Stunning Singing from the Romantic Tenor at the Grove House Carol Concert

Guests at the Grove House Carol Concert were treated to stunning singing from the Romantic Tenor. Accompanied by the St Albans Symphony Orchestra, Neil sang 'O Holy Night'



Grove House provides an outstanding service for people at the end of their lives and is funded by donations and fund raising.

Viva Live Music are delighted to support Grove House as one of their charities. http://www.vivalivemusic.co.uk

A wonderful evening's entertainment

For a sophisticated evening that is a 'real treat' for guests and clients, why not plan an operatic Afternoon Tea? The combination of a delicious tea: with delicate sandwiches, scones and pastries, whilst opera is being performed is a winning formula, and one that is increasingly popular with clients.

Venues that we have offered this service to, have recorded record bookings and increased revenue. Special occasions for private clients have also given outstanding feedback.

As well as opera themed performances, we also offer 'Songs from the Musicals', 'Songs from the West End' and 'Songs from the Movies'.

Go to our website http://www.vivalivemusic.co.uk or call 0844 576 3015 to discuss your ideas or plans.

On the Twelfth Day of Christmas: Carol Singers

Our client requested Christmas music to create a seasonal atmosphere to an event. We suggested our outstanding Carol Singers: all professional singers who sing with the leading opera companies in the country. They initially sang outside, to welcome guests to the event. They then moved into the venue, to provide background music whilst guests mingled at the reception before dinner.

Before long, guests were asking to sing with the singers, and there was an inpromptu carol singing round the Christmas Tree. Guests said it was one of the best Christmas parties they had ever attended!

Go to our website for more details or call us on 0844 576 3015.

On the Eleventh Day of Christmas - a Party Band

For our clients we recommended our party bands when they were organising various seasonal parties. Yes: there are plenty of bands around, but for valued clients, we want to ensure the quality of the band is outstanding.

• Our band liaised with the client before the event, to ensure they played the favourite songs from their extensive playlist.
• They arrived very early to unload, set up and sound check; avoiding any disruption to the venue and the party.
• They provided their own sound equipment which was all PAT tested before the event.
  
• They were smartly dressed for the set up, and changed into their performance clothing.
• They also arranged lighting to add atmosphere to the evening.
• As there was going to be a speech, the band set up a mic that could be used for this, at no extra charge.

We offer a full event management service for this sort of band, if the client wishes to have a liaison person on site.

The event was a great success and the client has already booked the band for a future event!

See more about the band:

See our website

On the Tenth Day of Christmas our stunning Jazz Singer Kellie

We were asked to suggest a musician for an evening event at a lovely modern, prestigious venue. We recommended our beautiful, sultry jazz singer, Kellie. She performed a programme of jazz standards with a modern twist, with a pianist.
Kellie comes from Barbados, and has a mixture of inate musicianship, a voice to die for and looks that melt the coldest evening.

Kelly is ideal for events where a sophisticated sound is required and where clients like some interaction with the musicians. Kelly also performs with a jazz band and is able to offer different options based on the venue, the occasion and budget.

Find out more about Kellie:
http://vivalivemusic.co.uk/musicians/jazz-singer-k

See our website for more ideas

On the Ninth Day of Christmas - a pianist

We had a formal dinner at an historical venue, where there was a beautiful grand piano. It seemed ridiculous not to use the piano (a Steinberg that any one of our pianists would be delighted to play!) So we recommended one of our pianists to provide background music for the drinks reception and dinner.

The client was delighted; the sound of the piano in the beautiful venue was exquisite and added to the experience for the guests.

We have several excellent pianists we are able to recommend, who play a variety of classical, crossover and cocktail music.

Here is information on Matthew

Go to our website or call 0844 576 3015 for more information on any of our musicians.

On the Eighth Day of Christmas - A String Quartet

We organised an Afternoon Tea event where the client wanted sophisticated background music that would add to the atmosphere. We suggested one of our glamorous String Quartets, who performed a mixture of light classical and crossover music for the guests.

The compliments the girls and I received were tremendous. The guests felt the music added to their experience; they were able to enjoy the delicious tea; soak up the atmosphere - and have conversations with their friends.

Look at our website: or call us on 0844 576 3015

Viva Live Music - music for every occasion

On the Seventh Day of Christmas - a Jazz Band

We were organising a luncheon and we recommended one of our excellent jazz bands, to provide background music and a fantastic atmosphere for guests.

We have a number of jazz musicians and are able to provide soloists; duos; trios; quartets and larger bands to suit the occasion, the venue and budget. Our musicians range from singers, bass players, guitarists, pianists, saxophone players, guitarists, percussionists, singing pianists... and we put together bands to suit your preference for specific musicians.

Like all of our musicians we work with you to produce a playlist of your liking.

For more information on our jazz musicians go to our musicians page or call 0844 576 3015.

On the Sixth Day of Christmas we arranged a Piper

We had an event where guests arrived at a beautiful venue. Our dashing Piper played outside to welcome guests. It added to the atmosphere of the event and was exciting for the guests.

Here is more information about the piper.

Go to our website or call 0844576 3015 for more information.

On the Fifth Day of Christmas we provided excellent sound qualities for the event

The sound levels of music at an event make or break the success of the occasion. How many times have you attended events where the sound levels are too high for you to talk - during a reception, OR times when it is impossible to hear the music due to background noises.

My parents attended a 50th birthday recently, where the band played so loudly that most of the guests left early; they couldn't bear the sound. We also attended an event yesterday where the sound levels of the performers were not appropriate for the event or venue. The sound was too high (loud) and the mix had too much treble on it. Given that it was a reception, people weren't able to talk and hear a conversation and most people went home.

We ensure that does not happen at events we are involved in. We offer a music management service where a sound engineer does a thorough sound check before the event and during the event. In addition, he or she liaises with the venue and client to ensure the sound levels and quality are maintained throughout the event. This is not a service all companies offer and performers are not able to assess sound levels as they perform.

More details of our Music Management Service.

On the Fourth Day of Christmas the Romantic Tenor serenaded us all

For sheer romance and elegance, we organised The Romantic Tenor to serenade guests at a luncheon. With his stunning voice and dashing demeanour, The Romantic Tenor entertained guests with Italian Love songs and arias.

He also serenaded 'special' guests. It is amazing looking round the room to see the ladies visibly blushing!

More details of the Romantic Tenor

Here is the Romantic Tenor's own website.



To book the Romantic Tenor call on 0844 576 3015 or email enquiries@vivalivemusic.co.uk

On the Third Day of Christmas we had a harpist playing

Planning a drinks reception, our clients wanted to create a beautiful atmosphere: we recommended a harpist to play. She provided excellent and beautiful background music, which enhanced the occasion, allowing guests to talk without drowning them out.

The harpist plays a variety of musical styles and will arrange to discuss the musical programme before the event, to ensure your musical tastes are played.

More information on the harpist.



To book the harpist or for more information contact us.

On the Second Day of Christmas we celebrated with our brass quintet

Our fabulous brass quintet play a wide variety of musical arrangements: from standard Christmas Carol arrangements, to classical crossover, jazz and musicals.

They are brilliant for outside locations. Imagine what it would be like for your guests arriving at a venue, with the brass band playing??? Memorable!
They are also great to lure customers into shops and venues; for Sports activities and family days.

More information on our brass quintet including sound samples.

The First Day of Christmas - The Doo Bop Girls

On the First Day of Christmas: we will need to have entertainment that is stunning for all of our guests. We recommend the Doo Bop Girls who are gorgeous to look at; sound marvellous and are fabulous entertainment. They perform a variety of close harmony songs - with backing tracks and a capella.

They are perfect for background music at receptions and dinners, after dinner entertainment and at outside events - including welcoming guests outside venues; sporting events and festivals.

More information on the Doo Bop Girls.

Muscle Dreams - Fundraiser, 16th November

Viva Live Music are delighted to be supporting Muscle Help at their annual fund raising event at the RAC Club, Pall Mall. The Romantic Tenor, Neil Simon, will be entertaining guests with Christmas Songs.

Muscle Help provides 'dream' days for boys suffering from Muscular Dystrophy. The boy will have a once in a life experience, and after the event, an album of photographs commemorating the occasion is given to the boy and his family. Support is also provided to the family.

More details of the event:

Brilliant After Dinner Cabaret

After Dinner Entertainment is a successful way of ending a great event. We have a number of exciting options to offer clients for business dinners; award ceremonies and balls.

One is our "Phantom Cabaret"; two excellent singers perform 20 minutes of duets and solos from Phantom of the Opera whilst guests are finishing their coffee and chocolates!

Using the location to it's best advantage, the performers entertain your guests with their brilliant singing and acting.

A stage manager/sound technician is also included within the package to ensure the very highest standards of performance and service are delivered - to tranform your event.

We have sound samples and photos of the most recent Phantom Cabaret, which will be available here soon.

Go to enquiries@vivalivemusic.co.uk or call us on 0844 576 3015 to discuss your event.

Tea Dance 14th November, Hanbury Manor

We are delighted to be involved in providing the music for a luxurious Tea Dance at Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club on 14th November.

The Palm String Trio will be delighting guests with their performances of waltzes, quicksteps, tangos and foxtrots and encouraging dancers to be on the dancefloor.

The Tea Dance is being held in the beautiful Poles Hall, and guests will be able to eat delicious afternoon tea; have a glass of champagne; listen to the beautiful music; watch the dancing - and even join in the dancing.

For more details or to book places on this wonderful event please call: 01920 487 722

The PA Club Event: 20th October. Viva Live Music's Party band to play via #constantcontact

The PA Club Event: 20th October. Viva Live Music's Party band to play via #constantcontact

The Romantic Tenor appearing on Radio 4

Our Romantic Tenor, Neil Simon, is appearing on Radio 4 next Tuesday morning: 19th October, on Woman's Hour, which is broadcast between 10am - 10.45am.

He is appearing within a feature on people that have changed careers due to the economic downturn. We will put a link through to the programme after it is broadcast for his fans to listen to the show.

Viva Live Music - the new name of NSN PRODUCTIONS LIMITED

We are delighted to announce that Viva Live Music is the new name of NSN PRODUCTIONS LIMITED. We wished have a name that reflected what we do: namely that we are a lively, vibrant company that provide Live Music for all occasions.

We also have a new website where live music is showcased in a variety of formats.

You will be able to see videos of musicians performing: featured musicians of the week and podcasts with Top Tips on musical entertainmetn for your event.

We'd be delighted to receive your feedback from the changes and look forward to discussing your event plans.

Showcase at Banqueting House on 14th September

We are delighted to be showcasing some of our outstanding musicians at Banqueting House, Whitehall on 14th September.

We have a string duo who will provide stunning background music whilst guests view Banqueting House and stands from over 40 venues in the Westminster Area.

The String Duo regularly play at 'high end' hotels, providing background music for guests taking Afternoon Tea. Our clients have noted that bookings have increased since live music was introduced as part of the experience.

They also play at weddings, receptions and dinners and they perform arrangements of light classical and crossover pieces.

Register here to attend the Showcase Event on 14th September.

Organists rip off brides - or do they??

I came across the following article in the Telegraph today:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/newstopics/religion/7957798/Here-comes-the-bribe-church-organists-accused-of-exploiting-wedding-couples.html

In summary, it mentions that church organists are charging more for weddings if the service is videoed. Bridal couples are understandably upset at organists' fees being doubled if they are videoed.

In the face of it, it appears to be unfair; you have booked an organist to play, and as soon as the word 'Video' is mentioned, the organist gets pound signs in his eyes and charges double the fee. However, the organist, or other musician, has no control over the recording of the music once it is recorded. There have been cases of music being recorded, then used for commercial purposes, where other people have earned a great deal of money, but the musician himself has not earned a penny. This has in fact happened to me, and it is a shocking situation to occur.

Music and performance is a job and the musician 'owns' the performance rights. Of course if he is booked, the client has paid for that performance - but not 'repeat' performances: and a video is a repeat. The same could apply to choirs and instrumentalists performing at a wedding.

So what do you do to avoid this. In the case of organists, the church of England has got involved, although the MU and Royal School of Church Music do advise that a fee should be paid for videoing or recording a performance.

1. You could ensure that no videoing takes place when the organist is playing, although this is tricky for the entrance of the bride.
2. You could negotiate with the organist to have a special copy of the service, with his playing included. He might enjoy that.
3. Other music could be 'dubbed' onto the video, avoiding using the performance of the organist.
4. Use a good quality music management company like NSN, to negotiate the fee. We would be able to include clauses that would ensure the musician didn't feel exploited.

Good luck and if you need any advice, don't hesitate to call me on 0844 576 3015. Our website is http://www.nsn-productions.com

More weddings transformed by live music!

Over the weekend we had a number of musicians out playing at weddings; singers, guitarists, our harpist and string quartet. Feedback has already arrived: "The Musicians were magnificent"... "Marvellous"...."Thanks ever so much". We don't contact brides until 3 weeks after the event, so these were texted we received!!

Here our harpist below.

YouTube - executivevoice's Channel

For information on our musicians go to our website.

Hanbury Jazz Play at Hatfield House - Moondance

The excellent Hanbury Jazz musicians performing Moondance at Hatfield House as part of their Rose weekend. It was a challenge since it was very windy at the time. Also, no chairs were put out, so the visitors, who are of the older generation, were reluctant to sit down. Eventually, people started asking for chairs and they were found. A great day and well done to Emma, Mark and Ian.

Pearlfishers Duet - Singing Waiters 12th

This is our excellent tenor and baritone singing the Pearlfishers Duet at a 'Singing Waiters' engagement on Saturday. This was for a large ball, after dinner. The singers were waiters throughout the service, then burst into song, with key guests being serenaded and targeted. The client was thrilled!

The video is very dark because the 'dining lights' were kept low for the dinner.

For more information go to http://www.nsn-productions.com

NSN - preferred suppliers for the PA CLub

We are delighted to have been selected to be the PA Club's latest preferred supplier. The PA Club is an exclusive club for Executive PAs in all of the large Multi-National companies in the South East.

NSN Productions are the first supplier to be included within the PA Club, that specialise in Live Musical Entertainment. Company Director Susan Heaton Wright said "We are thrilled to be part of the PA Club. We are looking forward to meeting a number of PAs, and to seeing how we are able to transform events they are organising for their businesses. We are also interested in meeting the other preferred suppliers. I have already spoken to two other suppliers and we are very keen to meet up soon!"

The PA Club's website is here

Entrance to the Queen of Sheba - Violin Duo

Always check your message has been received!

Last week I was involved in a rather tricky situation, where a group of children were delayed returning home from a late night performance. There were 2 messages that were not received and this resulted in the coach the children were on being delayed; the children being very tired and distressed and worried parents waiting for the coach to return.

One of these messages involved an individual 'TEXTING' a message to the person in charge. The other involved an individual leaving a 'Voice Mail' to say she was travelling independently. In both cases, these individuals believed their responsibilities had stopped once they had left these messages. However, the person's phone that they'd left the messages on wasn't working. These were important enough messages, which affected a number of adults and children, yet they didn't check whether or not they had been received. They also did not tell the person in charge in person, but relied on impersonal messages.

Before we had mobiles (and I don't mean the 1980s bricks), we ensured messages were passed on; we confirmed they had been received. Now, it appears, for some people, that leaving a message or texting is 'good enough' without them checking a message has been received.

The message today is: check the right person has received your message; if necessary asking them to phone/text to confirm, or - even more impressively, tell the person face to face.

Executive Voice is running a half day Masterclass Speak, Connect, Engage on 7th July in Central London.

NSN PRODUCTIONS Finalists in the FSB Business Awards

Here we are: Neil, Susan and Gary from NSN PRODUCTIONS LIMITED. We received our finalist certificates at the FSB Business Awards last week. NSN were in the Service Excellence and Staff Training and Development categories and were thrilled to have been picked as finalists in these categories, as they are core principles to our business.

We would like to thank all of our clients and suppliers who supported us and sent us congratulations on our achievements. They were much appreciated!

For all your entertainment needs go to http://www.nsn-productions.com

Singing Waiters to surprise and entertain your guests

What a fantastic way to surprise your guests: whether it be a summer party for your company, a wedding, anniversary or charity do. We have a variety of packages available to suit your budget, venue and the type of event.
Not only do we have Singing Waiters, but also surprise singing guests, and other singing characters - including nuns, traffic wardens, doctors, nurses and bankers....

Go to our website for more details and ideas! And if you have any good ideas of characters to sing - do let us know!!

Our wonderful harpist plays at a private event

We were privileged enough to take a short video recording of a private event, where our wonderful harpist, Ruth created a lovely atmosphere for our guests. A harp is an in obtrusive instrument, volume wise, yet is versatile enough to play a wide variety of music from classical: crossover; music theatre; folk music and classic pop - all music that I am sure YOU will know.

We are always delighted to talk to clients wishing to add an extra special dimension to an event they are organising. This could be a special birthday; anniversary; drinks party; wedding; naming ceremony or even a remembrance reception.

Please go to our website

Facebook Page for NSN Musicians

We now have a page for musicians and entertainers who wish to find out more about NSN PRODUCTIONS LIMITED. Go to facebook and find 'NSN MUSICIANS'. We'd be delighted to have you as followers.

We will discuss:

• Trends in music and entertainment
• Share ideas
• Celebrate entertainers' successes
• Listen to current challenges

And more..

http://www.nsn-productions.com

The Wedding Salon - the most exclusive wedding fair

We are delighted to be involved in this most exclusive Wedding experience. For brides who are looking for a unique wedding; there will be ideas on how to create a lovely day for yourselves and your guests.

NSN PRODUCTIONS LIMITED have a number of musicians and entertainers, who will be showcasing their music for you to get great ideas. In addition to this, Susan Heaton Wright from NSN will give a short talk on how live musical entertainment creates a memorable wedding.

For more details on how to register to to the Wedding Salon website.

http://www.nsn-productions.com

The Most Exclusive Wedding Salon in the UK

We are delighted to be involved in the Wedding Salon, which is taking place on 28th February, at Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club. If you are a bride who is wishing to create the most memorable wedding experience for you and your guests, this is the wedding event for you.

There will be a number of outstanding suppliers of wedding services: from florists to designers - and NSN PRODUCTIONS LIMITED, who will be showcasing a number of their musicians and I will be giving a short talk on using live music to create a memorable wedding.

If you would like to attend please register at http://www.theweddingsalon.co.uk

We look forward to seeing you there. If you would like more information about NSN PRODUCTIONS, please go to http://www.nsn-productions.com

Music for Funerals

A lot of people don't know where to source good quality musicians who will sensitively provide live music for a funeral. Loved ones need to know that their wishes are being listened to, and that the musicians will be reliable and make a funeral or memorial service memorable. Here at NSN PRoductions Limited, we provide a bespoke service that supports people organising a funeral or memorial service for someone that has passed away. We are always happy to discuss any ideas with you, and will treat you with respect; understanding that you need support and assistance when making decisions.
We would be delighted to talk to you on 0844 576 3015 or go to our website http://www.nsn-productions.com/musicforfunerals.html

CSR Entertainment ideas

CSR - Corporate Social Responsibility programmes are crucial for any business wishing to be taken seriously. We have a number of ideas that 'tick' the CSR boxes whilst organising events.

We have the 'Charity Busker'; the outstanding musician is booked by the organisation. He or she performs background music with a hat or instrument case, where guests donate money for the charity of choice.

Not only is the company having live entertainment to enhance an event; their CSR quota is being filled and money donated goes to the chosen charity. This is a win-win situation.

For more details of our CSR entertainment ideas, do contact us on 0844 576 3015

http://www.nsn-productions.com

The Wedding Salon

NSN Productions Limited are delighted to have been invited as a preferred supplier for The Wedding Salon www.theweddingsalon.co.uk which is taking place at Hanbury Manor, Near Ware, Hertfordshire, on 28th February.

We will be showcasing some of our outstanding musicians, and I will be giving a talk on using music to make your wedding unique and memorable.

IF you are not able to attend, but would like information on our musicians - or to hear the speech again, do call me on 0844 576 3015

http://www.nsn-productions.com

On the Twelfth Day of NSN's Christmas

My truelove sent to me; residency musicians to transform regular events. Whether it be a Saturday evening at a restaurant; Sunday lunchtime; a weekly meeting at the Golf Club, live music makes a venue or event special.

There are a number of extras we offer as part of our service:

• Musicians will take requests (from their repertoire lists). These could be dedicated to someone.
• We alternate musicians so it doesn't become rather sad; with the same musician playing similar repertoire each week.
• We let the venues know who will be coming in advance; this means customers who like a particular musician can be contacted as part of a marketing campaign.
• We do some publicity ourselves; we always mention the organisations and venues we have residencies with; our musicians' biogs list these and we regularly contact the press.

For more information go to http://www.nsn-productions.com

On the Eleventh Day of NSN's Christmas

My true love gave to me - a piper playing!! It was so exciting. I could use a piper for a wedding; for a special occasion: particularly when there is a Scottish Theme, or, sadly, a funeral.
One client of ours recently had a murder mystery party, and employed our Scottish Piper to set the scene!

More information: http://www.nsn-productions.com

On the Tenth Day of NSN's Christmas

My true love gave to me:

Musicians that played beautifully at my wedding. I didn't have to worry about them because NSN was so professional at all stages of the selecting; booking and organising. I didn't once have to worry about the music and musicians because everything was cared for by NSN and that's what they do; put your mind at rest.

More details: http://www.nsn-productions.com

On the Ninth Day of NSN's Christmas

My true love gave to me: an outstanding musical experience on New Year's Eve. Yes: that was last night, where our musicians were out performing until the early hours. In all cases they were transforming events to make them truly memorable! Our musicians included.

• Jazz trios - where guests could either chill out and listen or dance.
• String musicians providing background music during drinks receptions and meals
• The Romantic Tenor who delighted guests by serenading them whilst they dined.
• Cover bands who encouraged guests to dance.
• Scottish Pipers - no New Year's Eve event is complete without a piper!

We supplied reliable, outstanding and friendly musicians. Call us to see how we could provide entertainment solutions for your events!

More information from www.nsn-productions.com