Choose a violinist whose repertoire fits your moments, then decide between acoustic and electric, and check timings, space and venue rules. Listening to recent live recordings and agreeing a clear running order are the two steps that make the biggest difference. Here is the checklist we use.
Key takeaways
- Check the repertoire covers your key songs, including Bollywood or Western favourites.
- Decide on acoustic or electric based on the moment and the room.
- Plan for weather and power at outdoor ceremonies.
Does their repertoire match your moments?
Start with the moments you want covered. A ceremony needs a walk-in piece, music for signing and an exit, while a drinks reception needs a longer, relaxed set. For an Asian wedding, you might want Bollywood classics or Punjabi melodies alongside Western pieces.
Ask for a full repertoire list and recent live recordings. Studio recordings sound perfect but live clips show how they play in a real room.
If you are holding more than one event, such as a mehndi and a reception, ask if the violinist can adjust their set for each. The same musician can sound very different with a folk-style set in the afternoon and an electric set at night.
Should you choose acoustic or electric violin?
Acoustic violin suits ceremonies, dinners and elegant receptions where you want a natural, classical sound. It needs a relatively quiet room to be heard well.
Electric violin with backing tracks suits drinks receptions and parties. It sounds bigger, pairs well with a DJ and works in noisy spaces. Many violinists offer both.
Tip from our team: If you want both, book one violinist for acoustic ceremony music and an electric set later. It keeps a consistent musician across the day.
What questions should you ask a violinist?
These questions help you compare violinists fairly.
- Can you send your full repertoire and recent live recordings?
- Do you play acoustic, electric or both?
- How long are your sets and how long are the breaks?
- What space and power do you need?
- What happens if the ceremony runs late?
- Can you learn a new song, and how much notice do you need?
- Do you hold public liability insurance?
Want a quote for violinists?
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What should you check with your venue?
Ask where the violinist will stand for each set and whether there is power nearby if they need amplification. For outdoor ceremonies in gardens or courtyards, you will need a covered position in case of rain or strong sun.
Also check noise rules if the violinist is playing electric sets outdoors or late into the evening.
In a church or historic building, ask if there are rules on where musicians can stand or when they can play. Some have strict guidance for the ceremony itself.
What red flags should you look out for?
Be cautious if a violinist cannot share live recordings, has no repertoire list or will not confirm set lengths. Another warning sign is agreeing to play anything without mentioning preparation time.
Honest musicians will tell you if a song does not suit the violin or needs a different arrangement.
How far ahead should you book a violinist?
Good violinists are booked well ahead for summer Saturdays. Once your date and ceremony time are fixed, it is worth enquiring.
If you want a special song arranged, allow extra time before the wedding so the violinist can prepare and send you a sample.
Would a violinist work with other musicians?
Yes. Some couples pair a violinist with a pianist or guitarist for a duo, or with a tabla player for a fusion sound at an Asian wedding. These combinations work well for ceremonies and dinners.
We can put together a combined line-up through one point of contact.
Want a quote for violinists?
Free, no obligation. Tell us your date and venue.
Frequently asked questions
What does a wedding violinist play during the ceremony?
Usually a piece as guests arrive, a walk-in song, music during the signing or rituals, and an exit piece. You choose the key songs and the violinist fills the rest from their repertoire.
Can a violinist play Bollywood songs?
Many do. Ask for their Bollywood and South Asian repertoire. If a song is missing, they may be able to arrange it with enough notice.
Does a violinist need a microphone?
Not always. In small, quiet rooms acoustic violin carries well. In large rooms, outdoors or with backing tracks, a small amplifier or PA is needed.
How much space does a violinist need?
Very little. A small area with room to move the bow is enough, plus space for a speaker if amplified. A chair may be needed for longer sets.
Looking for the right violinist?
Send us your moments and song ideas and we will suggest violinists who fit.
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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.
