As wedding ceremony professionals, one of the most common questions we are asked is “How do I choose my wedding music?” Unfortunately, there is no simple, straight answer to this question. I always ask couples to first consider the mood that they would like to create, and go from there. Next we can look at the type of ceremony (church ceremony, outdoor ceremony, religious, non-religious etc.) We can consider the structure of the ceremony: is it short or long? Is it a full Mass in a cathedral, or a gathering with family and friends at a winery? How many people will be at the ceremony? Do the bride and groom have a special song they would like performed? Is there a singer? Has someone in the bide and grooms family written any music? These and other questions are great for the couple to ponder, and will go a long way in not just choosing music, but choosing music that is a reflection of the couple.

I am always wiling and eager to help my clients, and they can call or email me anytime. www.duodamore.com

As the first snowflakes start to fall from the sky, and the Christmas and holiday season begins, we are hard at work preparing for a number of corporate Christmas parties, as well as wedding ceremonies and other special events. We are also looking forward to the New Year, and booking events for 2015. Along with all of that, we are thinking about what wedding trends will we see for 2015. In the past couple of years, at least in regards to wedding ceremony music, many couples have mixed popular music choices with more traditional selections. It seems to me that 2015 will have people still interested in more popular music, but there may be a slight shift to more vintage themed weddings, with classical oriented music performed. Corporate events will continue with a mix of classical and pop, with larger ensembles like a string quartet or smaller soloists and violin and cello duos, though depending on the type of event, this might change to popular upbeat music, slower more background music, or as we are getting into the Christmas season, holiday and Christmas themed music. Whatever happens, from Calgary to Charlottetown, or Surry BC to Scarborough ON it sure will be an interesting year, with lots of exciting events, and great live music!

As many of our clients know, I spent the past few weeks on a wonderful trip through parts of central Italy including Rome, Florence and Perugia, as well as additional time in London England. Besides the amazing food and wine in Italy, I had the great opportunity to do a good deal of research into wedding trends and ideas for 2015, as well as spends a good deal of time looking at and playing some wonderful violins, made by Italian violinmaker Filipo Protani. England was more focused on weddings, as I attended a wedding outside of London, and had the good fortune to visit a wonderful exhibit called Wedding Dresses 1775-2014 at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

As with all trips, it’s always very nice to come home again. I am really excited to be refreshed and renewed for an amazing 2015!

Duo d’Amore is proud to announce that we have received our 100^th review on wedding wire! This could not have been possible without the hard work of our team of musicians, and such wonderful clients. Thanks!

“The music was beautiful and was timed perfectly. I only wish I could have been there to hear all the songs, like when guests arrive! haha! :)

We were very pleased with the service you and your musicians provided from beginning to end of the whole process.

I didn't get the chance to speak to the musicians but please tell them thank you for contributing to the magic of our special day.” –Darlene, bride 06/28/14

Despite the fact that more and more people are choosing to add pop music to their wedding ceremony for a modern feel (which we love!) I was thinking about the untapped possibilities of non-traditional classical music as part of the wedding ceremony. There are so many amazing pieces that run the gamut from romantic soaring melodies, catchy upbeat tunes to more quiet dignified music that can add an incredible degree of interest and personalization to your ceremony. Maybe music that guest and you have never even heard before, but something that just fits perfectly with what you have planned. This is one of the things that I, Matthew the owner and violinist of Duo d’Amore excel at. Why? Because If a classical music nerd, an audiophile and a fantastic resource. I love nothing more than to have an in-depth conversation with clients about the style and mood they are trying to create for their wedding or event, and then coming up with an incredible, interesting and above all exciting playlist.

Please call or email me, and let me know how I can work hard to make your wedding even more memorable, more tailored to what you want, and the mood that you want to create then you ever imagined.

Duo d’Amore received a wonderful review from Melody and Kevin, after our string trio’s performance at their wedding ceremony on March 30, 2014 at the Eglinton Grand in Toronto:

“Matthew was always responsive to my emails and always open to suggesting music for my wedding when I wasn't sure what to select. His team played flawlessly and the transitions from song to song were very smooth. Thank you for creating a beautiful atmosphere for my wedding!”

Wedding ceremony music Toronto: Duo d’Amore-violin and cello duos, string trios and string quartets