Frequently Asked Questions
There is so much to think about when preparing for your special day. I have compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions that clients ask me. I hope these answer some of your initial questions.The Piano
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In my standard packages I use a professional stage keyboard with speakers that is adequate for most venue sizes. A popular option is to add my DutchGrand Piano to the booking. It can really add the wow factor, giving a classy and elegant look. I like to give my clients the option regarding this, as every venue is different and some even have a lovely Grand Piano that I can use!
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This depends on a number of factors including if my DutchGrand Piano is being used. Generally I aim to be at the venue around 2 hours prior, to ensure everything is ready and in place.
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I will communicate with the venue to be placed in the most suitable location. However if you have a particular preference, please let me know so I am aware and can make this happen.
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For the use of my DutchGrand Piano, I require a minimum area of 2m x 2m. If my Stage keyboard is being used, a smaller area is sufficient.
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I am more than happy to perform outdoors, however do ask that consideration is given for a ‘Plan B’ in the event of rain. This could be having a covered area or moving inside. On hot days a shaded area is appreciated to protect myself and my equipment.
When necessary I am able to make my setup fully self sufficient with a battery to power all equipment. This is especially useful when the outdoor area is away from any power supply, and prevents having to use long extension cables!
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If you have booked me for multiple parts of your day, it may be possible for me to move my DutchGrand Piano depending on how close the areas are. At venues where there is a Grand Piano already, I can setup my DutchGrand Piano for the other part of the day. All of this can be discussed during the booking process.
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Yes - this can be provided on request and also given to your venue when required.
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Yes - as with my PLI, this can be provided on request and also given to your venue when required.
The Music
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Absolutely, if you would like to! I have an extensive repertoire list for you to choose from. This is your special day and it’s important to be happy with the music being performed.
Some clients take a hands-on approach and will send me specific song lists and ceremony music choices. Others will want my advice as to which songs would be most suitable.
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When playing for your ceremony, there is usually around 30 minutes of pre-ceremony music. This can be selected from my repertoire list or chosen by myself based on your music preferences.
The ceremony itself requires some thought as it is a very personal choice deciding which songs you would like for the bridal entrance, signing of the register and exit. If you are unsure about what music to have, I can provide suggestions to give you some inspiration. I will work with you to ensure a truly personal song list is chosen.
A drinks reception and wedding breakfast are both longer parts of the day - I play around 25-30 songs for each depending on their length. It’s entirely your choice of whether you would like to provide me with song choices for this - often couples will request certain songs or even a list of their favourite artists, and I will tailor my set to feature these. It’s important to consider that weddings often have a wide age range with lots of musical tastes, so often having a little bit of everything works best!
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I will be in touch 1-2 months before your wedding to confirm all details, and this includes song choices (most importantly ceremony music). You are more than welcome to get in touch before this to discuss song choices or any other details about your big day.
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Absolutely! Whilst I am the Yorkshire Wedding Pianist and predominatly accept bookings on my own, I have a long list of musicians that I’ve been fortunate to work with. Therefore if for example you want to book me but add another instrument for part or all of the day, I will be able to make this happen!
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Depending on the planned length of the drinks reception or wedding breakfast, I will take a short break at an appropriate point (for example when the photographer wants to borrow everybody for a group shot - this is almost guaranteed!) When the drinks reception or wedding breakfast is on the shorter side, I will play right through.
The Booking Process
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For all bookings a deposit of £100 is required to secure the date. I also send you a booking confirmation form to e-sign, which contains terms of the booking and all relevant details for your wedding.
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My wedding packages include travel of up to 50 miles. For travel to venues slightly further afield, an additional charge is applied - this is included in your quote and booking confirmation.
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The best way to contact me is through my email, website contact page or through my Instagram @yorkshireweddingpianist. I always aim to respond to all enquiries within one day of receiving them.
I’m also happy to help with enquiries over the phone, by arranging a phone or video call in advance.
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I always like to ensure the venue are aware that I will be playing for your wedding. This can be done by you or myself, and is particularly important if the venue is new to me incase there are any logistical issues I need to be aware of. Rest assured I will take care of any issues on the day, working with the venue - you both have enough to be thinking about!
For enquiries about the services I can offer, please do get in touch.