Today we’d like to introduce you to Claire + Kristi Whitcomb + Monte.
Hi Claire + Kristi, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Southern Strings started as a natural collaboration between two friends and musicians who share a deep love for weddings, live performance, and the artistry of string music. We met through a mutual colleague and quickly realized that not only did we have a strong friendship, but we also had complementary experience running our own respective music businesses.
After just one wine and charcuterie night, we knew we had something special. Before we knew it, we were combining our expertise, our passion for performing, and our connections within Nashville’s incredible string community to create an ensemble that offers a truly elevated and personalized musical experience!
Over time, as demand grew, we expanded beyond Nashville to serve several other cities throughout the South, bringing our signature sound and professionalism to even more couples and events. We’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most talented string players in these regions, allowing us to deliver the same high-quality performances across multiple locations.
Our goal is to provide a joyful and timeless string experience, and we take pride in working closely with our clients to bring their vision to life. Southern Strings has grown through word-of-mouth, incredible client support, and our dedication to creating a seamless and elegant atmosphere through live string music. We’re honored to be a part of so many special moments and look forward to continuing to make musical memories for years to come!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like any growing business, we’ve had to navigate important decisions to facilitate our expansion and determine the path we want Southern Strings to take. As we’ve grown into multiple markets beyond Nashville, we’ve had to be intentional about maintaining the same high-quality experience while building relationships with talented musicians in each new location.
When we first started in early 2021, we thought launching during the tail end of COVID restrictions might be a challenge. Weddings and events had been on hold, and there was still some uncertainty in the industry. However, it turned out to be perfect timing! Couples were eager to finally celebrate their weddings, and live music became an essential part of creating those long-awaited special moments.
While growth always comes with its own set of challenges, we’ve learned to adapt, refine our processes, and focus on what truly matters: providing an exceptional musical experience for every event we’re part of.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
At Southern Strings, we specialize in providing live string duo, trio, and quartets for weddings, special events, and private gatherings. Our ensembles range from soloists to full quartets, offering a timeless and elegant atmosphere tailored to each client’s vision. We are known for our versatility, whether it’s classical repertoire, pop covers, or custom song arrangements, we bring a unique and personalized touch to every performance.
One of the things we’re most proud of is our ability to create meaningful, unforgettable moments through live music. There’s something truly special about hearing strings play a song that holds deep significance for a couple as they walk down the aisle or share their first dance. Being part of those emotional, once-in-a-lifetime experiences is an honor we don’t take lightly.
What sets us apart is our attention to detail, our deep network of talented musicians, and our ability to seamlessly blend professionalism with warmth and personality. We don’t just show up and play; we work closely with our clients to curate a setlist that enhances their event, ensuring the music feels intentional and enhances the overall experience.
Additionally, we have extended the company to multiple cities beyond Nashville, including Chattanooga, Knoxville, Bowling Green, Lexington, Huntsville, Charlottesville, Richmond, Harrisonburg, and Cincinnati. We are committed to making high-quality live string music more accessible across the region no matter the location, and we always maintain the same level of artistry and care that our clients have come to expect.
Ultimately, Southern Strings is about more than just music; it’s about creating a feeling, setting a mood, and making special moments even more magical!
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
Over the next 5–10 years, we expect to see a continued appreciation for live music at weddings and events, but with evolving trends that shape how musicians like us adapt. One major shift we anticipate is the growing demand for personalized and non-traditional music selections. Couples are moving away from strictly classical pieces and leaning toward unique string arrangements of pop, indie, and even film or video game music to make their weddings feel more personal and reflective of their love stories.
Technology will also play a bigger role in how live music is booked and experienced. From AI-assisted music planning tools to seamless online booking platforms, clients will likely expect a more streamlined and interactive planning process. Social media and video content will also continue to influence how musicians showcase their work, making high-quality recordings and live-streamed performances even more valuable.
Another trend we see growing is the expansion of live music beyond just ceremonies and cocktail hours. More couples and event planners are incorporating live strings into receptions, proposals, corporate events, and even luxury dining experiences, recognizing the unique ambiance live musicians create.
Despite these changes, one thing remains constant—the power of live music to elevate a moment and create an unforgettable atmosphere. At Southern Strings, we’re excited to continue adapting to industry trends while staying true to what we do best: delivering exceptional live string performances with heart and professionalism.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.southernstringsmusic.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southernstrings_music/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthernStringsMusic/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/98183120/admin/dashboard/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SouthernStringsMusic/videos
- Other: https://www.southernstringsmusic.com/blog
