Live Cello for Your Wedding or Event
There’s something about live music that a playlist simply can’t replicate — a warmth, a presence, a sense that this moment was made for exactly this occasion.
I’m Will Barrett, a professional cellist based in the San Francisco Bay Area. I play for weddings, corporate events, private celebrations, and intimate gatherings throughout the Peninsula and beyond. Whether you’re envisioning something classic and timeless or something unexpected and personal, I’d love to be part of your day.
What I play
Classical standards, contemporary pop, film scores, folk, and jazz — and I’m always happy to learn a song that’s meaningful to you. Some of the most requested pieces at Bay Area weddings include music by Bach, Pachelbel, Ed Sheeran, Coldplay, Beyoncé, and Taylor Swift, arranged for solo cello.
What I can cover
Ceremony — processional, signing, recessional
Cocktail hour — elegant background music while guests mingle
Reception — dinner music, first dance, special moments
Corporate events, private parties, and intimate gatherings
Where I perform
Throughout the San Francisco Bay Area, including the Peninsula, Marin, the East Bay, and beyond. I travel for destination events with advance notice. Indoor and outdoor venues both welcome — I can perform acoustically or with a small, unobtrusive sound system for larger outdoor spaces.
Wedding & Event Pricing
I believe in straightforward, transparent pricing. Below are my standard packages — most weddings fall into one of these, and I’m always happy to put together a custom quote for more complex timelines.
Ceremony packages
Ceremony & Prelude - $500
Up to 2 hours of music — prelude music as guests are seated, processional, signing, recessional. Ideal for couples who want live music for the ceremony and a DJ or playlist for the rest of the day.
Ceremony, Prelude & Cocktail Hour - $650
Everything in Ceremony Only, plus 1 hour of music for your cocktail hour. Creates a complete musical arc from arrival through drinks and horderves.
Corporate & private events
Background Music (up to 2 hours) - $500
Ideal for cocktail receptions, gallery openings, product launches, and private dinners. Acoustic or lightly amplified.
Extended Event (2–4 hours) - $900
For longer corporate events, galas, or multi-hour private celebrations. Includes a short break per hour.
[NOTE: For events over 4 hours or requiring custom arrangements, contact me for a custom quote.]
Add-ons
Custom song arrangement — $75 per song (I arrange it specifically for solo cello)
Rehearsal attendance — $200 (ceremony run-through with officiant and wedding party)
Travel beyond 1 hour from San Francisco — $50/hour round trip
Amplification for outdoor/large venues — included at no extra charge. Electricity required.
How booking works
1. Reach out with your date, venue, and a rough sense of what you’re looking for.
2. We’ll have a quick call to talk through your vision, your repertoire, and any questions.
3. I’ll send a simple contract and invoice for a 50% deposit to hold your date.
4. The balance is due two weeks before your event.
I accept credit card, check, and bank transfer.
Let’s talk about your day
Every event is different. I offer a free consultation call so we can talk through your vision, your timeline, and your repertoire before you commit to anything.
📞 415.236.3888