Accordion Music by Richard Watts
Overview
Music with old world charm. The accordion has a distinctive sweet sound; It's almost a lost art in the US. I play a variety of music that is perfect for parties, receptions, festivals, dances, dinner music, film scores, etc. Once I was hired to serenade a young lady outside her window while her suitor watched. When I finished he asked her to marry him; She said yes. Magical. No electrification or electronic enhancement. Just music that your guests will never forget. Since I am on the Southwest coast of Florida I play between Naples and Sarasota. I will travel outside of SW FL but rates are increased to cover travel. I also work with a singer who sounds like Andre Bocelli. Fees are doubled.
Reviews
1 review
Amy T.
July 31, 2021Richard was upbeat, friendly, and professional.
From the moment I contacted Richard, I knew he was the right person for my housewarming event. He was good about communication, had a fair fee, and was very friendly. I recommend him without hesitation.
Hired as: Accordion Player
Booking information
Price range: $150-200 per hour
Languages: English
Gig length: 30 - 180 minutes
What to expect
It's just me and my accordion. No computer enhancement. All I really need is a chair. I typically show up about 45 minutes early and start to play. Usually I take a 15 minute break every hour. For larger venues I can bring a PA system to amplify the music or so you can make announcements; If your party has a theme let me know and I can dress the part. I have played Italian themed parties like Godfather dinners and dress accordingly; I've played French themed events and usually wear a beret and french sailor shirt; I have Lederhosen for Oktorfest events; If your event is dressy like a wedding, I can wear a tuxedo complete with top-hat.
For wedding planners let me suggest something unusual; I have serenaded women outside of their window while their fiance stood by. It's a romantic touch they'll talk about for years.
About
Richard has been playing accordion for years. He knows an assortment of tunes but will be happy to learn any particular song that you might like for your event. I'm located in Fort Myers and will travel to any destination within 35 miles free of charge.
Additional booking notes
No special requirements: All I need is a chair; If you have a large venue with 50+ people I can bring a PA system so we will need a near-by plug. My usual charge is $150 per hour for a minimum of 1 hour; If you're more than 35 miles away I charge something for travel.
Services offered
Past booked events
November 2022
13
Sunday
Italian Birthday Party
1:00pm - 3:30pm
October 2022
27
Thursday
Octoberfest
5:00pm - 7:00pm
24
Monday
Octoberfest
5:00pm - 7:00pm
19
Wednesday
Octoberfest
6:00pm - 7:00pm
17
Monday
Octoberfest
4:30pm - 6:30pm
15
Saturday
Octoberfest
5:00pm - 7:30pm
13
Thursday
Octoberfest
1:30pm - 4:00pm
08
Saturday
Octoberfest
12:00pm - 1:30pm
01
Saturday
Octoberfest
5:00pm - 7:30pm
September 2022
30
Friday
Octoberfest
3:00pm - 4:00pm
29
Thursday
Octoberfest
6:00pm - 8:30pm
Set list
I play a cross section of songs; They include: French Musettes, waltzes, Polish polkas, Obereks, Mazurkas, Italian standards, American dance tunes, tangos, and European love songs. If you would like a particular song just ask me and I will learn it if I don't know it.
Influences and inspiration
To a large extent my influences have been eastern European and South American.
Setup requirements
Usually you won't need any stage or amplification for me to play. If it is a large room however let me know. I also like to know if people will be dancing as then you may need a stage.