What’s the difference between a String Quartet and a String Trio?

At Scintillo we are proud to provide a string trio option alongside the service we offer as a Suffolk-based string quartet. We regularly receive enquiries for smaller ensembles, so decided we would create a string trio option to equal our existing string quartet service.

We are often asked about the differences between the two ensembles, so thought we would put together a helpful article for you!

What is a string trio?

A string trio is three stringed instruments – our combination comprises two violins and a cello.

What music do you play?

Our string trio repertoire boasts a wide mix of Classical, Contemporary pop, and music from TV & Film. We have curated a core repertoire which encompasses all of our most popular string quartet requests. As our string trio is performing regularly, we are also always adding new titles as our clients request them.

What does a string trio sound like?

A string trio has three musicians, so the sound might be considered a little lighter than that of a string quartet. That said, with skilfully arranged music, our trio creates an incredibly full, warm sound which resonates with rhythmic vitality and harmony. Guests at weddings and events always comment on the sound we make and the variety of music we play.

We never play as a string trio from our string quartet music, as quite simply one part would be missing and it would sound empty. Our string trio music has been arranged to make full use of the range and possibilities of the three instruments, so feels musically complete.

How might a string trio be a good option for our event?

Our string trio is a perfect option if you are planning a more intimate event, or if space is a consideration, as with one less player the ensemble doesn’t need as much room in which to set up and play.

The sound of a string trio is fuller than that of a solo instrument or duo, and in terms of cost there shouldn’t be too much difference – soloists and duos do generally charge more than a trio would.

Our string trio is also a great way to incorporate live string music at your event in a cost-effective way. As there are three musicians, not four, the fees are lower than for a string quartet so it’s a great option if you had a particular budget in mind for music. Many couples request our string trio quotes for weekday bookings where the pricing falls more in line with the reductions offered by venues.

Will guests be aware of the difference in sound between a string trio and a string quartet?

First of all, it’s worth remembering that guests at your wedding or event won’t be comparing a string trio to a string quartet, because they'll only hear the ensemble you decide to book!

Whenever we perform for events as acoustic musicians, we are able to adjust our playing levels to suit the mood and ambience – we have performed for very intimate wedding bookings where as a string quartet we have been very mindful not to play too loudly!

We have never been told that our string trio didn’t make enough sound – we have played for outdoor drinks receptions, dinners, corporate events, and wedding ceremonies. That said, if you’re planning to have a particularly large gathering, it may be worth considering the quartet as your first option.

Can we book a string trio and then change the ensemble to a string quartet at a time nearer to our event?

Many of our string trio clients initially enquired about the string quartet, but then decided to book a trio as they felt it suited their needs better and once they had heard some of our trio music.

Where couples have booked a trio but later decided they would like a quartet, we have always been happy to see if we can make the change for them. In this instance, there would be a price increase, for which we would quote in writing, and the possibility of changing the ensemble always depends on player availability, particularly at busy times of the year.

We’re not sure what might suit us as we have never booked any live musicians before!

Most of our clients for weddings and social occasions are booking musicians for the first time, so don’t be worried at all as here at Scintillo we endeavour to make the experience of doing so as easy as possible. If you’re unsure which ensemble best suits your needs, do get in touch as we would be delighted to discuss the options with you and give further advice. Live music performed by experienced string players in either ensemble will enhance any special occasion and we look forward to seeing how we can be part of things with you as a string trio or string quartet.

We'd love to credit the wonderful photographers for the shots of us used in this article - thank you to each of you!

• Scintillo String Trio at Hengrave Hall in Suffolk, by Elizabeth Jayne Photography
• Scintillo String Trio at Easton Grange near Woodbridge in Suffolk, by Lisa & Neil Wedding Photography
• Scintillo String Trio’s cellist at Tudor Barn in Suffolk, by Sally Rawlins

• Hengrave Hall - a jewel in the crown of Suffolk, a breathtaking Tudor mansion.
• Elizabeth Jayne Photography - tell your love story through beautifully powerful imagery.
• Easton Grange - a luxury, contemporary barn wedding venue near Woodbridge in Suffolk.
• Lisa & Neil – husband & wife team, based in Norfolk.
• Tudor Barn – a beautifully restored 16th-century Suffolk barn close to the Essex border.
• Sally Rawlins - Essex-based, specialising in relaxed, unobtrusive photography.