Other Instrumentation

The Amethyst Ensemble has a large network of professional Chicago area musicians and will be happy to try and accommodate your request to add a specific type of instrument. The main difficulty in adding non-standard instruments to our string ensembles is finding appropriate music written for the group. We will determine if special arrangements need to be made or purchased, or if our existing music can be adapted to fit the occasion after we have a clearer idea of your vision!

Common instrument substitutions and their repertoire adaptations:

Voice- Our arrangements are intended to be played by instrumental ensemble. Performing most songs with a vocalist will require a special arrangement unless it is a Christian hymn or common Christmas song. We strongly suggest hiring a vocalist to lead any congregational singing that may occur during your wedding or event!

Organ- some selections from the Piano Trio Repertoire List can easily be adapted

Guitar- some selections from the String Trio Repertoire List can easily be adapted to fit with acoustic/classical guitar.

Harp- feasibility of adding this instrument will be determined based on consultation

Flute- can be subbed for violin on most selections

Oboe- can be subbed for violin on most selections

Bassoon- can be subbed for cello on most selections

Trombone- can be subbed for cello on most selections

String Bass- can be subbed for cello on most selections

Clarinet, Trumpet, and French Horn are “transposing instruments” which means that they read music differently than string players. The feasibility of including these instruments will be determined based on consultation.

Solo instruments- appropriate repertoire will be determined based on consultation between the performing musician and client.