FAQ
The Answers You Need
WHAT IF THE VENUE DOESN'T HAVE A PIANO?
If the venue does not have a suitable piano, I will bring a Nord Stage 2 HA88 keyboard featuring some of the finest sampled pianos commercially available. This is amplified through a pair of Yamaha DSR112 speakers capable of reproducing the piano sounds in a large space.
WHAT IF THE VENUE DOESN'T HAVE A PIANO?
If the venue does not have a suitable piano, I will bring a Nord Stage 2 HA88 keyboard featuring some of the finest sampled pianos commercially available. This is amplified through a pair of speakers capable of reproducing the piano sounds in a large space.
CAN I CHOOSE WHAT MATERIAL IS OR ISN'T INCLUDED IN THE SET?
You are welcome to let me know any particular songs you would like to be included from the repertoire. Additionally, if any particular songs don't float your boat, these can be omitted from the set. I will ask for any preferences during the booking process.
CAN YOU PERFORM WITH OUR KEYBOARD OUTSIDE?
This of course partly depends on the weather and if playing outside is requested, I will need to make a judgment call on the day. Access to mains power nearby will also be required.
CAN YOU PLAY WITHOUT BREAKS?
Yes I can play without breaks providing nature doesn't call at an inconvenient time.
WHAT WILL YOU BE WEARING?
As standard, for a private function I will be wearing a suit. If you would prefer a more casual attire just let me know. Being a Scotsman, I can also come in a kilt and the like.
HOW LONG WILL YOU NEED TO SET UP?
If using my own equipment, after loading the equipment into the venue, set up should take roughly 10-15 minutes
HOW LONG DO YOU PLAY FOR?
This partly depends on how long you want me to play for. At the moment my repertoire probably extends past the 3 hour mark. You can book me for a minimum of 1 hour with the option of half hour increments past that when Booking Online. For wedding ceremonies, please allow at least 1 hour to include playing for guests arriving, bridal entrance, signing of the register and exit.
CAN YOU PLAY IN MORE THAN ONE LOCATION THROUGHOUT THE EVENT?
Yes. If required to move my equipment to another part of a venue, this should take slightly longer than the normal set up to to accommodate moving it. If there is a usable piano at the venue, I can set up my own equipment as well in advance and simply switch between them as required. If I am required to play in more than one venue i.e. a church, then separate wedding reception, adequate travel time will be added.
DO YOU HAVE PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE?
Yes. Please let me know if your venue requires a copy of the PLI certificate.
IS YOUR EQUIPMENT PAT TESTED?
Yes. This covers my keyboard, speakers, mixing desk, power cables and lights.
DO YOU CHARGE EXTRA FOR TRAVEL?
Travel time and the cost of fuel is included in the performance price for anywhere within 20 miles drive of my home address in Chepstow. An additional linear charge will be added for anything further.
CAN YOU ACCOMPANY A SINGER?
Sometimes I am asked to accompany a singer to perform a song e.g. a first dance at a wedding. This should be discussed well in advance to allow preparation e.g. deciding an appropriate key and a rehearsal or providing the singer with a recording of me playing the piano part.
DO YOU TAKE REQUESTS?
I am always on the look out for suitable new songs to add to my repertoire, so if you have a request - let me know and I will see what I can do. I will also have a current repertoire with me on the day for on the spot requests.