Richard Ellis Hawley

Additional Info:

I’m Richard Ellis Hawley, a professional pianist, organist, keyboard entertainer and DJ based in Houghton-le-Spring, County Durham, performing throughout the North East and across the UK.

I have more than 30 years of musical experience, with a background spanning church music, weddings, funerals, care homes, private events, corporate entertainment and live keyboard performance. I began playing keyboard in 1992 and later developed my work as an organist, pianist and professional entertainer.

My qualifications include an HND in Music, achieved with merits and distinctions, and I am also a licensed Authorised Lay Minister. I have twice received the North East Keyboard Entertainer of the Year award, in 2018 and 2020, alongside two LUX Life awards for my professional music work.

Over the years I have performed at a wide variety of events and venues, including church services, weddings, funerals, care homes, hotels, corporate events and major public occasions. Career highlights have included performing as part of Cunard’s 175th anniversary celebrations in Liverpool, playing at events connected with the Royal Family at York Races, and providing musical entertainment across many different styles and settings.

My main instrument is the Yamaha Tyros 5, which allows me to create a full, versatile live sound covering everything from traditional standards and easy listening to pop, rock, soul, musicals and party music. I also perform on piano and church organ and can provide DJ entertainment for weddings and private celebrations.

I particularly enjoy providing music that connects with people emotionally, whether that is creating a joyful atmosphere at a wedding, bringing back memories for residents in a care home, supporting a family at a funeral, or entertaining a room full of guests at a celebration.

Current services include wedding piano and keyboard music, funeral and church organ playing, care-home entertainment, private and corporate events, DJ services, background piano music and specialist themed entertainment.

Available throughout County Durham, Sunderland, Newcastle, Northumberland, Teesside and the wider North East, with nationwide travel considered for suitable bookings.

Fees

£ 75.00 Pounds Per Hour
Fees vary depending on the type of event, location, duration and specific requirements.

Current guide prices:

• Care home entertainment – from £75
• Funerals and memorial services – from £100
• Wedding ceremonies – from £250
• DJ parties and celebrations – from £250
• Murder mystery entertainment – from £350

Quotes are tailored to each booking and can include travel, setup time, equipment requirements and additional performance time where applicable.

For weddings and larger events, packages can be created combining live piano or keyboard entertainment with DJ services.

Please contact me with your date, venue, location and requirements for an accurate quotation.

Specialisms

Contemporary Music, Jazz, Improvisation, Musical Theatre, Solo Performance, Instrumental Accompaniment, Vocal Accompaniment