Ellyjay Musician, pianist and singer

My technical requirements are flexible depending on whether the event is local (within driving distance where I can provide equipment) or international/cruise-based (where the venue provides the equipment).

Option 1: The Venue Provides the Equipment (Fly-in / Cruise / Large Stage)

• Acoustic Piano: A finely tuned grand or upright piano (preferably a PETROF or equivalent premium brand).
• Digital Alternative: If an acoustic piano is unavailable, an 88-weighted-key digital stage piano (e.g., Nord Stage, Roland RD, or Yamaha CP series) with a sustain pedal and heavy-duty stand.
• Vocal Microphone: 1 Shure SM58 (or equivalent high-quality vocal mic) on a boom stand.
• Audio Connections: 2 Balanced DI boxes for the keyboard/piano lines to connect directly to the house PA system.
• Monitoring: 1 Dedicated floor monitor wedge or in-ear monitor mix, controllable from the stage.

1. Performance Space & Logistics

• Exact Stage Location: Is the performance area located indoors, outdoors, or on a covered terrace?
• Dimensions & Surface: Is there a flat, stable performance area available measuring at least 2.5 meters wide by 2 meters deep?
• Load-in & Access: Is there a service elevator, ramp, or direct flat-ground access available for loading in heavy instruments and PA gear, or are there stairs involved?

2. Technical & Power Infrastructure

• Available Power: Is there a dedicated, grounded power outlet (220V/16A) within 5 meters of the setup space?
• In-House Audio: Does the venue have its own built-in PA system and sound engineer, or will I be using my own portable high-fidelity amplification?
• Acoustic Environment: Is the room heavily carpeted (dry acoustics) or surrounded by glass and marble (highly reflective acoustics)?

3. Instrument Availability

• Provided Piano: Does the venue already house a tuned grand or upright piano (such as a PETROF)? If yes, w

Yes, I can provide professional sound equipment for local events within driving distance in the Czech Republic and neighboring European regions. However, I do not provide professional stage lighting.

Yes, I can absolutely provide a background music service before my performance and during the set breaks to ensure there is never an awkward silence at your event.

The best venue I’ve ever worked at has to be the breathtaking Rudolfinum in Prague, where I had the privilege of performing for a prestigious Forbes Event. The acoustics and historic atmosphere of that Neo-Renaissance concert hall are unmatched. I also have a deep appreciation for the Petrof Gallery, where I performed for the iconic PONER Fashion Show

As Elly Jay, my favorite type of event is any high-end showcase where I can blend live performance with high fashion or corporate storytelling.

I began my journey in Cape Town, South Africa, where I formally studied music performance and graduated with a Diploma in Music Performance (Piano) from Prompt Music / Xulon Musictech in 2003.
My early gigging career started right there in South Africa, performing locally and building the foundation of my performance style. Over the last 20+ years, my passion for music has taken me internationally, and I am now based in Prague, Czech Republic, performing across Europe for exclusive, high-end clients.
My previous experience spans several decades and dynamic performance environments, which I categorize into four main areas:

1. Luxury Cruise Residencies

• MS Edelweiss (Thurgau Travel): Spent autumn 2026 delivering curated solo piano sets for diverse international travelers on this luxury river cruise vessel.
• Antonio Bellucci (Thurgau): Contracted as the featured resident pianist, maintaining a sophisticated evening entertainment atmosphere onboard.

2. Luxury Hotels & Bespoke Showcase

my musical DNA is deeply rooted in the iconic singer-songwriters and vocal powerhouses who mastered the art of commanding a room with just a piano and a microphone.

For a typical high-end booking, corporate gala, or luxury hotel event, my schedule is structured to ensure absolute professionalism, seamless transitions, and zero disruption to your guests.

1. Standard Setup & Soundcheck Times

• Arrival: I arrive 60 to 90 minutes before the guests enter the room or the event begins.
• Load-in & Setup: It takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes to fully assemble my professional keyboard, sound amplification system, and vocal microphone.
• Soundcheck: A discreet 15-minute soundcheck is essential to tune the audio to the room's specific acoustics and balance the live vocals with the piano.
• Readiness: I am always fully set up, soundchecked, and changed into formal attire at least 15 to 30 minutes before doors open.

Yes, I am completely comfortable performing outside, provided that the weather cooperate and proper technical protections are in place to keep the instruments and electronics safe. Outdoor settings can add a stunning, cinematic atmosphere to an event—whether it is a summer garden gala, an open-air fashion runway, or an elegant sunset cocktail hour.
To ensure the music is flawless and the performance runs smoothly, outdoor bookings just require a few basic logistical arrangements:

Clients absolutely have a say in the music, and I prioritize collaborating closely with clients to build the perfect soundtrack for their event. Rather than sticking to a rigid, unchangeable setlist, my performances are highly flexible.
Because I maintain a vast, active repertoire of over 500 iconic works across pop, jazz, soul, rock, and classical genres, we can shape the music in a few different ways

Based on feedback from luxury event planners, corporate directors, and hospitality managers across Europe and South Africa, previous clients most commonly describe my performances using three core themes:

1. "Sophisticated & High-End"

Clients frequently highlight how the live piano and vocals elevate the prestige of their brand launches, VIP galas, and fashion runways. Whether performing at a high-profile Forbes Event at the Rudolfinum or an exclusive PONER runway show at the Petrof Gallery, organizers note that the music seamlessly blends luxury with artistic elegance.

2. "Incredibly Versatile & Accommodating"

Because I maintain an active repertoire of over 500 iconic works, clients often praise my ability to shift genres seamlessly—moving effortlessly from a smooth Frank Sinatra swing to an upbeat Elton John rock classic. Guests love that I can take personalized requests on the spot, turning a standard evening into an interactive, tailor-made experience.

3. "Engaging Yet Perfect

Timings & Set Structures

• Arrival & Load-In: Arrives 60–90 minutes prior to guest entry or event start.
• Setup & Tuning: Requires 30–45 minutes for equipment assembly, followed by a 15-minute soundcheck.
• Ready State: Completely set up, soundchecked, and in formal attire 15–30 minutes before doors open.
• Standard Performance Sets: Configurable as 3 × 45-minute sets (with 15-minute breaks) or 2 × 60-minute sets (with 20-minute breaks).
• Feature Concerts: Offers a single, continuous 60–90 minute high-impact themed show.

🎹 Technical Requirements & Gear

• Local European Gigs: Fully self-sufficient. Provides a professional 88-key stage keyboard, vocal microphone, and compact high-fidelity PA system.
• Venue Power Needs: Requires one dedicated, grounded 220V/16A power outlet within 5 meters of the stage.
• Fly-In / Cruise Rider: Requires a tuned acoustic grand piano (preferably a PETROF) or an 88-weighted-key digital stage piano, 1 Shure SM58 mic on a boom stand, 2 balanced DI boxe