Jelly Ellington
Overview
Jonathan is an Acoustic/Classical Guitarist with 15 years of experience teaching, performing, and touring. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and voted Top 10 “Best Guitarist” in the Austin Chronicle Music Awards. He can provide acoustic guitar/singing in contemporary genres like rock, blues, folk, soul, top 40 hits, and country. He takes requests and can learn any particular song(s) that you desire for the event. He builds his reputation around being professional, punctual, and affordable for each and every event, and dedicated to making your wedding or event a very special day!
Reviews
5 reviews
Mona R. S.
July 12, 2026Perfect party entertainment
Jelly played at a party for about 20 people, held at my home. He was awesome, and his playing kept the group lively and entertained. He has a very broad range, and could play whatever was requested. Highly recommend Jelly!
Hired as: Singing Guitarist
Jelly Ellington
It was a pleasure playing your party Mona, you all were a super fun crowd!
Shirley H.
July 25, 2026Beautifully moving, flawless guitarist!
Jonathan's classical guitar music was absolutely beautiful and created the perfect atmosphere for our wedding ceremony. Every piece was performed flawlessly and with such elegance, and the music added a timeless, emotional touch to our special day! We received so many compliments from our guests who were so touched by his music, and we can't recommend him enough!
Hired as: Classical Guitarist
Lauren S.
July 20, 2026Amazing guitarist!
We hired Jelly for my birthday party and he absolutely exceeded all expectations! The music was the perfect mix of fun, relaxing, and upbeat, creating an amazing atmosphere for everyone. Jelly has an incredible voice and a talented guitarist. On top of all that he was professional, friendly, and engaging from start to finish. So many of my guests commented on how great the live music was. I couldn't have asked for a better performer to make my birthday so memorable. I highly recommend them for any party or event!
Hired as: Guitarist, Singing Guitarist
Patrick D.
July 17, 2026Great show and experience
I have booked Jelly for multiple events and he always over delivers. Completely professional and a great attitude from set up to load out and brings an amazing show. Always keeps the party rocking and is one of the most talented players in a town full of talent. Has been versatile enough to play small acoustic to full rock for different events. Top level show.
Hired as: Acoustic Band, Singing Guitarist
Jelly Ellington
Always a pleasure providing music Patrick, and cheers to many more fun events. You all are such a fun crowd!
Linda K.
July 15, 2026Wonderful Musician
Wonderful guitarist and singer. He was professional, extremely flexible, and he was helpful in song selections. He learned songs for the wedding service. His music during dinner was enjoyable. Highly recommend.
Hired as: Singing Guitarist
Jelly Ellington
It was so wonderful playing this wedding, thanks again for having me Linda!
Booking information
Price range: Contact for rates
Languages: English
Gig length: 60 - 180 minutes
What to expect
You can experience a professional, engaging solo musician who combines skilled guitar playing with live vocals to create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion. My performances feature a diverse repertoire spanning classic hits, contemporary favorites, acoustic arrangements, and crowd-pleasing sing-alongs, tailored to suit the audience and event. Whether performing background music for a cocktail hour, providing entertainment for a private party, or taking center stage at a community event, I bring warmth, energy, and musical versatility to every performance.
If a client hired me, they would receive a dependable and experienced musician who understands how to enhance an event through music. For weddings, I provide elegant classical guitar for ceremonies, including prelude music, processional and recessional selections, and special song requests when possible. For receptions, corporate events, private parties, and social gatherings, I offer live acoustic guitar and vocals customized to the desired atmosphere—from relaxed and sophisticated to lively and interactive.
Clients can expect professional communication, punctuality, high-quality sound equipment, appropriate attire, and a personalized approach to planning the music for their event. My goal is to provide a seamless musical experience that complements the occasion and leaves guests with lasting memories.
About
Jonathan is an Acoustic/Classical Guitarist with 15 years of experience teaching, performing, and touring. A graduate of Berklee College of Music and voted Top 10 “Best Guitarist” in the Austin Chronicle Music Awards.
Jonathan provides instrumental classical guitar music from a vast repertoire of Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic periods, providing a pleasant background to any wedding ceremony, reception, or private event.
Jonathan also can provide acoustic guitar/singing in contemporary genres like rock, blues, folk, soul, top 40 hits, and country. He takes requests and can learn any particular song(s) that you desire for the event, and also travels with a complete PA System equipped with speakers and microphones.
He builds his reputation around being professional, punctual, and affordable for each and every event, and dedicated to making your wedding or event a very special day!
Additional booking notes
Performance Services:
Solo acoustic live music for weddings, private parties, corporate events, restaurants, bars, and special occasions.
Repertoire may include popular covers, originals, background music, and audience-requested songs (subject to availability).
Performance lengths can range from short sets to multiple hours with scheduled breaks.
Available for indoor and outdoor events (weather permitting).
Sound Requirements
Small Venues (up to ~50 guests)
May require only a standard electrical outlet near the performance area.
Musician can often provide a compact PA system suitable for small gatherings.
Medium to Large Venues
Access to reliable power within 25–50 feet of the performance area.
If a venue sound system is provided, the musician may require:
One vocal microphone input.
One instrument input (acoustic guitar DI).
One stage monitor or in-ear monitoring option.
General Sound Needs
Covered performance area for outdoor events.
Protection from rain, excessive heat, direct sunlight, and high winds.
Sound check access typically 30–60 minutes before performance.
Staging Requirements
Minimum performance space: approximately 6 ft x 6 ft (1.8 m x 1.8 m).
Flat, stable, and dry surface.
Chair or stool if requested.
Nearby access to power.
Secure location away from heavy foot traffic when possible.
Lighting Requirements
Daytime Events
No special lighting generally required.
Shade preferred for outdoor performances.
Evening or Indoor Events
Basic front lighting sufficient for visibility.
Performance area should be adequately illuminated for reading set lists and operating equipment.
Avoid rapidly flashing or strobe lighting unless agreed upon in advance.
Setup and Breakdown
Setup time: typically 30–60 minutes.
Breakdown time: typically 15–30 minutes.
Venue access required before and after performance for equipment transport.
Hospitality (Optional)
Drinking water provided near the performance area.
Parking access close to the venue when possible.
Meals or refreshments appreciated for extended engagements.
Additional Notes
Client is responsible for obtaining any required venue permits or event licenses.
Musician carries appropriate cables and standard performance equipment unless otherwise specified.
Performance schedule, special song requests, and technical details should be finalized before the event date.
This format works well in an event rider, booking packet, website, or contract.
Upcoming booked events
August 2026
11
Tuesday
Corporate Event
6:30pm - 8:00pm
•
Austin, TX
15
Saturday
Restaurant/Bar Event
6:00pm - 8:30pm
•
Austin, TX
23
Sunday
Grand Opening
9:00am - 12:00pm
•
Austin, TX
Past booked events
July 2026
11
Saturday
Birthday Party
5:00pm - 7:00pm
•
Austin, TX
Set list
The Beatles – Blackbird
Bob Dylan – Don't Think Twice, It's All Right
Bill Withers – Ain't No Sunshine
America – A Horse With No Name
Neil Young – Heart of Gold
Tracy Chapman – Fast Car
Otis Redding – (Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay
Van Morrison – Brown Eyed Girl
James Taylor – Fire and Rain
Bob Marley – Redemption Song
Pink Floyd – Wish You Were Here
The Eagles – Take It Easy
Eagles – Hotel California
Fleetwood Mac – Landslide
Crowded House – Don't Dream It's Over
Oasis – Wonderwall
Tom Petty – Free Fallin'
Don McLean – American Pie
John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads
Garth Brooks – Friends in Low Places
Jimmy Buffett – Margaritaville
Ed Sheeran – Shape of You
Bryan Adams – Summer of '69
Green Day – Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)
Weezer – Island in the Sun
Sublime – Santeria
John Mayer – Daughters
The Lumineers – Ho Hey
Mumford & Sons – I Will Wait
George Ezra – Budapest
Bon Jovi – Wanted Dead or Alive
Radiohead – Creep
Prince – Purple Rain
Foo Fighters – Everlong (Acoustic version)
The Killers – Mr. Brightside (Acoustic arrangement)
Kings of Leon – Use Somebody
Coldplay – Yellow
Blink-182 – Dammit (Acoustic)
Neil Diamond – Sweet Caroline
Influences and inspiration
Tom Petty
Eagles
Santana
Sublime
Red Hot Chili Peppers
Led Zeppelin
Eric Clapton
Journey