FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where are you based?

A. Cincinnati, OH

Q. What is your performing radius?

A. We will gladly travel for an event within a 60-mile radius of downtown Cincinnati at no additional charge.

Q. Will you travel outside your performing radius?

A. We are willing to travel outside our performing radius under certain conditions and if our schedule allows. Events more than 60 miles from downtown Cincinnati will be charged the current IRS mileage rate. Please contact us with your specific location and event date to determine our availability for travel.

Q. Do you charge an extra fee for a full Catholic Mass?

A. No, but please be advised that we request your music director or cantor handle the liturgical portions of your wedding. We are happy to coordinate with your music director or cantor prior to your event to ensure that the music for your Mass proceeds smoothly.

Q. Do you charge a relocation fee to travel to the reception from the ceremony?

A. We do not charge a relocation fee unless the reception site is more that 30 miles from the ceremony location. Distances more than 30 miles between the ceremony and reception will incur a surcharge equal to the current IRS mileage rate.

Q. What time will you be arriving at the ceremony?

A. We will arrive to set up about 30 minutes before we are scheduled to begin playing.

Q. I am having an outdoor wedding. Will you need amplification?

A. Amplification is at your discretion. However, if amplification is needed, it is considered the client’s responsibility.

Q. I am having an outdoor wedding. Will you still be able to play if it is raining?

A. No. Due to the nature of our instruments, we cannot risk them getting wet. However, if we are provided a sheltered area where our instruments are protected from getting wet, we will be able to continue playing.

Q. Your contract mentions extreme heat as a condition of not performing at an outdoor wedding. Are you going to leave us without music at our wedding?

A. We will remain as flexible as possible! We understand the importance of your event and will do everything possible to make sure your special day has the appropriate musical accompaniment. However, our instruments are made of natural materials, and just as they are extremely sensitive to rain and moisture, they are also sensitive to extreme heat.

Q. How long have you been playing together?

A. Arturo and Jennifer have been performing together since their marriage in 2008.

Q. What happens if one of you is sick?

A. If one of the musicians is sick or unavailable, we have regular substitutes we call on. We trust our substitutes to play at the highest level.

Q. Do you work with other musicians?

A. Yes, we work with other musicians. Arturo and Jennifer comprise two cellists and one vocalist, but we regularly work with other vocalists and string musicians. We are happy to assemble whatever ensemble you would like for your event.

Q. Do you come to the rehearsal?

A. For an additional fee of $100, one of us will come to your rehearsal. This representative will not be playing any music at the rehearsal; they will just be there to take notes as needed to ensure the ceremony runs smoothly. It is not strictly necessary to have someone at the rehearsal, but some people feel more comfortable having one of us attend, and we are happy to do so.

Q. Can we meet to discuss music?

A. We usually find it sufficient to discuss details and choose music over the phone and via email. If you need assistance choosing music, please feel free to email or call us for assistance.

Q. Do you pick the music or do we?

A. Some people have a vast knowledge of classical music and want to pick every piece. Others know very little about classical music and want us to pick the music. You can pick some music and have us fill in the rest. How much or how little of the music we select is entirely up to you.

Q. How much of a deposit do we have to send?

A. We request the entire base fee to hold the date. We strive to offer personal service, so if you need assistance in this area, we can work with you. The remaining balance (if any) will be due at least 30 days prior to the ceremony.

Q. We really want to hire The Araya Duo. What do we do now?

A. Visit our “Booking” page and provide all details for your event. Either Jennifer or Arturo will respond within 48 hours to let you know whether we are available for your event and to provide a cost quote for your event. We look forward to contributing music for your special day!

Q. I have another question that is not listed here, how can I get all the answers I need?

A. Please contact us if you have any questions that were not answered above.