Whether you’re planning a chic downtown wedding or a cozy Hill Country dinner party, finding the right violinist can elevate your event from memorable to magical. San Francisco’s vibrant music scene is home to some of the most talented string musicians in the country — from classical quartets to genre-bending soloists.
Below are eight of the most skilled violinists and string ensembles in San Francisco, perfect for adding elegance and energy to your next private event.
Rose Crelli
Rose Crelli is the Bay Area’s most sought after San Francisco violinist for hire, receiving glowing 5 star client reviews with a record number of 219 performances in 2024. Conservatory and classically trained, Rose specializes in performing mesmerizing, engaging electric violin covers of Top 40, pops, hip hop, R&B, jazz, Bay Area music, classical and even Bollywood music.
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Ilana
“””Showstopping.”” “”A Dream to Work With.”” “”Next Level.”” “”The Bomb.””These are just a few of the glowing reviews from couples and event planners who have booked Ilana Blumberg Thomas, one of the most sought-after wedding and event violinists in San Francisco.”
Briana Di Mara
Welcome to Briana’s Violin Studio in Oakland, CA! Briana is a passionate instructor to students of all ages (3 and above). She became a certified Suzuki method instructor in 2002 and infuses lessons with her diverse musical background. Students appreciate her energetic yet patient teaching style and the wide variety of music they learn, as well as solid violin technique and Suzuki inspired philosophy and approach.
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Benjamin Barnes
Artist / Educator / Musician 2023 SF ARTS COMMISSION SF Artist Award grant earmarked for concert 2024
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Karsten Windt
Born in Berlin, Germany, violinist Karsten Windt performs as a freelance chamber and orchestra musician and teaches music in the greater San Francisco Bay Area.
Sarah Biagini
California-based violinist, Sarah Biagini is a multi-faceted performer with a wide range of professional experience spanning from orchestral playing and recordings to performing alongside rock bands. Sarah is Assistant Principal Second of Santa Cruz Symphony and also regularly performs with multiple orchestras in the bay area including California Symphony, Modesto Symphony, Symphony San Jose, and she served as concertmaster for Pocket Opera’s various opera performances.
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Michael Lu
My name is Michael Lu, and I am a violinist based in the San Francisco Bay Area (more specifically Sunnyvale, California) with over 25 years of performance experience. Classically trained via the Suzuki Violin Method, I also have extensive improv experience creating violin renditions of popular songs of today as well as writing customized string ensemble arrangements.
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Alfiya Glow
Experience the unforgettable sound of Alfiya Glow, an internationally acclaimed electric violinist, female DJ, and producer now available for high-end events in San Francisco, CA. Alfiya Glow performs at premier San Francisco venues including The Fairmont, The St. Regis, The Conservatory of Flowers, The Palace Hotel, and Cavallo Point. Her performances are ideal for luxury weddings, elevated corporate events, and private celebrations across the Bay Area, from iconic city landmarks to refined wine country escapes.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a romantic wedding in the Hill Country or a luxurious downtown gala, these San Francisco-based violinists and ensembles bring exceptional musicianship to every event. Each artist or group on this list offers something unique — from classical elegance to creative fusion — ensuring you find the perfect fit for your celebration.
📩 Need help booking the right violinist for your event? Reach out anytime at dreamteam@booklive.com — we’d love to help bring your vision to life.