Question 1

Where should I start when choosing an ensemble?

Accepted Answer

The best place to start is your budget. Once you've decided what you are willing to spend, assess the size of the group you are entertaining. A good guide would be to consider a soloist for an intimate event, a duo for a group of 50 to 80, a trio for 80 to 120 guests and a larger ensemble for groups over 120 people.

Question 2

Do you offer amplification or mics for rental?

Accepted Answer

We do offer amplification for every ensemble, which is a great option and encouraged for outdoor events. Our musicians use special instrument mics for optimal, wind-proof sound, and wireless capabilities are also available for strolling musicians. Microphones for wedding officiants and PA systems are available for an additional fee, subject to availability.

Question 3

How do I know if amplification is needed?

Accepted Answer

For outdoor events beyond 50 people, amplification is encouraged and recommended, especially for cocktail hour with happy, noisy guests. Corporate events in large ballrooms or foyers are also encouraged to add our amplification package for ideal sound distribution.

Question 4

Do you perform special requests?

Accepted Answer

While we have an extensive repertoire available, we do arrange special requests. Sometimes we are able to purchase an arrangement for a fee, which is usually around $15 per song. If sheet music is not available we can create a custom arrangement, which can range from $25 to $60 per piece, depending on the music's complexity and how many instrument parts need to be written. 6 weeks notice is required for special requests.

Question 5

What do you require from us or the venue?

Accepted Answer

Most of our ensembles are acoustic and only require adequate level space as well as armless chairs for each performer. Outdoor venues may need to supply space heaters in winter or umbrellas for shade in spring and summer months. All guitar ensembles will require access to power for amplification, and ensembles performing for 3 hours or more will require a simple vendor meal.

Question 6

Do you travel to other cities in Arizona and what are your travel fees?

Accepted Answer

We do travel to many areas of Arizona and beyond. As we are Phoenix-based, our travel fees to Sedona and Tucson are a flat fee of $60 per musician. During spring and fall peak wedding season, we are only accepting bookings for 2 hours or more when traveling. Other cities extending outside of the 101 and lower 202 loop may incur travel fees of $30- $50 per ensemble. Please inquire for more infomation on our travel requirements outside of Arizona.

Question 7

When and how do I choose songs for our wedding?

Accepted Answer

Song selections are welcome any time up to 2 weeks before your wedding date. Choosing how many and which songs is easy- click on our "Choosing Music" tab underneath the "Music" category on our website and you can fill out our online form that walks you through submitting selections for your wedding music.

Question 8

What do I need to book my date?

Accepted Answer

Once you have confirmed our availability for your event date, you will be asked to fill out on online contract form with your event details. When we receive your information we will get your date on our calendar and send over an invoice which outlines what you have reserved, as well as gives options to make a 50% deposit to secure your date.    Corporations that require processing time to issue a company check may book their date without a deposit upon approval and a completed event contract.    50% deposits are non-refundable unless Sweetwater Strings fails to deliver service. Deposits may be transferred to another date depending on availability.

Question 9

What do you wear to events?

Accepted Answer

When you book your event using our online contract, you will be given an option to select the kind of attire your musicians will wear. For weddings, couples are given a choice of Black Tie Formal, Dressy Black or Dressy Ivory. For corporate or private events, clients may select Black Tie Formal, Business Casual or Casual. Costumes and other attire may be available for themed events.

Question 10

What kind of discounts do you offer?

Accepted Answer

We do book many events on weekends throughout fall, winter and spring, so events in the summer months (June through August) as well as weekday events (Monday through Thursdays) may enjoy a 10% discount off all ensembles.    Additionally, we do honor our military men and women with a 10% discount, and all proposal packages include a 15% discount off of future wedding music services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Other Questions?