Performing

UK-based composer, pianist and arranger

I have played the piano and keyboard for over 14 years and have gained a Performer’s Certificate and Trinity ATCL Diploma along the way. I am very strong at sight-reading and play with a lot of power and passion. I have had experience accompanying various choirs, most recently a student choir at University and the Huddersfield Gilbert and Sullivan Society.

I greatly enjoy playing on stage in front of a large audience; I have acquired enough experience now to enjoy the atmosphere and not be put off by nerves. I also have experience playing in concert bands and orchestras, both as part of the group and as a solo performer.

Here are a few examples of me performing some established piano works - I hope you enjoy listening to them.

Classical Music

NOCTURNE in E FLAT MAJOR -
Chopin
Performed by Charles Baker

A very delicate and quiet ‘night piece’, as Chopin called it.
This famous music, with its memorable melody, seamlessly builds to a powerful climax, and the wide dynamic range makes it a great performance piece.

THE MONTAGUES AND

THE CAPULETS - Prokofiev

Performed by Charles Baker

This is great fun to perform; especially as it’s well known and has been used countless times on TV, the most famous being of course at the start of the Apprentice UK. I am sure almost any person in the street would recognise it if you hummed it to them!

ETUDE Op. 8 No. 12 in D# MINOR

- Scriabin

Performed by Charles Baker

One of Scriabin’s most well known pieces, this is a recording of me performing it in a church in Bath during Christmas 2009.

SOMEBODY TOLD ME - THE KILLERS

Performed by Charles Baker

WONDERWALL - OASIS

Performed by Charles Baker

YOUR SONG - ELTON JOHN

Performed by Charles Baker

DON’T STOP BELIEVING - JOURNEY

Performed by Charles Baker

DANCING QUEEN - ABBA

Performed by Charles Baker

HEARTBEAT - STEPS

Performed by Charles Baker

QUIET IMPROVISATION (suitable as background music in restaurants etc.)

Performed by Charles Baker

Popular Music

I’m also proficient in playing pop music - here are some examples of me playing well-known pop songs on the piano:

(Note: The songs below I played in a relaxed, soft style, but soon I will be uploading recordings of songs played in a more ‘power pop’ style, ranging from Muse to Stereophonics!)