Sir Phiri Matt Elegant live cello music for weddings, private events, and special occasions

We need a performance space of at least 8 meters x 5 meters. We require 2 x 13 amp power sockets and 3 parking spaces.

We need to know any directions that will help us find the venue and find the right place to load in our equipment. We’d also need to be informed if there’s a sound limiter in the venue.

No, I do not.

Yes, I'm happy to play music from Spotify before, after and between my sets. I'm happy to choose the music ourselves or let the client choose the music.

One of the most memorable gigs I’ve performed was a wedding ceremony where the couple chose meaningful pieces for each part of the day. Playing as the guests arrived, accompanying the bride’s entrance, and seeing how the music added to such an emotional moment was incredibly special. It reminded me how powerful live cello can be in making an occasion feel truly personal.

My favourite venues are those with beautiful acoustics and a warm, intimate atmosphere—historic chapels, elegant wedding venues, and candlelit event spaces are always a joy to perform in. That said, I love adapting to each setting and making the music feel right for the space, whether it is a grand celebration or a small private gathering.

Weddings are my favourite events to perform at. It’s a privilege to be part of such a meaningful day, and I love using the cello to create an elegant, emotional atmosphere—from the ceremony through to the drinks reception or dinner. Every wedding is different, and I enjoy helping couples choose music that feels truly personal to them.

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I began playing cello through formal music training and gained early performance experience in ensembles, school events, and local community performances. As my confidence grew, I started performing independently for smaller private occasions, where I discovered how much I enjoyed creating a special atmosphere through live music.

I began gigging through word-of-mouth recommendations, playing at intimate celebrations, wedding-related events, and dinner functions. Each performance helped me build my repertoire and understand how to tailor music to different settings—from romantic ceremony moments to relaxed background music during receptions.

Today, I focus on offering elegant, expressive cello music that feels personal to each client and their event. I’m always expanding my repertoire and enjoy working with clients to include meaningful song choices where possible.

I’ve been most influenced by artists who combine strong melody with real emotional depth—particularly Yo-Yo Ma for his warmth and storytelling, 2Cellos for showing how versatile the cello can be, and composers such as Bach, Saint-Saëns, and Elgar.

My favourite artist is Yo-Yo Ma, because his playing always feels personal, expressive, and effortless. He has a beautiful way of making classical music accessible and meaningful to every listener.

Choosing the greatest song of all time is impossible, but for me it would be “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Its melody is timeless, tender, and instantly recognizable, and it translates beautifully to the cello.

I normally arrive 2 hours before the performance to set up

We’re happy to play outside but we ask for shade, a flat level surface and a power supply close to the performance area.

I can learn specific songs before the event but we usually limit this to 5 songs. The clients are welcome to pick a set list from my repertoire or let me choose the music for them.

Previous customers would describe us as a high energy group that loves to get the audience on their feet dancing.

My performances are elegant, warm, and emotionally engaging. I create a refined atmosphere with the rich sound of the cello, whether I’m performing for a romantic wedding ceremony, relaxed drinks reception, intimate dinner, or formal corporate event.

I aim to make every performance feel personal to the occasion, blending beautiful classical pieces with modern songs, film music, and client requests where possible. I’m professional, well prepared, and attentive to the mood of the event, providing music that complements the moment without overwhelming it.