INFO | Synchronicity Strings

ABOUT

Since 2005 we have been wowing audiences with fresh interpretations of modern pop and rock favorites.

Synchronicity Strings is a collective of versatile musicians, all trained to the highest standard at some of the world’s most celebrated music conservatories.

The musicians of Synchronicity Strings bring an irresistible energy to every performance and a vibe that is fresh, exciting and unforgettable.

Our versatile approach, innovative arrangements and professional service make us the most hotly sought after string ensemble.

Available for events, performances and recordings in the SF Bay Area, Northern California and beyond.

For weddings, corporate and social events, Synchronicity Strings is the #1 music pick for San Francisco's top event planners: Laurie Arons Special Events, Downey Street Events, Chaz Crozier @ CCEvents, Morgan Doan, Jennifer Stone @ La Grande Fête etc.

Synchronicity Strings is owned and managed by Rachel Turner Houk.

Born to organize! (or my two younger brothers might say "be bossy"...) I am a British born USA implant who studied cello in London (Trinity College of Music) and New Jersey (Rutgers University), lived in Germany, Oakland and now I enjoy the cold winters of Detroit, Michigan.

I founded Synchronicity Strings in 2005 and have since successfully coordinated string music for well over 1000 special events.

I will work with you to provide TOP-NOTCH music for your event. Every occasion is unique and different. I enjoy working with you to find the best combination of ensemble and repertoire to perfectly match your event's uniqueness. I will guide you through the entire process: selecting the best ensemble to match your budget and venue size, choosing the music selections, advising on special requests and day of event set up and cues.

I've been told my ability to stay calm in all situations makes me the dream music coordinator. Over the years I've definitely faced some interesting situations (TLC's "Four Weddings" cameras in our faces; wind attempting to blow over the canopy; bride no-show to name but a few). My extensive experience helps me handle every event with grace and calm. I believe it's my job to provide you a superior musical performance - no matter what.

Rachel Turner Houk

POP String Quartet

When you know you want the sound and look of strings, but the songs of your favorite bands; Synchronicity Strings is your group!

For the past 20+ years I have been exploring the many ways to play rock & pop on strings. This has led to performances with the living music legends Green Day, Stevie Wonder, Barbara Streisand, Smokey Robinson, Nena, Robin Gibbs (The Bee Gee's), Machine Head, Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), Tommy Lee, Josh Groban, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and plenty of collaborations with local singer songwriters.

This love of popular music, and quest to make string playing relevant to 21st Century audiences, has prompted me to write 100's of unique pop/rock arrangements for string quartet. These enthralling string versions capture the rhythmic drive of the original tunes while assimilating the unique qualities of strings.

Book the best ensemble to match your budget, venue and event size:

STRING QUARTET

- 2 violins, viola, cello.

This is our core ensemble with PLENTY of arrangements.

STRING TRIO

- Violin, viola & cello

For the more budget conscious, or for a small venue, the trio is a good option. Removing one of the inner parts of the quartet, arrangements have a simpler texture and quieter volume to the full quartet.

STRING DUO - violin & cello

SOLO VIOLIN - acoustic or electric

SOLO CELLO - acoustic or electric

STRING ORCHESTRA - we offer a full string orchestra, up to 24 string players.

Other options:

We can add a KEYBOARD player to the ensemble. This works well for longer bookings.

We can also add a VOCALIST, HARP, TRUMPET or FLUTE player to the mix. We collaborate frequently with California's finest musicians.