String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano's Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado

CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY STRING QUARTET WEDDING CEREMONY MUSIC AT BEANO’S CABIN IN BEAVER CREEK, COLORADO. PHOTO BY MELISSA BRIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

CLASSICAL AND CONTEMPORARY STRING QUARTET WEDDING CEREMONY MUSIC AT BEANO’S CABIN IN BEAVER CREEK, COLORADO. PHOTO BY MELISSA BRIELLE PHOTOGRAPHY

This July, I played cello with my string quartet for a beautiful wedding ceremony full of rustic charm and elegance. The wedding ceremony took place at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. The mountains in Beaver Creek were still lush and green after copious summer rain and cool weather. The wedding was to take place outside on the lawn, but shortly before were were to begin playing the prelude music, we heard a rumble of thunder. We hoped that the storm would quickly pass by, but it became very severe with torrential rain, bright lightning, and lots of hail. We joined the guests in the shelter of the cabin, and played a mix of classical and contemporary music as they enjoyed cocktails.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

After the worst of the storm passed, we moved back outside to the covered porch, and the wedding ceremony was accompanied by our elegant music and the sound of gentle rain. There was standing room only, and it actually made for a very intimate and sweet ceremony with family and friends surrounding the bride and groom and showing their love and support.

Wedding Ceremony Music:
Reign of Love (Coldplay) - Seating of the Parents
A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) - Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Junior Groomsman, Flower Girls, Ringbearer
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis) - Bride
All You Need is Love (Beatles) - Recessional

Sampling from Wedding Prelude Music:
Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Bourree (Bach), Salut d’Amour (Elgar), Minuet (Bach), Moon River from Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Flower Duet (Delibes), Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring (Bach)

We ended the ceremony with a celebratory finish by playing “All You Need is Love” and the guests scattered with smiles on their faces. The rain stopped, allowing for more lovely photos in the outside mountain setting.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Wedding Vendors:
Venue - Beano’s Cabin
Planner - The Soiree Studio
Ceremony Music - Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - String Quartet
Photographer: Melissa Brielle Photography
Videographer: When it Clicks
Florals: Petals and Pours

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Quick Tip: Bright and colorful flower bouquets like these provide a vibrant pop of color, even on a rainy day.

Our string quartet is the perfect touch to give the feel of traditional elegance to your wedding ceremony. Celebrate one of the most important days of your life with the beauty of live music!

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

Classical and Contemporary String Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at Beano’s Cabin in Beaver Creek, Colorado. Photo by Melissa Brielle Photography.

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

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

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.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

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.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

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.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

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

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

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.

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens, solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado

Flute Wedding Ceremony Music - Q&A

Solo flute wedding ceremony music, photo by rebecca marie photography

Solo flute wedding ceremony music, photo by rebecca marie photography

My romantic and versatile flute music is a stunning addition to any wedding ceremony. If you don’t know a lot about flute, it may be hard to imagine how live flute music will look and feel on your wedding day. Now it’s time to to meet this hidden gem as I answer the top flute questions that wedding couples ask me.

Is solo flute a good instrument for weddings?
Absolutely! I play the some of the best known music and most beautiful wedding classics on solo flute for weddings every year. Because it’s a more specialized instrument, your guests will also appreciate your discerning musical taste in choosing a flute player! Unlike other instruments that are made from wood, brass, or other materials, my flute is made from solid rose gold and silver, giving it a visually stunning effect and a luxurious, sweet and smooth tone.

Will the flute be loud enough for my outdoor wedding?
Many people think of the flute as a soft sounding instrument, so it may surprise you to know that a flute can sound even louder than a violin. In addition to that, I’ve played for so many outdoor weddings, I’ve trained myself to be able to play even louder than the average flute player, while maintaining an elegant sound. Most importantly, I know how to adjust the volume of my flute playing to perfectly suit any setting, from wide open outdoor mountain settings to intimate indoor spaces. If further amplification is needed, I will use my professional Bose L1 speaker or battery powered system coupled with a clip-on mic designed specifically for flute.

Is the flute a romantic instrument?
The opulent sounds of my solid rose gold and silver flute plus my personal musical touch are wonderfully romantic. I love seeing the looks of blissful transport on people’s faces when they hear me play my flute for the first time. I bring my own passion to my music and I’ve even pleasantly surprised the most skeptical of clients. One of my recent clients was dreaming of having solo violin or harp at her wedding, because she didn’t think that solo flute would be romantic. When her wedding day was forecast to be too cold for strings, she hired me to play flute. When she heard me play, she was surprised and amazed, and she write me a lovely review:

“Christen displayed the utmost professionalism and played such incredibly romantic, beautiful songs on her flute in 15 degree weather! She set the mood for the best day of my life! Her music truly made my ceremony. She has such a vast playlist, she can truly bring your wedding vision to life!”

What kinds of songs can you play on the flute?
The flute is among the earliest known musical instruments, and today it’s one of the most modernized instruments, on the cutting edge of avant-garde techniques. Because of this, the flute is one of the most versatile instruments today. Flute sounds perfectly at home playing everything from traditional classical music to current rock, pop, and jazz. I love taking special song requests, and if you can dream it, I can probably play it! My flute music will soar gracefully or dance joyfully to fit the mood of your marriage celebration.

Because flutists breathe exactly the same way that vocalists breathe, the flute creates a wonderful instrumental version of vocal songs, including romantic love songs and pop songs. When paired with other instruments, the flute can play the vocal parts and the background parts can be filled out with guitar, harp, piano or strings.

What are the outdoor playing requirements for solo flute?
When I play solo flute, I’m much more flexible with outdoor weather conditions than most other instruments. Unlike delicate stringed instruments, I don’t need shade or the shelter of a tent when I play. My flute and I can also tolerate cold weather quite well, and I can even play in some rain. When I play solo flute for your wedding ceremony, you can still have the outdoor wedding music of your dreams even if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

What’s a flute quartet?
There are actually two types of flute quartets! One type is four flutes, and the other type, which is the one that I offer, is a flute, violin, viola cello. I sometimes call this a flute and strings quartet to eliminate confusion. The traditional string quartet consists of 2 violins, a viola, and a cello. A flute quartet replaces one of the violins with a flute, and it can play everything that a string quartet can play. The sounds of the flute and strings beautifully compliment and enhance each other. The four different instruments of the flute quartet gives it a fuller and more varied sound than a traditional string quartet.

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

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

It was forecast to be a very cold day when I drove up to Dillon, Colorado to play solo flute for an elegant winter wedding ceremony. I was well prepared with lots of warm clothing, a hot drink, and a couple flutes in case one of them froze. The bride and groom and their guests were all from Florida and Texas, and they enjoyed seeing the novelty of the snowy landscape. They were also extremely cold!

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

When I arrived, it was cloudy with a temperature of 14F and a windchill of -5F, with wind guests up to 25 mph. Despite the chill, the setting was absolutely picturesque, and it was like being in a winter paradise. The view of Dillon Lake and the snow covered mountains was dressed in the muted winter tones of deep green pines, the blue-black lake, the grey sky, and the clean white snow. My flute music gave the setting a touch of sophistication, celebration, and elegance.

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

The bride had rented a nice warm patio heater for me to stand by, but when I moved it to the location where I needed it to be, the flame went out and I couldn’t figure out out to relight it. Neither could a few of the guests who tried. However, as one of the guests joked, it was mentally encouraging just to be standing under the heater.

When the groom arrived, he noticed the problem and in five minutes he had the heater working! It was just in time too, because my flute was just starting to freeze and the keys were just starting to stick.

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

I played a set list of contemporary music that the bride requested. The start of the wedding was delayed by 30 minutes, and the guests enjoyed hearing my music as they waited.

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

After the wedding, everyone cheered the couple and toasted them with champagne. Everyone scooted out pretty quickly after the ceremony was over, and I was the last person on the overlook. The sun was just starting to set, and other than the sound of the wind in the pines, the silence was profound. I took a minute to drink it all in and to feel the grandness of life and nature.

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography


From the Bride:

“I hired Christen for a Thursday mountain top wedding. Little did I know this would be one of the coldest days. I got her a heater and she played the notes out of that flute! It sounded incredibly beautiful and romantic. She's professional, committed and so easy to work with. She went above and beyond to ensure I had music at my ceremony! Definitely recommend!”

 

Quick Tip: Are you having an outdoor wedding ceremony in cold weather? Supply your guests with blankets, heaters, and warm drinks. Celebrate the winter theme!

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

MunsonPhotography26.jpg

Samples from Prelude and Postlude Music:
A Thousand Years (Christian Perri), Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis), Unchained Melody (Righteous Brothers), The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, Thinking out Loud (Ed Sheeran), Ave Maria (Bach), All I Ask of You From Phantom of the Opera, Make You Feel My Love (Adele)

Bride’s Processional:
Latch (Sam Smith)

Recessional:
All of Me (John Legend)

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Wedding Vendors:
Wedding Planner: Amanda Piper at Events 5280
Ceremony Venue: Sapphire Point
Ceremony Officaint: Scott Awbrey
Photographer: Mallory Munson

Hire my solo flute music to add simplicity, romance, and elegance to your wedding ceremony.

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Classical and contemporary solo flute wedding ceremony music at Sapphire Point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Mallory Munson Photography

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

My flute and guitar duo headed up to Vail on a chilly day in early October to play for a wedding ceremony at the Vail Golf Club. A cold front was moving in, and the weather forecast called for cold temperatures, wind, thunderstorms, and possibly even hail. We were all praying that the weather would end up being beautiful so that this couple could have the elegant wedding ceremony of their dreams.

Because of the cold temperatures, the wedding location was moved from the wedding island to the beautiful lawn space right in front of the Vail Golf Clubhouse. It was the perfect location for the guests to enjoy the heated patio, and then move outside to their seats right before the ceremony. There were a few sprinkles of rain during the ceremony, but the couple was able to have their ceremony outdoors with the stunning autumn colors and the sweeping mountains of the Gore Range as their backdrop. After the wedding ceremony concluded, the clouds poured rain and the guests moved back to safety under the covered patio to enjoy cocktails and our pop and jazz tunes.

Quick Tip:
If your wedding day isn’t sunny, it’s actually a great thing for photos! On cloudy days, colors pop and shadows disappear, making photos of both people and scenery brilliant and beautiful. If you don’t mind getting a little wet, rain and snow also add a sense of drama and romance to your wedding photos.

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Sample Selections from Prelude and Postlude Music:
Unforgettable (Nat King Cole), Wonderful Tonight (Eric Clapton), The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall, Come Away With Me (Norah Jones), Fly Me to the Moon (Sinatra), Cheek to Cheek (Sinatra)

Wedding Ceremony Music:
What a Wonderful World (Lois Armstrong): Parents and Grandparents, Groomsmen, Officiant
Perfect (Ed Sheeran): Bridesmaids, Ringbearers, Flower Girl
Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis): Bride and Dad
You are the Sunshine of my Life (Stevie Wonder): Recessional

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Venue: Vail Golf Club
Music: Flute and Strings by Christen Stephens - Flute and Guitar Duo
Wedding Planner: REL-Event Designs
Officiant: Scott Beebe
Photographer: Brooke Heather Photography

 

Autumn dates fill fast, so book us now to reserve our fun and elegant music for your wedding day

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at the Vail Golf Club in Vail, Colorado

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

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

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

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

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”

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

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

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.


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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!”

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

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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

“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!”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

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.

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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

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

A perfect day at the Vail Visitor’s Center

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

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!

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

String Trio wedding ceremony music in Vail, Colorado

Live Music for Winter Weddings: Challenges, Tips, and Tricks

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

A romantic Colorado winter wedding inspires dreams of fairytale snow, twinkle lights, steaming spiced drinks, and a crackling fire. My clients travel from all over the United States to be married in Colorado, and they’re drawn by the allure of the majestic mountains and pristine landscape. Colorado’s brilliant autumn foliage, epic snow covered peaks, and ever-changing vistas are an ideal setting for one of the most special days of your life. Live music adds the perfect warming touch to any winter wedding.

If you’re looking for musicians to play for your winter wedding, you may have discovered that it’s difficult to find musicians who will agree to play outdoors when the weather is cold. In fact, most musicians won’t play if the temperature is below 55 or 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Are musicians being overly particular, or are there legitimate reasons for their specific temperature requirements? What is it really like for a musician to play outdoors in the winter?

As both a flutist and a cellist, I decided to test out the claims that live music couldn’t (or shouldn’t) be performed outside in the cold, and I dedicated the winter of 2017 to my experiment, which culminated in playing my flute for an outdoor mountain wedding in the middle of December. I wanted to see exactly what would happen to me, my flute, and my cello! I uncovered the challenges to playing outside in cold weather and discovered a number of helpful tips for musicians who will be playing outside in the cold. I also put together a list of tips for the wedding couple who is planning to have live music for their outdoor winter wedding ceremony.

My Experiment:

As winter began to arrive, I decided to play both my flute and cello outside every day for 15 minutes. At first it was easy, and I enjoyed the time outside, looking at the mountain view in my backyard.

Cello:

The temperatures started to drop as winter approached, and I found that I needed to start wearing my winter coat. My fingers were quite cold, but I was able to play until one day that was in the upper 40’s. I was playing cello, but my winter coat was bulky and it made my movements difficult. My fingerless gloves were also too bulky to wear while playing, and the icy cold metal cello strings felt sharp and unpleasant under my fingers. Without a warm coat or gloves, my fingers went completely numb from the cold and the metal strings after about five minutes. I couldn’t feel the strings any longer and my fingers became quite stiff from the cold, which impeded movement. The result was a rather clunky sounding version of “Frosty the Snowman”. My fingers started to hurt from the cold, so I had to cut my playing time short.

In addition to my own discomfort, the cello itself is a very delicate instrument, and sensitive to temperature and humidity changes. Outdoor performances in hot or cold weather can cause the wood of the instrument to crack or split, especially at the seams, and this has happened to my cello on occasion. Dry air, temperature changes, and temperature extremes can all be culprits.

It’s also very difficult to play in tune on the cello in very cold weather, and I found this out in my experiment. When the weather turns cold, the strings on a stringed instrument contract. In contrast, the wooden part of the instrument expands and contracts in response to humidity. In cold weather, the instrument will go very sharp, and since the strings each contract at different rates, it's very difficult to keep a stringed instrument in tune in cold weather. When musicians have to play together in cold weather, their instruments will change pitch at different rates, so they not only have to stay in tune with themselves, but they have to stay in tune with the other musicians.

In short, I found that playing my cello below the prescribed 55-60 degrees was very difficult for the listener’s ears, my cello, and myself.

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

Flute:

Playing my flute in the cold worked a lot better than cello. One magical day, I played outside (under my porch) during the first snow, and I felt like I was in a fairy land. My music was so beautiful coupled with the falling snow, and the temperature was still quite a bit above freezing. I was able to wear fingerless gloves while I played, and because flute requires smaller movements than cello, I could also wear my heavy winter clothes to stay warm. My fingers did go numb, but I was still able to play, and my flute sounded great! When the temperatures stayed above freezing with not too much wind, I enjoyed my outdoor sessions a lot.

An Outdoor Colorado Mountain Wedding

When it was time to play my flute for the outdoor wedding in the mountains, I was as ready as I could be! It was a short hike through the snow from my car to the wedding site. By the time the guests began to arrive, I had been outside preparing and waiting for about an hour. By the time I started playing prelude music, my flute was ice cold.

Solo flute wedding ceremony music at sapphire point in dillon, colorado, photo by ian riley

Solo flute wedding ceremony music at sapphire point in dillon, colorado, photo by ian riley

It’s recommended to acclimate a musical instrument to the surrounding temperature before playing. This is true with a wooden instrument, but I found out the hard way that in really cold temperatures with the flute, this is a very bad idea, and that it’s best to keep your instrument as warm as possible. The icy metal of my flute under my fingertips, combined with the brisk wind instantly stripped all remaining warmth from my fingers, and they went numb immediately. I kept putting them into my pockets, and using my hand warmers to try to warm them up, but 5 minutes of playing to 10 seconds of warming wasn’t sufficient.

After I had been playing for about 15 minutes, what had started out as a sunny day in the mid 30's quickly turned cloudy and windy, and the temperature dropped to below freezing.

After 10 minutes of playing in below freezing temperatures, the moisture from my breath froze inside my flute, and it formed a layer of ice that started to thicken. Ice also collected under my keys, and they started to instantly freeze to my flute. There were certain notes that I couldn’t play anymore, so I did my best to avoid using the keys that were frozen to the flute. I changed flutes to my backup flute, which was nice and dry in its case. Unfortunately, it had become so cold, that it only took 5 minutes for ice to form inside my backup flute as well. My lips started freezing to the metal a little, but they were warm enough to not completely stick.

After the ceremony, I played for the recessional and then played some nice postlude music as photos were being taken. Towards the end, my fingertips were starting to feel comfortably warm, and I realized that they weren't actually warm, but that they were starting to get frostbite. After playing and packing up, I had been outside for 2 1/2 hours straight.

 
Solo flute wedding ceremony music at sapphire point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Ian Riley

Solo flute wedding ceremony music at sapphire point in Dillon, Colorado, photo by Ian Riley

The Beauty of Live Music in Winter

The setting for the wedding ceremony was truly a winter wonderland. It overlooked snow covered mountains and an evening lake. The fresh white snow crunched under our feet, and the bare dark tree limbs and green pines stood out against the white sky. My music added the perfect finishing touch to the ceremony, and gave the wild setting a touch of sophistication.

I designed my music set list to celebrate winter and to help the guests feel warmer. The bride requested Christmas songs in addition to classical songs, so I playing songs like “Chestnuts Roasting On and Open Fire”, “Jingle Bells”, and “Winter Wonderland”.

The Challenges for Musicians

The three main challenges that I discovered with playing a musical instrument outdoors in cold temperatures are frostbite, expensive instrument repairs, and a performance that’s not top quality.

  • Frostbite: After playing for the winter wedding ceremony, my fingers were all in pain, and the pain lasted for a week. I also got frostbite on one of my fingertips, and I was in pain in that spot for three months.

  • Instrument Repairs: Our delicate musical instruments are handmade using materials that are very responsive to the environment around them. I had my professional flute repaired after that wedding, and the cost for the repair was almost $2000. The ice had cut into the delicate pads that are under the keys. The pads are what creates a seal when the keys are pressed. I had to replace all of my pads and do additional repairs as well.

  • Performance Quality: Since some of my keys were frozen together, there were several notes that I could no longer play. With stiff fingers, I couldn’t play very fast pieces of music. Also, it wasn’t as easy to play long phrases when I was inhaling very cold air. Intonation (playing in tune) can also be a huge problem, although in my case, I had several guests compliment me on my great intonation. I was also impressed that these well-informed guests were talking about intonation.

I concluded that the challenges for musicians playing outdoors in cold weather are very real, and it must be done with care. I also learned a number of very valuable tips for both musicians and clients to help make live outdoor winter wedding music a better success.

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

Tips for Musicians

  • Take time in advance to look at average temperatures, weather, and what kind of shelter or heat sources there will be.

  • To avoid expensive instrument repairs, have a backup instrument (or two in my case) ready to play in case of inclement weather.

  • Wear lightweight full coverage under-clothing, and avoid wearing bulky clothing as much as possible.

  • Wear the warmest clothes that you are able to wear while play your instrument. If your body is warm, your extremities will be more likely to stay warm. Be careful not to overdress, but wear layers that you can adjust as needed.

  • Arrange to play next to a warm gas patio heater if possible. If it’s very windy, the heater can still help a lot to re-warm your hands and your instrument between songs.

  • Watch out for frostbite. It feels nice and warm when you’re getting it.

  • When the temperature is near or below freezing, put hand warmers in your case and keep your flute (or non-wooden instrument) closed in the case until it’s time to play.

  • Keep hand warmers inside your shoes and your pockets. Prepare them in advance so that they’re toasty warm when it’s time to play.

  • For flute, plug the holes in the keys so that you won’t have to worry about having to cover them with numb fingers.

  • If you want full coverage gloves, I found that cycling gloves work the best because they stop the wind, but they are very thin. They also have nice grips on the fingers. I added a small piece of electrical tape on each thumb to add more grip. The downside is that it’s harder to re-warm your hands between songs when wearing full coverage gloves.

  • If possible bring the following items: hot drink in an insulated container, hand warmers, warm clothing (including warm shoes, hat, and gloves), and alternate instruments.

  • Do quick aerobic exercises before the guests arrive to encourage good circulation.

  • Play near a windbreak, or set one up for yourself.

  • Just say “no” if you don’t think that you can do a performance that’s up to the quality that you and your potential client would want.

Tips For Hiring Musicians for Your Outdoor Winter Wedding Ceremony

Solo flute wedding ceremony music at sapphire point in dillon, colorado, photo by ian riley

Solo flute wedding ceremony music at sapphire point in dillon, colorado, photo by ian riley

  • Know what the temperature averages are for the time of year and time of day of your wedding. Know what your limits are for the temperature and weather, and have a backup plan ready.

  • Be flexible. It’s hard to know what to expect from the weather in Colorado. Be prepared for a very wide range of temperatures and weather conditions that can quickly change within minutes.

  • Consider getting married indoors in front of large windows overlooking the winter landscape.

  • If you want to be married outdoors, consider inviting your guests to mingle indoors with the live music, and have your guests and musicians move outside for just your ceremony.

  • Have your wedding in a location where the musicians can play indoors and amplify their sound to the outside for your ceremony.

  • Choose an outdoor wedding location that’s sheltered from the wind.

  • Ask your musicians what their minimum playing temperature is. Discuss alternate plans with them in case it’s too cold for them to play outside.

  • Provide your musicians with one or more gas patio heaters to help them stay warm in cold weather.

  • Trust your musicians. If they say they can’t play outside if it’s below a certain temperature, then it’s for good reason.

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

Flute Quartet wedding ceremony music in beaver creek, colorado, photo by preston utley

Conclusion:

Featuring live music at your outdoor winter wedding is very romantic, and the music adds a feel of sophistication and warmth to the setting. After my experiment with playing outside in all kind of weather conditions, I concluded that playing a musical instrument in cold weather must be done with care because the challenges for the musician and the risks to the instrument are very real. As musicians, it’s important that we look out for our personal health and prevent our instruments from being damaged. Simply put, our instruments aren’t designed to be played in very cold weather, and neither are we. I also learned a number of tips for clients, and tips to help me with future performances in the cold, and what my limits are to do them safely.

As professional musicians, my team and I really care about you and your wedding. We strive for the highest quality performance, and if our cold-numbed fingers prevent us from moving properly or if our instruments sound bad or go out of tune because of the cold, our performance quality will suffer. I always let my clients know our limits, and options for solutions before they book me. Then we can work together to find the solution that works best for my them, myself, and my team of musicians.

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

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

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.

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

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.



Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

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

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music in estes park, Colorado

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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 >

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

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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.

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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!

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

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

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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

Flute Quartet Music at the Vail Wedding Deck

Vail Wedding Deck after a storm

Vail Wedding Deck after a storm

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

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

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

Vail Wedding Deck after a summer storm

Vail Wedding Deck after a summer storm

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

Photos Courtesy of Ian Riley Photography

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Solo Flute Wedding Elopement Ceremony Music in Estes Park

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

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.

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

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.

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

Solo Flute Wedding Ceremony Music in Estes Park, Colorado

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

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

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

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion 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 >

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute quartet wedding ceremony music at the Donovan Pavilion in Vail, Colorado

Flute and Harp Duo at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Colorado

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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

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

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

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and harp wedding ceremony music

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

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

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.

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music

Colorado flute and violin wedding ceremony music