Ben Van Winkle

Being solo, I am able to provide much of the same music as a quartet but at a fraction of the price. Typically I am requested to play solo arrangements of many of the standard wedding music (Pachelbels Canon, Jesu Joy of man's desiring, and Wedding march) as well as classic solo cello works such as the famous Prelude to Bach's 1st Cello Suite. However, I can offer a wide range of music and styles.

Typical Setup:
I primarily play with backing tracks to fill out the rest of the music so that I can focus on the melody - if you are a fan of the cello this is a win because usually when cellists play as a part of a string quartet we are stuck playing the bassline! So included in my base rate I will bring a PA speaker to amplify myself and to play backing tracks over. (Of course I am more than open to playing with a Pianist, guitarist, or even to hire a string quartet for you. But, over the years I have found playing solo with backing tracks is simply the most versatile and cost effective solution for weddings)

Repertoire:
In addition to my extensive song list (you can find in the "set list" section) my base rate includes one song request outside of the list. Usually any song with a melodic vocal line works beautiful for the instrument.

I can also sing and play my guitar if that type of music is requested, such as a jovial recessional song, or more upbeat music for cocktail hour etc. See my second video to hear my singing voice!

Basic DJ Services:
If you are on a budget and you are looking for a cheap solution for dinner music after your wedding ceremony I can repurpose my PA speaker to play music from a Spotify playlist. I can also provide a Microphone for speeches (I can also make basic announcements but I am not claiming to be a full service DJ :) )

Rates:
Base rate for in town (<30mi from downtown Chattanooga) ceremony with 30 minute prelude: $500
- includes a song request outside of my list
- includes setting up my PA speaker and amplifying myself
- includes advice on selecting music for the ceremony
- includes 30 minutes of prelude music
- includes up to a 1 hour ceremony
- additional song requests are $50 each
- travel fee outside of the 30mi range is $1 per mile of distance from downtown Chattanooga

I will gladly amplify the officiant with my wireless lapel mic for $100. I can add additional microphones for other speakers for $50 each

I will play 1 hour of additional music for a cocktail hour for $150. I can bring my guitar and sing music for this a well. (If I am required to move my setup to another location in the venue I will charge $50 for the move)

And finally, if you need music to be played over my PA speaker and a microphone available for speeches, I can over this service for $100/hr.

Thanks! Please don't hesitate to reach out to me with questions!
-Ben VW

Native Chattanoogan
18 years cello experience.

It is extremely important to understand that I cannot play in either direct sunlight or even the smallest amount of precipitation. If the wedding is to be outside please plan to ensure I have a cover or that there is a backup in the case of rain. Sometimes even playing under the shade of a tree is a simple an effective solution.