A Weekend in the Life of a Wedding Pianist
I recently went full-time with my piano work, and the past four days have been exactly what I imagined — a real weekend as a full-time musician.
From Malvern Hills to Stratford‑upon‑Avon
On Thursday morning, after a walk on the Malvern Hills with my dog Dilly, I began the day with an online piano lesson. Not long after, I met up with a wonderful singer – Alice Gem – who I’ve come to know through local events, where we discussed potential collaborations and shared the realities of working in the live music industry.
Later that day, I headed to Stratford-upon-Avon for a relaxed and enjoyable corporate event. It was a long day, but I came home buzzing — a reminder of how much I love performing live piano music for events.
Open Day at The Lion Ballroom, Leominster
Friday began with a visit to The Lion Ballroom in Leominster, a fantastic Herefordshire wedding venue with a beautiful grand piano. I met Jo, the owner, and played during their Open Day — always a great opportunity to meet couples planning their weddings in the region.
After a quick rest at home, I packed the car and travelled to Boston, Lincolnshire for a weekend wedding.
A Lincolnshire Wedding
I don’t often travel quite that far for weddings, but this one had been booked for some time and I had been really looking forward to it — especially as the couple had been so lovely during the planning process.
I stayed at a charming local B&B, whose owners were incredibly welcoming. On Saturday morning, I noticed they had a piano in their living room — a rare and very welcome bonus when you’re away from home.
Before a wedding, I like to run through key pieces one last time. I asked if I could play for a few minutes — and ended up turning that moment into something quite special. I played Fields of Gold (inspired by Eva Cassidy), and the landlady, Denise, was moved to tears — in a good way! It felt like a reassuring sign that everything was sounding just right ahead of the big day.
Wedding Ceremony Music at The Grange
The wedding itself took place at The Grange, Leverton, a stunning Lincolnshire wedding venue. The couple had hired my black baby grand piano, which looked fantastic in the space and added a real focal point to the room.
I provided live piano music throughout the day, including:
- The wedding ceremony
- The wedding breakfast
- The cocktail hour
It was one of those weddings where everything came together perfectly. The guests were warm and welcoming, and it was a pleasure working alongside such a great team — venue staff, wedding coordinators and the photographer. Days like that really highlight how collaborative weddings are behind the scenes.
One of my personal highlights was chatting with the groom’s 99-year-old grandmother (or possibly great-grandmother!). She was in wonderful form and very kind about my playing. After the ceremony she requested The Sound of Silence, although she had left before I had the chance to play it later in the day.
Back Home and Continuing the Music
That evening, I returned to the B&B happily tired and slept deeply.
I set off early the next morning to avoid heavy traffic, arriving back home in Malvern by 10am. I used the time to record Fields of Gold for the bride, along with The Sound of Silence — a small gesture for the wonderful guest who had requested it on the day.
I rounded off the weekend with a lesson with one of my younger pupils. Teaching piano is a lovely contrast to performing at weddings — and just as rewarding in its own way.
This Is Exactly What I Hoped For
This is what I wanted my life to be like — a mix of teaching, performing, travelling to beautiful wedding venues, and meeting fantastic people along the way.
And today is Monday — time for a well-earned rest 🙂
Planning Your Wedding?
If you’re planning a wedding and are looking for a professional wedding pianist in Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire or further afield, I’d love to hear from you.
👉 Get in touch to discuss your plans and how live piano music can be part of your day.