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Weddings

About

James Merlin is a wedding singer and guitarist based in York, North Yorkshire, who has performed at many iconic venues, including the Merchant Adventurers' Hall and Middleton Lodge. He's even played a surprise proposal in the Yorkshire Museum Gardens. A former member of Beatles tribute band The Threetles, he brings both timeless classics and modern hits to create the perfect soundtrack for your wedding day.

Live Music for Every Part of Your Day

From walking down the aisle to raising a glass with your guests, I provide live acoustic music that makes every moment unforgettable.

🎼Ceremony Music

Walk down the aisle to a song that's uniquely yours. A romantic atmosphere that's personal and memorable.

🥂 Drinks Reception

Keep the celebration flowing with a mix of acoustic songs, from classics to modern favourites.

🎉 Evening Entertainment

Whether you'd like lively sets or intimate acoustic performances, James tailors the music to suit your day.

From 50s Classics to Today's Hits

Every couple has its own soundtrack — and my repertoire covers it all. From timeless 50s and 60s favourites to modern chart-toppers, his setlist is designed to create the perfect mood at each stage of your wedding day.

Sample Repertoire

  • 1950s–60s Classics
  • All My Loving – The Beatles
  • Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
  • God Only Knows - The Beach Boys
  • I Saw Her Standing There - The Beatles
  • Stand By Me – Ben E. King

1970s–80s Favourites

  • Dancing in the Dark – Bruce Springsteen
  • Jolene - Dolly Parton
  • Proud Mary – Creedence Clearwater Revival
  • Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams
  • Take It Easy – The Eagles

1990s–2000s Anthems

  • Don't Look Back in Anger – Oasis
  • Hey There Delilah – Plain White T's
  • I'll Be There For You – The Rembrandts
  • She's Electric – Oasis
  • Time of Your Life – Green Day

Modern Hits

  • Budapest – George Ezra
  • Castle on the Hill – Ed Sheeran
  • Perfect – Ed Sheeran
  • Until I Found You – Stephen Sanchez
  • Valerie – Amy Winehouse
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Frequently asked questions

What services do you offer?

Ceremony music
Entertainment

What is included in the wedding package?

I can provide music for all parts of your wedding from ceremony music, to your drinks reception to evening entertainment

How far in advance should I contact you?

Ideally try to get in touch at least a few months before, this allows me to learn any specific songs. If it is short notice I may have space in my calendar so do get in touch

What style of music do you offer?

Rock
Pop

Type of musical group:

Solo

Size of group:

Soloist

Repertoire:

Every couple has their own soundtrack — and my repertoire covers it all. From timeless 50s and 60s favourites to modern chart-toppers, my setlist is designed to create the perfect mood at each stage

Is it possible to request something that's not in the repertoire?

Yes of course, I can play any requests just give them to me ahead of time

What's your experience?

I have been playing music professionally for over 10 years and have performed at several iconic venues around York including The Joseph Rowntree Theatre and The Merchant Adventurer's Hall

Do you have your own equipment?

Yes

Do you need specific materials or conditions to offer your service?

No

Can you travel?

Yes, northern England including Yorkshire, Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle

Is there a charge for travelling?

No

Do you cover more than one wedding a day?

No

Do you work alone or do you have a team of professionals?

Alone

What is the length of time of the act?

Anything from one song as you walk down the aisle through to a three hour long evening set

How much time do you need to prepare for an act?

I require around 30 minutes to set up and perform a sound check

Do you do open-air acts?

Yes

Do you charge per hour or per event?

Per event

If needed, would you be able to work extra hours?

Yes

How do you charge extra time?

Extra time is charged on a case by case basis and is usually proportional to the existing fee

What are the forms of payment?

Card, Bank Transfer or Cash

Reviews for James Merlin

M
Matt Sent on 13/10/2025
5 out of 5 rating

Private Performance in York

I hired James to play one song for a private gig in York, where I was visiting and had planned to propose to my girlfriend.

Having not visited York before, James was really helpful, providing information and suggestions which helped me with planning.

When it came to the performance, James’ playing was fantastic, it fitted the brief perfectly and really made the moment special.

I would definitely hire James again and would recommend him to others who are looking to hire a musician.
Ruth
Ruth Sent on 10/10/2025
5 out of 5 rating

Significant Birthday Garden Party

James came to play at my birthday party held in the garden. There were 60 people from 18
months to 80 and they all commented how good he was. Great song selection, great voice, lovely bloke. Looked like he was also having fun. Highly recommend.
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Map

York YO31 1AP York (North Yorkshire)

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