Live

Live gigs have always been a staple part of my musical career. Whether it’s rock bars, weddings, concert halls, or music festivals – nothing beats that feeling of playing in front of an audience. From local venues in my hometown of Norwich to open-air festival stages – from the iconic Cavern Club in Liverpool to the La Scala opera house in Milan – every performance is a unique, exhilarating experience… and that’s what makes it special.

Crystal Bats at Norwich Arts Centre
Crystal Bats At Norwich Arts Centre · Ga Chun Yau

I have experience of working with a wide range of bands, solo artists, orchestras, theatre shows and other productions – touring around the UK, and in Europe.

As a drummer and percussionist, I play everything from ’90s club dance anthems with Ultra ’90s to celtic folk tunes with the Willowspin céilidh band, specially-written contest pieces for brass band on tuned percussion, and famous orchestral works with a variety of orchestras.

Zadok The Priest at the Auden Theatre
Zadok The Priest At The Auden Theatre · Rory Marsden

As a pianist and keys player, I have recorded blues Hammond organ with Jamie Roe, played acoustic shows with former BBC The Voice star Jade Mayjean, programmed synths for hip-hop artist Lucan Mills and new romantic singer/songwriter Sophie Mahon, played jazz piano at art galleries and cocktail parties, and accompanied local choirs and instrumental soloists.

Ultra '90s Fresh
Ultra ’90s Fresh · Kelly Borkertas

Since 2017, I have worked as a musical director on a variety of live productions. Crafting tracks and arrangements which rise and fall, along with punchy and impactful DMX lighting cues synced to the music and video projection, creating a full audio-visual experience for the audience.

I really enjoy the challenge of building full live shows from scratch and scaling the production into every venue we visit – from small clubs to large theatres or festival stages – and leading the band onstage from the keys or from the drums.

The Pisces Rising At Summer In The City 2018

I am a fluent sight-reader; I am comfortable working with clicks and playing to track; I can improvise or extemporise stylistically with confidence; I own professional-quality gear (including microphones, in-ear monitors, etc.); I have a strong stage presence; and I sing backing vocals and harmonies, if required.

If you’re looking for a drummer, percussionist, pianist or keys player for your live show, concert or event, contact me and find out what I can bring to your lineup. If you want to talk to me about building a brand new live production to take to your audiences, please do get in touch and we can discuss the process in more detail.

Jade MayJean At Christchurch Park, Ipswich · Kelly Borkertas
Kit Marsden // Musician