like music for:
Guest arrival
Wedding ceremony
Drinks reception
Wedding breakfast
Evening entertainment
Many couples choose a combination of ceremony and drinks reception music, as this allows the quartet to create atmosphere throughout the key moments of the day.
Travel and location
Most professional musicians include travel within a certain area, with additional charges sometimes applying for venues further away.
The Fern Quartet is based in South Yorkshire and regularly performs at weddings throughout:
South Yorkshire
Sheffield
Rotherham
Barnsley
Wakefield
Leeds
Harrogate
York
North Yorkshire*
We are also delighted to travel further for exceptional wedding venues and special celebrations.
*A travel fee may be added to your quote
What is included in our wedding string quartet packages?
Our packages are designed to make booking your wedding music simple and stress-free:
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Our most popular requested package. This typically includes:
Arrival music for your guests up to half an hour before your ceremony.
Any music requested during your ceremony, from the aisle song to the exit music and any hymns (where appropriate).
Background music for your drinks reception for up to 1.5 hours.
Up to 2 new songs that are not part of our repertoire.
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Arrival music for your guests up to half an hour before your ceremony.
Any music requested during your ceremony, from the aisle song, signing of the register, to the exit music and any hymns (where appropriate).
Up to 2 new songs that are not already part of our repertoire.
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Up to 1.5 hours of background music while your guests enjoy their drinks and nibbles.
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If you feel you need extra time at any point, our half hourly fee is £80
This may be useful if you feel you want us to play for a bit longer before the ceremony starts, or if your drinks reception is going to take more than 1.5 hours.
This can be added on nearer the time.
Why invest in live string quartet music?
Your wedding music creates the atmosphere for some of the most memorable moments of your day.
A live string quartet can transform:
Walking down the aisle
Seeing each other for the first time
Signing your marriage certificate
Your first moments as a married couple
Your drinks reception with family and friends
Unlike recorded music, live musicians respond to the atmosphere of your wedding and create a performance that feels unique to you.
Are wedding string quartets worth the cost?
Many of our couples tell us that live music was one of the details their guests remembered most.
A professional string quartet provides:
A luxury feel to your wedding day
Beautiful photographs and video moments
A personalised soundtrack
Entertainment for guests
Music that suits both traditional and modern weddings
Whether you are planning a church wedding, country house celebration or luxury venue wedding, live string music adds an elegant finishing touch.
Ready to book your wedding string quartet?
If you are planning your wedding in Yorkshire or the surrounding areas, we would love to help create the perfect soundtrack for your day.
From romantic ceremony music to relaxed drinks reception performances, The Fern Quartet will work with you to choose music that reflects your style and personality.
Get in touch to check availability and receive a personalised quote.