London String Quartets

What is a string quartet?

When you hire a string quartet in London, you are booking one of the most popular ensembles in classical music. Consisting of two violinists, a viola player, and a cellist, a London string quartet specialises in performing a wide range of classical and popular music. Whether you need a string quartet for your wedding ceremony, wedding drinks reception, private party, or corporate event in London, they can create a customised performance to suit the atmosphere and style of your occasion.

What music will a string quartet play?

Traditionally, string quartets showcase classical masterpieces in their recitals. However, they also incorporate a modern repertoire that includes jazz, swing, pop, folk, Bollywood, show tunes, and film themes that are familiar to most audiences. Expect music by renowned composers and artists such as Bach, Chopin, Debussy, Elgar, Handel, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Saint-Saëns, Tchaikovsky, Vivaldi, John Williams, Hans Zimmer, Gershwin, Cole Porter, Adele, The Beatles, Coldplay, Etta James, Oasis, Stevie Wonder, Take That, and Van Morrison. Check the profile page of each string quartet for their set list and browse their repertoire.

Popular types of string quartet

1. Classical Music

Experience the elegant and refined ambience of traditional chamber music with a classically-trained string quartet. Delight in symphonies from the classical giants like Bach, Mozart, and Vivaldi, creating a timeless atmosphere for your event in London.

2. Popular Music

Add an exciting and enchanting twist to your London event with modern music performed by a string quartet. Enjoy relaxed and upbeat renditions of popular tunes by artists like Queen, Sinatra, The Beatles, Adele, and Abba, setting the perfect backdrop for a stylish occasion.

Where in London do Alive string quartets perform?

String quartets are highly sought after for events in London, including weddings, corporate events, parties, gala balls, and various venues across the city. Their enchanting performances create a memorable ambience, adding elegance and sophistication to any occasion anywhere in the vibrant capital including Acton, Barnes, Battersea, Bermondsey, Bethnal Green, Bow, Brixton, Bromley, Camberwell, Camden Town, Catford, Chelsea, Chingford, Chiswick, Clapham, Deptford, Ealing, East Ham, Edmonton, Eltham, Finchley, Finsbury, Friern Barnet, Fulham, Greenwich, Hackney, Hammersmith, Hampstead, Hendon, Hornsey, Islington, Kensal Town, Kensington, Lambeth, Lewisham, Leyton, Marylebone, Merton, Paddington, Penge, Poplar, Putney, Southgate, Stanmore, Stepney, Stoke Newington, Stratford, Streatham, Tottenham, Walthamstow, Wandsworth, Wanstead, West Ham, Westminster, Willesden, Wood Green, Woolwich.

Is a string quartet suitable for my event?

String quartets are a versatile choice for any event in London. Whether it's a wedding, corporate event, or private party, they can perform live classical chamber music and popular tunes to suit your event requirements. With their wide range of musical styles, including jazz, swing, folk, show tunes, and film themes, string quartets can create a relaxed and elegant atmosphere or a lively and uplifting ambience. Their stylish performances make them a perfect choice for weddings, formal dinners, corporate events, and other special occasions in London.

String quartets are highly sought after by couples in London who want to create a special ambience for their wedding. They can provide music as guests gather before the ceremony, setting an exciting atmosphere leading up to the main event. During the ceremony, the string quartet will play for the bride's entrance, the signing of the register, and the exit of the married couple. Their enchanting performance is also perfect for a drinks reception and wedding breakfast, adding a touch of elegance to the occasion.

In London, some string quartets offer a trio option consisting of 2 violins and a cello. This alternative can modify the repertoire and sound, making it suitable for smaller functions and a cost-effective choice. Each string quartet's profile page displays the available options. When submitting an online inquiry, you can specify your preferences.

How much does a string quartet cost?

When it comes to hiring a string quartet in London, prices can vary depending on the quartet's quality, experience, and travel distance to your event. On average, a string quartet costs around £620. For top-billed quartets specialising in corporate events, prices range from £2,200 to £3,500, depending on their level of expertise. To reduce costs, consider choosing a locally-based string quartet. You can find information about the hometown location of all Alive Network string quartets on their roster pages and individual artist profiles. Additionally, you can consult your coordinator for recommendations on the best local string quartet for your London event.

Who are the top 10 best string quartets in the UK right now?

We have compiled a list of the top 10 best string quartets in the UK right now. These quartets stand out for their popularity, performance quality, and innovation. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate event, or private party in London, these string quartets can provide exceptional live music that will elevate your occasion to the next level. Visit the profiles below to explore our list of the top string quartets in London and make your event truly unforgettable.

For a list of Alive's most booked string quartets right now, see our 'Top 10 String Quartets For Hire in 2025' article

How long will a string quartet play for?

When hiring a string quartet in London, you can expect them to perform sets lasting between 45 minutes to 1 hour, followed by a short break. Typically, string quartets are booked to perform 3-4 sets for events in London, providing a delightful musical experience tailored to your occasion.

How much space will a string quartet need?

When hiring a string quartet in London, it is important to provide them with ample space to perform comfortably. The quartet typically sits in a semi-circle, facing the audience, and requires armless chairs and music stands in front of them.

For the perfect musical experience, ensure your stage meets the minimum size requirement of 3 × 2 meters. String quartets in London offer exceptional performances and can adapt to various venues, as long as the space is safe, flat, and allows unrestricted movement. Create a comfortable and spacious performance area to guarantee the best musical performance for you and your guests.

How long will it take for a string quartet to set up?

When hiring a string quartet in London, they typically arrive 30 – 45 minutes before the performance to set up and tune, but the set-up time may vary depending on parking availability and venue restrictions. After the performance, they usually take around 15 minutes to pack away and load out.

What equipment will a string quartet need?

To ensure a successful performance, string quartets in London typically require the following:

• Four armless chairs
• A suitable, flat, and dry performance area that is of appropriate size and ensures safety. In outdoor settings, they will need cover from rain or sun.
• Access to 13 amp power sockets if they are an electric string quartet or have electric elements in their lineup
• Adequate parking with easy venue access
• A secure and lockable changing room
• Refreshments, including soft drinks and possibly food, depending on the duration of their booking.
• String quartets will bring their own instruments, music stands, and lights for the stands if necessary.

If a PA system is needed, it is typically the client's responsibility to provide it. Feel free to ask your Alive Network coordinator for assistance.

Safe, Secure String Quartet Hire Backed By 24/7 Cover!

When it comes to hiring a String Quartet in London, you can rely on Alive Network Entertainment Agency for not only finding the best performers, but also providing comprehensive security for your booking. We understand the importance of your event and ensure that you are covered 24/7, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to fully enjoy your occasion without any worries about the entertainment. In case of any unforeseen circumstances, our dedicated team is available to source a suitable replacement even at short notice and outside of regular office hours.

• Exceptional customer service that consistently garners five-star ratings
• 24/7 emergency coverage, available every day of the year, ensuring your peace of mind
• Hand-selected String Quartets renowned for their exceptional quality and reliability
• Secure booking agreements that prioritize your satisfaction and security
• Streamlined and effortless process for enquiries and bookings
• Extensive array of String Quartets, String Trios, and String Ensembles to cater to your unique preferences
• Trusted brand with a proven track record of serving over 110,000 delighted clients and valuable industry partnerships
• Instant access to online pricing and real-time availability for String Quartets

Alive Network, established in 1999, is the premier live entertainment agency in the UK and a renowned global online booking service. Our expertise lies in providing exceptional string quartets for hire in London. Trusted by prestigious companies like Apple, Mercedes-Benz, Microsoft, Coca-Cola & Nike, we have assisted over 110,000 customers in finding the perfect live entertainment for their events. As proud partners with BIMM, the leading provider of contemporary music education, we exclusively bring you the finest new talent at Alive Network.

Find more about Alive Network Entertainment Agency here

Frequently asked questions

For information on the following, see our Frequently Asked Questions:

• How do I make a booking?
• What payment methods do you accept?
• What if the artist cancels?
• Can I see the artist live before booking?
• Will the band learn a first dance request?
• What are the benefits of booking through Alive Network?