Modern Wedding Playlist Ideas for String Quartet

A Modern String Quartet’s Take on Wedding Classics (and a Few Surprises!) with Nova Classica

Hello, we’re Nova Classica, a modern string quartet based in Orlando, Florida, and we’re here to share how we can make your wedding day unforgettable with our unique blend of classical elegance and contemporary flair. There’s something truly magical about live music at a wedding—the way it fills the air, connects hearts, and creates moments that linger long after the last note fades. We’ve had the joy of performing at countless weddings, and we’re passionate about crafting a soundtrack that’s as unique as your love story.

Today, we’re excited to walk you through how we’ve reimagined some of the most beloved songs for weddings, from modern pop hits to cinematic masterpieces. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand entrance, a heartfelt first dance, or a reception that gets everyone on their feet, we’re here to make it happen.

1. Marry You - Bruno Mars

When we perform Bruno Mars’ Marry You, we love capturing the song’s playful energy and romantic charm. Our violins take the lead with that infectious melody, while the cello and viola lay down a groove that’s impossible not to smile to. It’s the perfect way to kick off your celebration—whether it’s as a processional, recessional, or even during cocktail hour. There’s something special about hearing this upbeat anthem played live; it adds a personal touch that sets the tone for a day full of joy and love.

2. Young and Beautiful - Lana Del Rey

Lana Del Rey’s Young and Beautiful is one of those songs that feels like it was made for strings. When we play it, we focus on bringing out the song’s emotional depth—the sweeping violins, the rich cello harmonies, and the delicate phrasing that makes it so poignant. It’s a beautiful choice for a first dance or a quiet moment during the ceremony. Live music allows us to connect with you and your guests in a way that recordings simply can’t, creating a moment that feels intimate and timeless.

3. Wildest Dreams - Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s Wildest Dreams is a dreamy, cinematic piece that translates beautifully to strings. When we perform it, we emphasize the song’s ethereal quality, with the violins carrying the melody and the cello adding a grounding, emotional depth. It’s a gorgeous choice for walking down the aisle or as background music during dinner. Live musicians like us can adapt the tempo and dynamics to match the mood of the moment, ensuring that every note feels just right. View our short on YouTube: https://youtube.com/shorts/WmsnKSp4j7Y?si=8IMuU_J9OnEPEUxO

4. Dancing Queen - ABBA

Who says a string quartet can’t get people dancing? When we play ABBA’s Dancing Queen, we bring a touch of sophistication to this disco classic while keeping all the fun and energy that makes it a crowd favorite. The violins add a sparkling brightness, while the cello and viola keep the rhythm driving forward. It’s a guaranteed way to get your guests smiling and swaying—and maybe even hitting the dance floor! Live music brings an energy and spontaneity that makes this moment unforgettable.

5. Viva La Vida - Coldplay

Coldplay’s Viva La Vida is an epic anthem that we love performing for grand entrances or exits. The song’s dramatic crescendos and iconic melody translate beautifully to strings, and we take pride in building that sense of grandeur and emotion. When we play it live, we can feel the energy in the room shift—it’s a moment that feels both celebratory and deeply moving. Live musicians like us add a sense of occasion that makes this song truly shine.

6. Concerning Hobbits from Lord of the Rings

For the couples who love a touch of whimsy and nostalgia, we adore playing Concerning Hobbits. This piece is all about warmth, joy, and adventure—qualities that perfectly reflect the start of your journey together. We love bringing out its folksy charm, with the violins and cello weaving together to create a sound that’s both playful and heartfelt. It’s a beautiful choice for a prelude or during the signing of the register, and live music adds a personal touch that makes it uniquely yours.

7. Merry Go Round of Life from Howl’s Moving Castle

Joe Hisaishi’s Merry Go Round of Life is one of our favorite pieces to perform. Its waltz-like rhythm and enchanting melody are a perfect fit for a string quartet, and we love bringing out its delicate beauty. Whether it’s played during the ceremony or as a first dance, this piece adds a touch of magic to your day. Live musicians like us can adapt the tempo and phrasing to match the mood, creating a moment that feels truly special. View our YouTube short: https://youtube.com/shorts/EbgJ4MKt1KE?si=PSSS40HesTQqAT3r

8. You Are the Reason - Calum Scott & Leona Lewis

This heartfelt duet is a wedding favorite for a reason, and we love performing it with all the emotion it deserves. The interplay between the violins and cello mirrors the song’s call-and-response structure, creating a deeply moving performance that’s perfect for a first dance or a special moment during the ceremony. Live music brings a warmth and authenticity to the performance, ensuring that every note resonates with you and your guests.

9. Texas Hold ‘Em - Beyoncé

Yes, we can even bring Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ‘Em to life on strings! This country-infused bop is a fun, unexpected addition to any wedding, and we love leaning into its playful energy. The violins add a touch of twang, while the cello keeps the rhythm grounded. It’s a guaranteed way to get your guests smiling and dancing. Live musicians bring a sense of fun and spontaneity that makes this moment unforgettable.

10. This Will Be - Natalie Cole

Natalie Cole’s This Will Be is a timeless celebration of love, and we love capturing its joyful, soulful spirit. The upbeat tempo and infectious melody make it a great choice for the recessional or cocktail hour. When we perform it, we bring out the song’s exuberance, with the violins adding a touch of sparkle and the cello keeping the rhythm driving forward. Live music brings an energy and vitality that makes this moment feel as joyful and celebratory as it should.

11. Yellow - Coldplay

We’re ending with another Coldplay classic because, well, it’s Coldplay. Yellow is a song that radiates warmth and devotion, and we love highlighting its simple yet profound beauty. When we perform it, we focus on bringing out the song’s emotional peaks and valleys, creating a moment that feels intimate and heartfelt. It’s a gorgeous choice for a first dance or as you take your first steps together as partners for life. Live music brings a sense of connection that makes this moment truly special.

Why Choose Nova Classica for Your Wedding?

At Nova Classica, we believe that music is the heartbeat of any celebration. As a modern string quartet, we specialize in blending the timeless elegance of classical music with the contemporary songs that mean the most to you. Whether you’re walking down the aisle to Concerning Hobbits or dancing the night away to Dancing Queen, we’re here to make your wedding day uniquely yours.

Based in Orlando, Florida, we’re available for weddings and events both locally and beyond. We love traveling to new places and bringing our music to couples who are as passionate about their soundtrack as they are about each other. From the first note to the last, we’re committed to creating an experience that’s as extraordinary as your love story.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that’s equal parts classic and contemporary, we’d love to be a part of it. Let’s create a soundtrack that you and your guests will remember for years to come.

Cheers to love, laughter, and music that speaks to the heart. 🎻✨

Nova Classica Orlando, Florida | Available for Travel & Bookings

Contact abigail@novaclassicastrings.com