Pianists & Keyboardists for hire

Hire Pianists & Keyboardists in the UK

A professional pianist brings a level of sophistication that few other solo musicians can match. From soft background instrumentals during a drinks reception to a full vocal performance at an evening party, piano players are one of the most versatile acts you can book. This page brings together 231 pianists and keyboard players from across the UK, covering every style from classical and jazz through to pop, rock and musical theatre.

Choosing the right style of pianist

The first decision is what kind of atmosphere you want to create. If you need elegant background music for a formal dinner or wedding ceremony, a classical pianist is a natural fit. They typically perform instrumental pieces by composers like Debussy, Chopin and Einaudi, along with piano arrangements of popular ballads. For a cocktail reception or drinks party with a more relaxed, sociable feel, a jazz pianist will draw from the Great American Songbook and standards by Cole Porter, Gershwin and Sinatra-era classics.

If you want something with more energy, a pop/rock pianist can cover everything from Elton John and Billy Joel to Coldplay and Adele, often rearranged as instrumentals or performed with vocals. And if vocals are important to you, consider a singing pianist who can deliver a full performance as both musician and vocalist in one booking.

Pianists for weddings

Piano players are one of the most popular choices for wedding entertainment because they suit so many parts of the day. A classical or jazz pianist can provide ceremony music as guests arrive and during the signing of the register, then continue into the drinks reception. Later in the day, a pop/rock pianist or singing pianist can raise the energy for the wedding breakfast or evening reception. Some couples book the same pianist for multiple parts of the day, while others pair a ceremony pianist with a wedding band for the evening.

If you are planning your wedding entertainment, it is worth browsing our wedding ceremony musicians category too, which includes pianists alongside string players, harpists and vocalists who specialise in ceremony music. For a vocalist who also plays guitar rather than piano, singing guitarists are another popular option for more intimate or acoustic-style performances.

What to expect when you book

Most pianists bring their own digital piano or stage keyboard, complete with a stand and a small PA system suitable for rooms of up to around 200 guests. If your venue has an acoustic or grand piano, many musicians are happy to use it, though they will usually want to confirm the instrument's condition with the venue in advance. For larger events or outdoor performances, additional sound equipment may be needed. Always check with your chosen act what they provide and what they need from you.

A typical booking covers two sets of 45 minutes within a two-hour window, though this varies. Some pianists offer longer packages covering multiple parts of a wedding day, and most are happy to learn a specific song for your first dance or ceremony entrance if given enough notice. You can find more practical advice in our guide on how to hire a pianist for an event.

How much does a pianist cost?

The average price for a pianist on this page is currently £332. Rates depend on several factors: the length of the performance, travel distance to your venue, whether the pianist also provides vocals, and the time of year. Wedding season (May to September) tends to be busier and prices may be higher, particularly on Saturdays. A solo instrumental pianist will generally cost less than a singing pianist, and shorter sets are cheaper than all-day bookings. Each listing on this page shows the act's recommended price, so you can compare costs directly. Use the price comparison section on this page to see how prices break down across all 231 acts.

Pianists for corporate events and parties

Live piano music works just as well at corporate functions, milestone birthdays and private parties as it does at weddings. A jazz pianist or jazz band is a classic choice for awards dinners, product launches and client hospitality events, where the music needs to create atmosphere without dominating conversation. For a birthday party or celebration where you want guests singing along, a pop/rock pianist or singing pianist with a crowd-friendly repertoire is a better fit. If your event is being held in a church or chapel, you might also consider an organist as an alternative or complement to a pianist. Many pianists on this page have experience performing at hotels, restaurants and high-profile corporate venues.

Browsing and filtering

Every listing on this page includes audio samples, video clips and reviews from real clients, so you can get a genuine sense of each performer before making contact. Use the location filter at the top of the page to find pianists available near your venue, or browse by style using the sub-category pages for classical, jazz or pop/rock pianists. If you are looking for a full band rather than a solo performer, our acoustic bands and duos and small groups categories include acts that feature piano alongside other instruments.