A violinist in Singapore is priced for your event, not from a fixed list. The fee depends on how long the music plays, whether you book a soloist or a group, the date, the venue and whether your songs need arranging. Send those details and you get an exact price. Here is what moves the figure.
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.
What sets the price
Performance length. A violinist can be booked for one moment, such as the ceremony, or for the whole reception. Most bookings run one to three hours. Short sets of 30 to 45 minutes suit a ceremony or a surprise, and cost less than a full evening.
Solo or ensemble. A solo violinist is the most affordable option. A violinist with backing tracks adds depth at a small extra cost. A violinist with piano or harp, or a string duo, trio or quartet, costs more because more musicians play. See the string quartet and the string duo and trio.
Experience. A violinist with a long wedding and event record, and a wide repertoire, costs more than a newer performer.
The date. Weekend and public holiday events usually cost more than weekday ones. The busiest wedding months fill first, and last minute bookings can carry a surcharge or leave little choice.
The venue. Venues across Singapore are straightforward to reach. A remote or overseas venue, such as Bintan or Batam, adds transport, ferry tickets or accommodation.
Special songs. A song outside the violinist's repertoire can add a fee for sourcing sheet music, arranging it and extra rehearsal, especially for a duo, trio or quartet.
Sound. Small amplifiers usually come with the violinist. A large venue may need a PA system, microphones or a setup crew, at extra cost, unless the venue's own AV is used.
What the fee usually includes
For a wedding, the fee typically covers a consultation on the music and its flow, the performance at the agreed time slots, setup and teardown time, professional attire, and coordination with your wedding planner or emcee if you want it. For any event, it covers the performer's time, a briefing before the event, preparation and the agreed performance time. Special costumes, travel to remote venues, overtime, pre-wedding meetings and rehearsal attendance are quoted on top.
Ways to fit your budget
- Book early. Last minute bookings can cost more.
- Keep it to the moments that matter. For example, the ceremony only, rather than the whole day.
- Pick an off peak date. A weekday or a quieter month can lower the fee.
- Combine acts. Pair the violinist with another act you need anyway, such as a saxophonist or an emcee.
- Right size the group. A duo often covers a small room as well as a quartet.
How to get an exact price
Send the date, the venue, the number of guests, the moments you want music for and any special songs. You get a shortlist of violinists who are free, with photos, videos, profiles and a price. Not sure which format to choose? Compare wedding violinists, the electric violinist and the string quartet, or ask for a quote and we suggest one.
