providing elegant string ensembles for Chicago weddings & special events
Elle Musique is committed to providing you with musical excellence,
extensive professional experience and exceptional personalized service.
{ EXPERIENCED }
For over 15 years, the musicians of Elle Musique have provided the soundtrack for hundreds
of Chicago events - from intimate dinners to large scale weddings & corporate functions.
{ PROFESSIONAL }
Classical trained with degrees in music, our female musicians bring years of professional solo,
ensemble and orchestral playing experience to every performance.
{ VERSATILE }
From soloists to string quartets, we offer a variety of ensembles to fit both your needs and budget.
Our extensive repertoire features a variety of styles -
from light classical to dramatic tango and upbeat pop.
{ KNOWLEDGEABLE }
We have the expertise to plan and perform the perfect musical menu for your event -
one which conveys your style and personality while creating the ambience you desire!
read more reviews at Wedding Wire
Ingrid was amazing to work with - she was the BEST VENDOR
to work with from my wedding planning experience!
Rachel R., 8/31/08, wedding, Villa Park, IL
I have gotten so many compliments on the music- where did I find the musicians, the music was beautiful, just enough music, great songs, etc. . . .
Very professional!
Laurie R., 6/7/08, wedding, Evanston, IL
We loved all the music played at our ceremony and reception, but most enjoyed Por Una Cabeza. We chose this tango for our first dance, and it was even better live. Thank you, Elle Musique!
Chris M.., 5/17/08, wedding, Barrington, IL
These ladies were fantastic! They were prompt and professional and I loved the variety of music they played. I received many compliments from my guests on
how lovely the music sounded. They added just the right touch!
Joan B., 6/23/07, private party, Evanston, IL
Thank you so much for making Tree House's Lights of Love so enjoyable. The string ensemble was just the perfect music for the event, and everyone had a great time sitting and listening to you play. Please extend my thanks and appreciation to everyone in the group.
Jennifer Schlueter, Director of Development, Tree House Humane Society, 12/15/05
STRING QUARTET
Our most requested ensemble, a string quartet consist of two violins, viola and cello. It offers the fullest sound, largest repertoire and is recommended for larger venues.
STRING TRIO
A string trio consists of two violins (or violin/viola) and cello. It's a good choice for small venue weddings or those on a limited budget. Compared to a string quartet, a trio's sound is slightly thinner.
STRING DUO
Another economical option, a string duo pairs a violin with a violin, viola or cello. It has a more limited repertoire but takes up little space.
SOLOIST
We also offer solo violin, viola, cello or flute
CUSTOM ENSEMBLE
Add any instrument, like a flute or trumpet, or vocalist
to create a custom ensemble. We also have a pianist available to accompany soloists.
Elle Musique evolved over 15 years ago from a gathering of four friends who shared a passion for playing chamber music. Since then, Elle Musique has grown to include over 10 diverse, talented musicians who truly enjoy creating beautiful music and sharing it with others!
Ingrid
violin, viola & piano
A full time orchestra teacher and versatile freelance musician, Ingrid holds a B.M. in Music Education from Roosevelt University and a M.M. in Music Education from VanderCook College. She studied violin under Melvin Ritter, Marc Zinger, Cyrus Forough and David Taylor and piano under Jane Allen, Dmitry Paperno, Eloise Niwa and Pawel Checinski. She has performed on both violin and viola with several ensembles, including the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, Oak Park River Forest Symphony and Skokie Valley Symphony. Ingrid has also performed in numerous theatre productions, on live radio and television (with Billy Corgan, Dennis DeYoung and Emilie Autumn) and has recorded with local bands. She loves arranging and composing, and is thrilled that one of her original tangos was recently performed at Inönü University in Turkey. Ingrid is also an avid pet photographer, donating her sales to local pet charities.
Robin Weseloh, violin
Violinist Robin Weseloh is an orchestra teacher in Naperville's District 204. She began her musical training at the Betty Haag Suzuki School at the age of three. She attended Augustana College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. Robin has also studied violin with Dr. Susan Stone and Mathias Tacke of the Vermeer Quartet. She has performed abroad in China, Germany and Austria, and has spent five summers on staff at the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp in Michigan. Robin presently performs with the West Suburban Symphony, where she serves as assistant concertmaster. One of Robin's biggest passions is chamber music, which she performs with numerous chamber orchestras and ensembles, including Elle Musique.
Ann Patterson, cello
Anne received her Bachelor of Music in cello performance from the University of Nebraska and her Masters of Music in cello performance from the University of Michigan. She was a member of the Lincoln Symphony cello section for 6 years and played with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago 2006-2008. Anne's teachers have included Anthony Elliott, Tracy Sands, Karen Becker and Carol Ourada. She has attended the National Orchestra Institute as well as the Aspen Music Festival. Currently, Anne can be found preparing for orchestra auditions and working at a private library.
Jennifer Smith,, violin & viola
Jennifer Smith is a full time orchestra teacher as well as a freelance musician. She earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Illinois State University and a Master of Music Education from VanderCook College of Music. Jennifer studied violin with Dr. Sarah Gentry at Illinois State University and has performed with several ensembles including the Illinois Symphony Orchestra, Peoria Symphony Orchestra, Heartland Philharmonic, Wheaton Symphony Orchestra, West Suburban Chamber Orchestra and West Suburban Symphony Orchestra. Jennifer has a passion for learning, teaching, and performing all styles of music, from classical to rock, on her violin. She recently attended Mark OConnors camp in Tennessee where she thoroughly enjoyed studying fiddling, one of her favorite styles.
Maria Ritzenthaler, viola
Maria Ritzenthaler, professor of viola and director of the chamber music program for Harper College, is an accomplished chamber and orchestral musician. She received her undergraduate degree from U.W. Madison under the study of Sally Chisholm of the Pro Arte String Quartet. Ms. Ritzenthaler recently completed her masters degree at Roosevelt University where she studied with internationally renowned violist, Roger Chase. Some highlights in her professional experiences include performing as a tenured violist of the Madison Symphony, participating in the Aspen Summer Music Festival, and international solo and chamber music performances as part of the Casal Maggiore Summer Music Festival in Italy Symphony. She is currently a co-principal violist of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago where she has been privileged to work with conductors such as Bernard Haitink and Pierre Boulez. Ms. Ritzenthaler also enjoys teaching privately, working with the new chamber music ensemble, Anaphora, and guest lecturing at Columbia College as violist of the Raven String Quartet.
Andrea Nott, cello
Andrea Nott received her Bachelor's degree in cello performance from the University of Wisconsin in Madison, and her Master's degree in cello performance from the University of Missouri in Kansas City. Andrea has performed in the Madison Symphony, the Des Moines Symphony, the Illinois Philharmonic and the Dubuque Symphony. Also a lover of non-classical music, Andrea has performed with Josh Groban on the Oprah Show, and bands such as Kansas and Ricky Skaggs. Currently, Andrea is a member of the Bach & Beyond Ensemble, the Oakley Street Cello Ensemble, and the Racine Symphony Orchestra, and teaches in Chicago's Smiling Strings program.
Ellen O'Hayer, cello
Ellen O'Hayer received her Bachelors degree in Cello Performance from the DePaul University School of Music in 2005, where she studied with Stephen Balderston, former Assistant Principal Cellist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. She continued her studies in 2007 at Roosevelt University's Chicago College of the Performing Arts with CSO cellist Richard Hirschl and the CSOs Assistant Principal Cellist, Ken Olsen. Ellen serves as Principal Cellist with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, where she appeared as a soloist in 2009, performing Michael Daughertys Jackies Song. She also holds a section cello position with the Quad City Symphony Orchestra in Davenport, Iowa. Ellen is an alumna of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, where she performed under Maestros Charles Dutoit, Bernard Haitink, and Pierre Boulez, among others. In addition to her orchestral work, Ellen is a founding member of the Chicago-based Raven String Quartet. Ellen is also active in the rock music scene as both a cellist and vocalist. In 2007 she performed with Lou Reed, Norah Jones, Gillian Welch, and other guest artists, as part of the touring ensemble of the Omaha-based rock band Bright Eyes. During this tour, Ellen played throughout North America, Europe, and Japan, and appeared in the Bright Eyes music video for the song Hot Knives. Ellen is also a member of the Chicago indie-rock ensemble Gabardine, and she played and sang on the self-titled 2007 album by the Chicago chamber-rock band The Scotland Yard Gospel Choir, a group which she performed with from 2001 to 2007. She also contributed cello and vocals to the bands upcoming release.
Heidi Saeter, flute
Freelance flutist Heidi Saeter grew up in a musical family playing flute and piano, in addition to acting and directing musical theater productions. She received a Flute Performance degree from St. Olaf College. During her flute studies she had the opportunity to work with some of the greats including, Peter Lloyd, Jean-Pierre Rampal, and Geoffrey Gilbert. During a playing hiatus in California, Heidi had the opportunity to explore other passions. She received a TTouch Practitioner Certification which she has found to be very helpful in maintaining a centered, balanced, and grounded musical practice. Heidi recently moved back to Chicago and is excited to continue exploring this culturally rich city.
JoEllyn Moroney, vocalist
JoEllyn graduated from Trinity Christian College with BA's in Vocal Performance and Music Education, and recently finished her MA in Education Administration from Lewis University. She has over twelve years of experience singing sacred, classical, art, opera, jazz, standards, broadway, popular, rock, and even country music. She has a voice for just about any occasion! Versatile and eclectic, JoEllyn can sing anything to suit your needs!
Visit her band's myspace page
If your special selection is not listed, please contact us. If possible, we will locate a published arrangement.. If one is not available, we can custom arrangement it for you.
Repertoire pdf
notes
gallery
What type of events do you perform at?
Everything from weddings to parties, charity galas, wine tastings, proposals, corporate events, bridal showers, memorials, gallery openings and more!
What set up do you require for performance?
We need one armless chair per musician and a 10'x10' area free of pedestrian traffic. We have battery-operated lights for low lighting conditions. If we are using our PA system, we also need access to an electrical outlet.
What time do you arrive before your scheduled performance time?
We typically arrive 30-40 minutes before our start time to set up, warm up and go over any last minute details with your event planner and/or officiant.
What is your attire?
We dress in formal black, unless you request other colors.
Will you perform outdoors?
Yes, we love playing outdoors. We do, however, need temperatures of at least 60 degrees, shade from direct sunlight and protection from rain or mist as these conditions can damage our instruments. If your venue has no protection, we recently purchased a portable canopy for sun protection (requires $50 rental/setup fee).
I have a song I'd like you to play that's not on your repertoire list.
Will you still be able to play it?
Most certainly. We will first attempt to locate a published arrangement (via music library or online vendor) suitable for our ensemble and bill you our cost for it. If one can't be found, we'll write our own arrangement. The custom arrangement fee will vary depending on the piece's complexity, length and instrumentation. We appreciate at least one month's notice if preparing a custom arrangement.
Do you perform with singers and/or other instrumentalists?
Yes, we often accommodate requests to perform with singers and other instrumentalists. Our quartet also includes a pianist who is available for accompanying. We can recommend specific musicians, play with others you've booked or even play with guests attending your event. We discuss the musical selections with all parties, then meet for a rehearsal before the start time to ensure a polished performance. There is a $25 fee per musician for the additional rehearsal time.
Do you play with amplification?
For most ceremonies, the acoustics of the venue rarely require us to play with amplification. For receptions and parties, we recommend our ensemble play with amplification if the venue has poor acoustics (ex. - carpeting) or if a large number of guests will be in attendance. It's wonderful when everyone can enjoy the music you so carefully planned! To achieve a balanced, full sound, we perform with individual pick-ups. We also have a microphone which you are welcome to use for speeches or toasts. Our PA system is suitable for events with up to 150 people. There is a $50 cartage and setup fee for this service.
Do you require breaks?
For wedding ceremonies, we do not require breaks. For reception and party bookings of 2 hours or more, we require one 10 minute break for every 50 minutes of playing. This ensures that we perform our best and dont sustain any playing injuries. If the quartet is booked, we can also arrange for continuous music by breaking into smaller ensembles (duo or trio).
How does Elle Musique differ from other music ensemble companies?
Elle Musique is not a booking agency. You work directly with us, guaranteeing every detail is covered. Our fees are also lower than those of a booking agency because there is no "middleman" to pay. The members of Elle Musique have played together for many years. We have developed a unique musical relationship, resulting in a dynamic, polished sound. Booking agencies often hire individual musicians to play an event (not a pre-formed well-rehearsed group). In addition, we've performed at hundreds of events, and can assure you our professional experience is extensive and diverse.
What if an Elle Musique member has a schedule conflict or is ill?
In the event of schedule conflict or illness, another Elle Musique will substitute.
Will you help with the music selection?
With pleasure! We know that the music selection process can seem daunting, but we will walk you through it, offering suggestions to help you personalize your event. If you prefer, we can also select the music for you.
Do we need to meet in person?
An Elle Musique member will be happy to schedule a free consultation or meeting with you, although the music planning details are easily handled via email and/or phone.
faqs
please visit Weddings for more faqs
Nothing sets the mood or expresses emotion quite like music. Whether you desire the traditional sound of Pachelbel's "Canon", or the fresh, unexpected "Here Comes Your Man" by The Pixies, we will help you choose music that is meaningful and memorable.
To ensure your planning is stress-free, we offer unlimited consultation - by phone, email and in-person. Unsure of what to select? We offer recommendations based on your preferences, or we can choose music for you. If your requested selection is not in our repertoire, we'll track it down or custom arrange it especially for you. We can also help in securing additional musicians, or include one of your guests in the music making!
Post ceremony, we can provide background music for your cocktail hour or reception (at a discounted rate if it's held at the same venue as your ceremony). To check our availability and receive a custom price quote, please comtact us and we'll respond promptly!
All Wedding Packages Include
Additional Services Offered
What's included when I book Elle Musique for my wedding?
When you select Elle Musique, you are receiving over 20 years of wedding music expertise. Please view our Services page for more details.
Are you also available to play the cocktail hour or reception following the ceremony? Yes - it's always fun for us to see the big party after the big event! We also offer discounts if the ceremony and cocktail hour are held at the same venue.
Can I hire two different ensembles for my ceremony and reception?
Absolutely. We've had couples who've hired a string quartet to play their ceremony and a string trio to play their cocktail hour/reception. Others have booked a duo for their ceremony and a trio or quartet for their cocktail hour/reception.
What if my wedding and reception are in two different locations?
We often play weddings where travel is necessary between the ceremony and reception. Since we are booked by the event, there are no additional travel fees if it's within a 5 mile radius.
How long do you play before and after the ceremony?
We usually provide 20 minutes of prelude music prior to the start of the ceremony. This allows ample time for your guests to be seated. After the ceremony, we provide 5-10 minutes of postlude music.
Ceremony Music Suggestions
EM's Wedding Repertoire PDF
Wedding Programs PDF
Ceremony Music Themes PDF
Agnes Malorny Photography
Mavora Art & Design
Personalized Ceremonies
Jolie Images
Matt Stedman
Let Them Eat Chocolate
Paper Stories
Robin Hoye-Vitson
The Matt Young Group
Tobias Lopez Photography
weddings
Our Booking Process
* must cancel at least 30 days prior to event
booking
calendar
We welcome all questions & comments!
To receive a custom price quote,
please use our Booking Inquiry Form
ELLE MUSIQUE
info_ellemusique.com
773 262 7228
PO Box 607697
Chicago IL 60660
contact
Past Events
Upcoming Events
January 30, 2010
11AM-5PM
Indie Wed
4025 N. Ravenswood Ave.
Chicago, IL
December 13, 2009
4PM
string quintet
Lessons and Carols
St. Christopher's Episcopal Church
545 S. East Ave.
Oak Park, IL
December 12, 2009
3:30-5:30PM
string trio
Light of Love
fundraiser for Treehouse Humane Society
1212 W. Carmen Ave.
Chicago, IL 60640
November 21, 2009
6:30-9:30
private party
Le Titi de Paris
Arlington Heights, IL
November 1, 2009
string quartet
Vivaldi's Gloria
October 16, 2009
4:30PM
flute trio
wedding ceremony
DiNolfo's
Homer Glen, IL
October 2, 2009
6PM-10PM
Give'm Shelter
fundraiser for Animal Care League
Primitive
September 27, 2009
2:30PM
Rolling Knolls Country Club
Elgin, IL
September 26, 2009
12:30PM
string duo
Trump Towers
1:30PM
St. Mary's Parish
Roselle, IL
September 20, 2009
fundraiser for Family Defense Center
Hotel Allegro
2PM
wedding ceremony & cocktail hour
Bond Chapel& Promontory Point
September 12, 2009
6PM
Odyssey Cruise Ship
September 5, 2009
1PM
St. George's Orthodox Church
Cicero, IL
August 8, 2009
Architectural Artifacts
August 1, 2009
Winnetka Community House
Winnetka, IL
July 24, 2009
Independence Grove Forest Preserve
Libertyville, IL
July 11, 2009
Morris Country Club
Morris, IL
please contact us for availability
CEREMONY MUSIC SUGGESTIONS
Gathered here are the most popular selections requested for each segment of your ceremony.
Some titles are repeated. Keep in mind these are only suggestions, and that any music can be used during the ceremony.
Be sure to check with the music director of your church or synagogue for any music restrictions.
Consult our Wedding Programs and Wedding Music Themes downloads for helpful wedding music planning ideas. Be sure to visit Wed Alert,a terrific resource,for a wealth of sound clips
Ceremony Suggestions PDF
PRELUDE
Prior to the ceremony start, 20 -30
minutes of music is played while guests arrive and are seated.
* Arioso (Bach)
* Brandenburg Concerto #5 (Bach)
* Pastorale (Corelli)
* Rondeau (Mouret)
* Simple Gifts (traditional Shaker hymn)
* The Water Music Suite (Handel)
SEATING OF THE FAMILY
Music is played for the procession of mothers, grandmothers and/or other family members.
* Air on the G String (Bach)
* Amazing Grace (traditional)
* The Four Seasons: Winter's Largo (Vivaldi)
* Largo from Concerto from Two Violins in D minor (Bach)
* Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach)
* Wachet Auf from Cantata No. 140 (Bach)
BRIDAL PARTY PROCESSIONAL
Music is played for bridesmaids and, if processing, groomsmen, flower girls and/or ring bearers. If preferred, the music selection can be the same as the Seating of the Family.
* Air from The Water Music Suite (Handel)
* Canon (Pachelbel)
* Flower Duet from Lakme (Delibes)
* Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach)
* Largo from Xerxes (Handel)
* Only Fools Rush In (Bloom)
BRIDAL PROCESSIONAL
Most brides prefer to make a grand entrance and have their own processional.
* Bridal Chorus from Lohengrin (Wagner)
* Erev Shel Shoshanim (Jewish traditional)
* She from Notting Hill (Kretzmer & Aznavour)
* Trumpet Voluntary (Clarke)
INTERLUDES
Reflective, meditative music is often played during the lighting of the unity candle, communion, flowers to the parents or Viirgin Mary, sand ceremony or in memory of a loved one.
* Ave Maria (Schubert)
* From This Moment On (Twain)
* The Lord's Prayer (Malotte)
* Mediation from Thais (Massenet)
* O Mio Babbino Caro (Puccini)
* One Hand, One Heart from West Side Story
(Bernstein)
* Panis Angelicus (Franck)
* You're Beautiful (Blunt)
RECESSIONAL
Joyous, celebratory music is played while the happy couple recesses down the aisle
* Brandenburg Concerto #3: Allegro - 1st movement (Bach)
* Chosen Kalle Mazel Tov (Jewish traditional)
* The Four Seasons: Spring's Allegro (Vivaldi)
* Hallelujah Chorus from The Messiah (Handel)
* Hornpipe from The Water Music Suite (Handel)
* Ode to Joy (Beethoven)
* Palladio (Jenkins)
* Pretty Woman (Orbinson)
* Trumpet Tune (Purcell)
* Viva La Vida (Coldplay)
* Wedding March (Mendelssohn)
POSTLUDE
Five to ten minutes of lively, uplifting music is played while guests mingle and exit
* Brandenburg Concerto No.3: Allegro -- 3rd movement (Bach)
* Eine Kleine Nachtmusik: Allegro (Mozart)
* The Four Seaosns: Autumn (Vivaldi)
* La Rejouissance (Handel)
Prelude
Seating of the Family
Bridal Party Processional
Bridal Processional
Ceremony Interlude
Recessional
Postlude
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