Blog

November 08, 2024

A Mountaintop Wedding Ceremony in Vail, Colorado: Violin and Cello Duo

November 08, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music on the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail, Colorado, Photo by Nick Sparks

On a perfect July day, our violin and cello duo played for this heartwarming wedding ceremony on the top of Vail Mountain. It was threatening to rain, but the weather remained calm for the entire event. Guests enjoyed a scenic ride up the Eagle Bahn Gondola and then a walk or short cart ride down to the event deck. As soon as they crested the hill, they would see breathtaking views of the mountains and hear our music floating on the breeze.

For the prelude as guests arrived, we played a mix of contemporary music and timeless older pieces that the bride selected, helping to create a romantic and joyful mood.

From the Bride:

“We had the pleasure of having Christen and her team play for our ceremony at the top of Vail Mountain and she blew us away! She is so incredibly talented and made our day so special. She even learned a new song for me to walk down the aisle to. I highly recommend her and her team to anyone in the Colorado area!” - Sara T., Bride

The processional music built anticipation and emotion with three special song requests from the bride - “Time to Say Goodbye”, “Bittersweet Symphony”, and “Prelude to Black Sands”. The third one is the introduction to a song by Bonobo, and I hadn’t heard it before, but it was unexpectedly beautiful and emotional - the perfect choice for the bride’s walk down the aisle. After the vows, the newlyweds shared their first kiss, cued by “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”, as the joyous recessional began. The guests were filled with celebratory energy as they cheered and applauded, celebrating the couple as they made their way back up the aisle.

Postlude Music continued the celebration as guests made their way down the gondola. We played beloved classics like “At Last” by Etta James and “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. Guests left humming the familiar tunes as they headed off to the next part of the celebration.

Selections from the Prelude and Postlude Music:
Blackbird (Beatles), A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay), Kiss From a Rose (Seal), Can You Feel the Love Tonight (Lion King), Unchained Melody (Righteous Brothers), What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Here Comes the Sun (Beatles)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Time to Say Goodbye (Bocelli): Seating of the Family
Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve): Wedding Party
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Ringbearer and Flower Girl
Prelude to Black Sands (Bonobo): Bride
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough (Nickolas Ashford and Valerie Simpson): Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Holy Cross Event Deck
Wedding Planner: A Touch of Bliss
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo
Photographer: Nicholas Sparks

Enjoy the Classic Elegance of the Violin and Cello.

October 20, 2024

A Gilded-Age Wedding with Bridgerton Vibes at the Arrowhead Golf Course in Littleton, Colorado: String Quartet

October 20, 2024/ Christen Stephens

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Arrowhead Golf Course in Littleton, Colorado

This year, we were treated to a stunning long and warm autumn. Our string quartet loved playing for this early September wedding in the golden sunshine, as the the leaves were just beginning to change colors. The bride told us that the music was the most important part of her big day. In fact, we were the first vendors she booked—right after securing her venue. Her inspiration for her wedding and our music was the romantic era of the Gilded Age and the regency vibes of Bridgerton. While she wanted the band to play pop and rock hits at the reception, she wanted us to play a mix of older classics and jazz to provide a more timeless and sophisticated touch for the ceremony and cocktail hour.

Once most of the guests were seated, we played When I Fall in Love, which is one of the bride’s favorite songs. For the processional, I created a special arrangement of Golden Hour by JVKE for our string quartet. Arranging this piece for our quartet was a challenge because it was originally written with a strong emphasis on piano. The extra time that it took to adapt it for our string quartet was absolutely worth it because it turned out so well!

The bride's grand entrance was the classic Pachelbel's Canon in D, and for the recessional, we created a more funky mood with Ray LaMontagne’s You Are the Best Thing. This added a lively, feel-good finish as the couple walked back down the aisle.

Cocktail hour was just as lively, featuring a mix of catchy, upbeat older tunes and jazz. A few guests couldn’t resist the rhythm, breaking into spontaneous dancing during our tangos and more upbeat jazz numbers. We loved connecting with the crowd with our music!

From the Bride:

“Wow, I can’t thank Christen and her team enough for the beautiful music at our wedding, they absolutely exceeded our expectations! From the moment they started playing, their talent and professionalism was evident. Christen is an absolute dream to work with. She was prompt, so nice, and overall just amazing. The music perfectly set the tone for the rest of the day. To an elegant and flawless ceremony, to a lively cocktail hour. Christen worked diligently with us to ensure we would have a beautiful setlist. She and her team created an unforgettable atmosphere. We are so grateful for their contribution to making our special day so magical! Highly recommend!!” - Makayla S., Bride

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Golden Hour (JVKE): Family + Wedding Party
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bride
You Are the Best Thing (Ray LaMontagne): Recessional

Sample Selection from the Prelude Music:
Anne’s Theme (John Denver), All of Me (John Legend), As Time Goes By from Casablanca, La Vie en Rose (Louis Armstrong), Feather Theme from Forrest Gump, Wildest Dreams (Taylor Swift)

Sample Selections from the Cocktail Hour:
Por Una Cabeza Tango from the Scent of a Woman, Stand by Me (Ben King), It Had to Be You (Harry Connick Jr.), The Shadow of Your Smile (Tony Bennett), At Last (Etta James), Yellow (Coldplay)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Arrowhead Golf Course
Wedding Planner: Curate Denver
Photographer: Meredith Diamond Photography
Videographer: KLassy Productions
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Quartet

Experience the Timeless Elegance of Our String Quartet.

September 22, 2024

A Golden Summer Wedding Ceremony at the Fossil Trace Golf Club in Golden, Colorado

September 22, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Arrowhead Golf Club in Golden, Colorado, Photo by Berg Berg Photography

It was an extremely hot summer day for this wonderful couple’s wedding ceremony, but the sweeping views of the golf course, mountain range, and table mountain were stunning under the sun’s golden light. The mother of the bride was the wedding planner, and she did an amazing job, though she said it was way more stressful to plan a wedding than to plan the events that she was more used to planning!

As guests arrived, our flute and string quartet played a mix of classical music, hymns, and a few romantic contemporary songs to set the mood of the ceremony. The ceremony was so sweet and memorable.

After the ceremony concluded, we stayed where we were and we continued to play music for the cocktail hour. Guests enjoyed our upbeat pop and contemporary tunes as they had appetizers and drinks under the shade of the trees.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
The Ludlows from the Legends of the Fall: Family and Wedding Party
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Bride

Sample Selections from the Prelude Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring from Cantata #147 (Bach), O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing, Blessed Assurance, I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing (Aerosmith), All I Want is You (U2), Holy, Holy, Holy, I Get to Love You (Ruelle)

Sample Selections from the Cocktail Hour Music:

Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve), Stand by Me (Ben King), Wildest Dreams (Taylor Swift), All of Me (John Legend), A Million Dreams from the Greatest Showman, Lover (Taylor Swift)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Fossil Trace Golf Club
Photographer: Berg Berg Photography
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and String Quartet
Ceremony Sound/DJ: Quality Mobile Sounds

Enjoy the Golden Sounds of the Flute Combined with Strings.

Listen to Solo Flute Music Samples

September 11, 2024

A Charming Catholic Wedding Ceremony at Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Breckenridge, Colorado: Solo Flute by Christen Stephens

September 11, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Breckenridge, Colorado, Photo by Jill Houser Photography

It was such a joy to play solo flute for this traditional Catholic wedding at Saint Mary’s Catholic in Breckenridge, Colorado! Last time I played at this church, I connected with one of the cantors and did some additional music projects for her, writing instrumental parts to a few songs that she wrote. So, when this bride needed a cantor, Katie was the first person that came to my mind! The bride hired her right away, and I loved working with her again on the music for this wedding.

From the Bride:

Christen is a talented musician AND extremely organized and responsive!

“Christen was a dream to work with. She was truly one of the most responsive and organized vendors we worked with for our wedding day. She helped us put together a beautiful musical line-up and even learned a few new pieces for our Catholic ceremony to accompany our cantor. She was extremely helpful through every step of the process: from an initial consultation to answer our multiple questions to providing song lists and recommendations for each key component of the ceremony to making herself available to arrive early for set-up to even preparing an outline of the musical run of show.

And I haven't even mentioned her beautiful music yet! She's such a talented musician - playing both the flute then surprising us by jumping on the piano when she realized a particular song would sound better with that instrument. If that's not a gold standard of service, I don't know what is! If you're looking for a beautiful music backdrop for your big day and someone who thinks through every little detail to ensure the event goes off without a hitch, look no further than Christen!” - Julie O., Bride

On my way up to the wedding, my car broke down! This is my worst fear for traveling in the mountains because there’s no alternative transportation in the mountains, if anything happen. Thankfully, I had left really early, as usual, and I was able to get a ride up, and I arrived in time for my rehearsal with Katie before the ceremony!

Our rehearsal went well, except that Katie was really used to singing the Schubert Ave Maria with a piano accompaniment rather than flute. I pulled up a piano version of the song on my iPad, and I played piano, and it worked perfectly! I had never played piano for a wedding before, and I was quite out of practice, so I got really nervous! In the end, it worked out beautifully, and and bride was so surprised to hear piano music come out of nowhere. Her surprise made all of my nerves worth it in the end!

The prelude music was approved Catholic music that I played on solo flute as the guests arrived. The elegant Baroque music and hymns filled the space as guests arrived and greeted each other. During the ceremony, I accompanied Katie on several pieces, and after the recessional, I played selections from Handel’s Water Music to send everyone their way.

The bride had a second more casual wedding at Ten Mile Station in Breckenridge, and though I wasn’t a part of that one, I enjoyed seeing the beautiful photos afterwards!

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach): Seating of the Family
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bride
Gloria
Let All Praise the Name of the Lord: Responsorial Psalm
Gospel Acclimation
Ave Maria (Bach): Presentation of the Flowers
The Lord’s Prayer and One Bread, One Body: Communion
Wedding March (Mendelssohn): Recessional

Sample Selections from the Prelude:
Arioso from Cantata #156 (Bach), Be Thou My Vision, Laudate Dominum (Mozart), Amazing Grace, Trumpet Tune (Purcell), On Eagles Wings, Air from Overture in D (Bach), Blest Are They, If Thou Be Near (Bach)

Experience the Sacred Beauty of Solo Flute by Christen Stephens.

July 31, 2024

An Intimate Jewish Wedding Ceremony at the Oxford Hotel in Denver, Colorado - Flute and Guitar Duo

July 31, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Oxford Hotel in Denver, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

In early April, our flute and guitar duo played for a small Jewish wedding ceremony at the Oxford Hotel in downtown Denver. The day had dangerously high winds, and I found out later that it was blowing over 100mph at my house while I was gone! Despite the possibility of the power being shut off for safety reasons, the wedding went off beautifully, and the power remained on for us in Denver.

Prior to the ceremony, our duo played elegant classical music as the guests enjoyed a pre-ceremony cocktail hour. After the cocktail hour, we moved to the Oxford Theatre for the ceremony. We sat up in the mezzanine, and our sound carried throughout the space. We played a short classical prelude as guests took their seats, and then the couple joined us up in the mezzanine, preparing for their walk down the aisle.

When it was time for the ceremony to begin, we wrapped up the prelude music and I turned around to ask the couple if they were ready to walk down the stairs and to start the ceremony. They were nervous but ready, so we played their song, and they perfectly processed down the stairs and then circled around the other 3 times and then once together before facing each other at the front.

From the Groom:

“Christen and Jeff (guitar) were amazing. Their talent was obvious and their choice of music superb. They were professional, talented and wonderful to work with. You couldn’t find a better flute/guitar combo if you tried.”

Then, the ceremony was off with the wonderful Rabbi Birdie Becker presiding. I got to meet Rabbi Becker later, and being a fellow musician herself, she was delightful to chat with about all things musical.

My drive home was hazardous with the strong winds, and I had to dodge blowing rocks, a low swinging traffic light, a large metal gate swinging across the road, a tree that fell across the road, and numerous other random flying objects. It all ended well and safely, and I now fondly remember this wonderful couple and their joyful wedding day much more than the wind!

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bride and Groom
Wedding March from Figaro: Recessional

Sample Music Selections from the Pre-Ceremony Cocktail Hour:
Trumpet Tune (Purcell), Misty (Ella Fitzgerald), The Girl From Ipanema, Gavotte (Gossec), Entrance of the Queen of Sheba (Handel), The Wedding from the Legends of the Fall, Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis), Liebestraum (Liszt), As Time Goes By from Cassablanca

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The Oxford Hotel
Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo
Officiant: Rabbi Birdie Becker
Photographer: Yellow Paddle Photography

Experience the Classic Romance of Flute and Guitar.

Listen to Flute and Guitar Music Samples

July 01, 2024

Cozy Winter Wedding Music at the University Club in Denver: String Trio

July 01, 2024/ Christen Stephens

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the University Club in Denver, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Christen Stephens

On a late winter day amidst snow flurries, our string trio played for a delightful wedding ceremony at the University Club in Denver, Colorado. The elegant and historical club building was a warm setting for the chilly weather. As the guests enjoyed the cheerful fire and pre-ceremony cocktails, our trio played elegant music from the Baroque period.

Then, the guests moved to the ballroom for the ceremony. We switched to contemporary processional music, and the Imperial March from Star Wars was the biggest hit as the 21 year old flower dude strutted his stuff down the aisle. The guests were laughing so hard that they had a hard time stopping, and there were continued laughs throughout the ceremony when the lighthearted bride and groom were quite candid with each other during their vows.

The fun ceremony segued into the post-ceremony cocktail hour, and our trio moved to the bar room, where we played a set list of contemporary music, including favorites by Taylor Swift, Coldplay, and Beyonce. Many of the guests recognized the songs, and bounced along to the music as they enjoyed drinks and appetizers.

From the Bride:

“We booked the string trio for our ceremony and cocktail hours. Christen is very professional and very involved in every step of planning to make sure we were getting exactly what we wanted. She was very easy to work with and had everything ready to go upon their prompt arrival at the venue to closing out. Live musicians made all the difference in our atmosphere for the wedding and would highly recommend them for any event.” - Taylor C.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Chasing Cars (Snow Patrol): Wedding Party
Imperial March: Flower Dude
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri): Bride

Sample Selections from the Pre-Ceremony Cocktail Hour:
Selections from the Notebook of Anna Magdalena Bach, Toy Symphony (Haydn), Fughette in C (Handel), Arioso from Cantata #156 (Bach), Prelude from Te Deum (Charpentier)

Sample Selections form the Post-Ceremony Cocktail Hour:
Love on Top (Beyonce), The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, All of Me (John Legend), Daylight (Taylor Swift), Perfect (Ed Sheeran), Speechless (Dan + Shay), If I Could Fly (One Direction)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The University Club of Denver
Wedding Planner: Events Made With Love by Alex
Photographer: Homeland Photography
Wedding Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Trio

Experience the Possibilities of Our String Trio.

Listen to String Trio Music Samples

May 05, 2024

An Old Hollywood Inspired Wedding at the Four Seasons in Vail, Colorado: Flute and Cello Duo

May 05, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Cello Wedding Music at the Four Seasons in Vail, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Cat Galletti

On a snowy day in early December, our flute and cello duo played for an old Hollywood inspired wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. As guests were arriving, we played nostalgic jazz music. Our music, along with the cozy Christmas decor, was a warm counterpart to the cold and snowy winter day.

The ceremony took place outdoors, and because it was in the 20’s (both the inspired era and the temperature!), we played indoors and amplified our music to the outside using my professional Bose sound system. The guests were escorted to the outdoor wedding deck at the last minute, and we played the charming processional songs that the bride chose: “Love on Top” (Beyonce) and the classic “Can’t Help Falling in Love” (Elvis).

After the ceremony, we segued to fun contemporary music as the guests mingled and had appetizers inside. The space was so crowded, that the wedding planner again had us play in a different room and amplify our music to where the guests were mingling. My second Bose bluetooth speaker was an easy wireless solution, and guests easily heard our music throughout the space.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Love on Top (Beyonce): Wedding Party
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Bride
Signed, Sealed, Delivered (Stevie Wonder): Recessional

Sample Music Selections from the Prelude:
Unchained Melody (Righteous Brothers), My Funny Valentine (Ella Fitzgerald), Misty (Ella Fitzgerald), As Time Goes By from Casablanca, All of Me (Ruth Etting)

Sample Music Selections from the Cocktail Hour:
Holy (Justin Bieber), You Are the Best Thing (Ray LaMontagne), Sweet Child O’Mine (Guns N’Roses), Thank You (Led Zeppelin), Here Comes the Sun (Beatles), Kiss From a Rose (Seal), Somewhere Only We Know (Keane), A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Four Seasons Vail
Wedding Planner: Little Valley Weddings
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Florist: Iva and Grace
Hair and Makeup: BMC Glam
Photographer: Cat Galletti Photography
Videographer: Love Story Films

Flute and Cello Wedding Music at the Four Seasons in Vail, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Cat Galetti

Experience the Nostalgic Ambience of our Flute and Cello Duo.

Listen to Flute and Cello Music Samples

April 28, 2024

A Romantic Classical Wedding Ceremony at the Westin Riverfront Resort in Avon, Colorado: Flute and String Quartet

April 28, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Music at the Westin Riverfront Hotel in Avon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by MKR Photos

It was the last day of September in the beautiful Colorado mountains, and this couple had the most gorgeous day for their wedding ceremony! The setting at the Westin Riverfront Resort perfectly showcased the peak autumn foliage, mountain and river views, and a blue sky as the backdrop. This Kansas couple certainly experienced the best that Colorado had to offer for their wedding day!

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Westin Riverfront Resort in Avon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by MKR Photos

Watch Video: “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran, Performed Live by our Flute and String Quartet

Our quartet was flute and strings (flute, violin, viola, cello), and I played the flute. The bride requested all classical music, and she and her fiancee chose a custom list of romantic pieces to fit the mood that they wanted. After the ceremony, we played two contemporary songs - “At Last” by Etta James, and “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran. This contemporary vibe segued into the celebration to come later that day.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Air on the G String (Bach): Family
Bridal Chorus (Wagner): Bride
Wedding March from A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Mendelssohn): Recessional

Sample Selections from the Prelude and Postlude Music:
Air in F from Water Music (Handel), Salut D’Amour (Elgar), Serenade (Schubert), Liebestraum (Liszt), Panis Angelicus (Franck), Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The Westin Riverfront Resort
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and String Quartet
Photographer: MKR Photos - Thank you for these amazing photos!

Experience the Rich and Luxurious Sounds of the Flute with Strings:

Listen to Flute and Violin Music Samples

April 20, 2024

A Formal Wedding Ceremony at the Vail Interfaith Chapel: Flute and Violin Duo

April 20, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Duo Music at the Vail Interfaith Chapel in Vail. Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by April O’Hare Photography

On a crisp November day in the picturesque town of Vail, Colorado, our flute and violin duo played music for an elegant and formal church wedding ceremony. Our music carried beautifully in the church as we played a mix of soothing classical and modern music as guests arrived. The bride requested the nostalgic “Love Me Tender” by Elvis, and I wrote an arrangement specially for our duo to play during the prelude.

Following the ceremony, once the guests left and family photos were complete, the newlyweds we’re excited to take a photo with us! My violinist had to go home to care for her newborn, but I was happy to oblige, helping the couple to celebrate every memory from their special day.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Family
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Wedding Party
Bridal March (Wagner): Bride
Wedding March from a Midsummer Night’s Dream (Mendelssohn): Recessional

Sample Selections from the Prelude Music:
At Last (Etta James), Amazing Grace, Ode To Joy, Love Me Tender (Elvis), River Flows in You (Yiruma), Air from Suite #3 in D major (Bach)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Vail Interfaith Chapel
Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Violin Duo
Photographer: April O’Hare Photography

Flute and Violin Make the Perfect Pair!

April 10, 2024

A Holy Catholic Wedding Ceremony at Saint Catherine's Chapel on the Rocks

April 10, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at St. Catherine’s Chapel on the ROcks in Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Christen Stephens

My violinist and I loved playing music for this early November Catholic wedding ceremony in Estes Park, Colorado. It was a nostalgic day for my violinist, who had been married at the same chapel 7 years before. We were both glad that there are now has bathrooms built at the nearby Visitor’s Center!

The ceremony was formal, and we greeted guests as they arrived with approved classical and sacred music on violin and cello. Once everyone was seated, a hush fell over the congregation, and you could hear a pin drop between our musical pieces. It was so quiet as we played the prelude music, that I felt nervous that the guests would hear my feet shuffle or my chair creak from the choir loft above.

Our music gave the prelude to the ceremony such a worshipful and beautiful feel, and it carried beautifully within the chapel’s stone interior. After the ceremony, we continued to play as guests mingled and left the chapel. I found a moment to talk to the bride afterwards, and she said that she wanted to just sit and listen to our music all day long. Her kind words warmed my heart!

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Morning Prayer from Album for the Young, Op. 39 (Tchaikovsky): Seating of the Family
Air from Suite #3 in D Major (Bach): Wedding Party
Romaza from Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart): Bride
Minuet #115 (Bach): Recessional

Sample Selections from the Prelude:
Chorale from Cantata #140 (Bach), Ode to Joy (Beethoven), Ave Verum Corpus, K. 618 (Mozart), Arioso from Cantata #156 (Bach), Be Thou my Vision, Winter from the Four Seasons (Vivaldi)

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Venue: St. Catherine’s Chapel on the Rocks
Wedding Planner: Kaitlin Shea Weddings
Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo
Photographer: Tyler Jacob and Co.

Violin and Cello is the Perfect Pairing for an Intimate Chapel Wedding.

Listen to Solo Flute Music Samples

March 12, 2024

Elegant Solo Flute Music for an Intimate Mountaintop Wedding Ceremony

March 12, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Overlook Chapel at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Meg Slattery

With Colorado’s unpredictable weather, It’s a good idea not to stress about the weather forecast too many days in advance of your wedding, The forecast for this late September wedding called for chilly temperatures and a steady rain, and I was planning to be prepared for anything with my waterproof flute and covers for all my electronics. This couple and all their guests were also ready for a cold rain, but the day turned out to be a gorgeous and sunny day instead!

The September air was cool with warm golden sunshine and puffy clouds making their way across the pristine blue sky. My solo flute music was the perfect touch to this intimate wedding ceremony. I played my flute accompanied by backing music, greeting guests with a selection of romantic contemporary music. I played the vocal part on my flute, and the backing music filled out my sound beautifully with all of the remaining instrumental parts. Guests easily heard my music across the mountaintop though my professional Bose speaker system.

Right after the ceremony concluded, I launched into Lovely Day by Bill Withers, a special song request made by the couple. The lively rhythms accompanied everyone back down the aisle for the recessional. After that, I kept the energy going while group photos were taken, with several more lively tunes. Everyone was raving about my music afterwards, which made me feel so good, and everyone recognized the familiar tunes!

From the Bride:

“We had Christen play at our wedding and we were blown away by her music. She created such a romantic feel to our outdoor ceremony that we will cherish forever! If you are even slightly thinking about booking Christen, do it! I promise you, you won’t regret it!”

Wedding Ceremony Music:
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri): Family, Wedding Party, and Flower Girls
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Bride
Bubbly (Colbie Caillat): Unity Cross Ceremony
Lovely Day (Bill Withers): Recessional

Selections from the Prelude and Postlude Music:
Beautiful in White (Westlife), What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), I Get to Love You (Ruelle), La Vie En Rose (Louis Armstrong), Speechless (Dan + Shay), Come Away with Me (Norah Jones), 10,000 Hours (Dan + Shay, Justin Bieber)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: YMCA of the Rockies - Overlook Chapel
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Solo Flute
Photographer: Meg Slattery Photography

Experience the Versatility of the Flute.

February 26, 2024

A Sacred Catholic Wedding Ceremony at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Breckenridge, Colorado: String Quartet

February 26, 2024/ Christen Stephens

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Breckenridge, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Laura Foote

In early autumn, our string quartet played for a peaceful and traditional wedding ceremony at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Breckenridge, Colorado. It was a full Catholic Mass, and our music perfectly complimented the sacred feel of the service.

As befitting the serene church setting, our string quartet played hymns, sacred classical music, and selections from Handel’s Water Music as guests arrived. Anticipation for the ceremony peaked as two cantors (singers) and the pianist performed The Summons to signal tat the ceremony was about to begin.

Throughout the ceremony, the cantors and pianist performed the liturgical music in beautiful harmony. Our quartet joined them for the communion song, which was “One Bread, One Body”, and also for “Kyrie, Gloria”. When all seven of us performed, it sounded a little like heaven, as our music carried throughout the church.

Confronted with limited space within the church, I created a novel approach to cello bowing, adapting my technique to accommodate the flow of people. As congregants made their way back to their pews after receiving communion, I greeted them with a warm smile to let them know that they could come by. Then I did an upward bow motion to let them them to glide by without interruption.

Sample Music from the Prelude:
Simple Gifts, O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing, Blessed Assurance, Handel’s Water Music (La Rejouissance, Bourree, Hornpipe in F, Coro, Air in F, and Hornpipe Finale)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach): Seating of the Family and Wedding Party
Bridal Chorus: Bride
Kyrie, Gloria: During Ceremony
One Bread, One Body (Talbot): Communion
Wedding March (Mendelssohn): Recessional

After the ceremony, we all drove to Ski Tip Lodge in Keystone to play music for the cocktail hour. Here, we changed the mood completely, and played pop and country music as guests mingled on the lawn and enjoyed cocktails and refreshments. They particularly requested Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald and the Beatles. Even though it was late September in the Colorado mountains, the day was beautiful and sunny with a brilliant blue sky.

Sample Music from the Cocktail Hour:
Accidentally in Love (Counting Crows), Butterflies (Kacey Musgraves), Lover (Taylor Swift), Just the Way You Are (Bruno Mars), Ten Minutes Ago from Cinderella, How High the Moon (Ella Fitzgerald, Tennessee Whiskey (Chris Stapleton), What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong)

Wedding Vendors:
Ceremony Venue: Saint Mary’s Catholic Church in Breckenridge
Reception Venue: Ski Tip Lodge
Wedding Planner: Pink Champagne Events
Photographer: Laura Foote Photography

Elegant Music in Any Style.

February 13, 2024

A Heartfelt Wedding Ceremony at Sapphire Point Overlook in Dillon, Colorado: Violin and Cello Duo

February 13, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Greenhouse Creative Studio

On a cool morning in late August, our violin and cello duo played elegant live music for a casual mountain wedding ceremony. The forecast called for rain, but the morning dawned clear and sunny with summery white clouds in the sky. The rain would come later, and this couple chose well to have a morning ceremony!

We played a mix of romantic contemporary music, setting a sweet and summery mood as guests arrived. We played under the shade of the tall pine trees, and a squirrel was right above us and dropping tiny pine cones on us while we played. We managed to stay mostly focused while this happened, and the cones were too small and soft to hurt us or to damage our instruments!

The ceremony was gentle and heartfelt, and the love that this couple had for each other really shone through. The father of the bride gave quite a long speech, which was so funny at times, that I was convinced that he was a comedian. He assured me afterwards that he’s not, but was happy for the compliment nonetheless.

After the ceremony concluded, the bride had requested that we segue right into their first dance song instead of the usual recessional music. There was some laughter, because bustling the bride’s gown didn’t go as smoothly as planned! Soon the couple was ready, and they enjoyed their first dance, while we accompanied them with “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” from the Lion King. After that, we played a number of upbeat rock and pop songs to get the party started. Everyone did a toast, followed by photos, and then mingling.

“Lovely, Pleasant Accompaniment”

“I hired Christen for my daughter's wedding. The entire experience was professional, communication was clear and the performance was just fantastic.” - Sharon E., mother of bride

Married at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado
Violin and Cello Duo

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Groom + Parents, Ringbearer
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Bride
Can You Feel the Love Tonight? from the Lion King: First Dance
Here Comes the Sun (Beatles): Right after Toast

Sample Selections from the Prelude, Postlude, and Photos:
The Sound of Music, The Last Rose of Summer, Over the Rainbow (Judy Garland), Speechless (Dan + Shay), All You Need is Love (Beatles), Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, What a Wonderful World, Don’t Stop Belivin’ (Journey), I Want to Hold Your Hand (Beatles), Holy (Justin Bieber), Wildflowers (Tom Petty), Let it Be (Beatles)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Sapphire Point
Photographer: Greenhouse Creative Studios
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo

Experience the Sweet Elegance of our Violin and Cello Duo.

February 01, 2024

A Memorable Wedding Celebration at the Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado: String Quartet

February 01, 2024/ Christen Stephens

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music at the Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Valeria Heine

It was a gloriously beautiful summer day when our string quartet played for an elegant wedding ceremony and cocktail hour at Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado. The chateau is nestled in the heart of the Rockies, and it provided a breathtaking backdrop for the wedding celebration. As I was setting up our performance area, I spotted a few wild turkeys, and they stayed in the area, even during the ceremony, adding a rustic mountain charm to the couple’s vows (scroll down for my photo).

As guests arrived, we played a prelude of elegant classical music. All the guests arrived later than planned, because of considerable traffic backup due to construction on the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park. However, when they did arrive, we were ready to greet them with our lovely music - a perfect beginning to this special day!

After the heartwarming ceremony concluded, we transitioned to the cocktail hour, bringing with us a fresh repertoire of contemporary favorites. The bride had a unique vision for this part of their celebration. She had meticulously planned a gradual increase of music tempo, starting with slow, melodic tunes and transitioning to a lively and energetic feel just before dinner. She provided us with a detailed chart, outlining her song choices and their beats per minute (BPM), helping us to align with her vision. I admired the bride’s dedication to creating a musical journey for her guests, not to mention of my shared love of spreadsheets! Since BPM doesn’t always mean a faster feel, we worked together to make a few minor adjustments, and her set list was ready to go!

We received many compliments from the guests, who recognized most of the contemporary music that we played. As we approached our final section of upbeat tunes, dark clouds gathered in the sky, and a thunderstorm moved through, releasing a torrential rainstorm just after everyone went inside for the reception. The most beautiful rainbow came out, and it lasted for almost an hour as I packed up and drove home. People were all stopping on the side of the road and slowing down to take photos. It felt like a beautiful and benevolent ending to this special day!

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Flower Duet from Lakme (Delibes): Wedding Party, Ringbearer, Flower Girl
Clair De Lune (Debussy): Bride
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Unity Ceremony (Glass Beads)
What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong): Recessional

Sample Selections from the Prelude:
To a Wild Rose (McDowell), Menuet Op. 11 No. 5 (Boccherini), Air from Suite #3 in D Major (Bach), Humoresque Op. 101, No. 7 (Dvorak), Gymnopedie #1 (Satie)

Sample Selections from the Cocktail Hour Music:
Black River (Amos Lee), At Last (Etta James), Thinking Out Loud (Ed Sheeran), Diamonds (Rhianna), Lover (Taylor Swift), Holy (Justin Bieber), Accidentally In Love (Counting Crows), Just the Way You Are (Bruno Mars)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Wedding Coordinator: Aspen and Ivy
Catering: Dark Steel Gastro Arts
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Quartet
Photographer: Valeria Heine
Videographer: Wedding Videos of Colorado
Floral: Fanciful Floral & Weddings
DJ: Suit & Tie
Photo Booth: Shutter Bus
Transportation: Estes Park Trolley
Makeup: Altar’d Beauty

Our String Quartet Sets the Perfect Mood.

January 16, 2024

A Glamorous Mountaintop Wedding in Crested Butte, Colorado: Flute, Violin, Viola, Cello Quartet

January 16, 2024/ Christen Stephens

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Ten Peaks in Crested Butte, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Amy Karp Photography

Over Labor Day weekend, our flute and strings quartet had the pleasure of playing wedding ceremony and cocktail hour music for a glamorous event in Crested Butte, Colorado. Because we had to drive 5 hours in Labor Day weekend traffic, we all decided to make a weekend of it and stay for a few days. The scenery on some of our hikes was epic!

The rest of the guests were mostly coming up from Texas. That meant they were able to fly into the Gunnison Airport and make the easy drive up to Crested Butte. Most of my clients are actually from Texas because they love Colorado, and because they can easily access the awe-inspiring Colorado mountains.

This wedding celebration took place at Ten Peaks in Crested Butte and the ceremony was held on the outdoor wedding deck, which boasted sweeping mountain views. The couple enhanced the rustic mountain location with lush flowers lining the entire wedding aisle and a full floral bridal arch. As guests arrived, we played a mix of pop, country, and jazz music, personally selected by this fun-loving and relaxed couple. Since it was raining, we played under the tent shelter and amplified our music to the adjacent ceremony area. I used my brand new Bose L1+ Pro speakers, which not only sound great, but eliminate all use of wires, which can easily become trip hazards.

Just as the ceremony was about to begin, the rain cleared away, as if on cue, and the processional began. There were 16 members of family to be seated, and we kept a lively rendition of “Thunderstruck” by ACDC going as they processed down the aisle. Then, we segued to the romantic “La Vie En Rose” for the bride.

After the conclusion of the ceremony, we moved to the cocktail hour location, which was by the Umbrella Bar. We continued to play a lively set of music that the bride chose, as guests enjoyed drinks and refreshments prior to the reception.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Thunderstruck (ACDC): Seating of the Family
La Vie En Rose (Louis Armstrong): Bride
Somewhere Over the Rainbow (Judy Garland): Unity Ceremony
Here Comes the Sun (Beatles): Recessional

Sample Music from the Prelude and Cocktail Hour:
I Will Always Love You (Whitney Houston), It had to be you (Harry Connick Jr.), Black River (Amos Lee), Lover (Taylor Swift), Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve), Tennessee Whiskey (Chris Stapleton), Take me home, country roads (John Denver), All of the lights (Kanye West), Viva La Vida (Coldplay), Everlong Foo-Fighters, How High the moon (Ella Fitzgerald), Sweet Caroline (Neil Diamond)

Wedding Vendors:
Planning: Laurel and Rose
Wedding Venue: Crested Butte Resort
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and String Quartet
Hair: Brittani Estes
Floral: Bows & Arrows
Specialty Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals
Photography: Amy Karp
Lighting and Decor: Little Mad Events
A/V: Kaleidescope
Reception Music: Kat V
Transportation: CoWest Transportation, LLC
Photobooth: Wanderbus Photobooth
Oxygen: Sea Level Spa
Cake: Wildflour Sweets

Experience the Elegant Harmonies of our Flute and String Quartet.

January 07, 2024

A Lighthearted Wedding Ceremony at the Grand Hyatt, Vail: Violin and Cello Duo

January 07, 2024/ Christen Stephens

On a beautiful summer day, I had the pleasure of playing cello alongside my violinist for a charming wedding ceremony at the Grand Hyatt in Vail, Colorado. The cloud cover cooled off the hot day perfectly, and everyone was comfortable in their summer dresses and suits. The ceremony took place on the Gore Creek Terrace, which felt like a private enclave in the midst of the bustling resort.

The bride wanted a happy and lighthearted feel for her ceremony, and I created a music setlist to fit the bill. We also added and learned two new songs at the bride’s request. The charming “Married Life” from Up made for a lighthearted and sweet addition, and “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay was the perfect upbeat recessional song. We played on our electric instruments to create a modern and fun vibe.

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Grand Hyatt, Vail, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by Christen Stephens

From the Groom:

“Christen and her team provided an exceptional performance at our wedding ceremony. They were extremely professional throughout the whole process and on our day. We had two additional song-s added that were not on her repertoire. The execution of them was beautiful and greatly appreciated. We highly recommend! Their music and performance added an element of elegance and beauty to our ceremony that was unparalleled.”

Violin and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Grand Hyatt, Vail, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Samples from the Prelude Music:
Let it Be (Beatles), For the Dancing and the Dreaming from How to Train Your Dragon, Married Life from “Up”, Here Comes the Sun (Beatles)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Sweet Child ‘O Mine (Guns ‘N Roses): Wedding Party, Ringbearer, Flower Girls
Don’t Stop Belivin’ (Journey): Bride
A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay): Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Grand Hyatt, Vail
Coordination: Aspen and Ivy
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Violin and Cello Duo
Photographer: Toni Axelrod Studios
Floral: A Secret Garden
Makeup and Hair: Rocky Mountain Hair Co.

Enjoy the Simple Elegance of the Violin and Cello.

December 24, 2023

Elegant Wedding Music at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado: Flute, Violin, Viola, Cello Quartet

December 24, 2023/ Christen Stephens

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Music at the Boulders at Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by J. LaPlante

On a beautiful summer day, our flute, violin, viola, and cello quartet played for an elegant and modern wedding ceremony at the Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado. The ceremony was held in the newer event space called The Boulders at Black Canyon Inn. This is a gorgeous building with a wall that opens up completely to showcase stunning mountain views from the comfort of the indoors. As musicians, we love the lively acoustics in the room.

As guests arrived, our quartet joyfully welcomed them, beginning with traditional classical music, and easing into romantic and slow contemporary music as the ceremony time drew closer.

In the middle of the ceremony, the couple performed a time capsule unity ceremony, and they took their time as we played “Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith. This song selection delighted many of their family members, who told us later that they recognized the song and loved the sweet moment.

After the ceremony, we moved downstairs as guests enjoyed refreshments during the cocktail hour. We played a mix of classical and contemporary music, keeping the feel upbeat with lively Mozart Divertimentos, Coldplay songs, and other popular favorites.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
All of Me (John Legend): Seating of the Family
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri): Wedding Party, Rignbearer, Flower Girl
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Bride
Don’t Wanna Miss a Thing (Aerosmith): Unity Ceremony (Time Capsule)
Marry You (Bruno Mars): Recessional

Sample Music from the Prelude and Cocktail Hour:
Menuet Op. 11 No. 5 (Boccherini), At Last (Etta James), Salut D’Amour (Elgar), Reign of Love (Coldplay), Diamonds (Rihanna), Divertimento in F (Mozart), Butterflies (Kacey Musgraves), Divertimento in D (Mozart), Holy (Justin Bieber)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: The Boulders at Black Canyon Inn
Wedding Planner: A Touch of Bliss
Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Strings Quartet
Photographer: J La Plante
Videographer: Wolf’s Video
Dessert: The Inventing Room
Florist: The Perfect Petal
Linens and Rentals: Colorado Party Rentals
Hair & Makeup: Doris Lew
Additional Decor/Specialty Lighting: Lighting and Design by Scott

Our Flute and String Quartet is Sheer Elegance.

December 12, 2023

A Fun Loving Wedding Ceremony at the Planet Bluegrass in Lyons, Colorado: String Quartet

December 12, 2023/ Christen Stephens

String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Planet Bluegrass in Lyons, Colorado, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by June Cochran Photography

Our string quartet was delighted to play fun contemporary music for this casual spring wedding ceremony at Planet Bluegrass in Lyons, Colorado. It was a breezy and damp day, threatening more spring rain, but other than a few sprinkles prior to the ceremony, the rain held off! Our delicate wooden stringed instruments were protected by the canopy covering that the bride provided for us, and we were able to play continuous prelude music as the guests arrived and mingled. The bride made a selection of fun contemporary and jazz music for both before and after her ceremony.

Due to having family in various different locations, this was their third wedding ceremony, but that fact didn’t detract at all from the couple’s joy and the excitement of their special day. They were fun-loving and casual, and it was wonderful to be a part of their Colorado wedding!

From the Bride:

“Christen and her fellow musicians provided lovely music for our wedding ceremony, and she was incredibly easy to communicate with leading up to our wedding day. She took into account all of our suggestions and did a good job of organizing music for pre-ceremony versus the ceremony itself. One thing to note is that you'll need to provide a canopy or umbrellas for them to sit under if your ceremony is outdoors (and waterproof if you're expecting it may rain). Thanks so much for helping to make our day super special!” - Kaitlin H., Bride

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel): Family, Wedding Party, Flower Girl, Ringbearer
Bridal Chorus (Wagner): Bride
Wedding March (Mendelssohn): Recessional

Sample Music from the Prelude:
Home (Edward Sharpe), Holy (Justin Bieber), Lover (Taylor Swift), Married Life from the Pixar Movie "Up, Make You Feel My Love (Adele), All of Me (John Legend)

Add Fun and Elegance to your Wedding Day with Our Joyful String Quartet!