March 28, 2019

EMG’s Guide To String Ensembles

Explore the combinations of strings from Elegant Music Group's premiere string players to offer versatility to your music - whether traditional to pop music.

Elegant Music Group's Guide to String Ensembles

by Michael Saulpaugh

There’s nothing quite like watching your guests’ jaws drop when they are greeted by a string ensemble that’s dramatic and luxurious sounding. And of course, that’s to say nothing of the strong and polished visual statement they make.

But what’s the correct approach to planning strings for your day? And how many do you need? Come to think of it: can they play a Jay-Z String Cover just as easily as Here Comes the Bride?

We’ve got you covered with our official EMG Guide To String Ensembles.

Solo Strings (Violin OR Viola OR Cello)


Solo players can handle melody lines to almost any pop song you can think of and most recognizable classical pieces. Which instrument you choose is purely a matter of preference in tone (cello is a lower tone, violin a higher, etc.)


String Duo (Two Violins OR Viola & Cello)


By adding a second player, we can now introduce the accompaniment part to provide a fuller sound than a one-stringed instrument alone. As a rule of thumb, the more musicians, the more the song-repertoire expands.

String Duo – Two Violins
String Duo – Violin and Cello


String Trio (Violin, Viola, & Cello)


A third instrument now introduces harmony to the melody and accompaniment. Trios can cover most standard repertoires, including classical ceremony music and versions of popular songs. If you want Canon in D as you’re walking down the aisle or Ode to Joy as your guests arrive, but Guns N’ Roses and Justin Timberlake covers at the cocktail hour, a Trio is the way to go!

String Trio – Traditional
String Trio – Pop


String Quartet (Two Violins, Viola, & Cello)


Adding a second violin to a trio really rounds out the sound, providing more overall dimension and richness (as there are multiple harmonies). In addition to performing classical ceremony music and popular songs, this grouping can cover classical music specifically arranged and written for a quartet. And yes: they can do Jay-Z too.


Whether you’re considering strings for your wedding or even a corporate event, there’s no better way to make a statement and set an upscale and refined classic tone.

Michael Saulpaugh is an EMG Executive Event Host & Band Leader for CityScape & The Park Avenue Horns