Most violinist bookings start from £550, with the exact price depending on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. The number of sets, any amplification or backing tracks you need, and any custom song arrangements make the biggest difference. We quote each booking individually so you only pay for the moments you want covered.
Key takeaways
- The number of sets and time on site drive most of the price.
- Custom arrangements of specific songs may add preparation time.
- Electric violin with backing tracks suits receptions, acoustic suits ceremonies.
What affects the price of a violinist?
A violinist's quote covers performance time, travel, preparation and equipment. A single set during a drinks reception is a simpler job than playing a ceremony, drinks and dinner, with waiting time in between.
In our experience, these factors matter most.
- Number of sets: ceremony only, or ceremony, drinks and dinner.
- Time on site: waiting between sets still counts as time the musician is committed to your event.
- Style: acoustic classical, or electric violin with backing tracks for a party feel.
- Custom requests: arranging a specific Bollywood or pop song that is not already in their repertoire.
- Amplification: outdoor ceremonies and large rooms may need a small PA.
- Travel and parking, especially for rural venues or central London.
What is usually included in a violinist booking?
A standard booking includes the violinist, their instrument, an agreed number of sets and a chat beforehand to choose music. For amplified or electric sets, a small speaker and backing tracks are usually included.
Things to confirm in writing include set lengths, breaks, what happens if the ceremony runs late, and whether song requests outside the repertoire carry an arrangement fee.
Tip from our team: Choose your walk-down-the-aisle song early. It gives the violinist time to prepare the best version of it and to time it to the length of your aisle.
Want a quote for violinists?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
Is a solo violinist enough, or do you need a quartet?
A solo violinist is ideal for smaller ceremonies, drinks receptions and dinners where you want elegant music without taking much space. With backing tracks, a solo player can sound surprisingly full.
For large ballrooms, grand ceremonies or if you want a richer sound, a string quartet may suit better. It is a different price point, so we will help you weigh up which makes sense for your venue and guest numbers.
Can a violinist play at an Asian wedding?
Yes, and it is increasingly popular. Many violinists play Bollywood classics, Punjabi melodies and Sufi songs alongside Western pieces. A violin version of a well-known Bollywood song during the bride's entrance or the walima drinks gives a lovely, familiar touch.
Ask for their current Bollywood and South Asian repertoire. If a song is not on it, they may be able to arrange it given enough notice.
How can you get better value from a violinist?
The best value comes from grouping sets close together to reduce waiting time. For example, ceremony music followed straight away by the drinks reception is more efficient than a ceremony at noon and a dinner set at seven.
You can also combine a violinist with other acts for a fuller day.
- Book ceremony and drinks back to back.
- Pick songs from the violinist's existing repertoire.
- Pair an electric violin with the DJ for a short party set rather than booking a separate band.
- Check the venue has a quiet corner with power if you need amplification.
How do we quote a violinist?
We ask about your date, venue, the sets you want, song choices and any outdoor elements. Then we check availability with our vetted partners, who all hold public liability insurance, and send a free, no-obligation quote.
We cover the whole UK, from London and Surrey to Birmingham, Leeds and Edinburgh, plus destination weddings. You keep one point of contact from enquiry to the event.
Want a quote for violinists?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to hire a violinist for a wedding?
Violinist bookings start from £550. The final price depends on availability, your requirements, time on site and location, including how many sets you need. We quote each wedding individually.
How long does a wedding violinist play for?
It depends on the sets you book. A ceremony set covers the walk down the aisle, signing and exit, while drinks and dinner sets are usually longer. Agree lengths and breaks in advance.
Can a violinist play outdoors?
Yes, with a plan for weather. Violins are sensitive to rain, direct sun and cold, so the player needs shade or cover. A small amplifier helps the sound carry outside.
Can a violinist learn a special song for our wedding?
Many violinists will arrange a special song with enough notice. There may be a small preparation fee if it is not already in their repertoire. Ask early to avoid disappointment.
Want live violin at your wedding?
Tell us your date, venue and favourite songs and we will send a free violinist quote.
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Written by the Party Central events team. Prices mentioned are starting points only. Exact pricing depends on availability, your exact requirements, time on site and location. Party Central is a trading name of Booking Central Ltd.
