1. When is the appropriate time to hire The Chesterfield Quartet?
Depending upon the season, the sooner music is booked the better. Summer and fall are the busiest times of the year for weddings. Some brides prefer to begin their planning a year or more in advance. However, based upon availability, we may be able to accommodate the bride who elects to tie the knot sooner. Inquire about availability by filling out an information form or by calling 314-469-3432. Click here for information form.
2. How do I get and what is included in the promotional material?
Contact us after the date, place, and time have been scheduled and confirmed.
The Chesterfield Quartet promotional and information materials are available by clicking here. Other promotional materials are available by filling out an information form or by calling 314-469-3432.
Click here for the information form.
3. What steps do I take to secure the services of The Chesterfield Quartet?
Complete the contract, included in the promotional materials, and return a deposit check of 25% of the total amount with check payable to The Chesterfield Quartet. The contract is void if not returned with deposit by the date indicated. We do not accept credit or debit payments.
4. What if there are two or more interested prospects for the same date and time?
We will honor the first signed contract with deposit received. Don't let your day slip away!
5. When is the balance due?
The balance is due upon completion of services; however, many clients prefer to take care of these details before the function begins.
6. What services are included in the wedding package?
Even though most weddings are unique, there are similarities. For instance, all include a prelude or musical introduction (approximately 20 minutes), processionals, service music, recessionals, and a 10 minute postlude to conclude the ceremony.
7. When do I meet with the consultant to choose music?
At least 2 months prior to the event is best. However, special situations may require less time. Schedule a music consultation with the manager. Choose music before the programs have been ordered and printed.
8. Why is it necessary to get approval of music selections performed in Church?
Many sacred institutions require prior approval of the music by the music director and clergy. These establishments believe that marriage in the Church should only include music that reflects the consecration of the occasion. "Music at Mass: What the Church Teaches about Liturgical Music" by Matthew C. Hoffman is available online at http://www.matthewhoffman.net/music. This is an excellent free source of information for the Roman Catholic. Secular or non-religious locations do not restrict your choice of music. Investigate requirements prior to the music consultation.
9. Do Catholic wedding masses cost extra?
No. Our cost does not discriminate any religion.
10. A family member or friend wants to sing for the Wedding service. Can you accompany them?
Yes, we can. It is very special to have people you know participating in your ceremony, and we would be happy to accompany them. We have had many years of experience. There will be a rehearsal prior to the ceremony with a nominal fee. Click here for our rates.
11. I am having a Jewish ceremony. What do I need to know?
Like all wedding ceremonies, there is a prelude for the guests arrival and the processionals for the families and the wedding party. A traditional Jewish wedding ceremony generally does not include music during the service. A Reformed or blended service allows for music during the service. We have accompanied Cantors and Rabbis, but generally he/she elects to chant or sing unaccompanied. Recessionals and postlude begin after the ceremony has concluded. Mazel Tov!
12. If I cancel my contract, would I lose my deposit?
The contract reads, "If the contractee cancels this contract in writing 60 days prior to engagement date, the compensation deposit shall be returned in full. If the contractee cancels this contract within 60 days of engagement date, the [Chesterfield] Quartet shall not be required to refund the deposit." Musicians are not really booked; you actually buy their time and talent. Any change in date or time (or place) without notifying the Chesterfield Quartet will be a breach in contract.
13. Is there an additional charge for a time gap between the ceremony and reception?
We will work on an individual basis to make a determination of cost due to time and distance variances. Do we perform at the same place or are there different locations? Please ask if this applies to your situation.
14. Will the musicians play outdoors?
We are happy to perform outdoors but require shade and, of course, no precipitation to avoid damage to our instruments. In other words dry, level, shady location within earshot of the guests is adequate (i.e. a tent, pavilion, and/or trees).
15. What are the travel boundaries for The Chesterfield Quartet?
Travel is limited within a 50 mile radius of the Greater St. Louis and St. Charles areas. Click here for our rates.