Jonny Leyland

When you hire me, you can expect a versatile and engaging performance tailored to your event’s unique atmosphere. Whether it’s playing classical guitar at a wedding ceremony, providing smooth background music at a winery, or getting everyone up and dancing with rock, country, and pop hits, I adapt to the occasion to ensure an unforgettable experience.

I always consult with the event planner or client to ensure I’m the right fit and can not just fulfill but exceed their expectations. This includes learning new or specific music to perfectly match the event’s theme. My goal is to create memorable moments and connect with the audience, making every event a hit.

Here’s a bit more of what you can expect:

Personalized Performances: I take the time to understand your vision for the event. Whether you have specific songs in mind or need help crafting the perfect setlist, I work closely with you to ensure the music complements your event seamlessly.

Engaging the Crowd: If appropriate, I love to engage with the audience, taking requests, and creating an interactive experience. My performances are not just about playing music but about creating a connection with the crowd.

Diverse Repertoire: My repertoire spans genres and eras, from classical and flamenco to contemporary pop, country, and rock. Influences from artists like Chris Stapleton, Jason Mraz, John Mayer, Dean Martin, and Jose Feliciano shape a diverse musical experience.

Professionalism: Punctuality, reliability, and professionalism are my top priorities. From the initial consultation to the final note, I strive to provide a seamless and stress-free experience for my clients.

Flexibility: I am adaptable to different settings and requirements, whether it’s a small, intimate gathering or a large-scale event. I bring the right equipment and setup to ensure the best sound quality for any venue.

Memorable Moments: Above all, my goal is to make your event memorable. I aim to leave a lasting impression with performances that resonate with your guests, creating moments they’ll remember long after the event is over.

I'm Jonny Leyland (formerly Jonny Edwards), a versatile musician from New Zealand who's been sharing my love for music for over two decades. I first picked up a guitar when I was seven years old and later, at eleven, began to explore the artistry of classical and flamenco styles. Over the years, I've woven in influences from a wide range of artists, including Chris Stapleton, Jason Mraz, John Mayer, Dean Martin, and Jose Feliciano, making my music as diverse as my inspirations.

My journey has taken me from performing at various venues and events in New Zealand, including numerous weddings, to the U.S., where I first landed in Seattle about ten years ago. There, I added my tunes to the mix in the popular winery scene of Woodinville.

Four years ago, I made my way to South Florida, where I've been playing my mix of covers and original tunes at local venues. My unique strength lies in my ability to connect with my audience, whether I'm performing soulful melodies as a solo guitarist or lighting up the stage with my singing.

In essence, I'm a musician who knows how to cater to my crowd. Whether you're after some soft, acoustic guitar for a wedding ceremony or a lively set to get a party started, I'm your guy. I'm not just another performer—my voice and guitar make me a one-man show, always ready to make your event a hit.

I aim to make your event as seamless and stress-free as possible when it comes to technical requirements. Here’s what you need to know:

PA System: I have my own PA system that can handle most audience sizes. For smaller outdoor events, I also have a battery-powered PA system. All I need is access to a power outlet for indoor and larger outdoor events.

Setup and Equipment: For the majority of events, once we've had our initial consultation, there’s nothing else for you to worry about. I bring everything I need and handle the setup myself. This ensures that I can focus on delivering a great performance without any hassle for you.

Lighting and Larger Venues: For larger venues or events that require more extensive lighting and sound equipment, arrangements can be made to hire the necessary gear. These additional costs can be included in the quote after discussing your specific needs during our consultation.

Space Requirements: I require a performance space that accommodates my equipment and allows me to interact comfortably with the audience. Ideally, a space of at least 8x6 feet works well.

Soundcheck: I usually arrive an 30-60 minutes before the performance to set up and perform a soundcheck, ensuring that everything is perfect for when the event begins.

Communication: Clear communication is key. I am always available to discuss any specific technical needs or concerns you may have in advance of the event.

My goal is to provide a professional and worry-free experience, so you can focus on enjoying the event. Feel free to reach out with any specific questions or requirements you might have.