If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Looking for high-energy, up-to-the-minute music for a spirited party? Or an elegant performer with over twenty years of experience performing at weddings and functions from San Francisco City Hall to Google HQ and with notable artists from Andrea Bocelli to ODESZA, the Eagles and Michael Buble to Josh Groban? A highly skilled musician who has been playing since the age of two, conservatory educated, who appears with almost every orchestra and many chamber ensembles throughout the Bay Area and far beyond?
As one of the area's leading violinists, whether at a lavish wedding or a beachfront proposal, I can perform for you on acoustic or electric violin as soloist, with cello, electric guitar, or other instruments. My repertoire spans everything from classical to current R&B, pop, rock, and blues. Sometimes, I appear backed by iPad tracks or a DJ if that's the aesthetic you're looking for, usually a higher energy 'full band' feel.
I enjoy the rapport with audiences large and small and I hope to meet and connect with you.
Overview
Hired 124 times
19 similar jobs done near you
Background checked
24 years in business
Business hours
This pro hasn't listed their business hours.
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Cash, PayPal, Square cash app, Venmo, and Zelle.
Top Pros are among the highest-rated, most popular professionals on Thumbtack.
2021
2018
2017
Services offered
Music types
Event type
Wedding reception
Wedding ceremony
Birthday party
Cocktail hour
Music genres
Pop / top 40
Rock / classic rock
Jazz / Blues
Mariachi
Projects and media
Projects and media
Reviews
Customers rated this pro highly for professionalism, work quality, and responsiveness.
Exceptional 5.0
80 reviews
5
99%
4
1%
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0%
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0%
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Read reviews that mention:
Sili W.
Jun 10, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
We had the absolute pleasure of working with Ilana for our wedding, and she was truly exceptional from start to finish. Not only is she a lovely, warm, and professional musician to work with, but her musicality is on par with that of an experienced orchestral soloist. Every piece she played was filled with nuance, elegance, and artistry, and she elevated the entire atmosphere of our event.
So many of our guests commented on how beautiful the music was, and her performance added a level of sophistication that made the day feel incredibly special.
If you're looking for elevated live music that will genuinely enhance your event, book her. We couldn't recommend her more highly!!!!!!
Details: Wedding ceremony • 26 - 50 guests • 18 - 30 years old • Other strings • Guitar • Oldies • Variety • Dance • Jazz / Blues • Other • Other
Music Entertainment
Jada H.
Mar 22, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Ilana was so easy to work with. She is not only SO talented, but also made booking, setlist/song list choices based on her experience, coordination with the DJ and the venue so stress fee. We got SO many compliments from family and friends saying it was the best wedding they’ve ever been to and I know our wedding would not have been nearly as elegant or romantic without her beautiful violin playing🎻 Thank you so much!!!
Details: Wedding ceremony • 51 - 75 guests • 18 - 30 years old • 31 - 50 years old • Other strings • Covers • Other • Outdoors
Music Entertainment
Nara S.
Apr 16, 2025
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Hired on Thumbtack
We had the pleasure of having Ilana perform at our son’s first birthday party, and she was absolutely fantastic! Her music was lovely—elegant, soothing, and added such a special touch to the whole celebration. She created a beautiful atmosphere that both the adults and little ones enjoyed. Professional, friendly, and incredibly talented, she truly helped make the day memorable. Highly recommended!
Details: Birthday party • 26 - 50 guests • 31 - 50 years old • Vocals • Other strings • No preference • Covers • Other • Other
Music Entertainment
Yolande T.
Dec 24, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
I had the pleasure of hiring Ilana for my recent birthday party, and she was absolutely fantastic! Her talent and professionalism truly stood out, and she added an elegant and enchanting touch to the evening.
The ambiance of the event was elevated thanks to her beautiful performance, which perfectly complemented the mood and setting. My guests were so impressed, and her music was one of the highlights of the night.
If you’re looking for a skilled and professional musician to bring a special charm to your event, I highly recommend Ilana. She exceeded all expectations and made the night unforgettable.
Details: Cocktail hour • 25 guests or fewer • 18 - 30 years old • 31 - 50 years old • 51 or older • Piano • Other strings • Guitar • Band • No preference • Jazz / Blues • Outdoors
Music Entertainment
Neera N.
Sep 15, 2024
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Hired on Thumbtack
I hired Ilana and her son (on guitar) for my 40th birthday celebration - an outdoor backyard party. She was AWESOME - truly made my party an unforgettable experience. She came with plenty of time ahead of schedule so that they could setup and be ready to go, and provided a mix of live music (with backing tracks) as well as a playlist during her breaks (so we never had awkward silence). The volume was perfect for background music, and she provided us with a mic for speeches etc. Her songlist was phenomenal - everything from Dua Lipa to Michael Jackson to Bollywood songs - wow! My guests were in awe :) Thank you so much Ilana!
Details: Birthday party • 26 - 50 guests • 31 - 50 years old • Guitar • Other strings • No preference • Oldies • Variety • Pop / top 40 • Covers • Outdoors
Music Entertainment
Credentials
Background Check
Ilana Thomas
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Event rates are calculated based on a phone/email consultation about your needs, and vary according to location, number of musicians requested, custom arrangements, and other factors. I work hard to find a solution to keep events on budget while guaranteeing the best possible quality of performance. The stated rate in my profile is the rate for solo acoustic violin, my most minimal service. There are additional hourly charges for amplification/backing tracks/additional musicians. I do have a two hour minimum for most events, but in the case of a very short event (e.g. a proposal) where only one or two songs are required, I am willing to consider a discount off my usual two hour rate if scheduling permits. Most events also incur a small booking charge to cover my advertising on this site, and some events include a travel fee. All costs will be clear up front from the time you receive your initial quote, and will be clearly indicated in the professional contract you will receive when booking.
For violin lessons, I charge $45 per half hour lesson, $65 per 45 minutes, and $80 per hour.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
I begin with a phone/email consultation to determine the needs of the client, then work from there. I offer hands on, personalized planning from start to finish and enjoy developing a relationship with my clients that allows me to completely understand their needs & visions.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
B.M. from Oberlin Conservatory
SF Conservatory of Music
