Review Centre: Organists

"I engaged Gareth to accompany two choirs and soloists in a fundraising concert in aid of Macmillan cancer. He was SUPERB in every way with experience in bringing out the best in all performers from the professionals to the amateurs. In particular, his musicianship, sensitivity, ability to extemporise sympathetically and enhance any performance. Gareth's musical skills have to be heard and witnessed to be understood for how his playing transforms and securely underpins the Music and the people performing. He also accompanied me in a gorgeous flute and piano piece 'song for my mother ' by Geoff Easles. The Jazz style in this piece highlighted another wonderful aspect of Gareth's abilities - to play jazz in a free and effortless way . On a personal level Gareth is also very professional and approachable and reliable . The adult choir for those with learning disabilities were boosted in their confidence and musicality to sing with him too. It was a joy to watch them and they received a standing ovation! Simply FANTASTIC , EXCELLENT, NO HESITATION to RECOMMEND except that he might not be so available the next time I need him ! Thank you Gareth. Veronica Austin- concert organiser . "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Lawrence's playing was the highlight of our day on the cruise and provided a very varied programme of music. His repertoire was all embracing and entertaining whilst we supped our wine! He readily offered to play requests and his improvisation just had to be heard. Thank you Lawrence."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Dear Mark, Thank You so much for playing for the wedding couple on 22nd of July 2017. The piano came to life in your hands and it was almost as if the people in the paintings were going to step out and dance. The atmosphere you created was Magical. We Definitely Highly Recommend your services, and you were in contact with all the Guests and made them feel part of the whole day. We will Definitely be calling you in future. Best Wishes, Susan Gibson."

Reply by Mark Burton - Wedding Organist / Pianist
Thank you for a lovely day on Saturday Sue. You and your team were very welcoming and made my job so much easier - and the Steinway piano, what can I say, fantastic! Such a brilliant location to get married in, I can thoroughly recommend New Walk Museum and Art Gallery in Leicester. I'm very much looking forward to working with you again in the future.

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Mark played at my dad’s funeral in the church, and I honestly don’t have the words to express just how incredible he was. From the moment he arrived, early, of course, he took complete control of the music and ensured everything was perfect. As people entered the church, Mark played meaningful music that completely set the tone. It was elegant, thoughtful, and unlike anything I’ve ever experienced at a funeral. It made the atmosphere feel so personal and beautiful, exactly what my dad would have wanted. Later, Mark also played at the celebration of my dad’s life at a stunning manor hotel, and again, he brought everything together with his extraordinary talent and care. He played songs that my dad absolutely loved, weaving them into both the church service and the celebration in a way that was seamless and full of heart. Mark truly exudes talent, but it’s not just his skill, it’s his kindness, his sensitivity, and his ability to read the moment. The day was, of course, deeply emotional and sad, but thanks to Mark, it also felt warm, thoughtful, and full of love. He created something so special. People spoke about the music all day and into the evening, about how moving it was, and how incredibly gifted he is. There is nothing this man cannot do. From hymns to personal favourites, Mark made my dad’s funeral and celebration of life something he would have been truly touched by. I know he would have been overwhelmed to know that someone so talented played for him. Mark, thank you from the bottom of my heart—for your music, your presence, and for helping us honor my dad in the most beautiful way."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Mark played at our wedding ceremony in Cambridge. Despite some last minute issues with the chapel organ, Mark was very accommodating in proposing an alternative plan (bringing his own digital organ to the chapel). He was able to meet all of our song requests, and did a fantastic job on the day. The sound quality and playing made for a brilliant accompaniment to such a special moment. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Dear Gareth Giles Thank you for the wonderful organ playing at the Funeral the other day. You played with such sensitivity and didn't let the hymns drag at all. Beautiful music"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Once again Laurence provided musical direction for my show and was absolutely fabulous. Excellent arrangements, extremely hard-working and always helpful and friendly. I`ll be using him again on my next show."

Rating: 9 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"We are incredibly grateful to Sean for stepping in at very short notice when the organist for my dad's funeral became unwell the night before the service. From the moment I contacted him, Sean responded immediately and filled me with confidence that everything would be taken care of. His kindness, compassion, and reassurance during what was already a very difficult time meant a great deal to us. Sean attended the funeral and played beautifully throughout the service. The music was absolutely stunning and created a wonderful atmosphere for saying goodbye to my dad. What made it even more special was that my dad had personally chosen the music while he was unwell, so I know he would have truly loved hearing it played so beautifully. Sean was professional, caring, and exceptionally talented. His willingness to help at such short notice and the quality of his performance exceeded all expectations. He played a significant part in making my dad's funeral such a beautiful and memorable service, and for that we will always be grateful. I cannot recommend Sean highly enough."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Gareth Giles is a superb organist who deputised for us at very short notice. His professionalism and musicality shines. I thoroughly recommend him."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Thank you for providing the backround music for the Pride of Houghton Awards, which took place last night. The evening was a huge success and the Town Mayor, Councillor Laura Ellaway has asked me to pass on her sincere thanks to you. The Mayor particularly requested the songs from the shows and these were very much enjoyed by all. There were many excellent comments about the musical entertainment and the guests that attended the event included the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire and the Mayor's from Luton, Dunstable, Sandy and Flitwick as well as members of the local community. I would like to thank you again for all your support and we hope to work with you again at future events. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Mark, regarding your recent performance for us at BGU, we would like to say a huge thank you and well done. Your performance was brilliant, we received many compliments on the day and you helped to make the atmosphere relaxing and enjoyable. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Michael played at my wedding and was fantastic. All the guests enjoyed his playing and he made the service that bit more special."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Thank you Gareth for making our wedding PERFECT in every way We really enjoyed meeting you at the consultation and your knowledge sense of humour and amazing skills on the organ provided us with a service we shall never forget We HIGHLY recccomend Gareth to any wedding couples reading rhis"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"Des is an inspiring musician. I've had the pleasure of hearing him play on many occassions. He is a condifident leader and captivates his audience. His encouraging and up beat manner make him a refreshing and easy listening sound. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review

"I've knows Sebastian for around 30 years now, he recently played the organ at my father's funeral. My dad was a keen amateur organist and had got to know Seb well over the years as had organised several concerts played by Seb. Seb made the service particularly moving, personal and accommodated all of my father's wishes - including a mini organ recital at the end. We can't thank Seb enough."

Reply by Sebastian Thomson
Thank you, Matthew. It was a particularly moving service as your father had been so good to me. The service was a wonderful tribute to a great man that loved organ music and personally had a hand in the building of the instrument at Wiveliscombe. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: Report this review