String trio/quartet question

Hello -
Could someone please let me know if a string trio or quartet can learn a piece of music without sheet music? I have a song in mind that is instrumental, sounds like 3 part strings, by Loreena McKennett called the Two Trees. Her publishers, Quinlan Road, sell her sheet music but not for this particular piece. It's been a dream of mine to walk down the aisle to this song since I first heard it. What can be done? I have heard of paid services to transcribe the music to sheet music, but they seem very expensive. Can a string trio or quartet learn a song from a recording. I'm stumped. Any responses are appreciated!

Hello,

This is a valid question to ask.

Most classically trained string performers do not learn music readily by ear or by just listening to a selection on CD although hearing a selection which they are to learn (which they will learn and practice with sheet music) is always helpful.
Their orientation and formal training is to learn a piece of music by studying and practicing the sheet music which contains all of the music notes which they are to play, writtten out as in each and every note.

We have helped many brides and grooms with off beat or unusual requests.
For the most part, when I must create a special arrangement which entails writing out or clicking the mouse for each and every note on a music writing program, we assess a charge to create this special arrangement.
If the song is really simple and will not be difficult for me to arrange (at my discretion) I sometimes create an arrangement occasionally as a courtesy to the client for no charge.
Classiclly trained musicians do need to have their notes written out for them in order to perform any given musical selection.

I hope this helps!

Natalie Kriegler
Artistic Director,
The Capriccio Ensemble

That was very helpful, thank you. I have some musical background, and have even arranged music (for a cappella voices where the rules are..anything goes) from recordings, but this piece is very daunting, so I'm not sure what I'll end up doing, but your response helps explain the process.
Thanks!

Dear Sharon,

I am happy to know that my reply has been of help to you.

I have also sent you a forum mail with more information regarding your inquiry.
Feel free to contact me for more information.

With Best Wishes,

Natalie Kriegler
Artistic Director
The Capriccio Ensemble
212-923-4807