July 26, 2019

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

July 26, 2019/ Christen Stephens

It was the end of May, and the Colorado mountains had been blanked in snowy weather and thick clouds for weeks. When I was hired to play solo flute for this wedding ceremony on Sapphire Point, I prayed for a beautiful day. Wow, were my prayers answered! The day started off very cold, but the hot mountain sun came out just in time for this magical wedding ceremony to take place. The mountains were covered in a fresh layer of gleaming white snow, which contrasted beautifully with the brilliant blue of Dillon Lake.

The couple was married under a birch wedding arch which was bursting with purple and pink flowers. The flowers and greenery in the arch and the bouquets were chosen to create an Elvin forest feel, and I was absolutely in love with them! My joyful flute music completed the picture, bringing to mind dancing nymphs in a secluded forest setting.

I played a mix of classical, pop, and Irish songs on my flute to greet the guests as they arrived. The bride walked down the aisle to Wagner’s “Bridal March”, and the ceremony was short and intimate. Afterwards, I continued to play as guests mingled and as photos were taken. My solo flute music added an air of festivity and beauty and announced that something special was happening at this park.

A Sampling from the Prelude and Postlude Music:
Romanza from Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, The Swan (Saint-Saens), Come Away with Me (Norah Jones), To Make You Feel My Love (Adele), Manx Lullaby (traditional Irish), When You Wish Upon a Star from Pinocchio

Enjoy my solo flute signature package to add romance and a classy, modern feel to your wedding ceremony. Listen to solo flute music samples and learn more here. Learn more about solo flute by reading this recent solo flute blog post.

Fun Tip: In natural Colorado settings like this one, live music is the very first touch that will draw guests in and announce that a wedding is taking place. The music will be heard even before anything else is revealed. Then have welcoming signs to draw your friends and family in, and add fresh flowers for an elegant finish.

July 16, 2019

Flute/Cello and Harp Duo at the Ameristar Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado

July 16, 2019/ Christen Stephens

I was recently hired to play both flute and cello for an elegant Secret Garden high rollers dinner at the Ameristar Casino in Black Hawk, Colorado. I was accompanied by a harpist, and I alternated playing my flute and cello to vary the sound and mood. I taught myself to play treble clef on the cello in the two weeks before the performance so that I could switch between the two instruments using the same sheet music.

The room was lavishly decorated with flowers and mysteriously lit to create a magical fairy-like effect, and and we wore white togas and ivy crowns in our hair to fit with the secret garden theme. The sumptuous dinner was accompanied by a theatrical act in three parts, and we performed our music from the balcony between acts. We played airy classical and contemporary music which we enhanced with ethereal improvisations.

The set that we were on was actually a scaffolding that we had to climb up into using a rolling ladder. It was quite wobbly up there, but we did get more used to it as time went on, and we had a great view of the room!

April 23, 2019

The Boulder Symphony Flute and Strings Quartet Plays at the North Boulder Lucky's Market

April 23, 2019/ Christen Stephens

This past weekend, I enjoyed playing flute with the Boulder Symphony flute and strings quartet. We played at Lucky's Market for their Earth Day Volunteer Fair. I put together a set list of lively classical music and we had so many people tell us that we had totally made their day. I saw at least six different people dancing right in the middle of the grocery store. One lady said that she spent a very long time "looking at soaps" because she wanted to stay as long as possible to hear us play.

I enjoy playing my flute and cello with the Boulder Symphony, and I invite you to check out our concerts on the Boulder Symphony website.

April 03, 2019

Flute Trio Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music at the Brown Palace Hotel in Denver, Colorado

April 03, 2019/ Christen Stephens

Flute and String Trio Classical and Popular Wedding Ceremony Music at the Brown Palace in Denver, Colorado

It was a cold and blustery February afternoon in Denver, Colorado on the day that my flute and string trio played for this winter wedding ceremony. Inside the luxurious Brown Palace it was like a different world, and the perfect setting for an incredibly romantic wedding. The elegant stained glass windows made the room into a sanctuary and blocked out the gusty winter winds and bustling city sounds from downtown Denver.

Our trio played classical music and set the mood as guests arrived. During the ceremony, the bride’s mother sung the Jewish wedding blessings in Hebrew, and a feeling of perfect peace filled the room. The ceremony was lovely to watch, and I never tire of seeing two people who are obviously soul mates joined together in marriage.

Afterwards, it was time for everyone to feast, and we played lively modern music as everyone ate. The groom was so fun to work with, and very interested in every aspect of the music, so I enjoyed putting together a great custom set list to keep everyone celebrating throughout the evening. Everyone enjoyed our music so much that they clapped for us in between songs.

We also had the opportunity to play two first dance songs, and we accompanied the vocals and guitar music with flute and strings. We played “To Make You Feel My Love” and “This I Promise You” and it was a beautiful moment.

We finished playing the dinner music with one of the groom’s favorite songs - a rousing rendition of the “Star Wars” theme! Then I got a request to play the theme from Jurassic Park, which I did briefly, to everyone’s delight.

From the Groom:
“Christen and her crew are all super talented, displayed the utmost professionalism, and are a pleasure to work with with our Feb 2019 wedding. They even were willing to work with us and the musicians in our wedding party to create an ensemble that made the first dance songs extra special. Christen is super accommodating and can't recommend her enough.”

Quick Tip:
Hire us to play for your wedding ceremony and cocktail hour, dinner, and reception. It’s not only very convenient but we also have a large repertoire of classical and modern music to keep your guests celebrating all night.

Sample Selections from Prelude Music:
Romanza from Eine Kleine Nachtmusik (Mozart), Air from Water Music (Handel), Salzburger Minuet (Mozart)

Wedding Processional Music:
Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Flower Boy and Ringbearer ~ Largo from Xerxes
Bride ~ Canon in D (Pachelbel)
Recessional ~ Wedding March from a Midsummer NIght’s Dream

Postlude Music:
Fugue in D (Handel), Humoresque from Op. 101, #7 (Dvorak), Nocturne from Op.9 #2 for piano (Chopin)

Sample Selections from Dinner Music:
Over the Rainbow, Stand by Me (Ben King), Accidentally in Love (Counting Crows), A Thousand Years (Christina Perri), Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis), The Wedding from Legends of the Fall, A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay), Star Wars (Main Theme)

Wedding Vendors:
Venue: Brown Palace Hotel
Musicians: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute Trio
Photographer: Kretuzer Photography

Experience the Elegance of the Flute and Strings for your Wedding Ceremony, Cocktail Hour, and Reception!

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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.

November 19, 2018

String Trio Wedding Ceremony Music at the Holy Cross Event Deck in Vail, Colorado

November 19, 2018/ Christen Stephens

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

I have played for many weddings on the Vail Wedding Deck, but this late summer afternoon was one of the most beautiful days that I’ve ever seen on Vail Mountain. Though technically still summer, in the Colorado mountains it was a golden autumn day. The aspens were in full color, with colors ranging from the most golden of yellows to summer green and everything in between. Wildflowers bloomed on the mountainside and the sun shone warmly, but with a gentle cool breeze.

My string trio played for this intimate destination wedding ceremony, and our music complimented the beautiful mountain setting. The bride requested a peace + traditional elegance package, and we played a mix of slow and romantic classical and contemporary music. Our music greeted the guests as they arrived at the event deck, and accompanied the the wedding party and bride as they walked down the long aisle. We continued to play afterwards as photos were taken.

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado, gondola ride up Vail mountain

Quick Tip:
Request elegant and peaceful wedding ceremony music that will relax you and your guests leading into the ceremony, and then fast and cheerful music after the ceremony to celebrate!

A perfect day at the Vail Visitor’s Center

Selections from Prelude and Postlude Music:
Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Fughette in C (Handel), Largo from Winter (Vivaldi), St. Anthony’s Chorale (Brahms), Nocturne (Mendelssohn), Traumerei (Schumann), Arioso (Bach)

Processional Music:
Canon in D (Pachelbel) - Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Flower Girl
Ave Verum Corpus (Mozart) - Bride
Ode to Joy (Beethoven) - Recessional

Hire our traditional and elegant string trio to play classical music, and even pop and rock songs for your wedding ceremony!

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!

September 07, 2018

Flute Quartet Music for Annual Inspire at NCAR in Boulder, Colorado

September 07, 2018/ Christen Stephens

I led the Boulder Symphony flute quartet (flute, violin, viola, cello) in playing for the Annual Inspire event in Boulder, Colorado once again this year. The event was held at NCAR (National Center for Atmospheric Research). The patio overlooks an incredible view of the Colorado front range, but in August, the view was partially obscured by smoke and haze from the wildfires that are burning in the west. We were grateful that towards the end of the event, a cool evening breeze came, bringing with it clear air and the scent of pine. It's an incredibly beautiful location, and I never tire of each amazing Colorado vista that we have the privilege of playing at.

Our quartet played a selection of cheerful classical music before and after the speeches were made. As usual, the speeches from the students were personal and inspiring stories of hope and how they overcame difficult obstacles in order to achieve their dreams. It was an uplifting evening.

August 21, 2018

String Trio Wedding Ceremony and Reception Music at the Arrabelle in Vail

August 21, 2018/ The Arrabell at Vail Square/ Christen Stephens

String trio wedding and reception music at the Arrabelle in Vail Square

In late July, I played cello with my string trio for a classy wedding ceremony and reception at the Arrabelle in Vail. Since we played for both the ceremony and reception, we were there for about five hours, which rivals my longest performance ever! Instead of having to leave right after the ceremony, it was wonderful to have the extra time to spend playing our music and getting to know and enjoy the guests.

As we arrived, the weather was a little iffy, and it looked like it might rain. We hoped for the best and set up with our instruments on the beautiful balcony just outside the Arrabelle Great Room. The balcony overlooked the green Vail ski slopes and a part of charming Vail Village. Just as we were ready to start playing the prelude music, it began to storm, and the ceremony had to be moved indoors.

Our string trio played peaceful classical prelude music, as requested by the bride. The bride walked down the aisle to "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri, and the couple was married in front of grand fireplace in the Great Room.

Once the ceremony was over, the guests enjoyed cocktails and dinner as we played a set of modern pop and rock songs. It was fun because when we started playing each song, various guests would pay attention as they recognized their a favorite tune. The acoustics in the room worked beautifully for our trio and we didn't overpower the small room.

When there's no dancing, our live music is perfect for your entire wedding ceremony, cocktails, and reception. That way, you only need to book one group! We can start your ceremony and welcome your guests with lovely classical music and then switch to more contemporary music or lively classical music for your cocktails and reception. We can even add amplification if needed. For this couple, it was such an elegant touch to have our string trio play for the entire event, and our music created a beautiful ambiance for the entire evening.

From the Bride:
"We had an intimate wedding in Vail and Christen and her string trio team played for both our ceremony and reception. They did such a great job! Christen was so helpful and accommodating with our vision and timeline while planning the music for our day. Her website provides many great samples of music to choose from. She also worked on and added more music to her string trio repertoire in order to accommodate both our ceremony and reception. We received several compliments from guests on how much they enjoyed their music. They appreciated the elegant touch it added and the fact that they could easily converse with one another while they were playing. She was very responsive and so easy to work with. I would highly recommend her and her team for any special occasion or event! Thank you Christen!"

Experience classical and pop music with the elegance of strings for your wedding ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception with my string trio.

Selections from Prelude Music:
Air from Water Music (Handel), Wedding Song (Peter, Paul, and Mary), Andantino (Mozart), Romanza from Eine Kline Nachtmusik (Mozart), Arioso from Cantata #156 (Bach)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Bride's Processional
Allegro from Spring (Vivaldi) - Recessional

Dinner Reception Music (a small sample):
Moon River (from Breakfast at Tiffany's), Accidentally in Love (Counting Crows), Romantic Flight (from How to Train Your Dragon), The Wedding (from the Legends of the Fall), A Sky Full of Stars (Coldplay), Yellow (Coldplay), Anything Goes (Cole Porter), Don't Stop Believin' (Journey), Chasing Cars (Snow Patrol), Just One of Those Things (Cole Porter), Imagine (Beatles)

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!

March 19, 2018

Flute and Harp Duo Cocktail Hour Music at the Wellshire Event Center in Denver

March 19, 2018/ Christen Stephens

This fall, my flute and harp duo was hired to play for an elegant fall dinner for the Swiss American Friendship Society. Cocktails and dinner took place at the charming Wellshire Event Center in Denver, Colorado. The Wellshire Event Center is situated on a golf course and has a quaint German feel that isn't too common in Denver.

My flute and harp delighted the guests with a mix of elegant classical, jazz, and ballads as the guests enjoyed cocktails. The room was charmingly decorated with fall decor and candles. Many of the guests were excited to have the opportunity to hear a concert harp so close up, and the beautiful instrument added the the elegance of the room. The music of my flute soared over the harp as I played well-loved melodies.

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!

November 08, 2017

String Trio Cocktail Hour Music in Littleton, Colorado

November 08, 2017/ Christen Stephens

String Trio Cocktail Hour Music by Christen Stephens

This summer, my team of musicians provided elegant classical string trio music for a wedding cocktail hour in Littleton, Colorado. Jaimie Johnson Photography shared these beautiful photos with me. The Manor House in Littleton made for an elegant and inviting backdrop for this fun-loving couple's wedding.

client quote →

“"Great job, guests enjoyed the live music during our wedding." - Matthew Z.