Some of the data collected by this provider is for the purposes of personalization and measuring advertising effectiveness.
Some of the data collected by this provider is for the purposes of personalization and measuring advertising effectiveness.
Some of the data collected by this provider is for the purposes of personalization and measuring advertising effectiveness.
by sarah • November 3, 2015 • Suppliers
For our second Heaton House Farm supplier focus blog, we’d like to introduce you to “The Wedding Pianist – Benjamin Clarke”. We’ll be looking at Benjamin’s responses to your questions after we’ve let you know a little more about him and what he does best!
Benjamin is by no means a one trick pony, goodness no! Not only can he play the piano, but also the trumpet, he is a singer, song-writer, arranger, composer and even a music teacher. Taught to play the piano from the age of seven and the trumpet aged nine, Benjamin carved his musical career from studying at the Royal Northern College of Music during his music degree at Manchester University, and becoming an Associate in Piano Performance at the Royal College of Music in London. His accomplishments have seen him travel the country, performing in some of the UK’s most famous theatres, with a host of well known names and being commissioned by celebrities and notable corporate entities. This aside, Benjamin is still a down-to-earth, humble guy, playing at each event with the utmost professionalism.
Benjamin’s education, subsequent successful musical career and experience combined with the incredible sensitivity he shows to each song, brings them to life in the most beautiful way. Whether you’d like popular music or classical, his arrangements are simply stunning. He is a joy to the ears and a prime example of the perfect wedding pianist.
Hear what ‘Benjamin Clarke – The Wedding Pianist’ answers to those questions you posed to him:
What is your company motto and/or mission statement?
I had not considered a motto before, however the following statement would certainly be appropriate:
“If music be the food of love…let the wedding pianist play on”
How did you get into your profession?
Music has been extremely important to me since the age of seven when I began having piano lessons. It has since been a way of life and so was a natural progression from school, through music college and into the music profession. It is much more than a trade, however I do feel very fortunate to be able to make a living from music.
What motivates you to work hard?
Several things motivate me to work hard; an interesting challenge (musical or otherwise), knowledge that in doing so the result will yield great reward of some sort, and finally (and most probably the greatest source of motivation for any musician) a deadline.
Professionally, what is your proudest accomplishment?
Performing the trumpet at the Royal Albert Hall in 2012, accompanying Neil Diamond in the finale of the 100th Anniversary of the Royal Variety Show. This was certainly one of the most glamorous moments in my career and one that I am indeed rather proud of.
What is the best thing about working with Heaton House Events?
Heaton House Events is a professional organisation with the highest of standards. They are passionate about what they do and they work extremely hard to provide their clients with the very best service at all times. I would like to think that we share similar values and goals and so being associated with such a team is a fantastic accolade. They are also a very considerate and good-humoured group of people that makes excellent coffee whenever I ask (and even sometimes when I don’t).
Do you have a top tip for clients?
The best tip I could give to clients would be to think carefully about the type of atmosphere you are wanting to create and to choose music that will reflect this. Music has within it the ability to “bring everyone and everything together” as it were and so can be a very affective and emotional aspect of your special day. Whatever the mood, music will enhance it.
As part of each package that I provide, there is a free consultation service designed to help clients in this decision process. The service can be carried out in person or via FaceTime and Skype. It is also a great opportunity to hear how your choices of music will sound before the big day itself.
What was your first job?
My first job was working as an usher at the Bridgewater Hall in Manchester, one that I acquired to assist with my studies at the Royal Northern College of Music. I freely admit that the money I earned did not entirely go towards my tuition fees, but getting paid to listen to great concerts did seem like a pretty cushy deal at the time.
Do you have a party trick?
Yes. I can accompany myself on the piano as I play the theme tune to “The Godfather” on the trumpet. Not so much a “trick” as a bit of multi-tasking I suppose. I can’t remember the reason why I learned to do this but it has been known to raise an eyebrow at the very least.
Thanks Benjamin, we will certainly be asking to see that party trick next time you are at the venue, make sure you bring your trumpet!
There is so much more to ‘The Wedding Pianist’ than meets the eye, so to read more on his previous engagements, clients and astonishing career go to his website at www.theweddingpianist.co.uk, follow him on Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Youtube.
If you’d like to take a look at our list of talented recommended suppliers, then head to our website at https://heatonhousefarm.co.uk/weddings/your-supplier-directory/ and click on the category you are looking for. Or alternatively for inspiration, follow us on Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Pinterest.
For any advice on coordinating a wedding, general or corporate event then head to the Heaton House Events website to talk to our award-winning team.
Keep reading our Heaton House Farm blog for the next installment of the ‘Supplier Focus’, as we bring you one of our recommended florists!