String Duo and Trio in Singapore

A string duo or trio sits between a solo violinist and a full string quartet. Two or three musicians give a fuller, warmer sound than one, in less space and with fewer people to book than four. In Singapore, a string duo or trio suits a solemnisation, a wedding cocktail hour, an anniversary dinner, a gala reception or a private party.

Price: a string duo or quartet usually costs SGD 800 to 2,500, and a string quartet for 1 to 2 hours usually costs SGD 1,200 to 2,500. A solo violinist is quoted for your date. See violinist prices in Singapore.

Common line ups

Violin and cello. The cello adds bass and warmth under the violin melody. A favourite for solemnisations and wedding receptions.

Violin and piano. The piano carries the harmony, so the violinist can play anything from classical pieces to love songs. Works well in a hotel lobby, a heritage venue or a private dining room with a piano.

Two violins. Two players trade the melody and the harmony. Easy to place in a small space.

Violin, cello and piano. The classic piano trio. A rich, complete sound for a dinner, a reception or a long ceremony.

A violinist can also be paired with a singer or a saxophonist, if you want vocals or a jazz feel.

When to choose a duo or trio

The room is small or medium. A restaurant, a function room, a private dining room or a garden ceremony for up to a few dozen guests.
You want more than a soloist. A trio covers a long reception without sounding thin.
A quartet is more than you need. For large events and grand occasions, a string quartet is the better fit.

Sound, space and the piano

Duos and trios usually play acoustic in a small room. In a ballroom or outdoors they are amplified with small amplifiers, a PA system or the venue's AV. If your line up includes a piano, ask the venue early whether it has one, and tell us when you ask for a quote. Plan chairs without arms for the cellist.

Songs and arrangements

Send your song list early. Pieces the duo or trio already plays are ready on the day. A new song needs an arrangement for two or three parts and rehearsal time, which can add to the fee. For wedding moments, see wedding violinists.

What to send

Send the date, the venue, the number of guests and the line up you have in mind, or ask us to suggest one. Ask on WhatsApp or through the quote form.

Questions people ask

What is a string trio?

Three musicians. A common line up in Singapore is violin, cello and piano. Other combinations are possible, so tell us the sound you want.

What is a string duo?

Two musicians, for example two violins, a violin and a cello, or a violin and a piano. It suits a solemnisation, a small dinner or a cocktail reception.

Duo, trio or quartet?

A duo or trio suits a smaller room and a smaller gathering. A string quartet suits large events and grand occasions. A solo violinist covers a single moment.

Is there a piano at the venue?

Ask the venue early. If there is no piano, tell us when you ask for a quote, so we can plan the piano with you or suggest a violin and cello duo instead.