Eugene Portman

on piano

F.A.Q

 

What if the venue doesn't have a piano?

In situations like this Eugene usually brings one of his digital pianos which can even be used outside. Digital pianos are ideal when playing for events that require music in more than one location. He can usually relocate and set up within twenty minutes or set up a piano in one location and set up another somewhere else. If he sets up two pianos he can just move from one to the other without there being too much of a break in the music.

Does a digital piano sound as good as a proper piano?

It does depend on the quality of the proper piano that you are comparing the digital piano with. A digital piano is nearly always better than the piano that you will find at a venue. You can hear the quality of the instrument he would bring by listening or downloading the music on this site.

Does a digital piano look like a normal piano?

No, it doesn't but it definitely does look neat and tidy. Please see picture at the top of the page.

How much space does Eugene need?

As a solo pianist, using his digital piano, He can fit into the tiniest of spaces - a space of 1 metre X 1.5 metres being more than adequate. As a duo (piano and bass or piano and vocals) they would only need an additional 1 square metre which brings the performance area needed up to a meager 1 metre X 2.5 metres. Space for larger line ups takes a little bit more working out as the musicians can be placed in a line or any number of other formations.

If we add a bass player to the line up will he play a proper bass?

No offence to bass guitar players, but most people refer to a double bass as a proper bass. The bass players Eugene uses (usually Mike Porter-Ward) always play a double bass which you can see in the photograph to the right.

Will it be noisy if we have a drummer in the line up?

No, the drummers Eugene uses (usually Dave Trigwell) are skilled jazz drummers and are capable of playing very quietly. They are also masters of the long lost art playing with brushes which is ideal for background music. Also, the drum kit that they use is different from that of a rock drummer - one of the key differences being the diminutive size of the bass drum. A jazz kit does not produce anywhere near the same volume level as a rock kit.

What happens when Eugene takes a break?

Eugene can provide music during breaks. A CD player or MP3 player can usually be plugged into the PA system.

Can Eugene send us a playlist?

Eugene doesn't usually work from a playlist. He prefers to pick the songs he is going to play at the time of the performance. This enables him to select material that matches the mood and the ambience of the event.

You can see a list of songs Eugene plays on the repertoire page.

Does Eugene need some sort of cover if he is playing outside?

Protection from the elements is vital. The heat from the sun can be very harmful to electronic equipment and a sudden downpour could be disastrous. A gazebo can usually be provided for outside protection and is more than adequate for most situations.

Is it necessary to meet up with Eugene before the event?

This isn't necessary as nearly everything has to be sorted out on the day of the event. No meeting beforehand can really help with the decisions that have to be made on the day. Music for ceremonies and other requests can usually be sorted out by email or telephone.

How do I secure the booking?

After Eugene has given you a quote and presuming that you have decided to go ahead with the booking: He'll send you a letter of confirmation. In order to send you this letter he'll need to make sure that he has all following information:

1. The type of event (Wedding, engagemant party, corporate dinner etc.)
2. The date of the event
3. The address of the venue including postcode
4. The line up (piano and bass, solo piano etc.)
5. A start time and a finish time
6. A contact number for if he has any queries
7. On the day emergency contact number (best man's mobile or similar)
8. Dress code (lounge suit, black tie etc.)
9. Any other requirements (music for ceremony, gazebo, radio microphone for speaches, extra long extension lead etc.)

He will send two copies of the letter and all you have to do is check all the details carefully and send a signed copy back to him. The booking is then secured.

So How Much Will It Cost?

Prices are from £240 (for Eugene as a solo pianist) depending on distance from venue and other requirements. Please contact Eugene for a quote for your individual requirements.

How would you like to be paid?

Cash or a cheque on the day is fine if you are hiring Eugene as a solo pianist . He would, however, prefer cash, rather than a cheque, if you are hiring him in a larger line up such as a duo, trio or band. This enables him to pay the musicians straight away - rather than making them wait for the cheque to clear in his bank, before paying them.

Is it OK to pay beforehand just to get it out of the way?

Yes, if this is what you prefer then that's OK.

Can I hear Eugene play live?

Throughout the year Eugene only does a few public events. The bulk of the work he does consists of weddings, corporate events and private parties. However, public events will always be advertised on this site.

What about Public Liability Insurance?

Eugene does have public liability insurance but could we ask, in the interest of safety, that all children are kept out of the performance area. Also, they do like to twiddle knobs and press buttons which can make things very difficult during a performance.

The insurance certificate can be downloded Here

Is Eugene's electrical equipment PAT Tested for safety?

Yes all Eugene's equipment has been tested by a qualified electrical engineer.

Eugene tries to make sure that all equipment is safe, but once again, could you please do your part by keeping children away from the electrical items in the performance area.The PAT test certificate can be downloaded Here