Singing Pianists in London

Singing Pianists in London: What to Know

A singing pianist combines live vocals with expert piano accompaniment, covering modern chart hits, soul classics, jazz standards and musical theatre. For event planners and venues, this is a compact, flexible option that delivers the feel of a band without the logistics of multiple performers.

What to Expect

Set structure: Most London singing pianists offer 2×45 or 3×40-minute sets with short breaks. Preparation: Performers typically arrive 60–90 minutes early to set up, sound-check and coordinate timings. Repertoire: You can request background ambience for receptions, upbeat sing-along sets later in the evening, or elegant dinner music. Many will learn a special request (first dance or walk-in) with advance notice.

Suitable Occasions

Weddings: Ceremony, drinks reception and wedding breakfast. Corporate: Award dinners, brand activations and networking. Private events: Birthdays, anniversaries and house parties. Hospitality: Hotels, restaurants and bars. Seasonal: Christmas parties and New Year’s Eve. The format suits venues with limited space or sound caps due to its small footprint and controllable volume.

Prices and Practicalities

Typical fees: From £300–£450 for short daytime bookings; £500–£900 for evening events or peak dates. Premium performers or extended hours can exceed £1,000. Variables: Date, set length, travel/parking, repertoire prep, and whether a piano is provided onsite. Extras: Early load-ins, late finishes, or arranging multiple special songs may incur additional charges.

Equipment and Space

What’s included: If no tuned acoustic piano is available, most artists supply a high-quality stage keyboard, compact PA (suitable for up to ~100 guests), microphone and cabling. Power: One–two 13A sockets. Space: About 2×2 metres for keyboard, stool and speaker. Compliance: Many carry PAT-tested gear and £1–£10m Public Liability Insurance; venues often require proof in advance.

Booking Considerations

Logistics: Confirm date, access and parking/loading early. Share the event timeline, dress code and any noise limiters; request a low-volume plan if needed. Programming: Provide a brief “do-not-play” list and flag key moments (speeches, cake cut, first dance) so sets flow with your schedule. Contracts: Ensure the agreement covers start/finish times, breaks, overrun rates, cancellation terms and the contingency if the venue’s piano is out of tune.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book a London singing pianist?

Six to twelve weeks is sensible; peak summer Saturdays and December dates fill first.

Can they play without power?

Most require mains power. Some offer battery-powered setups for outdoor ceremonies—ask in advance.

Will they learn our song?

Usually one special request is included with 2–4 weeks’ notice. Extra arrangements may incur a fee.

How loud is it?

Volume is highly controllable. A single speaker suits small rooms; larger spaces may need an upgraded PA.

Do we need to provide anything?

A clear, level space, nearby power, sturdy chair or stool, and water. If using a venue piano, ensure it’s recently tuned.