February 25, 2019

Flute and Cello Duo Wedding Ceremony Music at the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail, Colorado

February 25, 2019/ Christen Stephens

Flute and cello rap and popular wedding ceremony music at the holy cross event deck in vail, colorado, Photo by back country imagery

It was a cool and very windy day autumn day on the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail when my flute and cello duo played for a stunning wedding ceremony accompanied by some fun and unique song selections. The groom had his heart set on hearing a few of his favorite rap songs played instrumentally. He sent me several music samples on YouTube and I knew that I could make awesome arrangements of the songs for flute and cello.

To make the arrangements, I combined both the original and classical versions that the groom sent me, and then I added a touch of my own flair that made them work well specifically for flute and cello. It was so helpful that I play both flute and cello, because I was able to incorporate some really cool sounds that very playable on each instrument.

I also made a special arrangement of “The Book of Love” by Peter Gabriel to accompany the bride as she walked down the aisle. The day was extremely windy, but we were well amplified with my professional sound system, so our contemporary and rap songs were heard by everyone.

We continued to play after the ceremony as photos were taken. The aspens were still in peak leaf, and the golden leaves made for an epic autumn backdrop.

“Christen created a set of songs that blew away our wildest expectations”

From the Groom:
”Christen and her playing partner were absolutely wonderful! We had some specific songs we wanted played and they took the time to learn the songs, understand what we were looking for, and create a set that blew away our wildest expectations. We feel very fortunate to have found Christen and are beyond thrilled at the way everything turned out. We would recommend Christen with the highest confidence!” - JW

Fun Tip:
It’s trending right now to feature music such as rock, rap, and pop on classical instruments. I enjoy making professional music arrangements of your favorite songs, in any style.

Contact Christen

Listen to these clips of my flute and cello duo playing a few of the songs I arranged:

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Vail Wedding Deck
Wedding Planner: Eventique Productions
Officiant: Gretchen Abernathy
Photographer: Back Country Imagery
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Wedding Processional Music:
Sweet Child O’ Mine (Guns N’ Roses): Seating of the Parents
All of the Lights (Kayne West): Groomsmen, Bridesmaids, Ringbearer, 2 Flower Girls, Bulldog
The Book of Love (Peter Gabriel): Bride
Hey Ya (OutKast): Recessional

Prelude:
Imagine (Beatles), All You Need is Love (Beatles), A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes from Cinderella, Wildflowers (Tom Petty)

Postlude:
All of the Lights (Kayne West), Trap Queen (Fetty Wap), The Book of Love (Peter Gabriel), Can You Feel the Love Tonight? from Lion King

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.

October 12, 2018

Flute Quartet Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music in Estes Park, Colorado

October 12, 2018/ Christen Stephens

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

It was a beautiful and crisp day in late summer, when my flute quartet (flute, violin, viola, cello) headed up to a very special location in Estes Park, Colorado. We had the privilege of playing for a wedding ceremony at Camp Timberline, a camp owned by the family. The camp was located in an isolated Colorado location and it featured panoramic mountain views with nothing around for miles.

In addition to playing flute at this wedding, the bride gave me the special opportunity to arrange a number new songs in various musical styles. I rehearsed with my quartet a week before the wedding so that we'd play the new songs seamlessly on the day of the ceremony. Some of the songs that were written for solo voice and guitar were challenging to translate to a quartet setting, but with a little creative thinking and a lot of experimenting, I was really pleased with the end results, and enjoyed the process. This Georgia bride's song requests ranged from Thunderstruck by ACDC, to hymns and contemporary Christian music, to country, pop, and rock songs.

The processional was a mix of contemporary Christian songs played and sung by a few friends of the family, and then we played "Sheep May Safely Graze" by Bach for the moms, and transitioned to Thunderstuck by ACDC for the groomsmen's entrance.

Afterwards, we performed a custom playlist that the bride had selected as the guests enjoyed cocktails out on the lawn.

Wedding Processional Music:
Georgia Fight Song - Last song before ceremony
Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach) - Seating of the Mothers
Thunderstruck (ACDC) - Groomsmen
Gimme Some Lovin' (Spencer Davis Group) - Recessional

Sample Selections from Prelude Music:
Sweet Child O'Mine (Guns N 'Roses), What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Stand by Me (Ben King), Home, Marry You (Bruno Mars)

Sample Selections from Cocktail Hour Music:
Tennessee Whiskey (Chris Stapleton), Here Comes the Sun (Beatles), Washed by Water (Need to Breathe), Black River, (Amos Lee), Need You More (United Pursuit), Treasure (Bruno Mars), Moon River, Thunderstruck (ACDC) (last song before reception)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Camp Timberline
Wedding Planner: Tied with a Bow Weddings
Photographer: KJ and Rob Photography
Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute Quartet

September 28, 2018

Flute and Violin Duo Wedding Ceremony Music on the Vail Wedding Deck

September 28, 2018/ Vail Wedding Deck/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Duo Wedding Music in Vail, Colorado - Vail Wedding Deck

In late August, my flute and violin duo enjoyed playing for a mountain wedding ceremony at the Vail Wedding Deck. I left Denver well prepared because the weather forecast was predicting cool weather, rain, and thunderstorms. I really hoped that this Wisconsin couple could have the Colorado mountain wedding of their dreams, despite the weather predictions.

As I ascended the mountains and drove to Vail, the temperature dropped into the 40's and it was pouring rain. By the time I reached Vail, the rain had ended and the air had a cool and fresh feel to it. The smoke from the summer wildfires was momentarily completely gone and everything felt bright and clean.

The sun started to peek through the clouds, and as the guests arrived, we greeted them and drew them to the seating area with our elegant classical music. In the middle of the ceremony, we played "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis as a beautiful musical interlude, while the guests had a chance to take in the mountain views and to enjoy the completion of their journey to arrive in this epic setting. Most of the guests had a plane flight, car ride, gondola ride, golf cart ride, and walk to arrive at the wedding deck.

We played a lively recessional at the end of the ceremony, and then we played a mix of classical music and Beatles tunes to entertain everyone and put smiles on their faces as photos were being taken.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach) - Bride
Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Interlude to enjoy the scenery
Trumpet Tune (Purcell) - Recessional

Sample Selections from Prelude and Postlude Music:
Ave Verum Corpus (Mozart), Rigaudon (Handel), I Will (Beatles), Blackbird (Beatles), Allegro from Spring (Vivaldi), Minuet (Boccherini), Allegro from Sonata in F Major (Handel)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Vail Wedding Deck
Photographer: Pixel Studio Photography
Officiant: Heather Rawlings
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Violin Duo

Bring the elegance of live music to the wild and beautiful Colorado mountains.

Colorado Wedding Music >

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!

August 08, 2018

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music on the Vail Wedding Deck in Colorado

August 08, 2018/ Christen Stephens

Vow Renewal Wedding Ceremony on the Vail Wedding Deck, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

Towards the end of July, I played for a wedding vow renewal ceremony on the Vail Wedding Deck. There was a pretty good chance of thunderstorms in Vail that afternoon, but the rain held off, allowing for the ceremony to take place under the sunshine and occasional clouds. The wind was extremely gusty, and it brought in smoke from the southern Colorado wildfires, but that just added a mysterious and magical quality to the setting.

I played a mix of classical and contemporary prelude music on my flute, and I used my amplification so that I could be heard over the wind. Everyone gasped in surprise and delight when the couple's spunky and adorable daughter joined me on her flute to play "Can't Help Falling in Love" as the bride walked down the aisle.

The couple had been married for ten years, and their vows were as tender as first time couples, but also so refreshingly real as they had faced many years of life together. They had gone through many joys and challenges in their ten years of married life, and through them they grew closer to each other and were more in love than ever. I don't think that there was a dry eye by the time the ceremony was over. Then the bride gave everyone yet another surprise by announcing that a second child was on the way! Everyone cheered.

It was quite wonderful when the officiant announced "And now I pronounce you....are still husband and wife!" at the end. I was so inspired that I thought how nice it would be to do a 15 year vow renewal with my husband in a few years. I continued to play my flute after the ceremony to add ambiance as photos were taken.

From the Bride:
"Christen played beautifully at my ten year wedding renewal! She even worked with my daughter to perform a surprise duet together as I walked down the aisle which was such a hit. Thank you so much for everything!"

Enjoy the elegance and beauty of my solo flute music for your wedding ceremony! Here are solo flute music samples.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Here Comes the Sun (Beatles) - Groomsmen
The Way You Look Tonight (Sinatra)- Bridesmaids
Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Duet with Bride's Daughter for Bride's Walk

Prelude and Postlude Music Included:
Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach), Hornpipe (Purcell), Moon River, Prelude from Te Deum (Charpentier), When I Fall in Love (Nat King Cole), Cheek to Cheek (Sinatra), All My Loving (Beatles)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Vail Wedding Deck
Wedding Planner: White Birch
Wedding Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Solo Flute
Photographer: Ashley Waldron Photography
Videographer: Roots and Wings Productions
Reception Location: Arrabelle Ballroom

July 26, 2018

Flute Quartet Music at the Vail Wedding Deck

July 26, 2018/ Vail Wedding Deck/ Christen Stephens

A bride celebrates when the Vail Wedding Deck gondola reopens after a thunderstorm

In early July, my flute quartet (flute, violin, viola, cello) headed to the Colorado mountains to play for a wedding ceremony on the Vail Wedding Deck. When we arrived, the weather was unusually hot and dusty and unlike the cool crisp air that we usually expect from Vail. The sun was shining brightly and all was calm as we took the gondola up to the top of Vail Mountain. The moment we arrived, it was announced that a large storm was moving in, and the gondola would be closed!

Over 400 people were trapped at the top of the mountain, including two brides. One bride had just been married and the second bride was supposed to be married at the bottom of the gondola in Vail Village. The storm rolled in, bringing with it lightning strikes and heavy rain. Our wedding party and guests were waiting at the bottom of the gondola and we were waiting at the top, and we were all hoping that our couple could have their dream outdoor wedding on top of the mountain. It must have been about an hour, but finally the announcement came through that the storm had passed and the gondola would be running again. The crowd of people erupted into big cheers, and the cheering brides were escorted onto the gondola first.

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music on the Vail Wedding Deck in Colorado

Our wedding party made it to the top of the mountain for their dream wedding after all. The rain had washed away the hot and dusty feeling, and it was fresh and cool. Just as the bride and groom said "I do", the sun came out and shone on them as if for a blessing.

My quartet played elegant classical music as the guests arrived for the ceremony, and we continued to play after the ceremony to accompany the wedding party as they had their pictures taken.

Selections from prelude and postlude music:
Rondeau (Mouret), Ave Maria (Schubert), selections from Handel's Water Music, To a Wild Rose (MacDowell), selections from Bach string quartets

Hire my flute quartet (flute, violin, viola, cello) to make your Colorado mountain wedding even more spectacular!

Vendors:
Venue: Vail Wedding Deck
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute Quartet

July 14, 2018

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens

July 14, 2018/ Denver Botanic Gardens/ Christen Stephens

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

Late in June, I had the privilege of playing for a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour at the Denver Botanic Gardens. It was my first time playing in the elegant Woodland Mosaic Garden, which is my favorite garden wedding site. The sun went behind clouds, and what started as a baking hot day turned into a cool day with a gentle breeze. The leafy canopy of trees arched over the conservatory and the sound of singing birds mingled Snow White style with our Disney themed music.

At the bride's request, and to my great delight, we played a lot of Disney pieces, and I even got to make a special arrangement of "A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes" from Cinderella to play as the wedding party walked down the aisle.

The ceremony and cocktail hour came off beautifully, and as cocktails were ending, a big gust of wind brought in a smattering of rain, and the guests moved to the reception location to enjoy a tropical inspired feast.

Prelude Music Included:
Tis the Last Rose of Summer, A Whole New World, Gavotte (J.S. Bach), Menuet (Bach), When You Wish Upon a Star, Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes from Cinderella - Groomsmen, Bridesmaids, Ringbearer
Canon in D (Pachelbel)- Bride
Largo from Winter (Vivaldi) - Sand Ceremony
Ode to Joy (Beethoven) - Recessional

Cocktail Hour Music Included:
Roses from the South (Strauss), Jr.), In the Still of the Nite, Rondo Alla Turca, Can You Feel the Love Tonight, Simple Gifts, Blue Spanish Eyes

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Denver Botanic Gardens
Planner: Serendipity Catering
Wedding Ceremony Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute and Cello Duo

Are you getting married in the Denver Botanic Gardens? I love playing there because I'm passionate about gardening and plants. I'm familiar with all of the wedding sites at the Gardens.. Learn how to add our beautiful music to your wedding!

April 05, 2018

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

April 05, 2018/ Christen Stephens

Photos Courtesy of Ian Riley Photography

Solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

In mid-December, I headed up to Dillon, Colorado to play solo flute for an outdoor wedding ceremony on Sapphire Point Overlook. Sapphire Point has stunning views of the Dillon Reservoir and the surrounding mountains. The mountains and pines were covered with snow, making an incredibly romantic setting for this Texas couple's wedding ceremony. I helped the guests feel warmer by playing a mix of contemporary, jazz, and Christmas music as they arrived and were seated. I think that "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire" was particularly inviting to all of us in the steady wind and freezing temperatures.

The ceremony was fairly short and then I continued to play after the ceremony concluded while the wedding party had their photos taken. I can play my flute as long as the temperatures stay above freezing, but the temperatures were below freezing, and soon the inside of my flute was completely covered in a thick layer of ice from the moisture in my breath. I quickly changed flutes to my backup flute but soon that one froze too! Since a few keys froze together, I just avoided the notes that I couldn't play until the end of my booked time. It was quite an adventure!

Samples from Prelude Music:

Isn't it Romantic? (Ella Fitzgerald), Annie's Song (John Denver), Cheek to Cheek (Sinatra), Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany's, The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), Deck the Hall, The First Noel, Frosty the Snowman, A Holly Jolly Christmas, It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

Processional Music:

Groom: Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis)
Bride: Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Recessional: Fly Me to the Moon (Sinatra)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:

Venue: Sapphire Point
Photographer and Videographer: Ian Riley Photography
Officiant: Phil Gallagher
Colorado Wedding Musician: Christen Stephens on Solo Flute

Hire me to play my magical and romantic solo flute music at your wedding.

March 26, 2018

Solo Flute Wedding Elopement Ceremony Music in Estes Park

March 26, 2018/ Christen Stephens

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Around Christmas time, I played solo flute for an intimate elopement wedding at Della Terra Chateau in Estes Park, Colorado. The bride and groom chose to celebrate each other in a private destination ceremony, and I felt so privileged to be a part of their special day. Even though there were no guests, the couple chose to celebrate with a traditional wedding ceremony. The bride's dream was to have a magical outdoor ceremony in a snowy mountain setting. Despite the frosty day, there wasn't any snow on the ground, but there was a chance of snow, and we were all hoping for the best. A few flakes of snow ended up falling during and after the ceremony, and the mountain peaks in the background also had some white, completing a romantic winter backdrop. Since the temperature was well below freezing, and cold enough for ice to form inside my flute, I had to play my flute inside and let my sound float out the windows and doors. The couple was married outside on the patio and they were still able to hear my music clearly. The bride wore a beautiful wedding gown, crown, and a furry white shawl, just like an enchanted snow princess.

The couple selected a set of familiar contemporary songs from my current repertoire, and they customized the set list with additional song requests. I really enjoyed learning the new songs and adapting the vocal parts and instrumental interludes for solo flute.

Because of the frosty weather, the bride and groom decided to have their after-ceremony celebration indoors. The inside of the chateau was dripping with Christmas elegance, and we stayed toasty warm in front of one of several cheerfully crackling fires. I played "Perfect" by Ed Sheeran for the couple's first dance as a married couple. The simplicity of the dance with just the two of them serenaded by my flute was very sweet and romantic. I continued to play while they cut and ate their cake, toasted with champagne, and while they opened their gifts to each other. Being focused completely on each other was such a lovely way for them to spend their first few hours as a married couple.

Sample from the Prelude and Postlude Music: Thinking Out Loud (Ed Sheeran), Got to Believe in Magic (David Pomeranz), Love is All That Matters (David Pomeranz), Valentine (Jim Brickman), Your Love (Jim Brickman), Destiny (Jim Brickman), The Gift (Jim Brickman), Beautiful in White (Westlife), Love Was Made For Us (Cleo)

Processional: A Thousand Years (Christina Perri)

Recessional: From This Moment (Shania Twain)

First Dance: Perfect (Ed Sheeran)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Musician: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Solo Flute
Photographer: Crystaline Photography and Video

Add the versatile music of the flute to your wedding ceremony or event. Listen to Music Samples.

March 08, 2018

Flute Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

March 08, 2018/ Christen Stephens

At the beginning of autumn, my flute quartet (flute, violin, viola, cello) headed down to Vail, Colorado to play music for a wedding ceremony at the Donovan Pavilion. The drive up to Vail was the most beautiful drive of the whole year. The first snow had just fallen the night before and the aspens were in peak season with their golden yellow leaves. When the sun shone, the aspens glowed, gradually making way to dark pines dusted with fresh snow at the tops of the mountains. Behind the mountain peeks, storm clouds made a dramatic and imposing backdrop. The rain and wind from a large cold front was quickly moving in, and when it was time for our quartet to start playing prelude music, it was sprinkling rain and the wind blew in from the west, bringing in clouds and cold temperatures. We couldn't play the wedding music outside because of the weather so, with the help of my high quality sound system, we were able to play indoors and still be heard clearly outside. We played a mix of contemporary music and hymns for the prelude and then played a traditional processional.

The wedding ceremony was so elegant and the wedding party braved the cold weather so that the couple could have their dream of an outdoor ceremony. The flowers and decor were romantic and glamorous with old-fashioned deep pink roses, greenery, and candles everywhere. The tables were covered in rich blue cloths accented by branches covered in deep gold. The color contrasts and textures were vibrant and luxurious.

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Christen is amazing!!! She is such a talented musician. She made my wedding vision come to life! - from the bride, Married in Vail, Colorado

Samples from Prelude Music: Make You Feel My Love (Adele), All You Need is Love (Beatles), Reign of Love (Coldplay), Come Thou Fount, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

Processional and Ceremony Music: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach) ~ seating of the parents, bridesmaids and groomsmen, ring bearers, flower girl Canon in D (Pachelbel) ~ Bride Ave Verum Corpus (Mozart) ~ Cord of three strands ceremony Wedding March (Mendelssohn) ~ Recessional Just the Way You Are (Bruno Mars) ~ Postlude

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:

Planner: Ann Marlin of Cloud 9 Bliss
Photographer: Cassidy Brooke
Videographer: Emily Brumley of Storyteller Films
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, Flute Quartet
DJ: Elite Entertainment

Rain or shine, make your wedding day sparkle with our wonderful Flute Quartet Music >

January 25, 2018

Flute and Harp Duo at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Colorado

January 25, 2018/ Christen Stephens

Photos courtesy of Adore Photography

It was a chilly late summer morning when I left my house to play my flute for a wedding at Mount Princeton Hot Springs. The drive took me quickly into the mountains and even though it was a long drive, the scenery was so beautiful that the time flew by. The changes in the location and elevation continually brought new vistas. Sometimes I drove thorough deep pine forests and at other times I was surrounded by airy aspen trees, their brilliant yellow leaves sparkling in the bright autumn sunshine. At other times, there were low scrub lands or open grassy areas that stretched for miles, reminding me of the Colorado plains.

The wedding venue and lawn at Mount Princeton Hot Springs had the feeling of grandeur. During the day, the reception hall was lit with golden sunlight coming through the many high windows, and at night the indoor lights shone out, illuminating the entire building. The hall opened out to a large sloping lawn with perfectly manicured emerald green grass. A river ran behind the ceremony site making a beautiful musical song that added to the ambiance of the location. The backdrop for this scene were the strangely white Chalk Cliffs that glowed in the sunshine. There was also a great view of Mount Princeton and Mt. Antero, dark with pines.

The sun shone in the bright blue sky and it was a beautiful day for an outdoor wedding ceremony. It was extremely windy, so I used my Bose amplification system to make sure that our flute and harp duo would be easily heard above the wind. We serenaded the guests with elegant classical music as they arrived and then we played for the processional. The bride came riding up in a fairy tale-like Cinderella carriage that was pulled by a white horse while we played "Beauty and the Beast". The ceremony was incredibly romantic and there were many happy tears.

After the ceremony, we played for the cocktail hour indoors. We played a selection of contemporary and jazz style romantic songs that worked beautifully for flute and harp and complemented the theme of the wedding. The decorations inside were stunning and flowers were everywhere. The tall windows at the back of the building boasted a grand view of the chalk cliffs. I won't forget this fairy tale wedding!

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Prelude Music Sample:

Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee (Beethoven), Meditation from Thais (Massenet)

Wedding Processional Music:

A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Bridesmaids and Groomsmen, Flower Girl
Beauty and the Beast - Bride
What a Wonderful World - Tree Planting Ceremony
I'm Yours (Jason Mraz) - Recessional

Cocktail Hour Music Samples:

Moon River, Someone to Watch Over Me (Gershwin), Over the Rainbow, The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, The Swan (Saint Saens), Simple Gifts, Love is Here to Stay (Gershwin), Unforgettable (Sinatra), It Had to Be You (Sinatra)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:

Venue: Mount Princeton Hot Springs
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Harp Duo
Photographer: Adore Photography
DJ: Elite Entertainment
Singer: John Redmon

December 26, 2017

Flute and Violin Duo Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Music at The Sevens in Breckenridge

December 26, 2017/ Christen Stephens

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Wedding Ceremony Music: Canon in D (Pachelbel): Seating of the parents, bridesmaids and groomsmen River Flows in You (Yiruma): Bride's Processional Ode to Joy (Beethoven): Recessional

Samples from Prelude Music: Trumpet Tune (Purcell), Minuet (Boccherini), Amazing Grace, Air from Suite No. 3 in D (Bach), Allegro Non Troppo (Bach)

Samples from Cocktail Hour Music: Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis), Si Bheag, Si Mhor (Irish Air), Allegro from Spring (Vivaldi), Andante from string quartet Op. 29 (Schubert), Postcard to Henry Purcell from Pride and Prejudice, What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong), A Thousand Years (Christina Perri)

Vendors:
Wedding Planner: Love Leigh Weddings and Events
Venue: The Sevens
Photographer: Bergreen Photography
Ceremony and Cocktail Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens (Flute and Violin Duo)
Band: Narrow Gauge Band

Make your wedding come to life with the joyful music of my flute and violin duo.

December 12, 2017

Flute and Guitar Duo Wedding Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Music on the Vail Wedding Island

December 12, 2017/ Christen Stephens

Photos courtesy of Kristopher Lindsay Photography

Colorado flute and guitar wedding ceremony music, Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens

It was the first day of autumn when my guitarist and I headed down to Vail, Colorado to play for a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour. The ceremony was held at the Vail Wedding Island, and the cocktail hour was held on the covered patio of the Vail Golf Clubhouse. Fall decided to come swiftly on its first day with a rainy cold front, and our drive across the mountains was interspersed with heavy rain showers. We hoped that the weather wouldn't stop the couple from having the beautiful wedding of their dreams.

When we arrived, the sun peered through the clouds just long enough for me to get several photos of the changing Aspen trees, glowing in their golden glory of peak season. We played prelude music on the wedding island and braved the weather, brightening up the gloomy and rainy day with our cheerful flute and guitar music. It did rain on us, but we each brought instruments that could take a little rain, so we kept playing.

The rain stopped just as the bride was about to walk down the aisle, but the wind gusted so strong that while she was walking, it tore her veil right from her head! She burst into a fit of laughter and it was contagious and soon everyone was laughing. We kept playing the bride's walking song and after about a minute, she completed her walk down the aisle and was happily married. The sun shone brightly through the clouds just as the couple was presented as husband and wife.

After the ceremony, we moved to the covered and heated patio of the clubhouse, and we warmed up as we played upbeat contemporary and jazz tunes while the guests enjoyed hous d'ouvres and cocktails. I brought my top of the line Bose L1 sound system and our sound carried beautifully throughout the space. We even got a special music request and I Googled the sheet music on my cell phone. We played it, but music was very tiny!

Samples from Prelude Music: Here Comes the Sun (Beatles), Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis), God Gave Me You (Blake Shelton), "Aylesford Gavotte" (Handel), Annie's Song (John Denver), Gavotte from Sonata for flute in C Major (Handel)

Processional Music:
Groom ~ Amazed
Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Ringbearer, Flower Girl ~ The Swan (Saint-Saens)
Bride ~ To Make You Feel My Love (Adele)
Recessional ~ Hornpipe Finale (Handel)

Samples from Cocktail Hour Music: How High the Moon (Ella Fitzgerald), Unforgettable (Sinatra), You Are the Sunshine of My Life (Stevie Wonder), Satin Doll (Duke Ellington), Cheek to Cheek (Sinatra), Don't Get Around Much Anymore (Duke Ellington)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Vail Wedding Island and Golf Club
Wedding Planner: Jessica Kate Productions
Photographer: Kristopher Lindsay Photography
Live Ceremony and Cocktail Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo
DJ: DJ Guy

November 18, 2017

Flute and Guitar Duo at the Vail Wedding Deck

November 18, 2017/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music by Christen Stephens, Photographed by Two Elk Studios, Instagram: @jessestarrphoto

Photos courtesy of Two Elk Studios

Over Labor Day weekend, my flute and guitar duo played for a beautiful wedding ceremony on the Vail Wedding Deck. I believe that it was the most beautiful day that I've ever seen on the wedding deck with lots of sunshine and blue skies, but not too hot.

At the bride's request, I chose a mix of classical and contemporary music for the prelude as the guests arrived. It was a little breezy so we played with amplification to make sure that our sound carried to everyone. We learned "Going to California" from Led Zeppelin for the bridesmaids and flower girl to walk down to. After the ceremony was over, we played while photos were being taken on the wedding deck.

client quote →

"Christen was truly amazing at my ceremony! Would absolutely hire her again!" - Jena T., Bride

Sample from the Prelude Music: Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis), Minuet (Boccherini), The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, Sunshine on my Shoulders (John Denver), Reign of Love (Coldplay)

Wedding Ceremony Music: Going to California (Led Zeppelin) ~ Bridesmaids and Flower Girl Wildflowers (Tom Petty) ~ Bride Here Comes the Sun (Beatles) ~ Recessional

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Vail Wedding Deck
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo
Photographer: Two Elk Studios Website, Two Elk Studios Facebook, Two Elk Studios Instagram

Hire my flute and guitar duo if you want a flexible playlist for YOUR ceremony!

October 09, 2017

Cello and Piano Duo Wedding Ceremony Music in Beaver Creek

October 09, 2017/ Christen Stephens

Photos courtesy of Irving Photography

In June, my cello and piano duo played for a beautiful wedding ceremony at Beaver Creek Chapel. The bride made romantic music selections and a couple of her special requests included "Hymn by the O'Neill Brothers" and "For the Love of a Princess" from Braveheart. Beaver Creek Chapel is a wonderful acoustical space for live music and they also have a quality piano onsite, a perfect complement to the elegant classical music, love songs and hymns that the bride chose for her ceremony.

Prelude Music: Hymn (O'Neill Brothers), Arioso (Bach), Trumpet Voluntary (Clarke), Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach), Laudate Dominum (Mozart), A Thousand Years (Christina Perri)

Processional Music: For the Love of a Princess from Braveheart ~ Seating of the Parents The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall ~ Wedding Party Processional The Swan (Saint-Seans) ~ Bridal Processional Guide Me, Oh Thou Great Redeemer ~ Unity Candle Simple Gifts ~ Recessional

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Wedding Planner ~ Party Girl Events
Photographer ~ Irving Photography
Wedding Ceremony Music ~ Christen Stephens (Flute and Cello Duo)
Venue ~ The Chapel at Beaver Creek
Officiant ~ Tim Wilbanks

September 20, 2017

Flute and Violin Duo Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Wedding Island

September 20, 2017/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Vail, colorado

hotos in this post courtesy of Laura Murray Photography

The big day finally arrived! Ashley contacted me almost two years ago because she wanted to make sure that she reserved our flute and violin duo for her wedding day in Vail. Her special day finally arrived full of sunshine and mid-summer mountain beauty. The Gore Range provided a gorgeous backdrop to the wedding ceremony, which took place outdoors on the Vail Wedding Island. My violinist and I played contemporary prelude music as the guests enjoyed cocktails and socialized before the ceremony. The refreshing drinks kept everyone cool before the ceremony and it also provided lots of great photo opportunities.

The special part of the processional was our collaboration with the bride's best friend and singer, Allie. I made a custom music arrangement of "I Will" by the Beatles and Allie sang along with our duo for the procession of the flower girl and ring bearer. It was the sweetest most meaningful moment, and the fact that the very young ring bearer didn't want to walk down the aisle at all made it even more charming, and brought about some chuckles from everyone.

Congratulations Ashley and Ethan!

Samples from Prelude Music: Blackbird (Beatles), All of Me (John Legend), In the Good Ol' Summertime, A Thousand Years (Christina Perri), All You Need is Love (Beatles), Ode to Joy (Beethoven), Spring from the Four Seasons (Vivaldi)

Processional Music: Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis) ~ Parents, Officiant, Groomsmen Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach) ~ Bridesmaids I Will (Beatles) ~ Flower Girl and Ringbearer Canon in D ~ Bride

Postlude: Hornpipe (Handel)

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Wedding Island at the Vail Golf and Nordic Clubhouse
Wedding Planner: Jill Chalfant of Snapdragon Celebrations
Wedding Ceremony Music: Flute and Violin Duo by Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens
Photographer: Laura Murray
Videographer: Sherri Innis of Love Story Films
Reception Location: Donovan Pavilion

Reserve our elegant flute and violin duo for your wedding day or event! Here are Music Samples >

August 21, 2017

Flute and Violin Duo Wedding Ceremony Music at Copper Mountain, Colorado

August 21, 2017/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

This summer my violinist and I traveled up to beautiful Copper Mountain in Colorado to play for an intimate wedding ceremony. This was my first time on a chair lift and I was ready and excited for the adventure, but I'm also afraid of heights! I managed to load myself and all of my equipment onto the chair, but the chair started to move forward before I was ready, and right away things began to fall off! After some assistance to re-load my things, and after a few tense moments while I got used to the height, I began to relax. I enjoyed the brilliant wildflowers scattered in the green grasses below and the scent of the majestic pines, a scent which I look forward to every time that I visit the mountains. I almost made it to the top when the wind gusted and a few of my things flew off the lift. Later, a wedding guest was so kind and drove his truck down and picked them up for me! I was so grateful. The ride down was much smoother because I had learned some tricks in loading my things. They were also kind enough to stop the chair lift this time long enough for me to get situated. I also found a really helpful bar and footrest that I can bring down for added security. I do believe that I'm an expert at this now!

The wedding ceremony was wonderful. It took place at Solitude Station in the Nature Center Gazebo, which is a beautiful work of architecture in addition to being a perfect shelter. My flute and violin duo played elegant classical music and set the mood for the guests as they arrived. It felt like a small private concert. The ceremony was very short and full of humor and joy. At the bride's request, we surprised the groom and all of the guests by playing the theme from Indiana Jones for the recessional. Everyone laughed as soon as they recognized the tune, and it was a really fun and unexpected moment.

From the Bride: Christen at Flute and Strings was amazing to work with! It was so easy to get our music selections to her and she was quick to respond to any and all questions we had. The day of the wedding could not have gone smoother. Both musicians were punctual and flexible. We originally thought we had a larger ceremony space to work with, but ended up in a smaller venue. Both musicians adapted to the surroundings and didn't miss a beat. My now husband really wanted the Indiana Jones theme music as our recessional and Christen worked with me to have that accomplished as a surprise for him. He was totally shocked and it sounded amazing! We could not thank Christen and her team enough for playing such a memorable ceremony. I would highly recommend!

Prelude Music:
Arrival of the Queen of Sheba from Solomon (Handel), Si Bheag Si Mhor (traditional Irish), Ode to Joy (Beethoven), Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Spring from the Four Seasons (Vivaldi), Trumpet Tune (Purcell), selections from Handel's Fireworks and Water Music

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Ashokan Farewell (Jay Ungar and Molly Mason) - Mothers and Grandmothers
Rondeau - Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
A Thousand Years - Bride
Theme from Indiana Jones - Recessional
All You Need is Love - Postlude

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Solitude Station
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Violin Duo
Officiant: Gretchen Abernathy
Photographer: A friend of the family

August 03, 2017

Flute and Cello Duo at Tapestry House in Laporte, Colorado

August 03, 2017/ Christen Stephens

Flute and Cello duo in Fort Collins, Colorado, by Christen Stephens

Photos courtesy of Ash Meier Photography This spring, my flute and cello duo headed up to the Tapestry House in Laporte, Colorado to play for an elegant wedding ceremony. The charming Queen Anne style Tapestry House is a delightful wedding location. The lush green lawns are highlighted with flowers and graced with mature shade trees that are dripping with elegant twinkle lights. Everyone enjoyed the shade under the trees as our duo played a selection of classical prelude music to set an elegant mood. The bride and groom chose processional and recessional songs to complement their traditional wedding ceremony.

I first thought that the Tapestry House was a beautifully restored historical home, but upon reading the history of the home on the venue's website, I found out that I was mistaken. The house is authentic to the time period but was more recently built. This is because the original house had deteriorated so badly that it was dismantled. The owners carefully salvaged wood, brick, stone, and architectural elements from the original house and incorporated them back into the new Queen Anne Revival Victorian that now occupies the original house site. Featuring six different colors of paint, the Tapestry House is called a “Painted Lady”, which is a term that refers to homes from the late Victorian era that featured three or more contrasting colors of paint. Although the home is new it is such a remarkable reproduction of a Queen Anne Revival style Victorian home that the Poudre Landmarks Foundation has included it twice, since 2002, on its historic homes tour.

Samples from the Prelude Music: March in D (Bach), Spring (Vivaldi), Arioso (Bach), Menuet from the Notebook of Anna Magdalena Bach (Bach)

Wedding Ceremony Music: Air from Overture #3 in D Major (Bach) ~ Groom, bridesmaids, ringbearer, flower girl Canon in D (Pachelbel) ~ Bride La Rejouissance (Handel) ~ Recessional Hornpipe Finale (Handel) ~ Postlude

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Tapestry House
Photographer: Ash Meier
Musicians: Christen Stephens - Flute and Cello Duo

Add the elegance of the flute and cello to your wedding! Listen to Music Samples >

Flute and Cello duo in Fort Collins, Colorado, by Christen Stephens, Photos courtesy of Ash Meier Photography — Flute and Cello duo in Fort Collins, Colorado, by Christen Stephens, *Photos courtesy of* *Ash Meier Photography*

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“Christen created a set of songs that blew away our wildest expectations”

Listen to these clips of my flute and cello duo playing a few of the songs I arranged:

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