Piano playing

[VenalWinfrey]

Dear all

I am a reasonable pianist, and have a music degree.  I play some classical and a lot of lounge-type, jazzy/Bacharach mulch.  I am trying to find out details online of any agencies that supply pianists for private events etc.

Trouble is I can't find anything!  Does anyone know of either any agenices that deal with this, or any websites I can look at?  I am stuck in a boring job non-music related, and would really like to see if I could get any work playing somewhere!

Any advice really really appreciated on this!!

 

Also, are there any good magazines to get, if I was looking for say a singer to work with doing this kind of thing??

[Sproutstick]

Thought you wanted to be an accountant??  However - 'The Stage' is the first place I would look.  It's a newspaper that has that kind of stuff in but mostly based in London.

 

Failing that... If you're North West based, I am a singer and trained at a London theatre school for a number of years if you want to contact me!!??

[tigga]

I will second the 'stage' magazine recommendation - definitely worth a look !.

[Scarlett]

I would look more locally. Approach bars and restaurants yourself and offer to play - maybe do a first night at a reduced price. Get yourself a Yamaha P90 and an amp, and a seat! Play in wine bars or small venues that would support this. You could also ask your local branch of the MU to put you in contact with any local jazz singers who you could join forces with.

Look in the yellow pages for agencies who might be able to get you work, but in my experience you are better off finding your own work, and keeping the commission!

[Hgrove]

In the small ads of bridal glossy magazines they have agencies advertising their services offering musicians/singers for weddings (and presumably other types of functions).  You could try approaching the agencies or approaching the party venues themselves (leaving your cards in the reception for example).

[VenalWinfrey]

Thanks all for the advice!  Sproutstick, contact me at [Email address removed in accordance with site policy - AB Editor] if you want, and let me know what kind of material you sing etc.

[Piano-girl]

Hey there

Was interested to see your question, as I'm experiencing the same adventure!  How are you getting on with your research? 

I'd be interested to hear from any hotel/restaurant piano players who could give tips and advice. Do places mind if you need to use music and do they mind if you use photocopies?