I am getting married in the Raleigh Rose Garden next May, and the fiancee and I would like a viola to provide the music. Our musical requirements are: Wagner's Bridal Chorus, Mendelssohn's Wedding March, and some yet-to-be-determined classical selections. The wedding should take approximately 1 hour, and the musician should be capable of providing the appropriate amount of music.

In place of a solo viola-ist, we would also consider string groups, cello, and violin (in that order).

Obviously, this is well in advance of the wedding (307 days 13:07:40 to be exact ). At this point we are mostly looking to make contact with potential players, as well as information on costs, suggestions for music, and where we can listen to candidates play (preferably live).

7/8/2006 10:52:27 PM

you want to buy a viola player?

7/8/2006 10:56:32 PM

How about rent a viola player? It would be cool if I could just buy one, though.

Viola on demand

7/8/2006 10:58:51 PM

my wife and i got married in the rose garden last june. great pick! (i suggest NOT using dj's rentals if they're still recommending them - they were late to setup my wedding and screwed me out of $150) A very good friend of mine played the violin for us. She plays a little bit of cello but I'm not sure she plays viola. I have another friend who does play viola very well, but he moved to charlotte after graduation. i'm sure you'll find a better fit than my two friends, but if you don't let me know and I'll get you in touch with them.

7/8/2006 11:34:48 PM

I've been playing the viola since 4th grade, but the idea of standing up all by myself for an hour playing wedding music doesn't sound that appealing

7/9/2006 1:38:27 AM

^^ I'll keep you in mind in case I have questions about the Rose Garden. Thanks for the tip about the rental service.

^ Is it the standing up that doesn't appeal to you, or is it playing the music?

7/11/2006 11:19:57 AM

Why did you decide on viola? It is more comonnly played as an complimentary instrument. Violas arent bright enough like a violin, or strong enough like a cello to stand alone like that. Ive found cellos provide the best sound for weddings and such....just an idea

7/11/2006 1:21:47 PM

^i agree. i also play the cello and would be willing to negotiate a price. haha.

7/11/2006 1:26:24 PM

I played from 5th untill 10th grade, then had to drop it to take other courses that would benifit me better, which i hadnt dropped it though, still got my viola too

7/11/2006 1:32:22 PM