Question 1

Do you take song requests?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if you would like to hear a song that is not on my list, feel free to let me know, and I will see if it is possible.

Question 2

How do we select songs for our wedding?

Accepted Answer

Couples will typically select specific songs that they would like to hear during the ceremony and leave the musicians to select appropriate music for the prelude and cocktail hour. During the ceremony, you can make selections for each person or group that is processing, as well as the recessional.

Question 3

Do you play with backing tracks?

Accepted Answer

No – for my solo service, I play violin without a backing track. As an arranger, I can be very creative with what’s possible on one violin. If you would like accompaniment, you can always ask me to bring a second musician! The ensembles I most commonly perform in are violin and cello duo, and violin and harp duo.

Question 4

Do you have amplification with speakers or other audio equipment?

Accepted Answer

No – I play on an acoustic violin without amplification. For most situations this is totally sufficient in terms of volume. An indoor space will help add volume to the sound through reverberation, but even for a larger outdoor event, people usually have no problem hearing me.

Question 5

Do you have event liability insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I have year-round coverage from Insurance Canopy. If your venue requires vendors to have insurance, let me know, and I will send them the required proof of insurance document.

Question 6

Is prelude music included in the ceremony?

Accepted Answer

No, prelude music would be extra time, so be sure to let me know how much prelude music you would like!

Question 7

How long are the various parts of a wedding?

Accepted Answer

Prelude music is typically 15-30 minutes – just long enough to cover the time when people are arriving and being seated. The ceremony usually lasts for around 30 minutes. The cocktail hour is very flexible – 1 hour is very common, but shorter and longer times are possible as well.

Question 8

What kind of weather conditions can you play in?

Accepted Answer

The ideal playing condition for me would be clear weather between 55-85 degrees. There is some leeway with the temperature and I can still put on a great performance given some preparation. For example, in cold weather, I would dress warmly and use fingerless gloves. If there is any precipitation, I will need a covered area to play in, since string instruments are easily damaged by water.

Question 9

How far are you willing to travel?

Accepted Answer

I typically travel up to 90 miles from Philadelphia (2 hours of driving). When the travel is lengthy, it’s best if you can have me play for a longer period of time (at least an hour). In any case, get in touch with me to discuss what’s possible!

Question 10

How do we book you?

Accepted Answer

For weddings and other larger events, I send a contract which finalizes everything that we have discussed. After that’s signed, we are all set.

Michael Shingo Crawford

Ceremony pricing

Reception pricing

About Michael Shingo Crawford