Christa Hugo

I’m Christa Hugo, a classically trained pianist fuelled by an unwavering passion for weaving unique blends of rock, pop, musical theatre and jazz into the fabric of each performance. **NEW ADD-ON!!! I am thrilled to offer my stunning white baby grand piano shell as an add-on for all my bookings. Enabling my professional stage piano to mirror the sophistication of a classic baby grand, it brings the "wow" factor to all events, acting as a great centrepiece and talking point amongst guests. It's a masterpiece of design, offers a high-gloss finish, and is popular as an enchanting backdrop for cherished wedding photographs. ** As a weddings and events pianist, I take your most meaningful songs and recreate them in a fresh, emotive light. Indulge in the delights of live piano at your wedding or event, a rare and intimate experience that transforms the atmosphere into a uniquely sophisticated and memorable celebration. I offer a musical experience where contemporary piano seamlessly intertwines with classical excellence, creating a backdrop of romance and elegance. Contrary to the norm, I don't expect you to select your music choices from a narrow, predetermined song list. With me as your pianist, the world is your oyster when it comes to your perfect soundtrack. I relish being asked to play something new and I will craft beautiful, sophisticated and elegant versions of your most meaningful songs, however unusual! That being said, many people appreciate guidance and inspiration in selecting their musical choices, so my non-exhaustive repertoire list is there to help in that regard. Feel free to handpick every song for your special day or leave the music choices entirely to me. I'm comfortable with either approach, or anything in between. I can't wait to bring your musical vision to life! WEDDINGS Ceremony: For your wedding ceremony I can provide music to set the scene as guests arrive and play your chosen songs or tunes at key moments throughout the proceedings, from processional to recessional, with further music as guests exit if you choose. Drinks reception: Music for your drinks reception helps to entertain guests as photographs are being taken and encourages them to relax and mingle. Wedding breakfast: I can also play for the wedding breakfast as you and your guests dine, creating a sophisticated atmosphere and aiding interaction between guests - some of whom may not know each other well if at all - as they enjoy the music (perhaps sparking an impromptu game of "name that tune"!). As an extra bonus, Christa offers to send a recording of your favourite song after the event to remember the day by - usually the song the bride walks down the aisle to or the happy recessional song as the married couple exits the venue, but it's your choice! This will be recorded ahead of the event. OTHER EVENTS I'm also available for other events such as birthday parties, dinner parties and corporate events and work with clients to achieve the perfect ambiance, whether that's a romantic occasion, a lively celebration or an elegant soiree. EQUIPMENT I provide my own professional stage piano and PA system (fully PAT tested) for venues which do not have a piano and I always ensure that my sound is at just the right level - I aim to be noticeable but never overpowering, so that you guests can chat away with ease and listen at the same time. I have full public liability insurance for your peace of mind. MY BACKGROUND: I acquired my first regular paid job as a pianist aged 12 and I've never looked back! Playing at weddings is where I really get to indulge my creative spark and my romantic spirit. My passion for music spans a myriad of genres and eras and I can find the beauty in every song. Throughout my career, I've become a sought-after live pianist in various settings, most notably as a skilled ballet pianist, having been a regular musician with the esteemed Royal Ballet School for many years and, more recently, with Birmingham Royal Ballet. I also perform as a regular soloist with Constella Music, an organisation dedicated to harnessing the expressive power of music for social good. I've had the privilege of gracing stages at Abbey Road Studios, Hyde Park (alongside the BBC Concert Orchestra) and the O2 Arena. Television appearances on The One Show and BBC Radio 2, along with supporting artists like Susan Boyle and Michael Ball during the Britain's Got Talent live final, have added exciting chapters to my musical narrative. I'm a versatile musician, with many strings to my bow (excuse the pun). I have years of experience in musical directing with contemporary choirs and I work as a Rock & Pop musical examiner with Trinity College London both in the UK and abroad. I have performed in a number of bands over the years, on vocals and keys, gracing weddings and festival stages alike. My musical qualifications include a BA (Hons) in music and a PGCE in Secondary Music Teaching. I gained two grade 8 distinctions (piano and oboe) at a young age and, most importantly, have many years worth of experience in the industry!