The short answer
A string quartet is fully acoustic (no technical risk), has a broad repertoire and fits in almost any space — from €1,650 excl. VAT for the ceremony. Honest downsides: no vocals, sensitive to outdoor conditions, and less suited to a dance party.
Why a string quartet is so popular
A string quartet combines a timeless sound with maximum practical flexibility. Fully acoustic, no PA needed, no technical risks. Two violins, viola and cello fill a space in a way no other ensemble can match without amplification.
Advantages
Fully acoustic — zero technical risk
On your wedding day, the last thing you want is a technical problem with a sound system. A string quartet plays without a PA, without an amplifier, without a power socket. There's nothing that can fail. This makes it the most reliable option for ceremonies, especially in historic or outdoor venues.
Broad, adaptable repertoire
From Pachelbel's Canon and Bach's Air to film themes, modern classics and pop song arrangements — the Desguin Kwartet plays a wide range. Specific pieces can always be discussed.
Two packages: ceremony and full performance
The ceremony package (processional, vows, recessional) starts from €1,650 excl. VAT. A full performance of roughly 90 minutes — ideal if you also want music at the drinks reception — starts from €2,400 excl. VAT.
Disadvantages — stated honestly
No vocals
A string quartet plays instrumentally. If you want a sung piece at the processional or during the ceremony, you'll need an addition. Via Vitrine Op Maat, a soloist can be added at €400 per musician.
Points to watch outdoors
String instruments are sensitive to temperature changes and humidity. Outdoor performances are possible but need a sheltered set-up in the shade and out of the wind — all precautions are covered in live music outdoors.
Less suited to an exuberant party
For a wedding party where guests want to dance all night, a string quartet is less suited. Choose the Belpopband or DJ Stecks instead — possibly in combination with the quartet earlier in the day.
"Over the past years I've guided hundreds of weddings where the Desguin Kwartet played the ceremony. The guests' reaction is always the same: surprise and emotion. Not because it's classical, but because four people making live music in the same space does something a speaker never can." Reinout Pauwels — music consultant at De Muziekvitrine
The Desguin Kwartet: practical info
- 4 musicians: two violins, viola, cello
- Ceremony package: from €1,650 excl. VAT — processional, vows, recessional
- Full performance: from €2,400 excl. VAT — roughly 90 minutes
- Fully acoustic: no PA, no technician
- Travel costs: base amount included