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
violin, viola & piano
Robin Weseloh, violin
Ann Patterson, cello
Jennifer Smith,, violin & viola
Maria Ritzenthaler, viola
Andrea Nott, cello
Jeannette Hoyt,
violin & viola
Ellen O'Hayer, cello
Heidi Saeter, flute
JoEllyn Moroney, vocalist
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.
Do 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 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, we have professional musicians ready to substitute for Elle Musique members.
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 see 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 EM Pakage 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 offers 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.
EM's Wedding Repertoire
Ceremony Music Suggestions
Wedding Music Programs
Ceremony Music Themes
Agnes Malorny Photography
Jolie Images
Let Them Eat Chocolate
Matt Stedman
The Matt Young Group
Mavora Art & Design
Paper Stories
Robin Hoye-Vitson
Tobias Lopez Photography
weddings
Elle Musique
info_ellemusique
773 2622 7228
PO Box 607697
Chicago IL 60660
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January 30, 2010
11AM-5PM
Indie Wed Show
Ravenswood Event Center
4025 N. Ravenswood
Chicago, IL 60613
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