Serenade Events

We hired them for a birthday party and everything was excellent. Thank so much!

We booked a solo violinist for our Remembrance Event at our Funeral Home and Cemetery. When the violinist arrived we told him about how he would be playing outside intermittently to which he complained and said he did not know he would be playing outside and would have dressed warmer. I told him that we did communicate that to Serenade Events both in our inquiry and via message before booking to ensure that we could have someone play outside and that we were sorry no one told him that. It was clear in both the request and in my detailed communication that there would be outdoor playing under cover of a canopy. He was rude from that point on even when we tried to make accommodations for him to be in our entry way. When it was his turn to play inside again, the room cleared out all but a few folks. When people clapped after his performance he had the audacity to comment negatively on the clapping by saying that he found the applause bizarre because it was meant to be reflective.... Multiple people commented that it was strange and uncomfortable. We then asked him to leave an hour early so as not to have anymore uncomfortable interactions. We feel our money was completely wasted on hiring this person and will not be using Serenade Events again for any of our events. We reached out to the contact person Jeff through email, phone, and via Gig salad with no response. No one answers the phone, just rings and goes to voicemail. We would have rather not written a negative review and wanted the vendor who hired this performer to reach out and make this right. We are thoroughly disappointed.

It's pretty bad when there is a no show by the performer but it is even worse when I can't get in touch with the company that I booked it with. Very embarrassed for the people in my group that expected some entertainment. Shame on the value of customer service or should I say lack of.

This group was a no show for a proposal! They communicated with me agreed to all of the music, time and location and just never showed up. It was very embarrassing and unacceptable. No calls to me or venue, no email and no texts through serenade or gig salad. I called gig salad to get a refund and they referred me to serenade. This company has not returned any of my emails or phone calls for a refund. My suggestion is not to use this group.

The musicians were fantastic and very professional.

Absolutely phenomenal! We booked a violinist for our wedding. Haili was amazing she played so beautifully, it added a touch of elegance to our special day. We highly recommend serenade events for your special day, they have a big selection of music to choose including all
Types of genres.

Amazing job everyone loved her beautiful voice. The booking price was such a breeze and I will definitely be booking again.. Thank you all for being so quick to reply and having such wonderful customer service

Our violinist arrived late and needed time to set up. He did offer to makeup the time and stay as long as needed but much of that was spent on breaks or getting a playlist together. It’s clear that prep was not done ahead of time. Once everything was organized the back half of the event was good.

Did not receive refund as promised

We had high hopes for the violinist we hired from Serenade events for a small intimate wedding ceremony but we were gravely disappointed. At first, everything seemed great when we started talking to them and they were very responsive. But after we paid the deposit, things started to go very badly. Serenade events became unresponsive for 2 weeks as we desperately tried to contact them to organize logistics for the wedding. Only after threatening to dispute with the credit card companies did they finally respond. When we asked about what the violinist would need for the wedding, they said only a chair (which turned out be a lie). They also would not tell us the full name of the violinist either. 

When the day of the event came, things didn’t go well. First, as it turns out the violinist had an electric violin which required a power source. We were not notified of this before. We had to scramble to find long extension cords to power the violin. When he started playing, it was clear that the violinist was not experienced at all. He kept looking up the notes for the song he was playing and the quality of his playing was very poor. There were a lot of gaps in between the songs and when we moved inside for dinner, the music was incredibly loud and we could barely hear the violin. Then after he was done playing and we were at dinner, the violinist was supposed to leave but he was waiting by the exit for almost an hour. Turns out he didn’t even have a car! He literally Ubered 100 miles from LA to Palm Springs and was struggling to find an Uber back to the city. We felt so bad for him my father gave him $100 and drove him somewhere more convenient to get picked up. This put a sour end to an otherwise beautiful wedding. 

We were all buzzing from the beautiful ceremony but seeing the violinist with no ride made us feel negatively. Also, the violinist indicated that he had no point of contact upon arrival and he had difficulty finding the venue, this is after we provided the main coordinator’s contact info to Serenade Events. We do not blame the violinist but Serenade Events, the company that hired him. PS I had a terrible feeling about them from the beginning but gave them a chance because they seemed so responsive in the beginning.

We hired Serenade Events to play for our guest arrival, ceremony, and for the social hour. Their string quartet was beautiful, they made a request for me they didn't have in their music, and they played a bunch of our favorite songs during the social hour. We absolutely would recommend them, the whole thing was very easy and beautiful.

Jorge Otoya was wonderful and all of our guests loved his music. I would absolutely use him again!

Professional, patient, and incredible music. He was amazing and not only am I going to use him again if possible, but would recommend him to anyone looking to make a dinner, an engagement, a wedding, any event special.

We booked serenade events for our wedding, it was very unconventional more like just a large dinner party. We paid for 4 hours and gave very clear instructions on the only 2 special requests. They MAYBE played for two hours out of the four. Took so many breaks in between every song. They decided to take over an hour break to eat (which we had to pay for) and every time they would start to play they would stop after 90 seconds and talk (?). Our wedding planner had to remind them over five time to please just keep playing. This was our largest and most disappointing expense for our wedding. I reached out multiple times for them to refund at least a part of the cost, and they have never responded. Please choose a different strings company so you are not disappointed like my husband and I were.

Now nothing can be more magical than having Santa and Mrs. Claus at your event...but if you have a chance to add to the magic, please book Serande events. This was the cherry on top! The music and presence of this group is another form of magic. Just to hear it in person at any event would be phenomenal. Just takes your breath away. Your heart truly sings to the harmony this group magnify. Sounds of Angels. 10 Stars

I hired Serenade Events in January 2023 for my wedding in April ‘23. I was in communication with Jeff throughout the process. I specifically chose to forego other wedding expenses so we could have live music for ceremony and cocktail hour using music that was special to us- it was my top priority and what I was most looking forward to. Right before the ceremony we realized the cellist hadn’t shown. We tried calling and no answer. I received an email from Jeff less than an hour before they were supposed to show saying their cellist was ill and that they’d tried to find another musician but would be unable to make it and that they would refund our initial deposit and the total we paid that week. That’s it. What?? Seriously? That is an absolutely INSANE thing to do to someone on their wedding. We had to delay the ceremony an hour so I could make a playlist, find adapters, set up speakers, and ask a guest to play youtube videos in the right order for our cues. 100 guests were just waiting out there. It was a nightmare and everyone was so stressed out. Cellist was scheduled for cocktail hour too so we had to have a guest play random music off of my laptop for that as well. Far cry from the curated playlist I spent weeks developing and months spent ensuring they could provide it. I wish I could go back in time to hire literally anyone else.
I’m still in disbelief of how this was handled. Not even a call- an EMAIL less than an HOUR before the ceremony. If they had given me even two hours notice, I could’ve asked my musician father to bring his guitar. I could’ve asked SOMEONE to bring SOMETHING. Instead they chose to ruin someone’s wedding. I’m sure we would’ve loved their musicians- it saddens me to see so many great reviews knowing that’s what we would’ve had. If Jeff had time to email me then he had time to come on down to the wedding himself to replace his musician, and he definitely had time to inform me in the morning instead of right before the ceremony.

Directing this at Jeff since he never responded to me: You gave me zero time. What bride do you know is checking her email before they walk down the aisle? You should’ve refunded more than what you did for how much grief you caused us. Maybe I should’ve been the one requesting a deposit from you so you would’ve had any incentive to send SOMEONE.

Oh, and I responded to Jeff’s email by telling him how their actions impacted the wedding and how this was a truly awful thing to do someone on their wedding day after hiring them months ahead of time. Didn’t even get a response.
No hard feelings to the ill cellist. I’m sure he’s a great musician and hard worker. I hope Serenade Events feels a semblance of shame but it doesn’t really seem like it.

I hosted Holiday party and Hired a guitarist, Carlos was amazing, on time and very friendly. I would definitely book again!! Beautiful Holiday tunes:)

I'm so happy I found Serenade Events. They were able to play my non traditional music for my wedding and made it amazing. They answered all of my silly questions and were so patient with me. They were the right choice for my micro-wedding! Higley recommended!

The wedding party we’re blown away, and the new couple were so very happy. I am so glad to have found and used your services! It was so much more than we imagined, thank you so much, and we will definitely use your services again!

Cannot put into words how grateful I am for having Serenade Events’ String Quartet at my wedding. The amount of guest that told me what a beautiful touch it was to have them at the ceremony is beyond me. Thank you a millions times, I would definitely recommend and book again.

We had booked Jeffrey Strand in July to come perform for a marketing event we titled An Afternoon at the Opera to take place in September at our independent living community for seniors. Our residents were so excited to have such a high caliber performer coming to sing for us. We advertised this event for two months. The day before, we reached out as we always do for any scheduled performer to reconfirm. We did so via phone, text, FB Messenger AND email, but oddly did not get any response. The following day at 10:47 AM (the event was set to start at 3:30 PM, and we had a full house coming including a number of RSVPs from potential leads) we finally got an email response from Jeff. It read, "Thanks for checking in, unfortunately I have been sick the last few days and not able to sing today. Our apologies, we were looking forward to it. It looks like we did not collect a deposit or anything like that to return but if you would like to reschedule in the future please let me know. Thank you, Jeff" Needless to say, we were less than thrilled. This event was booked months ago. Jeff sent us his W-9 form when we booked, and we had his payment via check issued and ready to hand him as we had discussed (no deposit was requested). Of course, we understand that people get sick, and we hoped he felt better soon; but to not even have someone from the company personally reach out via phone to talk to us about the matter seemed very unprofessional. Also, the fact that our performer was sick for several days and never called to let us know there may be the potential for a cancellation was also very unprofessional. It is our understanding that Serenade Events has a number of talented performers, so it would have been nice if they would have offered to send a substitute singer or set of musicians--We in fact replied to the email and called to see if there was any way something like this could be worked out so that we could salvage this important event, but we got no answer. It was such a disappointment for our seniors and a very bad look for us with our potential leads to have to cancel with no notice. And honestly, it did not seem like we were really a priority at all to this company given the way the entire situation was handled. From what we have seen in videos, Jeff Strand is an amazing performer, as are many of the musicians that Serenade Events offers. I'm sure we would have thoroughly enjoyed a performance by him or any one of the musicians from this company had we been given the opportunity. It's quite a shame that did not happen. :(

The duo guitarists, Craig and Rishi, were so amazing and talented. Everyone loved the music and I highly recommend them for any event.

It was one of the most magical nights of mylife, all thanks to this great talent. Thank you so much.

I booked Serenade Events for a baby shower for a dear friend to add a special touch to the event. Everyone loved it! Serenade Events were communicative, helpful and so easy to work with. Melissa, our violinist played a mix of pop and classical songs and it was really the highlight of our High Tea baby shower. Thank you, Serenade Events!

We hired serenades to play for a friends backyard wedding. They were easy to work with and professional. The harpist was so sweet and so nice. Her harp was absolutely beautiful and very classy for a wedding. She plays all different kinds of songs. I didn't have to tell her what to play because she hit every song on the nose. I will be sure to hire them for another event.
Thank you!

I thought this was a trusted company in the wedding industry. I was so excited to do a mashup of songs to surprise my husband as I walked down the aisle. The pianist did great! However, I was not allowed any contact with the pianist, nor would they give us a sample of our song because the pianist is “too busy”.
In addition, we requested a specific pianist, and were told we would have him play on our day; when we got to the wedding, we had another pianist.
When I tried to contact the owner, he would respond every 2-3 days. We were only a couple of days before the wedding and the owner would not reply, so we requested the contact of the pianist to ensure they were still coming. He did not reply until the day before.

I truly do not recommend this company unless you are okay will low communication and only have one song in mind for them to play. They will not allow you to hear them play it prior though. So disappointed and was the only vendor that caused stress for us ):

It was so beautiful their music!
Professional, friendly and talented, super puntual! Wow I could not ask for more!
I look forward to work with them sometime in the future!
Super happy! Thank you! Sooo much!
Ana B

Violinist was professional, well-prepared, on time, and played beautifully.
Highly recommended!!!

I hired Serenade Events to play at a surprise proposal for my now fiancé. Jeff was always prompt and highly professional with responding to emails and phone calls, and has great attention to detail. He is kind and polite, and he made me feel comfortable knowing that everything would go well. The violinist, Sierra, traveled an hour to Sedona to perform. She played beautifully, despite it being in the 40's outside (the proposal was outdoors after the sun went down). She even played an extra song for us. When I have another event (e.g. wedding), I will be sure to hire them again. I highly recommend Serenade Events to anyone looking for great performers, excellent customer service, and complete peace of mind. Thank you, Jeff and Sierra!

We needed someone last minute for our Foundation Event and Serenade Events made it happen!
Alex was timely, dressed according to event, came prepared with all necessary equipment and was courteous and professional to our guests (donors) and staff. His music was appropriate and beautiful! -- Thank you, Alex, and Serenade Events!
I look forward to working with you again.
--Dawn

We were so happy with Serenade Events. They arrived on time, very professional and received so many compliments from our guests. Their music was magical and added to the evening!! Thank you so much Serenade Events for being a part of our daughter’s wedding.

I reached out to Serenade Events with a couple of requests for my 10/5/22 wedding - they were quick to respond, super helpful, and friendly and patient (I had a ton of questions). I booked IMMEDIATELY based on their experience and customer service. Come the big day - they were punctual, talented, and played exactly what I had envisioned for our big day. Thank you so much Serenade Events!!!!!

Agatha was amazing and a trooper. The location had to be changed slightly last minute and she had no issues with adapting. She made the moment beautiful for my bride to be and I, and I will cherish her assistance in creating this beautiful moment on the beach in Malibu with me. Thank you Agatha and Serenade Events!

They played a mix of classical and newer music that the more senior crowd loved.

Molly did a fabulous job accompanying our wedding ceremony on her harp!

Fun!

professional, talented, really made our night!

Great communication. Tzytle Steinman has a beautiful voice.

Anna was wonderful. Her skill and professionalism shined through and made a very memorable night for us!

I am very impressed with Julian. He is an outstanding musician and performer. My wife was thrilled with the surprise, which made the event over the top. I would not hesitate to use his services in the future and recommend him to others looking for a unique gift of music. He has a great personality, and it shows in his performance. Thank you all for making my wife's birthday she will remember forever.

Jonathan was amazing! Very professional, and talented. He played the Bach cello suite 1 wonderfully.

Booked a singing telegram, rather last minute, for my husband’s 64th (I was looking for someone who could sing the Beatles tune). Jeff was super responsive and easy to communicate with. Rebekah was an absolute delight with a lovely voice. All our guests commented on what a fun treat it was, as none of us had ever experienced a singing telegram. Cannot recommend these folks enough, thank you for a wonderful time!

Thank you so much for the prompt communication, clear instructions, and your violinist was super kind and sweet and we loved her performance!

Made our memorial beautiful. Thx!

I just wanted to let you know that I appreciate the quickness to get our event put together on such short notice. And it turned out very well. My daughters and wife thought it was really neat to have that event during dinner. And Rebekah did a great job. She was elegant, beautiful, and just a lovely person. Thank you for helping out with that. We will definitely book serenade again for upcoming events.

I have booked a violinist for my friend's proposal ceremony and Elin played 2 romantic songs for them very well .she is so nice and really professional, also the other reason I'm so happy about their team is whenever I had any questions, Jeff answered all my questions quickly, they are perfect

Highly recommended!
Our Cellist was Amazing, Professional, On Time, Kind & Friendly!

Your musicians were outstanding. We cannot say enough about the quality of music they performed. Making the evening even better was that they we polite, friendly and accommodating.

Thank you for helping make our wedding day so special!! The string quartet played for our ceremony and cocktail hour. Everyone was so professional and easy to work with, and they sounded amazing! Definitely recommend them.

The string trio was the perfect entertainment for my wife's 40th birthday party. They were on time, professional, and excellent musicians. I highly recommend!

Serenade Events provided a string trio for my event . They were wonderful musicians and the music was perfect for my event.

Thank Katherine for helping to make my daughter's 30th very special. Jennifer LOVED this gift! I would do it again in a heartbeat!

Jeff and Julian are two amazing people that helped me pull off a surprise "re-proposal" for my wife of 19 years and were great to work with. Julian is a very talented violinist and Jeff is an amazing coordinator! They worked with me every step of the way to pull of a very romantic idea and make it come to life! Thank you Serenade Events!!!

What a great singer! This was a surprise and it totally made our day! Thank you!

I asked for someone to serenade my wife for her birthday as a surprise and Jess was sent out, he has an amazing voice and did an amazing job!

lot of $$$ for only 1 song less than 4 mins

Perfect - wonderful singer and made my father very happy.

I could not see my Dad for his 80th birthday so I sent the singers and they did absolutely amazing and made his whole entire day. He even cried. I really appreciate everything this company does and would highly recommend this company and will use them many times again! Thank you so much!!!

Danny was on time, professional and very entertaining. He even played the trumpet during one of his songs! Very talented and would highly recommend!

Our violinist was beyond sweet and played so beautifully! She added that “must have”; sparkling moment for our guests and our ceremony! She was absolutely incredible! Would highly recommend! Thank you for making our day perfect!