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Weddings

About

On Hitched.co.uk since 2025

Last update: January 2025

John Dowling is a British Banjo player based in Redruth, Cornwall who provides wedding music services.

Dowling was born in Cornwall, England. He won first place in the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award with his band the Black Cat Theory, and went on to become the first European ever to win first place at the USA National Bluegrass Banjo Championships held in Kansas. He was featured as a master class tutor in a BBC1 reality series, Play It Again, along with Mark Knopfler, Jools Holland, and Courtney Pine, and is a published author of The Contemporary Banjo Player (Faber Music).

John has become popular in the wedding industry over the years. As a unique and different musical option, the Banjo provides the perfect happy ambient sound to entertain guests both during a drinks reception or ceremony.

Frequently asked questions

What services do you offer?

Ceremony music
Cocktail/banquet music
Entertainment

What is included in the wedding package?

2 X 45 minute sets minimum, with a 30 minute break between sets. Music entertainment. PA amplification equipment

How far in advance should I contact you?

When you're ready

What style of music do you offer?

Classical
Lounge
Jazz
Regional
Ethnic
Folk
Other (Bluegrass)

Type of musical group:

Solo
Soloist

Size of group:

Soloist

Repertoire:

Bluegrass classics including Duelling Banjos, Foggy Mountain Breakdown, Beverly Hillbillies etc, plus a mix of more contemporary pieces

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

Yes, but within the capabilities of the Banjo

What's your experience?

I have been performing for 25 years, won multiple awards, and played thousands of shows and around 50 weddings

Do you have your own equipment?

Yes

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

Yes, i require a chair and a nearby plug socket, and shelter if playing outside

Can you travel?

Yes, nationwide

Is there a charge for travelling?

Yes, price per mile based on current official price calculators

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?

2 X 45 minute sets minimum, with a 30 minute break between sets

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

1 hour

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?

£200 per extra 45 minute set

What are the forms of payment?

Bank transfer

Served in

Cornwall, Greater Manchester and South West London

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Map

Town TR15 Redruth (Cornwall)

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