Richard Ellis Hawley Music

Hi, I’m Richard Ellis Hawley — a friendly, professional musician based in the North East. I perform live on keyboard, organ, and piano for weddings, parties, and care-home or community events — plus full DJ entertainment with lights, bubbles, and sing-along fun! Whether you want elegant music for a wedding ceremony, upbeat sets for a dance, or relaxed background music, I’ll make your event unforgettable. I’m fully insured, PAT-tested, and bring all my own equipment. ✨ Highlights: Over 20 years’ professional experience Music for every style — pop, swing, rock, ballroom, theatre & classical Packages from £150 – £300 (includes travel) Trusted by care homes, churches & wedding venues across the UK Let’s make your event special — message me for a free quote today! I’m a qualified musician with decades of experience playing piano, organ, and keyboard across a wide range of settings. I’ve served as a church organist for over 30 years, leading music for countless weddings, funerals, and Sunday services. Alongside that, I’ve developed a dynamic entertainment business — Rick & Rowen Entertainments — where I offer everything from ceremony music and wedding breakfasts to DJing full evening receptions and themed dance events. I also bring music to care homes, community venues, tea dances, and more. If there's a need for music, I’m there with a tailored approach and a smile. As a proudly neurodivergent musician (autistic and ADHD), I bring a unique perspective to everything I do. My hyperfocus helps me master the smallest details of a piece of music or a client’s brief. My creativity means I’m always finding new ways to adapt and enhance my performances — whether that’s creating custom backing tracks, designing a themed event like “Blackpool Tower Comes to Bridge,” or simply tuning into a room’s energy and adjusting the tempo or tone to suit. I’m also deeply empathetic, which means I connect with clients and audiences on a very human level. I create spaces that are warm, inclusive, and stress-free — especially important for neurodivergent clients or guests who may be overwhelmed by typical events. Some of my performance highlights so far include providing full-day wedding entertainment at unique venues like Tyne Bank Brewery, hosting inclusive tea dances in partnership with local organisations, and even offering musical tributes at emotional and meaningful ceremonies. I’ve performed in grand churches and cosy village halls, and I treat each occasion with the same respect and care. My setup is professional, flexible, and well-suited to both intimate gatherings and larger events. I use a Yamaha keyboard with high-quality orchestral and organ voices, provide my own sound system and lighting, and always ensure everything is PAT tested and covered by public liability insurance. I’m just as happy playing “Ave Maria” for a traditional wedding as I am DJing a disco set with a crowd up dancing — and I can blend both live performance and DJing to offer a full musical package. I pride myself on being easy to work with: friendly, adaptable, and calm under pressure. I listen to what people want, and I care deeply about getting it right. Whether you're planning a wedding, a dance, a celebration, or a time of reflection — I’d be honoured to be part of your story, and bring your event to life through music.