Pianist

Gareth Black

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About Gareth

A versatile performer and music teacher who loves to entertain. Playing a wide range of styles to delight guests of all ages at any event.
Pianist
Forfar
Public liability insurance of £10 million

Gareth is a classically trained pianist with a love for traditional and contemporary music, offering elegant and personalised live piano performances for wedding ceremonies and drinks receptions across Scotland. With years of professional performance experience and a passion for creating the perfect musical atmosphere, Gareth works closely with each couple to ensure the music reflects their personality, taste, and the unique spirit of their day. Whether you're walking down the aisle to a timeless classical piece, a favourite movie theme, or a romantic pop ballad, Gareth brings each note to life with warmth and precision. Gareth’s musical journey began with classical training, but his versatility has grown to encompass a wide variety of styles, including traditional Scottish music, jazz, folk, film music, and modern chart hits. This breadth of experience makes him a popular choice for couples looking for a personal, meaningful musical experience that can blend genres and adapt to different moments throughout the day. During the week, Gareth shares his love of music as a secondary school music teacher, nurturing the next generation of musicians. But at weekends and evenings, he takes great joy in performing as a key member of the highly acclaimed Reel of Fortune Ceilidh Band. The band, known for their lively sets and musical professionalism, has played at countless weddings, student balls, and corporate events throughout Scotland, earning recognition including a nomination and commendation at the Book Entertainment Scottish Event Entertainment Awards. While Gareth continues to enjoy performing with the band most weekends, he has increasingly been in demand for solo engagements at weddings, where the focus is on subtle, beautiful background music that enhances the atmosphere without overpowering it. Whether it’s setting a romantic tone as guests arrive, playing your special song as you walk down the aisle, or entertaining your friends and family during the drinks reception, Gareth brings a calm presence and a touch of magic to every performance. He performs on a quality professional portable digital piano when a venue doesn’t have its own instrument, ensuring a beautiful sound in any setting, be it a rustic barn, a stately home, or an outdoor garden. Above all, Gareth understands the importance of your day and brings professionalism, care, and a genuine love of music to every performance. His aim is to create unforgettable moments through music — ones that stay with you and your guests long after the final note has been played.

Gareth's Reviews

From customers:

F
Facebook
7 years ago

...Gareth even stepped in for me when my pianist broke his hand in the lead up to the wedding- he played during my ceremony and a fantastic mix of music for my drinks reception - it was wonderful!...

R(
Rich (
3 years ago

The Reel of Fortune were fantastic at our wedding! They provided lovely modern classical music during our reception and then lead a truly epic ceilidh all our guests were raving about! Such lovely guys and would genuinely recommend to anyone looking for a ceilidh band!

Encore badges
8th Anniversary
This act has been working with Encore for over 8 years
Member of the Encore community forum

Gareth's Song list

Scottish Music:
Ashokan Farewell/The Lovers Waltz - J. Unger
Auld Lang Syne - Trad.
Caledonia - Dougie McLean
Chasing Daylight/Easter Island -Trad.
Eleanor Of Usan
Everyday Heroes - Skerryvore
Furmiston Ruby - The Chair
Ivor and Eleanor’s Wedding Waltz - Trad.
Heights Of Cassino - Trad
McKechnie’s Farewell - Trad.
Popular Music:
All About You - McFly
Amazed - Lonestar
At Last - Etta James
Billie Jean - Michael Jackson
Blame It On Me - George Ezra
Blinding Lights - The Weekend
Bring It On Home To Me - Same Cooke
California Dreamin’ - Mamas & Papas
Can’t Help Falling In Love - Elvis Presley
Can’t Stop The Feeling - Justin Timberlake
Dancing In The Moonlight - Toploader
December 1963 (Of What A Night) - Frankie Valli and The Four Season
Don’t Start Now - Dua Lipa
Don’t Stop Believin’ - Journey
Don’t Stop Me Now - Queen
Everything - Michael Bublé
Fairy-tale Opening (from Shrek) - Harry Gregson-Williams, John Powell
Glasgow Love Theme (from Love Actually) - Craig Armstrong
Golden - Harry Styles
Grace Kelly - Mika
Greatest Day - Take That
Hello - Adele
Here Comes The Sun - The Beatles
Ho Hey - The Lumineers
Hold Back The River - James Bay
Home - Philip Philips
Hotel California - The Eagles
How Deep Is Your Love - The BeeGees
I’m Still Standing - Elton John
I’m Your - Jason Mraz
Isn’t She Lovely - Stevie Wonder
It Must Be Love - Madness
La Vie En Rose - Edith Piaf
Let It Go - James Bay
Mamma Mia - ABBA
Mr Brightside - The Killers
Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us - Starship
Ruby - Kaiser Chiefs
She Moves In Her Own Way - The Kooks
She Will Be Loved - Maroon 5
She’s Always A Woman - Billy Joel
Sky Full Of Stars - Coldplay
Space Oddity - David Bowie
Summer of 69 - Bryan Adams
Sweet Caroline - Neil Diamond
Take On Me - A-Ha
The A Team - Ed Sheeran
This is Me (Greatest Showman) - Greatest Showman Cast
Unchained Melody -The Righteous Brothers
Valerie - Mark Ronson
Viva La Vida - Coldplay
Wake Me Up - Avicii
Wake Me Up Before You Go Go - Wham
Walk Of Life - Dire Straits
Waterloo - ABBA
Yes Sir, I Can Boogie - Baccara
You’ll Be In My Heart - Phil Collins
Your Song - Elton John
You’ve Got A Friend In Me - Randy Newman
Zombie - The Cranberries
Classical Piano:
Ave Maria - J.S Bach
Canon in D - J. Pachelbel
Cello Suite No.1 (Piano Cover) - J.S. Bach
Fur Elise - L.v. Beethoven
Gavotte - J.S. Bach
Gymnopedie No.1 - Satie
Invention No.8 - J.S. Bach
Little Serenade - J. Haydn
Minuet In G - J.S. Bach
Nessun Dorma (Piano Cover) - Puccini
Piano Sonata No.15 1st Mov - W.A. Mozart
Piano Sonata Op.13 “Pathetique” 2nd and/or 3rd Mov - L.v. Beethoven
Piano Sonata Op. 27-2 “Moonlight” 1st Mov - L.v Beethoven
Prelude In C - J.S. Bach
Prelude Op.20-15 “Raindrop” - F. Chopin
Songs Without Words Op.30 No.3 - Mendelssohn

Gareth's Prices

Last updated: 2025

Note: prices may vary based on travel distance. For an exact quote, click “Check availability”.

Standard Prices
DurationPrice
Short performance (up to 15 min)£187.50
Up to 1 hour£250
Up to 2 hours£343.75
Up to 3 hours£437.50
Packages
Wedding ceremony1 hour 30 minutes
This package includes a few songs/tunes before the service begins as your guests arrive. Your chosen songs/tunes for the bridal party walking down the aisle, during the signing of the register, and music as guests leave.
£250
Drinks reception2 hours
Two performances of up to 45 mins each during your drinks reception.
£300
Wedding ceremony + Drinks reception2 hours 30 minutes
This package includes music before the service begins as your guests arrive. Chosen music by you for the bridal party walking down the aisle, during the signing of the register, and music as you and your guests leave. 2 x 45 min performances at the drinks reception.
£343.75
Customer questions

What do your clients love most about your performances?

My clients often tell me that they love my performances is the atmosphere I help create. Whether it's during a heartfelt ceremony or a relaxed drinks reception, the live piano music adds a personal and elegant touch that makes the day feel truly special.

Which venues have you performed at in the past?

I have had the pleasure of performing at a variety of beautiful venues across the North East of Scotland from small private homes and rooms, to large wedding venues and stadiums. I am always happy to perform at new venues too and can travel to perform at your event.

Which artists have you been most influenced by?

Honestly too many to list. Being a music teacher and a love for music, my influencers are very vast from Bach to the Bon Jovi! I play all different styles and genres of music and always learning new material.

What is the most high profile gig you've performed?

"I’ve performed at many events over the years, with the majority being weddings and private functions. To me, every gig is high profile — it’s one of the most important days in someone’s life, and I’m there to help make it even more special.

What if my timings change after I've booked you?

Things happen and I a completely understand. If your timing change just let me know as soon as you can and I'll do my best to adjust accordingly. I always aim to be as flexible as possible to help ensure your event runs as smoothly as possible.

Can you provide an iPod/DJ service before and between your sets?

Of course, if you would rather the original song rather than a piano cover played by myself, I am able to do this. For a full PA use during the ceremony and drinks reception, an additional charge may occur but please send a message to discuss further.

How much time do you need to set up?

I would ask for around 30 minutes to set up and do a quick sound check before playing. I always aim to arrive in plenty of time to make sure everything is ready to go. Please note, I may require some time to move rooms if the drinks reception is in another location.

If I have a piano at my venue, are you happy to perform on that?

Absolutely – I’m always happy to play on a piano provided at the venue, as long as it’s in good working condition and in tune. Just let me know the details ahead of time so I can plan accordingly. If there’s no piano available or it’s not suitable, I’m more than happy to bring my own professional keyboard setup.

Can I pick the songs you play from the set list?

Yes, of course! You’re very welcome to choose your favourites from my set list. If there are certain songs that mean a lot to you, just let me know and I’ll make sure they’re included. I’m also happy to guide you if you’d like help putting together the perfect selection. During our discussions, let me know what you like and I can tailor my set list for you!

Are you able to bring your own piano or keyboard?

Yes, I can bring my own professional piano and sound equipment if there isn’t a suitable piano at the venue. I play a Nord Stage 3 piano that does require power and amplification. Please ensure the venue has power that I can use. Please note, if performing outside, power must be provided and ideally a shelter from any possible rain showers!

Can you learn song requests before the event?

Yes, I’m very happy to learn special song requests ahead of your big day! Whether it’s a meaningful piece for your ceremony or a favourite song for your drinks reception, just let me know in advance and I’ll do my best to include it. I usually ask for a few weeks’ notice so I can make sure it’s performance ready.
Musicianship
Genres:
Ceilidh, Christmas, Classical, Musical theatre, Ceillidh, Folk rock, Irish rock, Traditional Scottish folk, Traditional Irish folk, Folk, 1990s era music, Easy listening, Light music, Pop, Covers, Top 40, Baroque, Film / TV music, Classical crossover, 1980s era music, Acoustic, Disco, Traditional church music, 1970s era music, Contemporary Christian, Contemporary classical, 1960s era music, Country, Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Rock, Pop rock
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Instruments:
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Event types:
Wedding, Hotel / Restaurant event, Private event, Corporate event, Charity event, Burns night, Birthday party, Christmas party, New Year's Eve, Funeral / Memorial service, Wedding proposal, Cruise, Theatre / Show
See all event types
Other skills:
Sound technician, Instrumental teaching, Theory teaching, Fluent sight-reader, Accompanist, Audio engineer, Composer
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