Accordionist, entertainer, teacher & MIDI expert.
I have an extremely wide-ranging repertoire of popular standards from the 1890's to the 1980s. I have some popular classics arranged by myself for accordion, and also a repertoire of folk tunes, including representative medleys from Ireland, Wales, Greece and Russia. I also offer the following specialities, if you want a themed entertainment: French, English, Italian and Scottish.
For any of the four themed specialities, by prior arrangement only, I can provide song sheets for the relevant theme, and lead a singalong.
I can play live for ballroom dancing and a limited amount of rock, pop, and disco styles. If a session of modern disco dancing is required, by prior arrangement only I can replay CDs or cassettes with excellent reproduction and volume.
I can play solo for Barn Dancing and Scottish Dancing, if people know the dances. That is feasible and economic if you are wanting just a short session of dancing. However, for a full evening, it may be more appropriate to book a ceilidh band (see Bodgers Mate below).
I have developed a battery-powered PA system built into my accordion case, which is loud enough for most venues and allows me to perform anywhere with no need for trailing wires.
This offers great flexibility and safety in crowded restaurants, for example. I can quickly move to a different location, as required, but do not ‘stroll’. In many situations, the audience is mobile, therefore they can gravitate towards me (or away!) as they please. Strolling with a heavy accordion is tiring, and the sound is not so good.
I can play out of doors for:
I am popular with stall holders, an involuntary captive audience, because my extensive, timeless repertoire means I am not repeating a few tunes in one style. I can play under an umbrella if necessary, unless it is also windy. I aim to deliver a cheerful ambiance, whatever the weather!
An excellent wedding ceilidh band, with the right mix of called dances, folk-rock songs, and a disco to follow, Bodgers Mate.