Alexander String Quartet

QUESTION	ANSWER
What does a string quartet consist of ?	A string quartet consists of 2 violins, a viola and a cello.
If required can you play outdoors ?	The quartet is more than happy to play outdoors on fine days during the summer months. Should the weather be too cold, too windy or wet, we would have to move inside. We ask that there is some shade for us to play under to protect our instruments from direct sunlight. For a small fee we can provide a Gazebo to fulfill our requirements.
Does a string quartet need a PA system ?	We generally find we don't need to use a PA system. For larger corporate events we can liaise with your light and sound team so that we are "miked up". If you have any questions or concerns regarding this topic please contact Michael or Ashley.
What space and equipment do the quartet require ?	We need an area covering about 2.5 x 2.5 metres. It is preferable that we are on a flat surface with adequate light; we do have our own lights if needed. We need 4 armless chairs in a semicircle. It is also helpful if there is a place where we are able to leave our cases during our performance.
What would happen if one of the players was ill ?	If a member of the quartet was ill, we would make sure that we found a suitable replqcement. The Alexander String Quartet has a circle of professional deputies who play with us regularly. These excellent players are all full time professionals and would stand in when one of us is on holiday or otherwise engaged so they are well rehearsed with the music and acquainted with our high standards.
How do we go about getting a quote ?	To find out how much it would cost to book the quartet for your engagement please call or email Michael or Ashley. Each engagement is given an individual quote which takes into consideration the length of times we are booked, the travelling time and our expenses. We always build all these factors into the cost and we do not charge VAT. For the most accurate quote please give as much information as possible, i.e. venue, timings and date.
How far in advance can I book the quartet ?	The members of the quartet are all leading members of the Ulster Orchestra and are under contract. We take bookings on the understanding that in the event that we are unavailable due to orchestral commitments we would provide a fully professional replacement quartet. We can generally confirm our availability about 3 months in advance.
How much do you charge ?	Our fees start at around £400
Will you need to take breaks ?	We will need to take some breaks during the engagement. We try to time these breaks to coincide with your plans. We can let you know how many/how long the breaks would be depending on your booking time (we usually allow about 10mins per hour).
How do we go about booking ?	Once you have decided you would like to book please get in touch with Michael or Ashley with all the details (date, venue, timings etc) and your contact details. You will be sent a confirmation email and we ask for a deposit to secure your date. On receipt of the deposit your booking will be confirmed.
What would happen if I cancelled the booking ?	On the very rare occasion that a client cancels the booking, we would retain all monies paid.
How do we choose the music we would like ?	If you are having a wedding ceremony /service you can let us know what you would like for the key parts of the ceremony (processional, signing of the registers, hymns and recessional). If you need help choosing the music please do not hesitate to contact Michael or Ashley.
What if we would like a piece of music that you don't have ?	In most cases we can either get hold of it or have it arranged for a small fee. Please give us as much notice as possible about this.
What do the string quartet wear ?	The Alexander String Quartet always dress smartly and generally wear all black outfits. If you would rather we wear something different please let us know at the time of booking. We can wear Dinner jackets, Evening Tails, White jackets, lounge suits etc.