String Players for hire in London

If your venue is within the London Congestion Charge zone, clarify with your chosen act how they handle this before confirming the booking. Some string players include it in their quoted price; others add it to travel expenses afterwards. The charge is currently £18 if paid on the day or in advance, or £21 if paid by midnight of the third day after travel. It is also worth checking whether your venue falls within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), which now covers most of Greater London. The ULEZ daily charge is £12.50 for most vehicles. As with the Congestion Charge, some acts will absorb this cost and others will pass it on, so it is worth confirming upfront. Car parking costs should also be discussed in advance.

Each event is different but the typical performance time for string players in London is 2 x 45-minute sets within a 2-hour period, with a 30-minute break in between. Some acts are happy to play longer sets or additional sets. Often, breaks can be negotiated but you should be aware that the price may increase if the musicians need to be onsite for a longer period of time.

You should always check whether or not your act is prepared to play outdoors. Weather conditions such as wind, rain, or extreme temperatures can affect the performance and the instruments. If you are planning an outdoor event you should be prepared to offer a flat surface for performers as well as a cover in case of unexpected rain.

Booking string players in London as early as possible increases the chance of securing their availability on your event date, particularly during busy times of the year. However, many acts also accept last minute bookings, and we have successfully arranged performances for clients with just a few hours' notice.

Most string players in London are self-contained and bring everything they need to perform. For solo instrumentalists, this typically includes their instrument and any accessories such as a music stand and stool. Some acts may also bring a small amplifier or PA system if needed for the size of the venue. If your event is in a particularly large venue or you have more than 200 guests, it is worth discussing sound requirements with the act when booking. They can advise whether their standard setup will be sufficient or whether additional amplification is needed. Always confirm equipment details in advance so there are no surprises on the day.

The cost of hiring musicians in London can vary significantly depending on the type of act. The average price is currently £436. Budget-level acts may be available for as low as £70, while top-tier acts can command prices as high as £2690.