Classical Duos for Hire

Hire Classical Duos

A classical duo is two musicians performing together in the western classical tradition, most often pairing strings with a keyboard or harp. The format gives you the warmth and harmony of an ensemble while keeping the footprint small enough for an aisle, a corner of a marquee or a cocktail area where a full string quartet would be too much.

Common Instrument Pairings

The most popular setup is violin and piano, where the violin carries the melody and the pianist handles harmony, bass and rhythm. Cello and piano gives you a deeper, more contemplative tone that suits ceremonies and dinners. String-only pairings such as violin and cello, or two violins, work well in spaces without a piano, and harp and flute or harp and violin offer a softer, more delicate sound that travels well in outdoor settings. If you need a fuller sound, many duos can scale up by working with string quartets, cellists or harpists they perform with regularly.

Wedding Ceremonies and Drinks Receptions

Most classical duo bookings are weddings. A typical ceremony slot covers prelude music as guests arrive, the processional, the signing of the register, and the recessional, which usually runs 30 to 45 minutes of music in total. Duos will learn specific pieces on request given a few weeks' notice, including pop arrangements, film scores or first-dance songs adapted for two instruments. For drinks receptions and dinners, an hour or two of background music is standard, often split into 45-minute sets with short breaks. Acts that double as wedding ceremony musicians or work alongside accompanists for soloists are easy to find on this page.

What to Check Before You Book

Ask about repertoire range, whether the duo brings their own keyboard or relies on the venue's piano, and whether amplification is included for larger or outdoor spaces. Acoustic-only setups work in smaller indoor venues, but anything over about 80 guests, or any outdoor space, usually needs a small PA. Confirm setup time (typically 30 to 45 minutes), attire, and whether learning a custom piece falls inside the standard fee or carries a small charge.

Classical Duo Pricing

Rates for classical duos generally range from $130 for shorter ceremony-only performances by emerging musicians to $950+ for established acts playing across a full wedding day, with the average sitting at $410. Pricing usually reflects performance length, travel distance, the time needed to prepare custom arrangements, and whether amplification or additional instruments are required. Acts at the higher end typically have conservatoire training, recording credits or extensive wedding experience.