Black Velvet Band
£525.00-£860.00
| Select your options |
Performance Length: 3 x 40-minute or 2 x 1-hour sets of songs, or 2 x 60 minute sets of dancing in a 3-hour period. |
A professional band with two decades experience, Black Velvet Band can provide you will a first class Barn Dance, Ceilidh and Irish Ceili and an American Hoedown – or even a brilliant set of Irish songs and tunes performed in simple café style. Looking for a different “take” on a Christmas party? You will enjoy a Christmas Ceilidh! Jase and Mike from Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio have set lots of traditional carols and popular songs as dance tunes. The band, of course, dress in their best Christmas jumpers and Santa hats!
“Irish? Scottish? Barndance? American Hoedown? Folky Pop? No problem!”
The band’s flexible line-up depends on the style. The virtuoso fiddle-playing of Mike Evans dominates the sound. An accordion and fiddle sit at the heart of the Scottish style. Want to go Irish? Guitar and excellent vocals join the fiddle and accordion along with double-bass. Nashville-style bluegrass fiddle-playing leads the Hillbilly Hoedown sound.
The band is happy to include a session or two of organised dancing in ceilidh or barn dance style.Don’t worry if you’ve never experienced these styles of dancing before. It’s easy! The band’s specialist ‘dance-caller’ will explain and show you how. Anyway, getting mixed up and tying your feet in a tangle is half the fun – it’s not ‘getting it wrong’, it’s all down to individual interpretation!
Want to go Scottish? The dance-caller will include all the tried-and-trusted favourites such as ‘The Gay Gordons’ or ‘Strip The Willow’. If you’d like a ceili, Irish-style, Black Velvet Band will throw a few well-known Irish songs into the mix, and give you ‘The Siege Of Ennis’ and ‘The Bridge Of Athlone’. Prefer to pull on your cowboy boots, a kerchief and Stetson and wheel out your dos-y-dos at an American hoedown? These guys will treat you to a real down-home hootenanny, Texas-style. Additionally, the guys can round the night off with a set of Gypsy-style Swing Jazz.
- Ceilidh, ceili, barn dance or hoedown? BVB is simply the best!
- A specialist dance-caller for each specific style
- The band can dress in costume to suit the event
Video
Audio
Repertoire
Irish Song Repertoire
- Black Velvet Band
- Carrickfergus
- Dirty Old Town
- Fairytale Of New York
- Fields Of Athenry
- Follow Me Up To Carlow
- Green Fields Of France
- I’ll Tell Me Ma
- Lakes Of Pontchartrain
- Londonderry Air (Danny Boy)
- Muirshin Durkin
- Ride On
- Sally Gardens
- Seven Drunken Nights
- Spanish Lady
- Star Of The County Down
- The Irish Rover
- Town I Loved So Well
- Whiskey In The Jar
- Wild Mountain Thyme
- Wild Rover
- ….and plenty more….
Irish Dance-Tunes
- Around The World For Sport
- Belfast Polka
- Fairy Dance
- Fiery Clockface
- Foxhunters
- Ger The Rigger
- Irish Washerwoman
- John Ryan’s Reel
- Merrily Kiss The Quaker
- May Moon
- Morrison’s Jig
- Soldier’s Joy
- The Gobbio
- The Rocky Road To Dublin
- Trip Upstairs
- ….and plenty more….
Scottish Dance-Tunes
- Atholl Highlanders
- Cameron McFadyean
- Dashing White Sergeant
- Devil Among The Tailors
- Down The Glen
- East Neuk Of Fife
- Flower Of Scotland
- Flowers Of Edinburgh
- Gay Gordons
- Mairie’s Wedding
- Peter Street
- Prince Charlie
- Scotland The Brave
- The Haughs Of Cromdale
- The Mason’s Apron
- ….and plenty more….
Folky Pop
- Ain’t No Sunshine
- Daydream
- Have I Told You Lately
- Hound-Dog
- House Of The Rising Sun
- If I Fell (Instr)
- In My Life
- Johnny B. Goode
- Let It Be Me
- Moondance
- Norwegian Wood
- You Win Again
- You’ve Got A Friend
- Sunny
- Hey Good Lookin’
- Up on the roof
Hillbilly Hoedown Repertoire
- Achy-Breaky Heart
- Always On My Mind
- Act Naturally
- American Pie
- Bad Moon Rising
- Bile Dem Cabbage Down (Instrumental)
- Blue Moon Of Kentucky
- Blue Suede Shoes
- Bye Bye Love
- Can’t Hold Out
- Comin’ Round The Mountain
- Country Roads
- Dance The Night Away
- Diggy-Liggy-Lo
- Donkey Reel (Instrumental)
- Don’t Fence Me In
- Durang’s Reel (Instrumental)
- Goodnight Irene
- Hello Mary Lou
- Hey, Good-Lookin’
- I Love You Because
- I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight
- Jambalaya
- King Of The Road
- Me And Bobby McGee
- Midnight At The Oasis
- Orange Blossom Special (Instrumental)
- Raining In My Heart
- Stand By Me
- Sweet Home Alabama
- Take It Easy
- Turkey In The Straw (Instrumental)
- When Will I Be Loved
- You Are My Sunshine
- Your Cheatin’ Heart
Swing Jazz Classics
- After You’ve Gone
- Ain’t Misbehavin’
- Anything Goes
- Autumn Leaves
- Blue Moon
- Don’t Get Around Much Anymore
- Georgia
- Girl From Ipanema
- Honeysuckle Rose
- I Can’t Give You Anything But Love
- I’m Confessin’
- It Had To Be You
- Lady Be Good
- Makin’ Whoopee
- Moon River
- My Blue Heaven
- Night And Day
- Out Of Nowhere
- Pennies From Heaven
- Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter
- Summertime
- Sunny
- Sunny Side Of The Street
- Sweet Sue
- S’Wonderful
- The Nearness Of You
- They Can’t Take That Away From Me
- ….and plenty more…
Christmas Songs
- Do They Know It’s Christmas?
- Do You Hear What I Hear?
- Fairy Tale Of New York
- Frosty The Snowman
- Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
- I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday
- It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!
- Mary’s Boy Child
- Merry Christmas Everyone
- Mistletoe And Wine
- Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree
- Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer
- Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
- Silent Night
- Sleigh Ride
- We’re Flying Through the Air
- We Wish You A Merry Christmas
- White Christmas
- Winter Wonderland
Christmas Carols
- Away in a Manger
- Deck the Halls
- Ding Dong Merrily on High
- God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
- Good Christian Men Rejoice
- Good King Wenceslas
- Hark the Herald Angels Sing
- I Saw Three Ships
- It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
- Joy to the World
- O Come All Ye Faithful
- O Holy Night
- O Little Town of Bethlehem
- Once in Royal David’s City
- Silent Night
- The First Noel
- The Gloucestershire Wassail
- The Holly and the Ivy
- We Three Kings of Orient are
- While Shepherds Watched
Sally Mortleman –
Black Velvet Band Hoedown Trio / 7oaks TriClub Hoedown Barn Dance / November 2024
The Black Velvet Hoedown Trio were superb on Saturday 16th November for our annual 7Oaks TriClub dinner dance. We had 50 members turn up at the Chipstead Sailing Club Clubhouse, and I can tell you that as soon as Mike and his band started playing the first set, everyone got up to dance! There were high levels of energy in the room and the Hoedown Trio rose to the occasion spectacularly, matching our enthusiasm and giving us little anecdotes on the history of the dance with instructions as we cooled down and grabbed a different partner.
The band were duly fed and watered with a delicious Greek buffet, and by special request they played a Greek dance to thank the chefs. I think Black Velvet were stunned with the energy levels and full dance floor – and there was no slacking from music or dancing. By the end of the second set we were all perspiring in a good way!!!!
There have been calls from many members to make this an annual event, so rest assured we will re-book the chaps for a rematch! A fantastic evening had by all. Many thanks to Mike and the band.
Sally Mortleman – Social Secretary, 7Oaks TriClub
Georgia Ford –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Georgia’s Wedding Ceilidh / October 2024
It was so much fun to have the trio along and they were so clear with their instructions that even the French at our wedding could follow along. Mike’s communication was superb and at one point extremely helpful by replying quickly with a key document, as we dealt with a problem with our venue. Thank you all.
Georgia Ford
Lily Chapman –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Lily’s 30th Birthday Ceilidh / September 2024
It was a brilliant night!
I had an excellent experience with the Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – they were very responsive and flexible on and before the night. The caller was easy to understand, enthusiastic and the band are very talented musicians.
I highly recommend them.
Lily Chapman
Daniella Murray –
Black Velvet Band Hoedown Trio / The Sun Inn, Hardingstone / September 2024
Black Velvet Band Hoedown Trio were so much fun! We booked them for our first Barn Dance and were unsure of how it would work. They fully put our minds at ease as everyone got stuck into the fun!
Prompt, professional and organised. Easy to work with and enjoyable to have at our public event. 10/10 thanks guys!
Daniella Murray, General Manager: The Sun Inn
Shaun Reynolds –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / Lambourn Sports Club / September 2024
The guys were great, everyone had a superb time. We’ll have them back next year as people want the event to be an annual thing. Two people asked me to pass your contact details on as well as they’d like to book them for separate events.
Shaun Reynolds
Mike George –
Black Velvet Band Gypsy Jazz & Folky Pop Duo / 80th Birthday Party / August 2024
The band was fantastic. I’m so pleased I booked them. Everyone loved the music and they were perfect for the party. Please thank them again and I wish them well.
Mike George
Michele Mills –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Michele’s Daughter’s Wedding Ceilidh / August 2024
Just wanted to say a huge thank you to Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio for our daughter’s wedding on 3 August at the Cotswold Country Park! It was brilliant.
Michele Mills
John Cliff –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo / 70th Birthday Party / July 2024
Mike and David entertained us at our family party with a wonderful mix of Irish songs. Everyone had an absolutely brilliant time. Mike even got us all dancing which caused a great deal of hilarity! I’d thoroughly recommend them to turn any occasion in to one to be fondly remembered.
John Cliff
Sian Tindall –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Sian’s Wedding Ceilidh / July 2024
We had such a great time with the band at our wedding last weekend! All our guests had a great laugh and really loved the dancing. We may not have a career in dancing but it definitely was fun! We also really appreciate the band calling out a dance for our first dance. It was so much nicer than swaying on a dance floor to a slow song in front of everyone.
Sian Tindall
Hannah Woodward –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Hannah’s Fundraising Ceilidh / June 2024
They were brilliant! Exactly what I hoped for and more. Had everyone up on the dance floor and made the fundraiser a huge success.
Hannah Woodward
Mark Bonner –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Mark’s Birthday Ceilidh / June 2024
We had such a great time. Ned did a great job leading us in the dances. I should really say “exhausting us”, but the number of people coming back for more showed how much they loved it. Each band-member is a fine musician in their own right but blended together they were fabulous. I would not hesitate to book them again.
Mark Bonner
Kim Cartwright –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Sophie’s 30th birthday Ceilidh / June 2024
Big thank you to the Black Velvet Band for their brilliant music and barn dance calling, you made my daughters 30th birthday party really special. Everyone had a great time, and even the non dancers got up and had a dance. We are even thinking of doing annual barn dance get-together as the evening was so much fun! Look forward to seeing you next year.
Kim Cartwright (Sophie’s Mum)
Elaine Simpson –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Elaine’s 60th Birthday Ceilidh / May 2024
Excellent – far exceeded my expectations, highly recommended.
Elaine Simpson
Michelle Bryant-Jefferies –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / The George and Dragon, Batheaston / St Patrick’s Day 2024
We welcomed back Black Velvet Band Irish Trio for St Patrick’s Day. They were amazing and really created a great atmosphere for the afternoon with all of our customers singing and joining in. If you want that authentic Irish sound I would definitely recommend this band and will definitely be having them back again!
Michelle Bryant-Jefferies
Danny Mason –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / Longs Bar, Swindon / St Patrick’s Day 2024
Black Velvet Irish Trio were absolutely fantastic! They had the entire room up singing and dancing for both sets. They played a great mix of upbeat Irish songs and traditional classics and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the performance. We received lots of positive feedback from our customers both in person and on social media. We will book them again!
Danny Mason (Manager)
David Bright –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Jackie Bright’s 60th Birthday Ceilidh / March 2024
It was an excellent evening.
David Bright
Henry Bentley –
Exeter Caledonian Society / Burn’s Night Ball / January 2024
Thursday night was a blast. Couldn’t have gone any better!
On Thursday the 25th of January, the Exeter Caledonian Society hosted a Burns Night Ball accompanied by the Black Velvet Band. The band was brilliant. Their musical prowess, stamina and all round musicianship was a joy to work with – and to listen to – making the night ever better. I am so thankful for what they did.
The band is easy to work with, knowledgeable about timings and can cater to any requirements.
Henry Bentley
Rebekah James –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo / December 2023 / West House Farm Christmas Party
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo came to play at the Christmas Party for our CrossFit Gym held in the farmhouse on the site; they were easy and helpful to deal with from the start; everything clear and simple to follow. The performance was perfect for the occasion and Mike and his colleague were easy going and a pleasure to have around. They spent time with a guest who wanted to learn how to play one of the instruments and were great for getting people up and dancing. Thoroughly recommend the Irish Duo!
Rebekah James
Kathryn Johnson –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Karen’s 60th Birthday Ceilidh / November 2023
We had a great time and everyone enjoyed the party. The band were excellent, really clear calling and really friendly. Would definitely book them again.
Kathryn Johnson
Ian May-Miller –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Ian’s 60th Birthday Ceilidh / September 2023
The band were very friendly, relaxed and flexible. Everyone at our barn dance had a terrific time. Every single photo of the evening has 100% broad smiles on faces! Lots of people commented on how clear and entertaining the caller was. We all marvelled at how he led the ‘Swiss Roll’ into a tight spiral and out again with tying anyone in knots.
Ian May-Miller
Mario Burke –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo / Mario’s Retirement Party / July 2023
Absolutely perfect for my evening. The crowd loved them. Thank you.
Mario Burke
Christian and Helen Colson –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Christian and Helen’s 30th Wedding Anniversary / July 2023
The band was great and they tailored the music to suit our group and encouraged people to join in. Lovely manner and professional. Very experienced caller and musicians. Enthusiastic comments and praise from all our guests. Several potential enquiries regarding bookings will hopefully follow. We couldn’t have wished for a better way to celebrate our special anniversary. Every thanks to the Black Velvet Ceilidh Band.
Christian and Helen Colson
Brendan Malone –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio- 80th Birthday Party – June 2023
The three chaps that make up this band were fantastic on the night, I’ve had nothing but compliments from the many people in attendance. The music they played was perfect, my 80 year old Irish father who’s party it was hasn’t stopped smiling since Saturday night. They actually learnt a song which is one of his favourites for the night. And it went down very well. I would recommend the lads to my friends and family events in the future for sure. Many thanks.
Brendan Malone
Jennie Evans –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Jo’s 70th birthday ceilidh / June 2023
I just have to thank Black Velvet Band for the great job they did at my 70th birthday ceilidh in Bristol on 24th June. I had such a great time, and that was partly down to the three of them working hard, and giving us great music to dance to. I danced every dance and enjoyed it so much. When the caller was explaining how to reel I thought, “Uh oh, this’ll be fun!” and it certainly was … I haven’t laughed so much in ages. So, well done everyone involved, and if we ever have another I’ll be sure to contact you again.
Jo Morgan
Murray Turner –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – Orla’s 60th Birthday Ceilidh – June 2023
Booked these guys for my wife’s 60th birthday and we weren’t disappointed. A great evening, everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves – and a very patient caller (given none of us knew what to do!!)
Murray Turner
Dillie Keane –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / May 2023 / Irish Memorial Hooley
Fabulous band. Mike and the guys were very easy to work with, straightforward and pleasant. I’d have them back in a heartbeat. They really made the evening go with a swing and as a musician myself, I can attest that they are really first rate musicians.
Dillie Keane
Michelle Bryant-Jefferies –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo – Irish Night at The George and Dragon, Batheaston – 22/04/2023
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo was absolutely Brilliant, we wanted an authentic Irish Night and this is what we got! Thoroughly recommended got everyone singing and dancing, will definitely be booking again!
Michelle Bryant-Jefferies
Conor Nevin-Maguire –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo – Conor and Hannah’s Wedding – 15/04/2023
Absolutely Brilliant, had the two lads for my wedding and they were just great. Music was brilliant, had loads of craic with the guests. All in all they were phenomenal.
Conor Nevin-Maguire
Nik Harwood –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – Wedding Ceilidh – 09/04/23
What a superb band for our wedding party – the guys were lovely, really friendly and helpful and got everyone involved and having the time of their lives! A ceilidh is such fun and a great way to ensure *all* your guests are involved in the celebrations – there were smiles on the faces of everyone dancing, and everyone watching!
I cannot recommend this highly enough – absolutely delightful, highly professional, and a total pleasure to work with to make sure we had an unforgettable evening.
Nik Harwood
Noelle, from the Glasgow 2024 Worldcon Team –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / 08/04/2023 / Ceilidh for Eastercon 2023 (Sci Fi enthusiast’s convention)
We had a fun-filled, joyous ceilidh, thanks to the amazing, talented Black Velvet Band.The band members are great fun. Alan had us laughing so much with his warmth and humour when calling the dances.
The booking process was straightforward and professional. When I talked on the phone to Mike in advance, I was assured that these guys knew their stuff.
When I requested non-gendered calling, that was no problem. The band are very versatile – they added a little Star Trek and Dr Who music, seamlessly, into the ceilidh tunes, to give us an extra-special thrill! I would have no hesitation in recommending these fabulous musicians.
Noelle, from the Glasgow 2024 Worldcon team at Eastercon 2023, Birmingham
Kevan Cameron –
Black Velvet Band Scottish Ceilidh Trio / Burn’s Night Celebration / February 2023
Please pass on a huge thanks to the band for last night! They got the crowd going and kept them under ‘control’ with a brilliant blend of instructions and banter even as we inevitably got a little rowdier towards the end. I will definitely recommend to others and keep details for future events.
Kevan Cameron: Swinton Barracks (15th Signal Regiment, Royal Corps of Signals, 22 Engineer Regiment & 26 Engineer Regiment)
Jenna Willis –
Black Velvet Band Scottish Ceilidh Trio / Burn’s Night Celebration / January 2023
Thank you so much for the band they were great and got people up dancing and having a good night.
Jenna Willis, Warrant Officers and Sergeants Mess, Blandford Camp
Stephen Roworth –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / School 21’s Christmas Ceilidh / December 2022
We just wanted to say thank you to the Black Velvet Band for bringing the fun and music to our Staff Christmas party. Our guests loved how they weaved some Christmas ditties into the tunes and the energy the caller brought to the evening. The buzz from the staff the morning after was very positive. They really enjoyed themselves! Thank you again for such a fun evening!!
SSgt Mark Appleby –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Ceilidh for The Royal Monmouthshire Engineers / December 2022
Please pass on my thanks and good wishes to the band. They arrived on time, and fully prepared. The entertainment was great fun, and all our guys got involved. I would definitely recommend to anyone that wants a fully inclusive experience and a really good laugh.
Louise Barltrop –
Black Velvet Band Hoedown Trio / Louise’s 60th Birthday Party / November 2022
Mike and the band were excellent and performed brilliantly for my 50th birthday celebration. Guests commented straight away on how good they were and we loved that they were able to tune in to the vibe of the evening and adjust to the various levels of enthusiasm and dancing competence that was on the dance floor. I thoroughly recommend them if you are thinking of having a hoe down and know that both myself and my guests will be remembering a great evening for a long time to come.
Catherine Francis –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Catherine’s Fund Raising Ceilidh / October 2022
Please pass on my thanks and huge congratulations to the Black Velvet Band for making the evening one to remember! The members of the band were very friendly and excellent at leading the crowds all of various ages! It was a night to remember for all the right reasons and I have not smiled so much since my wedding day! The Swiss roll formation is genius and the children (and adults) are still wondering how it worked! We will most definitely be booking them again!
Karen Cannon –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / Danny’s 75th Birthday Party / September 2022
Just wanted to say a huge thank you for last night. Everyone loved you . Hope to see you again –
Karen and Danny
Tara McLoughlin –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / Tara’s Birthday Party / August 2022
The band were great and did a top job at the event. They went down a storm and we would definitely book them again for future parties.
Wendy Bonney –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / Wendy’s Birthday Party / August 2022
What a fantastic time my guests and I had last night! The Black Velvet Band guys certainly know how to get a party going and my guests and I responded in the appropriate manner. It was the BEST party I have ever been to – and several guests asked if we can have another ceilidh soon.
Rachel Millar –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Quartet – Rachel and Antonio’s Wedding – August 2022
Please pass on my massive thanks to the band for being wonderful! It was great! Black Velvet Band played at our wedding and they were great. Lovely people who got everyone on to the dance floor and kept them there – highly recommended.
Edward Emmerson –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – Edward’s 40th Birthday Ceilidh – July 2022
I found Mike very helpful when arranging the requirements for the party. The music was of a good standard and the caller was very good at getting people involved in the dancing. I would happily recommend the band to others.
Deaglan McElroy –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / 05/05/2022 / Barn Dance for Tree Aid Workers’ Seminar Group
The Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio helped make our event go smoothly with great communication and punctual arrival. The music was well performed and great fun. The caller did a fantastic job of putting people at ease an encouraging lots of dancing and everyone had a great time. At our working event the next day, many attributed the positive mood and energy to the ceilidh the night before, so maybe it is the secret to successful strategy seminars?!
Erica Sutherland –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / 02/04/2022 / Erica’s Birthday Ceilidh
We had a fantastic joint 30th birthday party for 60 people and the Black Velvet Ceilidh Band did an amazing job of making the evening a huge success! Mike gave me a call a couple of weeks prior to the event to confirm all arrangements such as timings, location, numbers, and the experience of the party goers (very mixed – lots of complete beginners). Mike was really enthusiastic on the phone and I felt very confident all was going to go well. At the beginning of the evening, we were pretty disorganized and neither James or I were there to meet the band on arrival, but our friend saw them into the venue and they were very flexible and happy to go with the flow and got set up really quickly. The whole band were keen to help and happily agreed to start the ceilidh a little later than planned, as well as letting me use the mic to make announcements! The 2 x 1 hour sets of ceilidh dancing were amazing and both the calling and music were fantastic – our guests absolutely loved every moment of it and have all said how much they enjoyed the music and dancing. Thank you very much to the whole band for an excellent evening, we would recommend you to anyone!
Charlotte Elder –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / 19/03/2022 / Charlotte’s Golden Wedding Celebration
We had a great time, ably assisted by the music and calling of the Black Velvet Ceilidh Band, thank you so much!. The band were very adaptable, as we changed the arrangement for the sets on the night, and reassured that they were there to entertain….which they certainly did. They got people up dancing from the first note to the last and many, many guests have commented how much they enjoyed the ceilidh.
Caitlin Bowie –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / 17/02/2022 / Scottish Ceilidh
Wow what a night! We had an absolute ball, the band were fantastically talented and accommodating to a group of people who had never danced a Ceilidh before. There wasn’t a face in the room that didn’t have the biggest smile on it, can’t thank the team enough. Would absolutely book again and recommend to anyone needing a Ceilidh band.
Caroline Barrett –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / 07/11/2021 / Ramsbury British Legion Irish Night
We would like to thank you for a fantastic evening with Black Velvet Band Irish Trio. The crowd loved them and the music was brilliant. All the guests said what a great evening they had and that they would love to have them back in New Year.
Anna-Sophie Norton –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio/ 22/10/2021 / Anna and Alex’s Wedding
The Black Velvet Band provided us with a fantastic ceilidh for our wedding reception. They really got everyone up and moving, so much better than a boring DJ set. They were even accommodating to our more inebriated guests and explained the dance moves clearly. We had a wonderful time and would consider them again for future parties.
Becky Davidson –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio/ 16/10/2021 / Becky’s Wedding
Thank you so much to the Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio, they were excellent from start to finish! They were easy to book and the communication was clear and fast. Everyone loved the band on the day and they made a special effort to organise a first dance for our families. We’re so glad we booked them!
Emma Marsden –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio/ 09/10/2021 / Emmma and her father’s Joint Birthday Party
We had a joint 50th & 80th birthday party. Black Velvet were fantastic. Great musicians and made the Barn dance run smoothly. We had ages from 5 to 80 and they tailored everything perfectly. Made it a birthday to remember.
Siobhan Flude –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo / 28/08/2021 / Siobhan’s Mum’s 70th Birthday Party
Just wanted to say that the band we excellent yesterday. The music was great and everyone loved it! The guys really made my Mum’s 70th birthday a party to remember and she was so happy loved seeing everyone have such a great time. Great memories made. They really were first class, so do pass on our thanks again.
Alex Reichardt –
Black Velvet Band Gypsy Duo / 24/08/2021 / Alex Reichardt’s Wedding Celebration
“We booked the Black Velvet Band Gypsy Duo (accordion and fiddle) to play at our wedding celebration garden party in August. Mike and Jase played exactly the music we wanted, a lovely mix of traditional, modern, jazz, Irish and were happy to play requests. We live on a farm and when the duo started up, all our cows came running up the field and stayed close to enjoy the lovely sounds coming from the garden. I have to say, the two were perfect for our garden party and the sound of the fiddle and accordion ringing out into the evening was absolutely lovely and was thoroughly enjoyed by our guests whose ages ranged from six to ninety! Mike and Jase are lovely, affable chaps and we should have no hesitation in booking them again if we have another “do”! I highly recommend them.”
David Iles –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio/ 24/07/2021 / Socially Distanced Ceilidh Dancing at David and Lottie’s Wedding
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio were amazing yesterday. Thanks so much for being flexible with the timings when things shifted a bit. Everybody had such a good time. The venue asked for your details to put down on their recommendations list for future events!
Sharon Clayton –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio / 23/07/2021 / Pre-Wedding Drinks Party
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio came to play at our relaxed outdoor pre-wedding get together of about 40 people. The three who made up the band were great – very talented musicians – they played all our favourites as well as some wider material.
They were very keen to fit in with what we wanted to hear and gauged the mood as to whether to sing ballads or play jigs (after a few drinks people were up for having a bit of a dance). It was such a joy to hear live music again after all these months of covid restrictions. The Band really made the evening and they were really lovely people.
Sharon Clayton (mother of the bride)
Cecilia MacDougal –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio / 16/07/2021 / Cecilia and Johny’s Wedding
Mike and the Black Velvet Band played at our wedding and put together a fantastic set. They had very thoughtfully come up with some more Covid secure dances to cater for people wishing to stay in their respective bubbles but managed to maintain the energy and enthusiasm throughout.
The music was brilliant and the calling was the best that I’ve seen at a ceilidh (a difficult skill to perfect!). We did 6 or 7 dances and the band very considerately asked how we (my wife and I) would like to lead the dances to ensure plenty of people engaged but we had no concerns as everyone joined in.
All of our guests were delighted and we can’t thank the band for stepping in at relatively short notice, we had a brilliant time.
Cecilia MacDougal
David Rees –
Black Velvet Irish Trio – Bletchley Conservative Club – June 2021
The Black Velvet Band Trio are extremely talented musicians who delivered a good range of Irish tunes to a very high standard. Overall they provided a great night’s entertainment, and I would recommend them to anyone wanting to hold an Irish themed night. Unfortunately we were not allowed dancing due to Covid restrictions, once these are lifted the night would be even better.
Gwen Ward –
Black Velvet Irish Duo – Gwen’s Mum’s 80th birthday party – June 2021
I booked Black Velvet Band Irish Duo for my Mum’s 80th. It was a small family gathering in the back garden. The band were fantastic and even my mum was up dancing. It was a rare and happy sight!
Laura Matthews –
Black Velvet Irish Trio – Laura’s Wedding – September 2020
We are so grateful to Black Velvet Ceilidh Band for their last minute flexibility in playing for our wedding! We moved the wedding forward by a month to beat the lockdown and the band not only made themselves available on the new date, but also changed the style of music with just 3 days notice! Firstly their contactability and organisation was brilliant, making the booking and discussions with them hassle-free. Ceilidh would no longer have been appropriate, so the guys played a mix of Irish songs and jigs and reels. The music they provided was fantastic, creating the most beautiful atmosphere for the milling around and photo time between ceremony and reception. They were inconspicuous but added so much. Would definitely recommend them (and their versatility!) for any event.’
Thanks again – as you can tell we were really chuffed.
Meriel Raymond –
Black Velvet Irish Trio – Meriel and Marco’s Wedding – September 2020
Thank you so much for playing at our wedding. You really livened the atmosphere and made the evening really special. I loved the first dance – the Braveheart theme segueing into “The Banshee” and I’ll never be able to think of the Wild Rover in the same way again!
Sanneke Kottier –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio – Sanneke’s Wedding – February 2020
Thank you so much for making our wedding the party of the year – everyone loved the music!
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio played at our wedding reception and they were brilliant. I had worried whether people would want to dance to Irish music but I shouldn’t have. Everyone loved the music! We had a real proper Irish Hooley, with lots of dancing, singing-along and some humour in-between. As this was a marriage of cultures (English, Irish and Dutch) we were also touched that the band played a couple of traditional Dutch songs, allowing the Dutch to have a good sing-along as well. And when my dad asked if they could accompany him for a song to sing after his speech, it was no problem. The guys in the band are proper musicians who can play what the crowd needs to keep the party fuelled. The only complaint I have had is from my knees – which are still complaining, even after 4 days rest! Next time, I will wear trainers.
Kate Ghani –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo – 90th Birthday Party – January 2020
These guys were just great and made a special birthday really special. Just loved Mike’s amazing fiddle playing. They accommodated all our requests for Irish and Scottish music and we’re flexible around time’s which was great as lunch was later than anticipated. Would highly recommend.
Amanda Phillips –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – Fund Raising Ceilidh – January 2020
We are so grateful to Black Velvet Ceilidh Trio for making our fundraising ceilidh a great success with delightful music and dancing. The level of challenge of the dances was pitched just right to tempt our guests (who were aged from 4 to 84) to have a go – and they all came away with big smiles on their faces! Phil – the band’s friendly caller – gave just the right amount of instruction and then a quick recap before each dance and was happy to adapt dances to suit some of the children. Arrangements and payment were all handled professionally and efficiently. Thank you so much for helping us raise over £300 for our cause!
Phyllis Steele –
Black Velvet Irish Ceili Trio – October 2019
Thank you so much for being able to accommodate us on the wedding of my son! What with atrocious weather causing extensive flooding that weekend and having to postpone the wedding from the Saturday night until the Sunday, we were more than grateful that the band was still willing and able to perform on the Sunday. Great music and excellent calling made the evening, with all participants thoroughly enjoying themselves – sometimes with a little over enthusiasm! I highly recommend this band to any future clients booking. The band were more than helpful – especially Jennie with all my questions and the band on the day were superb. All good wishes,
Claire Ricketts – PA to Chief Executive, Newbury Racecourse –
Irish Themed Evening at Newbury Racecourse
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo were excellent and really added to our Irish themed evening. Lots of very traditional music. The guys were very flexible and last minute added in a Ceili set without prior knowledge which was appreciated by all and added to the fun of the evening. Very highly recommended.
Sarah Tubridy –
Sarah’s 40th Birthday Ceilidh – September 2019
Great night of dancing, Black Velvet Ceilidh Trio encouraged everyone up on the floor and great fun was had by all. Thank you
Kevin Buxton – Kontra Roots Promotions –
Black Velvet Band Irish Trio – The Midlands Game Fair – September 2019
The performance by Black Velvet Band Irish Trio at The Midlands Game Fair was excellent and went down very well with the crowd. To be done again hopefully!
Jackie Everard –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo – Jackie’s 40th Birthday Party – September 2019
Really friendly. Engaged with the audience it was a great night and we would definitely book them again.
Nigel Thompson –
Surprise 60th Birthday – August 2019
Black Velvet Ceilidh Band performed at a surprise party for my wife’s 60th Birthday recently. It was intended to be a function at which people could be fully involved and boy, did they do just that! I honestly cannot remember such a function where all of the guests were agreed it was an evening to remember that was also such fun. The whole success of the celebration came from the bands active participation and willingness to do everything possible to make the evening into a night to remember. That, they surely did. Thank you Black Velvet Ceilidh Band. You and the band made my wife very, very happy. She will not forget and neither will I. You are indeed very special musicians and very special people. May I wish you all well.
Suzanne Guppy –
Suzanne’s 30th Wedding Anniversary Ceilidh – June 2019
We had a really great evening. The musicians were very friendly and accommodating. When some of our guests were late arriving because of the dreaded road closure and subsequent diversions, they adapted their sets to suit our timings and many non-dancers were encouraged to get up and shake a leg. Everyone said how much they enjoyed themselves and we would certainly recommend and use them again.
Emily Trueman-Greinke –
Emily’s Wedding Anniversary Ceilidh – June 2019
I just wanted to say how pleased and impressed we all were with Black Velvet’s musicianship and all-round professionalism. We also especially enjoyed Alan’s introductions to the dances. He was great fun!
Thanks so much for making our party just what we hoped it would be.
Ben Hawkes –
A great bunch of lads who made our wedding reception swing. Their set was exactly what we wanted and set exactly the right atmosphere. They even let me take the mic for 2 songs. Which they probably regretted within seconds! A great choice for any kind of party.
Black Velvet Band Folky Pop Band – Ben’s 40th Birthday – April 2019
Karl Baxter –
Irish Night to celebrate St Patrick’s Day – Lawrence Weston Social Club – March 16th 2019
Well what can I say? Johnny and Jase are a great duo! They performed a super mix of Irish songs and tunes and had people up dancing all night.
Would highly recommend.
Stephen Jones –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo – St Patrick’s Day at Westbury Conservative Club – March 17th 2019
What a great way to celebrate St Patrick’s day at our Cons club! The performance went amazingly well! The dance floor was full on a SUNDAY AFTERNOON?? I put that down to the guys who played songs and tunes with such an exciting beat that you just couldn’t stay still. The whole afternoon was huge fun. I highly recommend the band.
Hannah Hunter –
Hannah and Deryk’s Scottish Ceilidh – February 2019
“We absolutely loved having Black Velvet Band play our wedding ceilidh at Clearwell Castle. My husband is from Scotland so we wanted a traditional Scottish ceilidh feel with some of the classics, and we were not disappointed! We had a good feeling about Black Velvet band from the moment we booked them – and sure enough, Mike and the guys were absolutely fantastic and made our evening party a huge success. The band were great and the instructions on the ceilidh dances were so helpful; even those of our party who may not have normally danced were up there loving life on the dancefloor. The fun and friendly atmosphere they created was just fab and so different from your ‘usual’ evening do. All our guests commented on how much they enjoyed the ceilidh and some said it was the best wedding they had ever been to. We would 100% book the band again and recommend them to friends. Thank you for contributing to the best day of both our lives.”
Andrew Doble –
Andrew and Maria’s Wedding Ceilidh – October 2018
“Had these guys along for my recent wedding as we wanted something that would be inclusive for all people attending to get involved in. the band were all that I could hope for. they got people up dancing and laughing, and everyone who attended said how much they enjoyed. thank you for being a part of our big day :)”
Anne and Martin Blackmore-Dawes –
Martin’s 60th Birthday Barn Dance – September 2018
Mike and his band played for Martin’s 60th birthday barn dance. They made it a very special night full of lovely memories. Alan was a fab caller. Navigated us through the dances with humour and laughter. Alan was extremely helpful and empathetic towards one of our guests who is blind and called dances that she could join in without making it obvious to lots of guests. Many didn’t even realise she was not sighted. We had many comments from our guests who complimented the band on the accordion player, Mike the fiddle player and Alan our caller. A great trio and we really recommend them! Thank you guys!
Georgette and William Broughton –
Georgette and Will’s Wedding at The Stone Barn, Gloucestershire – August 2018
Wow! What an evening we had! We absolutely LOVED our wedding evening and you absolutely made the night! We LOVED the dances, and so did all our guests. I couldn’t get over how good you all were!
Thank you SO much for being such an excellent band, to plan with before our wedding and to perform on the night. We’ve attached some photos, which we hope you like too!
Thank you ever so much, and should we ever need a band in the future, we’ll be sure to get in contact with you!
Rachel Powell –
Black Velvet Band Irish Ceili Band – Rachel and James’ Wedding – July 2018
Please can you pass my compliments on to the band for the wonderful job they did on Saturday last. Our guests have been absolutely raving about them! They were so good in fact I think they tired most of us out after 3 dances!!
We both really appreciate how organised, friendly and accommodating the band were and would not hesitate at all about recommending them to our family and friends. If there’s anywhere we can also leave a review online, we’d also love to do that too.
They really made our day so special, our first dance is one I’ll always remember and the smiles on people’s faces as they had fun dancing “The Siege of Ennis”!
Thank you once again.
Rachael O’Keefe (Manager) –
Black Velvet Band Hoedown Duo – Wild West Garden Party – July 2018
“Mike and Jon pitched the performance perfectly for the Fleur de Lis Retirement Home’s garden party in Romsey. The American Country songs created just the right atmosphere to establish the Wild West theme. Everyone loved it – they joined in all the songs! Several residents have sent me messages to say how much they enjoyed the event. We were delighted with the performance and thoroughly recommend the band.”
Beryl Ashcroft –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – Beryl’s party to celebrate Australian Grandson’s wedding – July 2018
“We had a brilliant time! It was a very hot day and the band were very accommodating, adjusting the playing times and breaking up the dancing with songs. There were only 30 of us, but everyone danced and several people commented on the quality of the music. The band even played “Waltzing Matilda” for the Australian contingent, who all sang along! Thanks very much BVB for making my party so special.”
Emma Bartley –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Quartet – Combined 25th Wedding Anniversary, 21st & 18th Birthday Ceilidh – June 2018
“What a fabulous party we had with everyone entering into the spirit of the ceilidh! The music was great and the caller was exceptionally patient with the disproportionate number of young men at the party. It was a really mixed crowd – plenty of teens and twenties, through to those in their eighties. The dance floor was full throughout the evening and everyone, both young and old joined in, including the determined non dancers. Several people commented on what a lovely time they’d had. I’m very happy to recommend the band.”
Emma Bartley
Martin Duffy –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo – Irish Joe’s 30th Birthday Party – May 2018
“Mike and Aidan played at my brothers birthday and completely made our night. The music was excellent and the guys were very professional. We can’t rate the band highly enough.”
Martin Duffy
Diana Blunt –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – Diana’s 75th Birthday Ceilidh – April 2018
“My legs are still aching because I danced so much! The band arrived on time and were very friendly and helpful and the music was delightful. It was a mixed crowd, many of whom had never met each other before but with one thing in common – they had never done ceilidh dancing before! The caller was absolutely brilliant – it didn’t matter that most people had no idea how to dance the reels! Everyone joined in and thoroughly enjoyed themselves.
It couldn’t have been better!”
Darren Vine –
Black Velvet Band Hoedown Trio – Alice’s Birthday Party – April 2018
“An excellent bash – the band were fantastic! Everyone got up and danced. The caller did a great job. If we have another Birthday Bash, we will definitely be booking the band again. I have no hesitation recommending them.”
Netra Tawake –
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio – Netra’s 21st Birthday Ceilidh – March 2018
“The ceilidh went amazingly well! The dance floor was full all evening. I put it down to Eddy and Mike, who played tunes with such an exciting beat that you just couldn’t stay still. The caller was huge fun. I highly recommend the band.”
Peter Fisher –
Black Velvet Irish Trio at The Royal Oak on St Pat’s Night 2018
“Many thanks to Johnny, Mike and Jase for a fine dose of the “craic” for St Pats! What a grand performance – everyone thoroughly enjoyed it. Great singing combined with jigs and reels to get everyone dancing. We can’t wait to have you back again!”
Jessica Harris-Edwards –
Black Velvet Band Scottish Ceilidh Trio – Royal Overseas League Burn’s Night Ceilidh – January 2018
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio were a fantastic edition to our Burns Night celebrations. From communicating before the event to the actual day, the group were professional and easy to reach. They also went above and beyond what their initial brief by ed by agreeing to toast the haggis – which was met with cheers – and taking suggestions from the crowd for different dances. By the end of the night they felt like part of the ROSL family.
Sgt Helen Cooper –
Black Velvet Band Scottish Ceilidh Trio – Burn’s Night at MOD Corsham – January 2018
“What a fantastic night of ceilidh dancing courtesy of the Black Velvet Band Trio. Nobody was able to resist dancing and the guys were the highlight of the evening for all. Thank you so much for making our evening a huge success.”
Stephen Atherton –
Black Velvet Band Scottish Ceilidh Trio – Burn’s Night Ceilidh at MOD, Corsham – January 2018
“Dear Black Velvet Band, Your Ceilidh band played at a Burns Night I attended last night at MOD Corsham. They were great and got everyone up and involved. Everyone really enjoyed it.”
Paul Campbell –
Paul’s 60th Birthday Hoedown Barn Dance – January 6th, 2018
“A big thanks to Mike and the rest of the band for a brilliant evening. Everyone has said how much they thoroughly enjoyed it. A special thank you to Alan, the dance caller. He did a great job – quite a comedian! Finally a big thanks to the band for welcoming our fiddle-playing friend Richard into their ranks for the evening. He said he had a fantastic time. What a great party band the guys make! I’m very happy to recommend them to anyone having a bash.”
Andrew Gurnham –
Harriet’s 21st Birthday Ceilidh in December 2017
from Rating: 10/10
Many thanks to the Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio for a fantastic 21st Birthday Ceilidh. The band provided a perfect balance for the young and young-at-heart, catering for everyone from the super-lively, to wheelchair-friendly dances, which was a lovely touch. Everyone had a great time.
Andrew Gurham (Dad)
Andrew Moncrieff –
Ceilidh for Hawkins’ Team Building Event: September 2017
Black Velvet Band provided a five piece ceilidh band and caller for the finale of the Hawkins’ team building event. We thought the room would be too big – but we were wrong! The band brought an absolute gem of a caller, who read the crowd perfectly and the dance floor was full throughout the evening. We could have done with a larger space! The band was superb and the event was enjoyed by all concerned. I thoroughly recommend the band.
Brendan Lyons –
Meet Tyson Furey at Tylorstown Sports Centre: 9th September 2017
Black Velvet Irish Trio were brilliant! 500 Furey fans stomped and jigged and sang along as they waited to be photographed with Tyson! Great stuff, lads – I’m going to book you back for next year’s event.
Lyons Den Promotions
Lizzie and Ross Harris –
Lizzie and Ross’s Wedding Ceilidh at The Orangery, Goldney Hall, Bristol: August 12th 2017
Black Velvet Band Ceilidh Trio provided a brilliant ceilidh for our wedding celebrations at Goldney Hall, Bristol on 12 August 2017. What a fantastic evening! The band entertained our hardy Scottish guests with well-known Scottish dances but it was most enjoyable to see English friends and family ceilidh dancing for the first time and loving it! The dances were called very clearly and were quite ambitious so there was much hilarity. It was infectious fun and everyone got involved. (The dance floor was almost too small!). Mike and the band were extremely accommodating, professional and enthusiastic. They have a huge repertoire and organised the evening flawlessly, from our first dance (Gay Gordons) to the throwing of the bouquet and the final Circassian Circle. Highly recommended.
Thanks again for a fantastic evening of fun!
Janet Astley – Mother of the Bride –
Wedding Ceilidh at The Great Tythe Barn: May 2017
Thank you, guys, for finding time beforehand to rehearse with Amy, the bridegroom’s sister, who sang Elton John’s “Your Song” for the bride and groom’s 1st dance. It was beautiful and very special to have her sing their first song with accompaniment from the band. I think everyone was very moved by it (we are hoping someone filmed it but are not sure!). The dance floor was packed all evening for the ceilidh and we all had great fun – which was the intention.
It was an amazing day, evening and whole weekend – we carried on the celebrations on Sunday! Thank you to Black Velvet Band for helping to make the wedding so memorable.
Robin Martin –
Black Velvet Band Celtic Trio – Robin Martin’s Wedding: April 2017
We booked the BVB for our wedding in April at Stonehouse Court. We specified Celtic music and they were excellent – they even learned a song for me to sing with them in two weeks flat! True musicians who really know their stuff. They were punctual and did not skimp on time – not taking lengthy breaks between songs which I know some do. A really great experience – I thoroughly recommend them.
Katie Verity –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo – Surprise 70th Birthday: April 2017
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo performed at my Mum’s surprise 70th birthday. We loved the performance and didn’t want them to stop! The party was a huge success and the excellent music really helped to create the atmosphere. Thank you very much, guys!
21st Birthday Ceilidh – March 2017 –
Amazing night with joyous music from the band from start to finish. Very accommodating for our age span of 8 years to 80 years! Plenty of caller participation to get us all going in fun dances which everyone said made them ache the next day! I heartily recommend them. Very friendly too!
Sara Norman
Black Velvet Irish Band: St Pat’s March 2017 –
We have booked Black Velvet Band for our Wedding in Devon on 20th May. We were delighted to find out from Jennie that they were playing at The Water Poet in Spitalfields on St Patricks Night. Being from London, this was perfect. We arrived to a heaving pub with great Irish tunes belting out the door. The pub was packed and everyone was Irish on Friday. Black Velvet Irish Band played everything from The Wild Rover to some traditional reels and jigs. The were excellent and we cannot wait to have them play on our special day. We met with the lads after who were all so friendly and welcoming. I’ve been in a quite a few pubs on St Patrick’s Day but I’ve never experienced an atmosphere like that. The crowd were singing and dancing, Black Velvet your were fantastic, we cant wait to see you guys on 20th May 2017.
Niamh Ivey
30th Birthday Party 13/08/2016 –
The band set up according to the plan that had been agreed and once the music got underway, the dance floor was packed for the whole night. Some of our guests had never been to this type of evening before and all we had back was extremely positive comments about the band and of the whole evening, which was to celebrate our daughter’s 30th Birthday.
The band was an integral part of the night and made the night go with a swing.
Well worth the 5*****
GEOFF WARNER
Vicky & Steve Wilson –
Black Velvet Band Irish Quartet: 03 06 16
Steven and Vicky Wilson’s Wedding
Vicky and I are just back from a wonderful honeymoon in Thailand. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you, Mike and all the Black Velvet Band for playing at our wedding. For some it was a new experience hearing a traditional Irish band perform.
We all had a great time.
Go raibh míle maith agat!!
Lindsey Meredith –
Black Velvet Band Irish Duo: 11 06 16
Ruby Wedding Anniversary Party
Just wanted to say thank you so much for the music, fun and sheer merriment you provided on Saturday. It was an absolutely cracking party, everyone had a blast and my parents loved every minute! Your music was perfect, you had everyone up singing and got everyone in the party spirit. Everyone has been passing on their thanks and regards, so just wanted to say thank you for making the party such a special and memorable occasion.
We’ll all be there in force at The Water Poet in Spitalfield’s London next year on St Patrick’s Day, so we’ll be sure to come and say hello again! Thanks again, it was brilliant and hope you both enjoyed it too.
Lyndsey Meredith
St Patrick’s Day: 2016 –
Just wanted to say thank you to the Black Velvet Irish Band. For the second year in a row, Eddy, Mike and Johnny were an absolute crowd pleaser and everyone had a brilliant time on St Patrick’s Day at The Water Poet in Spitalfields, London!
Charlotte Prior
Alison –
We were really pleased that we had booked the Black Velvet band for a ceilidh at our daughter’s wedding at Old Down Manor. Before the event they spoke to our daughter and planned with her exactly what she would like from them, the type of music and how they would organise the evening so that she and her new husband could be ‘danced out’ at the end. On the day the band arrived in good time with all the appropriate equipment for the location. The performance was very professional, the music great and they got all the guests dancing along. The caller’s instructions were clear.
So overall we were very happy and would definitely recommend them and the ‘Hop Til You Drop’ administrative team.
Thank-you, again.
Will & Katie Betts –
We celebrated our wedding at The Grange and we would like to thank you for helping to make our evening so enjoyable. Everyone said what a lovely idea a ceilidh band was and how brilliant it was that it included everyone. Thank you.
Ian Gray-Souldern Village Committee –
Black Velvet Band helped make the Souldern Village Ceilidh a great success. Ours was a Village event with all ages and the Band got all ages dancing. They played superbly and brought a caller with a good sense of fun. They provided music to dance to, music to listen to and an entertainment show all in one! On a practical level they were professionally early arriving, leaving the event organiser relaxed and free to have a drink! Greatly appreciated in all regards.
Ed Hall (50th Birthday) –
We had a fantastic time with the dance floor full. Everyone enjoyed themselves. The band were excellent and were very accommodating throughout the evening. They were patient and very encouraging in getting people to participate. Thank you very much for making my wife’s 50th birthday celebrations special!
BVB – St Particks Day March –
What can I say? The band was brilliant. Great vocals from Johnny, ably supported by Mike on fiddle and Eddy on accordion. By the end of the night everyone was dancing and calling for more. The band couldn’t get off the stage! I’m keen to book for next year already! (Charlotte Prior on behalf of The Water Poet, Spitalfields, London)
Sara Brouwer – The Royal Overseas League, Park Pl, St. James’s, London –
Delightful Scottish jigs and reels from Sue and Mike combined excellent calling from Henry had everyone on the dance floor, reeling into the small hours. We shall be booking the band again next year.
Perry & Claire – Wedding –
Thank you for the wonderful ceilidh on our wedding day. Everyone had such a fun time and loved the dancing, even those of us who had never done it before! You provided just what we wanted for the special day, despite being so close to Christmas and with terrible weather, and it was a highlight of the evening. All the best!
Nicola Feather – 18th Birthday Party –
Dear Mike, Jason and Terry (in no particular order) Thank you so much for your part in a lovely evening. I realise now what a creative act a barn dance is, requiring co-operation (co-ercion??!) (gently done!!) from all sorts of assorted people. We had a fabulous time, and I shall treasure the looks of thorough enjoyment on each of the dancers’ faces.
Roy Lonergan – Wedding –
I just wanted to say such a huge thank you for the amazing performance that you gave. You were so friendly and willing to help in any way that any nervousness about getting up to dance was immediately dismissed. I was extremely apprehensive prior to the night about how the dancing would go down, especially with my two left feet! However my worrying was in vain, what a fantastic night of dancing it was, so inclusive that any and all can get up and get involved, aged 5 or 105. You need no experience or talent, just listen to the brilliant calling, it’s all simple moves but when it comes together with all your friends and family on the night, prepare to be amazed. I can not thank the band enough for making our Wedding such a fantastic night, I have never seen so many people thoroughly enjoying themselves all at once. I can sincerely recommend the Black Velvet Band for any social occasion, your expectations will be exceeded.
Viv & Paul Benchley –
Would you be so kind as to pass our thanks to Mike, the band and their wonderful dance caller. They were all absolutely fantastic! Everybody really enjoyed the dancing and party
Emily & Shaun Berry –
We would just like to thank you very much for a brilliant evening of music and dancing at our wedding. We have had a lot of great feedback about how fun you were, you even made the ‘non-dancing’ people dance! We really enjoyed it, thank you very much.
Amy –
I just wanted to write a quick note to say thank you for playing at our wedding on the 18th July at Fursdon House. The music was fantastic and all our guests loved the informal but fun approach to the dancing. It was a real hit at the wedding and we wouldn’t hesitate in recommending you to others
Marianne Frosdick –
Just wanted to thank the Black Velvet Band for a really great evening last Saturday. They were excellent musicians and the caller was superb (very patient with the Danish contingent who took some time to get the hang of the instructions!) What I particularly appreciate is how considerate and adaptable the band was regarding my wishes. I had lovely time and have had a lot of positive comments from my guests.
Jonathon Miller –
Black Velvet ceilidh band played at my daughter’s wedding on Saturday. Please let them know how excellent they were, and the evening was a great success greatly helped by the excellent calling, music and dancing. I have had lots of good comments from guests and would recommend them to anybody.
Louise –
The band were an absolute delight, just the right mix of professional musicians and informal enough to mix in with people and jolly them along. They were completely marvellous and everyone had a great time, even though some people had never done ceilidh dancing before and were a little shy.