October 28, 2020

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Chapel at Beaver Creek, Colorado

October 28, 2020/ Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at the Chapel at Beaver Creek in Beaver Creek Colorado, Music by Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Photo by David Gillette Photography

Every year has at least one wedding that stands out as exceptionally special, and for me, this wedding was one of those treasured moments. The bride hired me to play solo flute for her Beaver Creek wedding ceremony when the pandemic was still a vague idea somewhere off in China. When things began to get crazy, we kept checking in with each other - Are you staying healthy? Is everything still good on your end with the wedding?

In the end, and after much hesitation, the wedding went forward as planned. The music stayed the same, but the guests list became a lot smaller. The bride selected her entire song list, and I enjoyed learning several new songs and revisiting some old favorites. The ceremony was full of music, and I played prelude music as guests arrived, and also played for the processional, communion, signing of the marriage license, benediction, recessional, and first dance.

The first dance was a special moment in a storybook setting, with the stone church and vibrant fall foliage as a backdrop. The couple danced to a recording of Annie’s Song, and I improvised over the recording on my flute.

Prelude Music: Canon in D Major (Pachelbel), Wedding Song (There Is Love) (Peter Paul and Mary), Perhaps Love (John Denver), Sunshine on My Shoulders (John Denver), Longer (Dan Folgerberg), Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis), Have I Told You Lately (Rod Stewart), You Are so Beautiful (Joe Cocker), For the Beauty of the Earth, The Wedding Song (Kenny G)

From the Bride:

“Christen’s Flute Playing Was Amazing and Special”

“We had a beautiful mountain ceremony. Her flute playing was amazing and special. She went above and beyond by learning a few new songs I specifically requested. If you want quality and a true professional go with Christen for your wedding music... I’m sure glad we did!”

Wedding Vendors:
Venue - Beaver Creek Chapel
Ceremony Music - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Solo Flute
Photographer - David Gillette Photography
Videographer - Capture the Action
Officiant - Scott Bebee

Ceremony Music:
Annie’s Song (John Denver) - Wedding Party
Bridal Chorus (Wagner) - Bride
Sunshine on my Shoulders (John Denver) - Signing of the marriage license and communion
Edelweiss (tune only) - Accompany sung benediction
Wedding March (Mendelssohn) - Recessional

Experience the timeless beauty of the flute for your wedding ceremony or event.

Listen

September 25, 2020

Flute, Guitar, Cello Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at Garden of the Gods Resort in Colorado Springs

September 25, 2020/ Christen Stephens

It was so lovely to be a part of this gorgeous August wedding ceremony at the Garden of the Gods Resort in Colorado Springs. The combination of the red rocks, the sunset, and the wildfire smoke turned the ceremony location into a pastel watercolor with delicate shades of pinks and blues.

From the Bride:

“Christen and her team were nothing short of amazing! Leading up to my wedding, we were in constant contact and had so much fun with our love of music. I would bounce ideas off of her and she would get back to me almost instantaneously. She is so much fun to work with and is an amazing musician. Alex and Anna accompanied her and they were so talented as well. She was able to organize playing several really special songs for my wedding. Not only amazing musicians but also so very kind. “

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute, Guitar, Cello Trio wedding ceremony music at the Garden of the Gods Resort in Colorado Springs, Photo by Katie Corinne Photography

The combination of the flute, guitar and cello is just perfect because I can imitate vocals on my flute, the guitar replaces the guitar or piano part with full chords, and the cello fills out the bass. With three very different sounding instruments, this ensemble has an elegant and full sound.

The songs that the bride selected beautifully complimented the setting. We played restful selections by Jim Brickman, "Have I Told You Lately” (Rod Stewart), “Shallow” (Lady Gaga), and “Stand by Me” (Ben King).

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Butterfly Waltz from Twilight - Flower Girl
Butterflies (Kacey Musgraves) - Bride
Here Comes the Sun (Beatles) - Recessional

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Garden of the Gods Resort
Wedding Planner: A Touch of Bliss
Photographer: Katie Corinne Photography - Thank you for these lovely photos!
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute, Guitar, Cello Trio
Officiant: Writing With Love by Dana

December 24, 2018

Flute and Violin Duo Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

December 24, 2018/ Christen Stephens

flute and Strings by christen stephens, Flute and violin wedding ceremony music in Estes Park, Colorado

I spent the Halloween of 2018 in the best way possible - playing for a romantic Colorado mountain wedding ceremony! The bride and groom were from Florida, and they had their outdoor wedding ceremony in Estes Park at a private home.

The drive to Estes Park is one of my favorite drives because of the beautiful scenery. It was made even better by the fresh snow that had fallen the night before. The snow was still clinging to the evergreens and weighing them down like heavy white frosting.

The house was in a grand setting with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. I played flute along with my violinist inside, next to the crackling wood fire in the fireplace. I set up my speaker outside so that our music could be heard both indoors and out.

We played an elegant mix of classical music, and a few modern songs. I made a special arrangement of “All I Ask of You” from Phantom of the Opera and “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from Cinderella for the bride. Just before the bride walked down the aisle, we happened to be playing “A Postcard to Henry Purcell” from Pride and Prejudice, and it was such a romantic beginning to the evening festivities.

The wedding ceremony took place outside, and even though it was chilly, the sun shone brightly in a very blue sky. The small group of family and friends stood during the short ceremony. Afterwards, we continued playing more lively classical music as the guests mingled inside and outside.

“It was a Dream Come True”

From the Bride:
”My Wedding was on Halloween this year and as a special touch Christen surprised us with Cinderella- “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes”, and a few other Disney classics! It was a dream come true and I couldn’t have picked a better company to play for my Wedding. I truly felt like a Princess in white with the music playing perfectly on every step I made down the aisle. Thank you for making our day Perfect!”

Fun Tip: For an outdoor wedding ceremony in the snow, have your ceremony near an indoor location to give your guests the option of mingling indoors before and after the ceremony.

Sample Selections from Prelude and Postlude Music:
Gavotte (Bach), Largo from Winter (Vivaldi), Minuet (Boccherini), Air from Water Music (Handel), Ave Verum Corpus (Mozart), A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes from Cinderella, All I Ask of You from Phantom of the Opera, Allegro from Spring (Vivaldi)

Wedding Processional Music:
Bride’s Processional: Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Recessional: Ode to Joy (Beethoven)

Experience the traditional elegance of my flute and violin duo for your wedding ceremony!

November 30, 2018

Flute and Cello Duo Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens

November 30, 2018/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Cello Duo Wedding Ceremony Music in the Denver Botanic Gardens, Photo by LD Photogrpahy

On a late summer day, my flute and cello duo played for an elegant formal wedding ceremony at the Denver Botanic Gardens. The garden beds were spilling over with glorious autumn flowers, red berries, and ripening golden grasses. The ceremony took place in the Romantic Gardens, which were a lush, green oasis despite the hot and sunny 90 degree day.

Our duo played elegant and fun classical music to greet guests as they arrived. The little gazebo that we played under had the perfect acoustics for our instruments, and our music floated throughout the gardens, mingling with the flower-scented air.

Fun Tip: For a hot outdoor summer wedding, invite your guests to wear fancy hats to stay cool. I loved the hats that the ladies wore at this wedding ceremony! Just check out these sweet accessories.

“They completed my vision for a classy, romantic, elegant wedding”

From the Bride:
Christen performed for our intimate wedding ceremony at the Denver Botanic Gardens on 9/15/18. She was an absolute pleasure to work with, from start to finish!! Christen was professional, responsive, and able to answer any questions that I had (which for a Type A person like me was quite a few). Since I live out of town, all of our communications were via email and phone. I would usually hear back within a day with any questions I had, and the fact that we never met until day-of didn't detract from the planning, organization or execution of the music. She worked with my budget, and because of her affordable prices, I was able to get a flute and cello combo which I had not previously thought a possibility. Their performance the day-of was perfect, and I could not have asked for better musicians for our big day! They completed my vision for a classy, romantic, elegant wedding. Highly recommended!!! Thanks Christen!”

Sample Selections from Prelude and Postlude Music:
Ode to Joy (Beethoven), Flower Duet (Delibes), Trumpet Voluntary (Clarke), Arrival of the Queen of Sheba (Handel), Spring from the Four Seasons (Vivaldi), Bourree (Telemann), Sonatina (Anton Andre), March in D Major (Bach)

Wedding Processional Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach) - Mothers and Grandmothers, Brothers and Sisters, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, Groom, Pastor
Ave Maria (Schubert) - Bride
Unchained Melody (Righteous Brothers) - Unity Ceremony (sign marriage license and light unity candle)
La Rejouissance (Handel) - Recessional

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Denver Botanic Gardens
Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo
Photographer: LD Photography - Thank you for these beautiful photos!
Officiant: Scott Bebee - Awesome officiant who I had the pleasure of working with a couple times this year.

Whether you’re getting married in a garden or in the mountains, our elegant music will bring elegance and class to your beautiful Colorado setting. Listen to flute and cello music samples.

September 12, 2018

Flute and Harp Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Music at the Lyons Farmette

September 12, 2018/ Lyons Farmette/ Christen Stephens

My flute and harp duo had a wonderful day playing for this charming wedding ceremony and cocktail hour at the Lyons Farmette in Lyons, Colorado. The venue features wide lawns, an assortment of farm animals, vintage farm equipment, and a riot of color in the beautiful flower gardens. Twinkle lights sparkled from everywhere, and the creek running behind the ceremony site completed the charming effect.

Shortly before we started playing the prelude, the wind guested very strongly and it began to sprinkle rain. I had my music stand set up outside, and a big branch fell from the tree right where I would have been standing, so I was thankful that I wasn't there! We were so happy that the weather calmed down just as we needed to start playing the prelude music. We played elegant classical music to welcome the guests as they arrived.

Then it was time for our big musical surprise, as planned by the bride. We played "Zelda's Lullaby" from the video game "The Legend of Zelda", as the bride walked down the aisle. For the recessional, we played "Shelter" by Porter Robinson and Madeon.

During cocktails, we continued the video game theme. The couple chose a number of special songs to be played during cocktails, and the songs included more Zelda music and the Pokemon Center theme. Many people recognized the tunes and were very excited and surprised to hear songs that they knew from the video games. The tunes worked perfectly on flute and harp.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach) - Processional
Zelda's Lullaby - Bride
Shelter (Porter Robinson and Madeon) - Recessional

Wedding Music Special Selections:
Zelda's Lullaby, Shelter (Porter Robinson and Madeon), Kakariko Village, The Great Fairy Fountain, Ballad of the Goddess, Path of the Wind from My Neighbor Tororo, The Pokemon Center Theme, Saria's Theme (a surprise addition I included)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: The Lyons Farmette
Wedding Planner: A Touch of Bliss Events
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Duo
Photographer: Dan Hand Photo
Videographer: Garrity Productions

Whether your love Zelda music or want another unique them for your wedding, I can make it happen. Contact me today!

September 23, 2016

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at Black Canyon Inn in Estes Park, Colorado

September 23, 2016/ Christen Stephens

Colorado Wedding Ceremony Music by Christen Stephens, Photos with watermark courtesy of Joe Pyle Photography — Colorado Wedding Ceremony Music by Christen Stephens, *Photos with watermark courtesy of Joe Pyle Photography*

It was forecast to be a cool and rainy day when our flute and guitar duo headed up to Estes Park to play for this Minnesota couple's wedding ceremony. Everyone's prayers were answered and the sun shone brightly warming the crisp mountain breezes. The wedding was held under the Pavilion at Black Canyon Inn, and the backdrop of mountains and blue skies and clouds was epic. The bride and groom requested that we play a mix of classical and popular music for the prelude and they selected their processional and recessional songs.

From the bride: "Beautiful Music! We chose the flute and guitar. She (Christen) was very easy and fun to work with! Very professional and we are so so so happy we chose her and her team."

Colorado Wedding Ceremony Music by Christen Stephens

Sample Prelude Music:
Andante from Sonata in C Major (Mozart), Annie's Song (John Denver), To Make You Feel My Love (Adele), The Girl (Dallas Green)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Wedding Party ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Flower Girl ~ Reign of Love (Coldplay)
Bride ~ Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis)
Recessional ~ Could You Be Loved (Bob Marley)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue - Black Canyon Inn
Photographer - Joe Pyle
Ceremony Musicians - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo

September 03, 2016

Flute and Violin Wedding Ceremony Music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

September 03, 2016/ Christen Stephens

Colorado Wedding Ceremony Music by Christen Stephens, Photos Courtesy of Steve Tinetti Photography — Colorado Wedding Ceremony Music by Christen Stephens, *Photos Courtesy of* *Steve Tinetti Photography*

In July, our flute and violin duo played for a very intimate wedding ceremony at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado. It was such a small wedding ceremony that there weren't actually any guests! Instead, this destination bride decided to have her ceremony professionally recorded and then share the recording with her friends and family members.

Our duo played soothing prelude music before the ceremony as the bride and groom posed for their wedding photos. Then, we cleared the area of curious hikers so that the bride and groom could make their grand entrance down the winding forest path. Our flute and violin duo played "Postcard to Henry Purcell" from "Pride and Prejudice" as the bride and groom walked. After the ceremony, we played a little more and we both even signed the marriage certificate as witnesses, and posed for a few photos with the bride.

From the bride: "Our wedding was just a small elopement at Sapphire Point in Colorado but we couldn't imagine it without music. Not only did Christen give us several song selections but she arranged a song that I requested. She played beautifully and the music helped calm our nerves. I would highly recommend Christen for any size wedding. Her music is exquisite!"

Sample Prelude Music:
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri), Air from Suite #3 (Handel), Ode to Joy (Beethoven), Romanza (Mozart), St. Anthony's Chorale (Brahms), Traumereri (Schumann), Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Bride's Processional and Recessional ~ Postcard to Henry Purcell from Pride and Prejudice

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue ~ Sapphire Point
Officiant ~ Julie Wright-Kyle
Photographer ~ Steve Tinetti Photography
Ceremony Musicians ~ Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Violin Duo

February 29, 2016

New Wedding Ceremony Songs for 2016

February 29, 2016/ Christen Stephens

I am happy to announce that I have added a number of new contemporary wedding songs to my 2016 repertoire. Below, I have grouped these songs in a way that would beautifully compliment each part of a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour.

Prelude Songs: For the First Time in Forever from Frozen (solo flute) To Make You Feel My Love – Adele (flute and guitar, flute trio, flute quartet) What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong (flute and violin, flute and cello, flute trio, flute quartet) All You Need is Love – Beatles (flute and violin, flute and cello, flute trio, flute quartet)

Processional Songs: All I Want is You – U2 (flute quartet) All of Me – John Legend (flute and violin) A Thousand Years – Christina Perri (flute and violin, flute trio, flute quartet) Reign of Love – Coldplay (flute trio)

During the Ceremony: On Eagles’ Wings – Michael Joncas (flute and cello)

Cocktail Hour: Don’t Stop Believing – Journey (flute and cello, flute quartet) Feeling Good (solo flute) Let it Go from Frozen (solo flute) Such Great Heights – Postal Service (flute trio, flute quartet) Wildflowers – Tom Petty (flute and cello)

October 30, 2014

Flute and Guitar Duo Wedding Ceremony Music at the YMCA in Estes Park

October 30, 2014/ Christen Stephens

Our flute and guitar duo recently played for a beautiful October wedding ceremony at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park, Colorado. It was an absolutely gorgeous morning with gusty winds that challenged our ability to secure our sheet music and supplies. However, with many clips for our music and heavy rocks to hold down our music stands, we kept everything secure for the duration of our performance. By keeping the wind directly to my back, I was also able to get a good sound out of my flute. The ceremony was held outdoors at the Sara Smith Chapel which was a lovely location with a wild Colorado mountain feel. We played classical prelude music that the bride let us select and then a classical processional that I helped the bride select. During the ceremony, a small choir sang an incredible version of "Be Thou My Vision" and I felt honored to hear their talented performance in such an amazing setting. They sang this while the couple performed a foot washing ceremony, symbolizing the the servant-hood of marriage in comparison to Christ and the church. Then, because both the bride and groom are scientists, they did a small science experiment that they made up to represent marriage and the blending of two lives together. While they did that, we played Simple Gifts.

Selected Prelude Music:
Musette (Bach), Gavotte (Gossec), Polonaise (Mozart), Little Italian Song (Tchaikovsky), Valse Sentimentale (Schubert)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Bridal Party (Grandmothers, Mothers, Bridesmaids, Flower Girl) ~ Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring
Bride ~ Gavotte from Sonata for Flute in C major (Handel)
Unity Ceremony ~ Simple Gifts
Recessional ~ Trumpet Tune (Purcell)
Postlude ~ Hornpipe from Water Music (Handel), Gymnopedie No. 1 (Satie)

Vendors:
Venue: YMCA of the Rockies - Estes Park
Photographer: Katie Keighin Photography
Wedding Ceremony Musicians - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo

October 22, 2014

Solo Flute - Wedding Ceremony Music at Della Terra Mountain Chateau in Estes Park

October 22, 2014/ Christen Stephens

Outdoor autumn wedding ceremonies can be tricky in the Colorado mountains because the weather can be anything from warm and sunny to freezing cold and snowing. This bride hoped for the best with her early October wedding ceremony, but was also ready to brave the worst. It was clear to see why she wanted an outdoor wedding ceremony at Della Terra Chateau in Estes Park. The chateau is beautifully situated in the mountains and gives the feel of majestic isolation that is pure Colorado. The grounds feature garden areas and small ponds and bridges that blend well into the wild Colorado landscape. Wildlife abounded and I saw several elk, wild turkeys, and many birds and chipmunks. Inside, the chateau was built to reflect the classic European charm of years gone by. I had no idea what to expect from the weather as I drove up the fog-shrouded mountains. The forecast was calling for thunderstorms and even snow later in the evening. When I arrived at Della Terra, it was cold and cloudy and I set up under a small musician pavilion to protect my flute from the drizzling rain.

The bride chose solo flute music for her wedding ceremony, and I played elegant music on my flute as the handful of guests began arriving. As the guests arrived, the cold rain began to fall in earnest and umbrellas were quickly supplied to the guests and they wrapped themselves in the warm blankets that had been provided. I chose cheerful spring-like music to give the atmosphere a feeling of warmth, and one of the guests later told me that my music was the perfect balm for the cold, dark weather. The processional began, and just as the bride reached the front, the sun came out and the rain abated just long enough for a beautiful ceremony to take place.

Selected Wedding Prelude Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach), Danza Pastorale (Vivaldi), Spring (Vivaldi), Hornpipe (Purcell), The Swan (Saint Seans), Minuetto (Mozart)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Wedding Party ~ Trumpet Voluntary
Bride ~ Trumpet Tune
Recessional ~ Bourree from Handel's Water Music
Postlude ~ Hornpipe from Handel's Water Music and Chopin's Waltz, Op. 69 No. 2

Wedding Vendors
Wedding Venue: Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Officiant: Reverend Simone Shepherd
Ceremony Musician: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Solo Flute

The view behind the ceremony site

October 08, 2014

Flute and Cello Duo at Piney River Ranch in Vail, CO

October 08, 2014/ Christen Stephens

In August, our flute and cello duo headed up to Piney River Ranch in Vail to play for a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. After a string of cold and rainy days, the sun finally came out at this incredible mountain location and made for a beautiful wedding day. Once we arrived in Vail, we followed a long set of directions through White River National Forest. The 45 minute drive brought us over very rutted roads and was very challenging in our Prius. Since the going was slow, we embraced the moment and rolled down our windows to enjoy the peaceful quite and the spectacular scenery. We arrived at the lodge in time to enjoy a meal at the Piney restaurant. I ordered their signature pulled pork BBQ, which was exceptional, and having lived in North Carolina for a while, I can be picky about my BBQ! We also had time to take photos of the lake and of the resident moose, Monty Jr.

The bride knew what she wanted for music, and she chose most of the prelude music and all of the ceremony music on her own with the aid of my repertoire list. She requested that we fill out her prelude selections with music from movies with big scenery to compliment the lake and mountain backdrop. I really enjoyed making these music selections and it was wonderful to play them in a location that perfectly complimented them.

One of the best moments of the wedding ceremony was when Monty the moose walked through the water right behind the couple! The pastor had been talking about living in the moment and not letting life slip by us unnoticed. The reactions of the guests was wonderful as the ceremony paused and we all took some time to embrace that wonderful moment.

For the cocktail hour, the bride requested Beatles, Sinatra, and jazz styles. Our flute and cello duo mostly plays classical music, but I was eager for the challenge and after looking through my extensive music library, I found a number of popular and jazz pieces that would work wonderfully with the flute and cello.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Mothers, Groom, Pastor, Groomsmen ~ Haunted by the Waters from A River Runs Through It
Bridesmaids ~ All I Ask of You Bride ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Recessional ~ La Rejouissance from Handel's Water Music
Postlude ~ Arrival of the Queen of Sheba (Handel)

Selected Prelude Music:
The Sound of Music, To a Wild Rose (MacDowell), Largo from Winter (Handel), The Wedding and the Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, Clair De Lune (Debussy), Si Bheag, Si Mhor (Irish Traditional), Moon River , from Breakfast at Tiffany's, What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong)

Selected Cocktail Hour Music:
Imagine (Beatles), When I'm Sixty Four (Beatles), A Whole New World, I Want to Hold Your Hand (Beatles), Can You Feel the Love Tonight?, Blue Spanish Eyes, All of Me, My Funny Valentine, Blackbird (Beatles), Misty

Christen and Heather playing at Piney River Ranch, courtesy of Zach Mahone Photography

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Venue: Piney River Ranch, Vail
Wedding Coordinator: Meg Stepanek of Gemini Event Planning
Photographer: Zach Mahone Photography
Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo

September 25, 2014

Flute and Piano Duo at Lord of the Mountains Lutheran Church in Dillon

September 25, 2014/ Christen Stephens

This summer, our flute and piano duo enjoyed playing for this beautiful wedding ceremony at Lord of the Mountains Lutheran Church in Dillon, Colorado. This bride loves sunshine and has a sunny personality to match, so she chose the appropriate "Sunshine on my Shoulders" to walk down the aisle to. The church was situated on a hill overlooking a panoramic mountain view, and the weather was perfect and sunny. The piano in the church sanctuary was a very fine instrument with an amazing sound that we enjoyed. The bride told her family and friends that there would be music and everyone was so excited to hear the music that they all arrived 45 minutes before the ceremony, so we began our prelude early and gave them a little concert of hymns and sacred songs.

Selected Prelude Music:
Sunshine in My Soul, One Eagle's Wings, Great is Thy Faithfulness, How Great Thou Art, Your Grace Still Amazes Me, All Creatures of Our God and King, As the Deer

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Processional ~ Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring
Bride ~ Sunshine on my Shoulders (John Denver)
Unity Candle ~ Be Thou my Vision
Recessional ~ Wedding March (Mendelssohn)

Vendors:
Photographer: Studio Kiva - Thank you for the photo of me playing the flute and the photos of the dancing bride!
Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Piano Duo

September 16, 2014

Flute and String Trio - Wedding Ceremony and Cockail Hour Music at Silverthorne Pavillion

September 16, 2014/ Christen Stephens

It's always nice to travel from the hot summer weather of Colorado's front range to the mountains, and this time our destination was the town of Silverthorne, where it was a sunny 70 degrees. This wedding was held at the Silverthorne Pavilion which is located by the banks of the Blue River. Our flute, viola, and cello trio played classical prelude music and then traditional wedding processional music that the bride and groom selected together. The wedding ceremony was very sweet and as the couple said the vows they had written for each other, we tried to hold back our tears. Sometimes it doesn't make a difference how many weddings we have played for - each one is beautiful and unique! After the ceremony, we moved to the shaded patio where we played a mix of classical and popular music as the guests enjoyed appetizers and drinks. The bride and groom had several song requests for their cocktail hour music and I put together the remainder of our set list using those songs as my inspiration.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Wedding Party ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Bride ~ Bridal Chorus (Wagner)
Recessional ~ Wedding March from a Midsummer Night's Dream (Mendelssohn)

Selected Wedding Prelude Music:
Largo from Winter (Vivaldi), Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Selections from Handel's Water Music, Allegro from Sonata in F major (Handel)

Selected Cocktail Hour Music:
Italian Song (Tschaikovsky), Ecossaise (Beethoven), What a Wonderful World, Over the Rainbow, All You Need is Love, Romantic Flight from How to Train Your Dragon, Imagine, Anything Goes (Cole Porter)

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Venue: Silverthorne Pavilion
Wedding Coordinator and Photographer: Laura Pierson at L Elizabeth Events
Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute Trio (flute, viola, cello)

September 06, 2014

Announcing New Music Samples From Our Flute and Piano Duo

September 06, 2014/ Christen Stephens

I'm excited to announce that new music samples of our flute and piano duo are now available for listening on my website! Listen to them here on my flute and piano duo page. I made these recordings accompanied by talented piano/keyboard player, Adam Revell. Our versatile duo can play classical music for your traditional wedding ceremony and then play popular, rock, and jazz for your cocktail hour or wedding reception. We also love playing for parties and feature classical music for elegant formal gatherings to upbeat rock and jazz selections for parties and events.

August 20, 2014

Flute and Guitar Duo Wedding Ceremony Music in Breckenridge

August 20, 2014/ Christen Stephens

This weekend, I played flute for a wedding ceremony in an incredibly beautiful location. The ceremony was held on the lawn of a private residence in an idyllic mountain setting above the town of Breckenridge. The landscaping was gorgeous and flowers spilled from every corner and lined the garden paths, framing the mountain backdrop. Storms began to move in, giving the mountains and sky a dramatic and eerie look, and thunder began to rumble and echo around the mountains. Because of the coming rain, the decision was made to begin the ceremony 15 minutes earlier than originally planned. Our flute and guitar duo welcomed the guests with classical prelude music and then began playing the processional music. Just as the bride began her walk down the aisle, the sun came out and stayed out for most of the ceremony, even as the thunder continued to rumble in the distance. The storm held off just long enough for the beautiful wedding ceremony to finish and for the photographers to get some great shots afterwards. Thank you Steve Tinetti for sharing these beautiful photos!

After the ceremony, I was invited to stay for the cocktail hour, so I drove to Breckenridge Lodge and Spa where I had a few refreshments and enjoyed watching the storms move in over the mountains as I got to know few of the guests.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Parents and Attendants Processional ~ Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (JS Bach)
Bridal Processional ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Recessional ~ Wedding March from a Midsummer Night's Dream (Mendelssohn)

Prelude Music:
Classical selections from Bach and Telemann

Wedding Vendors:
Photographer: Steve Tinetti Photography - Thank you Steve for these wonderful pictures!
Wedding Ceremony Music - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo

July 09, 2014

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music on Top of a Mountain

July 09, 2014/ Christen Stephens

This summer, I had a once in a lifetime experience playing wedding music - in the middle of nowhere on top of a mountain! The bride and groom had an intimate outdoor wedding ceremony on family land, with only about 20 guests in attendance. The ceremony site was by their small vacation cabin and had views of rolling hills, green from the spring rain, and a panorama of snow-capped mountain peaks as a backdrop. The couple told us to bring a four wheel drive vehicle and I'm glad we did! It was quite a drive up the rutted and rocky mountain road, from the small town of Eagle, through the middle of nowhere, past the mansion of a Spanish ambassador and even higher up the mountain until we reached a point of land with a small cabin and an amazing view. The couple chose a string trio for their wedding music, and I played the cello. We serenaded everyone with a classical prelude, processional music, and finally postlude music while pictures were being taken. Our classical music contrasted with the wild and beautiful outdoor setting, and brought a sense of elegance and sophistication.

After the wedding, we were kindly invited to eat a catered lunch with the family. They were so friendly and we felt like part of their family. We learned about the land's history and heard stories about the family's relatives who settled and ranched there a long time ago.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Bridal Processional ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Recessional ~ Finale from Handel's Water Music

Selected Prelude and Postlude Music
Selections from "Spring" (Vivaldi), Selections from "Water Music" (Handel), Italian Song (Tchaikovsky), Arioso (Bach), Ode to Joy (Beethoven), The Toy Symphony (Haydn)

Wedding Vendors:
Photographer: April O'Hare Photography - thank you April for these beautiful photos!
Wedding Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Trio

June 10, 2014

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Music at St. Thomas More Church and Castle Cliff Estates

June 10, 2014/ Christen Stephens

This weekend I played flute for a gorgeous Catholic wedding ceremony and reception. Our flute and string quartet played Irish, classical, and sacred music for the prelude to this wedding ceremony, which was held at St. Thomas More church in Centennial. The church was modern, but very elegant with vibrant stained glass windows, and lovely wood and stone work. The ceremony was not a full mass, but there was a short sermon and a number of lovely Biblical readings.

After the ceremony, we drove to Castle Cliff Estates where we played classical and Irish music for the reception. Castle Cliff Estates had an elegant classic feel with large windows overlooking the vibrant gardens and water feature in the back. The bride's choice of flowers and decorations, our musical accompaniment, and a roaring fire in the fireplace perfectly complimented our opulent surroundings and cheered up the cold and rainy day.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Family Processional ~ Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (J S Bach)
Processional ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Bridal Processional ~ Bridal Chorus (Wagner)
Unity Candle: Winter from the Four Seasons (Vivaldi)
Recessional ~ Wedding March from Midsummer Night's Dream (Mendelssohn)

Selected Reception Music: An Irish Blessing (traditional), Last Rose of Summer (traditional), Psalm 19 (Marcello), selections from Water Music Suite (Handel), Palladio

June 06, 2014

Flute and String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Vail Chapel and Sonnenalp Resort

June 06, 2014/ Christen Stephens

I just enjoyed a wonderful music-filled weekend highlighted by playing wedding ceremony and cocktail hour music for a wedding in Vail. It was a gorgeous day for a wedding! Our performance began at Vail Interfaith Chapel where our quartet played a half hour as the guests arrived, and then for the wedding ceremony. After that we moved across the street to the elegant Sonnenalp Resort where we played popular and rock music for the cocktail hour. I played this wedding with the Ribbons and Strings Ensemble (notice the ribbons on our instruments!)

Wedding Ceremony Music:

Processional Music ~ Speed of Sound (Coldplay)

Bridal Processional ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)

During the Ceremony ~ (Everything I do) I Do It For You from Robin Hood

Recessional Music ~ I'm Yours (Mraz)

Selected Cocktail Hour Music ~ Clocks (Coldplay), It's a Wonderful World, Blackbird (Beatles), Tango from Scent of a Woman, All You Need is Love (Beatles)

October 08, 2013

Flute, Viola, and Cello Trio - Wedding Music at the Greenbriar Inn in Boulder

October 08, 2013/ Christen Stephens

Flute and String Wedding Ceremony Music at the Greenbriar Inn, Boulder

On Saturday, our flute, viola, and cello trio played for a wedding ceremony at the beautiful Greenbriar Inn located in North Boulder. The couple got married outside surrounded by warm autumn colors drenched in late afternoon sunshine. This couple chose to select all of their own music including their own prelude music. They chose favorites ranging from classical, to ragtime and popular. I made several special music arrangements for our trio to play including “New York, New York”, “I Feel Pretty”, and “When I’m 64”. We played the prelude as the guests enjoyed light refreshments, and just as the sun began to descend towards the mountains behind the "Chuppah" (traditional Jewish wedding canopy), the wedding ceremony began. The vows went by quickly as the couple chose to say their "I do's" in unison, and guests did various readings. Once the sun set, there was a sharp chill in the air, and everyone went inside to enjoy a warm fire and refreshments.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Prelude Music ~ Trumpet Tune (Purcell), Salut d’Amour (Elgar), Ave Maria (Schubert), Selections from Handel’s “Water Music”, London Trio #1 (Haydn), Paragon Rag (Joplin), I Feel Pretty (Bernstein), When I’m 64 (Beatles)

Attendant’s and Parent's Processional ~ Canon in D
Bride ~ Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
Recessional ~ New York, New York

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Greenbriar Inn
Wedding Ceremony Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute Trio

September 24, 2013

Flute and Cello Wedding Music at the GM Ranch in Sedalia, CO

September 24, 2013/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Cello Duo - Classical Wedding Ceremony Music in Colorado

This past week, I played my flute in the wedding ceremony of a very special young bride awaiting a lung transplant. My heart remains with this couple as they walk together in future trials and hopefully many victories as well. The day of the ceremony was unusually hot for September, with temperatures over 90 degrees. The ceremony site was wisely situated in the shade of the ranch house, facing lovely views of the countryside, mountains, and horses. The shade combined with falling evening temperatures and a nice breeze coming from the mountains felt wonderful, and everyone stayed cool.

The ceremony site was decorated in a simple and striking theme of red and white and the bridesmaids wore red. Because of the bride's health, chairs were provided for the bride and groom and wedding party to sit in during the ceremony. It was a short, moving Catholic ceremony and our flute and cello duo played a prelude before the wedding began and then accompanied the vows and sand pouring with soft music by Schubert and Bach.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Selected Prelude Music ~ Rondo Alla Turca (Mozart), Fairest Lord Jesus, My Heart is Ever Faithful (Bach), St. Anthony's Chorale (Brahms) Processional Music ~ Arioso (Bach) Bridal Processional ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel) Vows ~ Ave Maria (Schubert) Sand Pouring ~ Air on the G String (Bach) Recessional ~ Wedding March (Mendelssohn)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: GM Ranch, Sedalia
Photographer: Rebecca Marie Photography
Wedding Ceremony Musicians: ChristenStephens.com - Flute and Cello Duo

Musician photos courtesy of

Rebecca Marie Photography

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From the Bride:

“Christen’s Flute Playing Was Amazing and Special”

Experience the timeless beauty of the flute for your wedding ceremony or event.

From the Bride:

“They completed my vision for a classy, romantic, elegant wedding”