Introduction: A PIANIST IS BUDGET-CONSCIOUS AND CLASSY. You can still have classy live music at your event without the high price-tag of a band. Don't have a piano? No problem. I'll bring my own digital piano and sound system. I transport my equipment every weekend and my husband is a sound engineer. We are professionals and we make sure I sound good.
YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR. HIRE AN EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL. Maybe your sister's teenage son plays piano and will do it for $50, but do you really think he's up to playing three hours of music while dazzling your guests, without repeating the same 8 songs over and over? Will he know how to match the songs to the energy and vibe of the party, and get everyone's attention for a toast? And has he ever played in a professional capacity? It's probably better to hire a professional than a novice.
You want someone with decades of experience....someone with:
a) a vast repertoire and the ability to improvise, take requests, play Happy Birthday, etc.
b) experience playing for three-hour blocks at hotel lobbies, fancy parties, receptions, and corporate events. I was hand-selected as the resident pianist at the 5-Star Salamander Resort and Spa, where I played 3 hours a night, 3 nights a week for their inaugural year. For over ten years, I have done the same for many restaurants and prestigious DC venues.
b) a track record of happy, repeat customers (I have many who hire me every year for Christmas parties and corporate events)
c) professional conduct (excellent communication, professional appearance, reliable and early arrival, and doesn't play under the influence of substances)
d) easy digital contract and electronic payment options
I PLAY THE SONGS PEOPLE LOVE!
I've had years to listen to what people request, and if I don't know it, I go home and learn it. I've built my song list around the most requested hits from the great American songbook. When your guests start arriving, I'll provide an easy-listening mix of light jazz, classical, and soft rock hits. As the party energy increases, I'll dial up the fun with swingy show tunes (think Sinatra) and familiar upbeat pop tunes. My jazz and show tune selections are from the 20's to 2000's and my popular repertoire is from the 60s to today ( some examples are Cole Porter, Joabim, Gershwin, Joplin, Puccini, Jerome Kern, Rodgers & Hart, Beatles, Billy Joel, Elton John, Coldplay, John Legend, etc). I also sprinkle my own compositions throughout.
