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

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!

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

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)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flute Quartet Music at the Vail Wedding Deck

Vail Wedding Deck after a storm

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

Vail Wedding Deck after a summer storm

Flute and Cello Wedding Ceremony Music at the Denver Botanic Gardens

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!

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

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

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 Elopement Ceremony Music in Estes Park

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

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

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.

client quote →

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

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 and Harp Duo at Mount Princeton Hot Springs in Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

Photos courtesy of Kristopher Lindsay Photography

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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
 

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

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

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

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

Flute and Guitar Duo at the Vail Wedding Deck

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

Cello and Piano Duo Wedding Ceremony Music in Beaver Creek

Photos courtesy of Irving Photography

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

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

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

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

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

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Vail, colorado

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Vail

hotos in this post courtesy of Laura Murray Photography

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

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

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Vail

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Vail

Congratulations Ashley and Ethan!

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

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

Postlude: Hornpipe (Handel)

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

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

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Vail

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Vail

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

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

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

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

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

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

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

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

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

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

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

Flute and Violin Wedding Music in Copper

Flute and Cello Duo at Tapestry House in Laporte, Colorado

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Flute and Guitar Wedding Ceremony Music at Washington Park in Denver, Colorado

It was an unusually hot day for early June, reaching 95 degrees, when my flute and guitar duo headed down to Washington Park to play for a contemporary wedding ceremony. It was the second marriage for both the bride and the groom and because of this, the couple was able to truly have the chance to express themselves and have fun without the stress of first time wedding planning. This bride and groom were really great to work with and they had some fun ideas for the music, including having us play "Final Countdown" just before their ceremony was about to begin. They chose all contemporary songs and I loved how they described that the flute would take the place of the vocals and the guitar would provide the background. Despite the heat, the bride wore a beautiful ball gown and everyone was dressed in their summer best. Our duo played the fun contemporary prelude music that the couple had selected, and our music drew the guests down to the ceremony site. We played some more contemporary music selections after the ceremony to send everyone happily away to the next phase of the wedding.

From the Groom: "Christen was just awesome, from planning our music through wedding day! Her repertoire is basically limitless from anything traditional to our wedding, nothing but contemporary pop. Check out her very long playlist for whatever instrument accompaniment you desire. Thank you, Christen, again for an amazing job at our wedding."

Samples from Prelude Music: A Groovy Kind of Love (Phil Collins), Wonderful Tonight (Eric Clapton), Here Comes the Sun (Beatles), Nights in White Satin (Moody Blues), Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper), The Final Countdown (Europe)

Processional Music On the Turning Away ~ Groom, groom's son, and groom's daughter Earth Angel ~ Bride Twist and Shout ~ Recessional

Postlude: They Way You Look Tonight (Sinatra), All My Loving (Beatles)

Add contemporary, jazz or classical music to your wedding ceremony or event with my versatile flute and guitar duo.

Top Wedding Songs for 2017

Are you selecting songs for your wedding this year? Or are you planning a romantic event such as an anniversary or engagement? With all the decisions that you have to make in planning a wedding or event and so many options for music, it's helpful to start with some great ideas. These songs are are compilation of some of the most romantic wedding songs for 2017. Some of these songs are new and some are classics that have endured the test of time, and all of them are songs that we have in our repertoire. In addition to the song selections on my repertoire list, I also love arranging new songs and can create custom arrangements for your wedding or event. I'd love to hear your ideas for songs, and even if you think they're a little out there, I can usually make an arrangement that will work beautifully.

All of Me (John Legend)

Best Instruments: My flute and piano/keyboard duo is the perfect combination for this song with the flute taking the place of the vocals. Violin also sounds great as a replacement for the vocal line.

Amazed (Lonestar)

Best Instruments: The flute can beautifully replace the vocals in this song and piano/keyboard or guitar easily replaces the background chords and rhythms.

A Thousand Years (Christina Perri)

Best Instruments: This song sounds wonderful with my flute and piano/keyboard duo, string quartet, or flute quartet.

Bittersweet Symphony (The Verve)

Best Instruments: This very orchestral song works well with with my string quartet or flute quartet.

Can't Help Falling in Love (Elvis)

Best Instruments: My flute and guitar duo or flute and piano duo is a perfect fit for this song with the flute taking the place of the vocals and the guitar or piano playing the background.

In My Life (Beatles)

Best Instruments: My flute and guitar duo is a perfect fit for this song.

Just the Way You Are (Bruno Mars)

Best Instruments: My flute and guitar duo is great for this song because the flute can replace the complex vocals and the guitar will provide a solid chord structure and rhythm underneath.

Make You Feel My Love (Adele)

Best Instruments: My flute and piano/keyboard duo or violin and piano duo is perfect for this song. It also works really well with my flute quartet or string quartet.

Reign of Love (Coldplay)

Best Instruments: This song sounds great with my flute and piano duo, flute trio, string trio, flute quartet, or string quartet. The flute is a great replacement for the vocals in this song.

The Way You Look Tonight (Frank Sinatra):

Best Instruments: My flute and guitar duo is a great fit for this song.

Twist and Shout (Beatles): Best Instruments:

My flute and guitar duo is the best combination for this song.

Unforgettable

Best Instruments: This classic song sounds best with my flute and guitar duo, flute quartet, or string quartet, all of which help to fill in the complex chords.

Viva La Vida (Coldplay)

Best Instruments: This very orchestral based song sounds great with my flute quartet or string quartet.

What a Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong)

Best Instruments: You can't beat the Louis Armstrong version of this classic song. The best ensembles are the flute to imitate Louis' husky voice, accompanied by guitar, harp or piano/keyboard.

Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music in Aspen, Colorado

This past weekend in early March, I played flute as part of a quartet for a wedding ceremony and cocktail hour in Aspen, Colorado. It was a beautiful spring-like day when we headed up to Aspen and when we arrived there were many people skiing on the slopes enjoying the warm weather. We took the Silver Queen Gondola up to the sundeck on the top of Aspen Mountain where the wedding ceremony would take place.

The bride chose to get married at sunset. It was chilly, sunny and windy on top of the mountain and the red and orange sunset was spectacular. When dusk fell it became very cold but the bride kept warm in an elegant fur capelet, and hand warmers were passed out to the guests. Our quartet was organized by A Touch of Class Music and it was made up of a flute, violin, cello and guitar. We played classical prelude music before the ceremony began. After the ceremony, everyone moved inside near the large fireplace where they warmed up and enjoyed drinks. We entertained the guests with a selection of jazz tunes.

Sample Prelude Music: Sheep May Safely Graze (Bach), Giga (Handel), Andante Op. 29 (Schubert), Minuet (Beethoven), Allegro and Bourree from Water Music (Handel)

Wedding Ceremony Music: Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring (Bach) ~ Last Prelude Song Largo from Winter (Vivaldi) ~ Parents Air from Suite No. 3 (Bach) ~ Processional Canon in D (Pachelbel) ~ Bride You've Got a Friend in Me (Randy Newman) ~ Recessional

Sample Cocktail Hour Music: Fly Me to the Moon, Autumn Leaves, Don't Get Around Much Anymore, Satin Doll

Wedding Ceremony Vendors: Wedding Planner ~ Nicole from Ashley Nicole Events Ceremony and Cocktail Hour Musicians ~ A Touch of Class Music Venue ~ The Little Nell (Sundeck Patio and Benedict's)

Flute Quartet Wedding Ceremony Music at the Chapel at Beaver Creek

Photos Courtesy of Preston Utley Photography

On a Saturday in mid-December, my flute quartet (flute, violin, viola, cello) left Denver and headed up to Beaver Creek, Colorado to play for a holiday wedding ceremony. A blizzard was forecast to hit the Colorado mountains that evening and we left very early and were prepared to face the worst. When we left Denver it was sunny and in the 50's but the weather quickly became worse as we drove further into the mountains. We drove for five hours over dark and icy roads thought the blizzard. Accidents and stranded vehicles were everywhere but I drove carefully and we enjoyed each other's company inside our cozy car.

We arrived safely at the Chapel at Beaver Creek and it was such a welcoming sight after our long drive. Colored lights and greenery were everywhere and the sanctuary was bright, warm and charmingly decorated for the season. As we waited to play, we enjoyed listening to prelude music played by Michael Lancaster on the bagpipes. To conclude the prelude, our quartet played "All I Want is You" by U2.

Prelude Music: Michael Lancaster on bagpipes All I Want is You (U2) by Christen Stephens flute quartet

Wedding Ceremony Music: The Ludlows from Legends of the Fall ~ Wedding Party Reign of Love (Coldplay) ~ Bride's Processional Glasgow City Police Pipers by Michael Lancaster - Recessional

Wedding Ceremony Vendors:
Wedding Planner ~ Meg Stepanek of Gemini Event Planning
Ceremony Quartet ~ Christen Stephens - Flute Quartet
Ceremony Bagpiper ~ Michael Lancaster
Photographer ~ Preston Utley
Videographer ~ Kyle Hodge

Make your wedding magical and hire my Flute Quartet