Toronto Wedding String Ensemble at Casa Loma. Thuy+John wedding ceremony at Casa Loma, June 28, 2014, violin and cello duo, wedding musicians Toronto, ON
“Our ceremony was beautiful. I was nervous and there were many things going on for me to recall the whole performance but parts of my recollection was how beautiful and a great complimentary the performance was. Please thank the musicians for me that played once again as my husband and I thank you from our hearts for the excellent pieces that the two ladies did at our wedding.” Thuy, bride
Casa Loma Wedding
We always enjoy performing at Casa Loma, and this wedding ceremony was no exception. The venue as as you can imagine (if you have never been there) is a large gothic revival building, which has the feel and grandeur of a castle. In planning the music selections, Thuy and John chose selections from the traditional classical repertoire that fit perfectly with their tastes. This matched the style of the wedding, as well as the style of the venue as a whole. Our violinist and cellist set up prior to the main arrival of the guests. As the guests entered performed several selections of classical music to set and fit the mood, including movements from Handel’s Water Music.
Ceremony music begins
As with most wedding ceremonies, the ceremony begins with the bridesmaids walk down the aisle. Thuy and John really took advantage of the large aisle, and had a processional with considerable style. They not only had the bridesmaids walk down the aisle, but also included family members, flower girls and a whole procession of people. They chose the wonderfully flowing and happy Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring, which was an absolutely perfect fit. The bride walked down to Pachelbel’s Canon (again, perfect) then there was a break in the music for the important vows, and kiss. For the signing of the marriage documents, Duo d’Amore performed Bach’s Air on the G-string. This is one of our favourites, especially for the signing. As the couple was introduced, we performed Mendelssohn’s Wedding March.
Wedding party processional: Bach: Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring
Bride: Pachelbel: Canon in D
Signing: Bach: Air on the G string
Recessional: Mendelssohn Wedding March
Video: Faithbooth
Toronto Wedding String Ensemble ON: Duo d’Amore-violin and cello duos, string trios and string quartets
About Duo d’Amore-Toronto Wedding String Ensemble
Duo d’Amore is an award winning string ensemble, made up of professional violinists, violists and cellists. Together we have versatile string ensembles such a s solo violinists and cellists, string duos, string trios and quartets. We perform a wide variety of music including pop, Top40 and classical for weddings, special and corporate events.
Whatever the size and scope of your wedding or event, there is a string ensemble that will perfectly suit the occasion. Listed below is an overview of our string ensembles, and some general remarks about the size of wedding or event where they are best suited. Every event is unique and we suggest that you contact us so that we can plan and customize a string ensemble for your special occasion. Contact us here https://duodamore.com/contact-us/
What type of weddings does your string quartet and ensembles perform at in Toronto?
We perform at all kinds of weddings such as non-denominational weddings, Catholic weddings, Jewish Weddings, Christian weddings, Orthodox weddings and many others.
What ensembles do you have for hire?
Listing our Wedding String Quartet and ensembles Toronto
The solo violin
The smallest bowed string instrument in the violin family is the violin. It is also the quietest instrument, but that does not mean that it cannot produce a sound. Don’t forget that violin soloists regularly perform with a 50-100 piece orchestra, in a large hall seating 2000 or more people, and the solo violin can be heard over the entire orchestra, and at the very back of the concert hall. How? This comes down to the skill of the violinist, and positioning. This is why at wedding ceremonies for example we often are quite picky about the exact spot where our violinists and ensembles perform, no matter if the string ensemble is outdoors or indoors a single violinist is a great choice.
Duo d’Amore’s solo violinist is a great option for those who want live music but have a smaller budget. The solo violinist performs classical pieces, contemporary pieces, and a mix of both. Their music is perfect for wedding ceremonies, cocktail receptions, and intimate dinners.
The solo cello
Like the solo violin, a solo cellist is a great option for slightly smaller wedding ceremonies and receptions around Newmarket. Larger than the violin, it is very resonant, and can play an equally wide range of music. Clients that hire the solo cello and solo violin for weddings and events often have a guest list of under 50, but not necessarily so.
The violin and cello duo
The violin and cello duo, or string duet, is made up of one violin player and one cello player. This is our most requested string ensemble for hire around Toronto. Having both the violin, which is able to play soaring melodies, and the cello which is able to anchor and often accompany, while having an even larger sound it is no wonder that this is our most popular string ensemble. I like to imagine that the violin is like the right hand of the piano and the cello is the left had of the piano, together they can play almost anything, and that is another reason that it is our most popular ensembles.
Duo d’Amore’s violin and cello duo is a popular choice for weddings. The duo consists of a violinist and a cellist who play together, creating a beautiful, harmonious sound. The duo’s repertoire includes classical pieces, contemporary pieces, and a mix of both. Their music is perfect for wedding ceremonies, cocktail receptions, and dinner parties.
The String Trio
The string trio is made up of the violin and cello, with the addition of a third instrument. Often this is a violin or viola. We recommend this ensemble for 150-200 guests. The string trio a great mid size ensemble that is an excellent option for an outdoor wedding or large church wedding.
The String Quartet
Our string quartet is the largest wedding ensemble that we have for hire. We often recommend the string quartet for large gatherings, receptions, weddings and events with 200 or more guests. The string quartet is one of our more versatile ensembles, as we can perform everything from Bach, Beethoven and Brahms in the classical spectrum, to pop, jazz, folk, Top40 and beyond.
Choosing wedding ceremony and reception music-Strings for Wedding Toronto
Duo d’Amore has one of Canada’s largest collections of wedding pop and classical music for our string ensembles. In general here is what we recommend for a wedding ceremony. Of course, every ceremony is different and we like to customize things to suit your plans and ideas. We also have lots more wedding music planning ideas and resources on our blog, here.
Custom musical arrangements
We often arrange music specifically for our brides and grooms. Imagine that you want a certain song and you want to walk in to a specific part of that–we can tailor this to suit. Ask us about our custom song arrangements.
Listen to music samples:
Visit our website to listen to pop and classical wedding favourites performed by our musicians: Listen to samples here.
Tips of choosing wedding ceremony music, with a modern touch
Consider slower less upbeat pop music guests arrive:
The prelude before the ceremony is a great time to include less upbeat pop music, as guests will be chatting. As well, we like to recommend that this is the time to include a wide variety of different styles, think classic rock, top40, the Beatles etc–a little something for everyone. Listen now: https://duodamore.com/samples/
Gradually add more contemporary/pop top 40
Add some contemporary selections: Contemporary music can add a modern touch to your playlist and appeal to a wider range of guests. Consider incorporating popular songs like “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri or “All of Me” by John Legend. As the ceremony progresses, we incorporate additional current pop music.
Incorporate special songs: Consider adding special songs that have meaning to you and your partner. It could be your first dance song, song from your first date or song that holds special memories for the both of you.
Vary the moods: Mix up the moods of the songs on your playlist to keep things interesting. Consider adding upbeat songs for the reception, and slower, more contemplative songs for the ceremony. Here are some ideas: https://www.brides.com/upbeat-love-songs-4799999
Signing of the register is a time for reflection
The signing of the marriage documents is a time to stop and reflect, and the choice of music should reflect that. This is the time to really slow things down. There may be time for one or even two pop songs, and don’y forget classical. The slower, quieter song choices really make whatever is chosen for the upbeat recessional “pop”.
Tell your story
Make a playlist that tells your love story: Create a playlist that tells the story of your relationship, by adding songs that hold special memories for the both of you.
Toronto Wedding Venues–a selection
A historic area with charming cobblestone streets, the Distillery District offers a unique atmosphere for weddings. It has a variety of venues, including loft spaces, galleries, and outdoor courtyards.
This Gothic Revival-style castle offers a fairy tale setting for weddings. With its grand interiors, lush gardens, and stunning architecture, Casa Loma provides a romantic backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.
The Royal Conservatory of Music
Known for its modern and elegant architecture, this venue features beautiful event spaces. The glass-walled Koerner Hall lobby and the outdoor patio are particularly popular for weddings.
The Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city, the Four Seasons offers a range of elegant event spaces, including ballrooms and rooftop terraces, suitable for both intimate and large-scale weddings.
The Aga Khan Museum
This museum showcases Islamic art and culture and features stunning contemporary architecture. Its stunning courtyard and elegant spaces make it a unique choice for a cultural and artistic wedding celebration.
The Eglinton Grand
A restored historic theatre, the Eglinton Grand offers a vintage-inspired backdrop for weddings. Its art deco interiors and glamorous atmosphere create a memorable setting for couples seeking a classic Hollywood feel.
This French-style restaurant tucked away in a cozy cottage offers intimate indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings. The rustic yet refined ambiance makes it a popular choice for romantic celebrations.
The Omni King Edward Hotel
A historic luxury hotel, the King Edward features elegant ballrooms with intricate detailing, making it a timeless venue for traditional weddings.
Additional venues for our string ensembles
Evergreen Brick Works
For nature-loving couples, this former brick factory turned environmental community center offers a rustic and industrial backdrop. It has various event spaces, including a greenhouse and outdoor gardens.
Artscape Wychwood Barns
A converted streetcar repair facility, this venue offers a unique blend of industrial and artistic charm. The Barns have a variety of spaces, including a covered courtyard and an expansive hall.
Graydon Hall Manor
A stately mansion with manicured gardens, Graydon Hall Manor provides an elegant setting for both indoor and outdoor weddings. Its timeless architecture and lush surroundings make it a popular choice.
Thompson Toronto Hotel
With its modern and chic design, the Thompson Hotel offers rooftop event spaces with panoramic views of the city skyline, providing a trendy and sophisticated backdrop for urban weddings.
When considering wedding venues, be sure to visit each location, discuss your needs with the venue staff, and compare factors such as capacity, amenities, catering options, and pricing to find the one that aligns best with your vision for your special day. Keep in mind that availability and details may change over time, so it’s always a good idea to verify information directly with the venues.
If you or someone you know is planning wedding or event in the Toronto GTA area and are looking for the finest, most experienced and professional Toronto Wedding String Ensemble to perform, please recommend and contact Duo d’Amore today.
