Type of Performer(s) or Business
Primary Instrument(s)
Style of Music
Message from the team
Experience
What is your most memorable wedding?
Every wedding has its own unique memories, but one of the most memorable experiences for me occurred when I played for the Royal Family's Director of Travel. After I had finished playing the themes from the "633 Squadron" and "Battle of Britain" films, we were all treated to a unforgettable low level aerobatic display by a Spitfire that flew in specially. I'll never forget the incredible sound and spectacle of the aircraft swooping over our heads at tree top level!
Describe your style in 5 adjectives.
Romantic (obviously with my company name being "Romantic Piano")! - Versatile - Easy going - Friendly - Diligent
What about your business are you most proud of?
I'm quite proud of my online customer reviews, of which there are over 200. It takes a bit of time and effort for customers to add a review, so I'm always very grateful when they do. I think independent reviews can really helps couples to make an informed decision when they are faced with so many options.
What is your No.1 wedding planning tip for couples?
A rather boring answer, but I believe that booking wedding insurance is really important for all couples who are investing hard-earned cash in their big day. If I'm allowed to sneak in a 2nd tip I would also recommend aiming to "put your feet up" and relax at least 7 days before the wedding. That way, you can just focus on enjoying the final run-up to the big day without stressing too much.
What is your favourite personal touch you have seen at a wedding?
I've seen many lovely personal moments at weddings over the years, but one of the my favourites was at Kilworth House in Leicestershire. It's always a special moment when the bride arrives at the venue, but at this particular wedding the groom had specially arranged for her to be greeted by a guard of honour from the Grenadier Guards (the groom and his friends were footmen for Her Majesty the Queen). The pomp and ceremony made the wedding even more memorable and spectacular.
Describe your typical process with a couple.
The vast majority of my enquiries come through the internet and I usually have quite long email exchanges with couples answering their queries.. I do like chatting to people though, so I always encourage couples to give me a call if they prefer. They can also come and see me in action at one of the local wedding fayres.
What makes a romantic first dance?
Everyone has different musical tastes of course, so my opinion would differ from many others. I would recommend couples always choose a song that means something to them both personally. If however, there's nothing that really comes to mind, tried and tested classics such as "At Last" or "When a Man Loves a Woman" would be a great choice.
What is your number one floor-filler?
The piano doesn't usually feature as part of the evening party, but if it did, I think Bruno Mars' "Marry You" would be a good song to start with.
Which band from the past would you most like to have been part of?
Famous bands aside, I would love to go back in time and play again in the Bishop Walsh School Jazz Band. We had so much fun!
What is the soundtrack to your life?
To be honest, I love everything from Palestrina to Pink, so it would be very difficult to choose.