The ultimate in sophisticated music for the discerning ear, for those looking for quality musicianship sensitively performed. The Claire Phoenix Band will provide professional musical entertainment for your event. Delivering mellow soul, jazz standards, swing, latin and classic pop. From past to present, their set includes music from artists such as Nina Simone, Billie Holiday, Roberta Flack, Carol King, Eva Cassidy and Corinne Bailey-Rae. Each song has been individually arranged to bring a fresh feel to the music.

The Claire Phoenix Band perform regularly at private functions including weddings, birthday parties, anniversaries, balls, fundraising events, corporate events and dinner dances. Their first set comprises beautiful and melodic tunes to start an event whilst the second set will bring people to the dance floor. The band provide a friendly and professional service committed to providing the musical entertainment appropriate for you, your guests and your event. The band are available for bookings in Hampshire, Surrey, Berkshire and welcome enquiries from further a field.

"...[I wanted to] express our sincere thanks for making our evening so enjoyable. Many of our guests have mentioned how much they enjoyed the band. It was great to see the dance floor full right up to the last minute. You and the boys certainly know how to make a party swing with a great choice of numbers, and not least, your beautilul singing. Thanks a million Claire."
Gordon and Jose Stead on the occasion of Jose's birthday

Claire Phoenix
Claire (BA Hons, Dip.IRC), singer-songwriter and daughter of professional musicians, has three years vocal training and a wealth of experience singing and performing. As well as leading her eponymous and successful band Claire is constantly in demand as guest vocalist for jazz ensembles; performing as a solo artist or as part of a duo.

Claire has worked with the multi-award winning trombonist Dennis 'Badbone' Rollins (Courtney Pine, Maceo Parker, Jamiroquai, Blur); Brad Lang (Kylie Minogue, Whitney Houston, Robbie Williams, George Michael); Ray Pool (The Drifters, Gloria Gaynor, Madeline Bell); The Alex Forsyth trio and others.

Winner of the 2010 Jazz Vocalist competition PureSolo in association with Jazz FM Claire has played at venues such as The Guardian Hay Festival, Hampton Court Palace, The Princes Hall, The Hilton Group and Spice of Life. Claire's voice has been likened to Eva Cassidy, Karen Carpenter and Julie London for its warmth, richness and sassiness. She takes each song into her heart and makes it truly her own.

Claire also works as a vocal tutor as well as singing in care homes on a regular basis and is fortunate to be backed by some of the most accomplished musicians on the local circuit.

Rob Lewis
Rob is head of the music faculty at Saint Edmunds School, Hindhead. As well as being an accomplished musical arranger and choirmaster he can turn his hand to classical, jazz and pop piano/keyboards seamlessly. With total command of his instrument and emotive performances everytime Rob binds the band together transforming any performance. Rob also performs locally in his duo Ain't Misbehavin'.

Ian Thompson
Ian is a welcome additon to the line up in recent times adding much to the depth and variety of the band's shows. His playing is measured, yet sublime, warm and emotive. Catch him in his element and he will match Claire note for note in a duel of musical dexterity when the mood for improvisation is in the air.

Steve Grattan
Steve has been playing bass for many years and also plays guitar as well as writing and performing his own compositions in local venues. His fretless bass delivers a distinctive sound providing in turn both the smooth moods and jumping beats. As well as accompanying Claire on acoustic guitar when a duo is required Steve is working on his own band project.

Tom Vincent
Tom is highly respected in the music business as a busy session drummer as well as being a member of The Claire Phoenix Band. He has played with Dame Shirley Bassey amongst others, works with the highly entertaining 6-piece band The Mushrooms on a regular basis and teaches drums.

"...many thanks for a most entertaining set at the Barley Mow in Winchfield on Saturday. You were professional, polished and highly entertaining; well done."
Alan Bates, audience member

"The evening seems to have been a great success, judging by the notes we have received since. There have been numerous spontaneous comments on how appropriate and enjoyable the music was, so I have no doubt the band’s contribution was significant... thanks again to you for your helpfulness and consideration... we won’t hesitate to recommend you."
Robert and Nicola Hunter on the occassion of their silver wedding anniversary celebrations at Fetcham Park House, Leatherhead

"It was a real pleasure to work with Claire as part of the PureSolo competition. Lyrically, she possesses a soothing, relaxed tone, able to navigate a song with the freedom I would say, of a bird in flight. Able to adapt to any working situation, she showed great professionalism both on and off stage, 'rolling with the punches' where necessary, while remaining focused, and delivering a great performance. I look forward to sharing the stage with her again sometime in the near future"
BBC multi-award winning, international trombonist Dennis 'Badbone' Rollins

"...[I wanted to] express our sincere thanks for making our evening so enjoyable. Many of our guests have mentioned how much they enjoyed the band. It was great to see the dance floor full right up to the last minute. You and the boys certainly know how to make a party swing with a great choice of numbers, and not least, your beautilul singing. Thanks a million Claire."
Gordon and Jose Stead on the occasion of Jose's birthday

"Thanks for coming over last night and for a really stylish and great performance as usual. Regards to the boys and see you soon."
Charles Johnson, Owner of The Bed Bar chain

"Last year’s Rose Tea Party was so special that I want to do the same again this year and wondered if you and the boys could see your way to providing us with music? If you could, that would be fabulous. I have already found a magician as I wanted something a little different, but I definitely need that great sound."
Margaret Stock, National Director, Alexandra Rose Charities, 2010

"Please put your hands together once again for another fantastic performance by The Claire Phoenix Band."
Joy Poulter, Mayoress of Godalming

"It was lovely to meet you and your fellow band members last Thursday in the grand environs of Farnham Castle and I wanted to add my thanks to you all for sponsoring such wonderful and fun entertainment at our Rose Tea Party. Our guests thoroughly enjoyed themselves and even I found myself wanting to dance!
It is only with the generosity of spirit of people like you that enables us to carry on our vital work supporting those in need in this country and for this I sincerely thank you."
Lady Grade, Vice President Alexandra Rose (Original Letter)

"200 people enjoyed a sunny afternoon in Gostrey Meadow with jazz musical entertainment from The Claire Phoenix Band. The Claire Phoenix Band played 2 sets. The first half saw people tapping their feet and relaxing whilst the second half was a bit more upbeat and saw many members of the audience get up and dance!"
Farnham Town Council report on the band's appearance as part of the Farnham Music In The Park season

"I just wanted to say thanks once again to you for your performance last night. I've had nothing but praise for the entertainment you provided and coupled with the efficient way everything was set up and cleared away again, it made for an excellent evening. What was so nice was that, as I hoped, there was something for everyone and one of the "grande dames" of the village enjoyed it just as much as the relatively youthful lot that joined you on stage!"
Marian de Kretser, Onslow Village Resident's Association

"I just wanted to say thanks again to you and the band for a fantastic nights entertainment at Helens birthday party. We all had a fantastic time and everybody has remarked on “the great band” and just what a contribution you all made to making the party go with a real bang...I hope you all enjoyed the night as much as we did and got home safely (and not too late). Anyway, just wanted to wish you all the best for the future, I hope that you continue to have great success and enjoy what you do because we certainly do!! Thanks and best regards, Tim"
Helen's husband on the occasion of her 40th birthday

"The best band I've heard play here"
Ian from Fidessa at The Bed Bar

"Just a quick note to say how much I enjoyed the gig on Friday - as did, it would seem, everybody else. It really was just perfect for the occasion and helped make the festival the success we had hoped for. Many thanks to you and please pass my thanks on to the others in the band - we must do it again"
Peter Hatch organizer of FirkinFest, Grayshott

"Again, many thanks for a really fantastic evening. I'm sure you were aware how much everyone enjoyed it - especially the backing vocals!"
Mike Joule, Onslow Village Resident

"Many thanks for the evening at Branksome Place last week. The music was to everyone’s taste and the event was enjoyed by all. Melissa and Russell also send their best wishes and thanks, as they felt the band added that extra touch to the evening. Thanks a lot and will recommend when the occasion arises."
Parents of newly engaged young couple Melissa and Russell

"Beautiful voice and great band"
Farnham Music In The Park audience member

“Are you playing here next year? I hope so. When I next have a party I will be booking you"
Fernhurst Revels organiser

“I was browsing the fete stalls and thought I'd come over to the marquee to listen to the CD that was playing. I didn't realise it was your band...very good.”
Fernhurst Revels visitor

"I am a member of the Godalming Town Band and as a professional musician I just want to say that whilst I don't usually appreciate the genre of music that you play, I am now converted. Your standard of musicianship is superb. I've really enjoyed listening to your performance and your singer has a stunning voice."
Godalming Mayor's Black Tie Ball brass band member

"You made the evening. I loved every song you played and, such a wide range of songs too!"
Godalming Mayor's Black Tie Ball guest

"You are the best band we have had this season."
Joy Poulter, Godalming Bandstand organiser

"Are you coming back to play next year? You are terrific."
Godalming Bandstand audience member

"What a fantastic afternoon. Your music is wonderful. Do you have any CD's for sale?"
Godalming Bandstand audience member

Sat 2nd Jul 2011 - Wedding, Surrey
Sat 5th Feb 2011 - Private Party, Wokingham
Sat 18th Dec 2010 - The Swing/Jive Dance Society Christmas Dinner/Dance
Mon 6th Dec 2010 - The Old Orleans Restaurant, Derby, Dinner Jazz (Solo) 5.30-8.30pm
Sat 4th Dec 2010 - Palette Bistro & Wine Bar, Woking, Surrey. 7.30pm
Sat 27th Nov 2010 - Wedding, Reading, Berkshire
Thu 25th Nov 2010 - Jagz, Ascot, Berkshire. 8pm
Fri 19th Nov 2010 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Sat 13th Nov 2010 - Private party, Hampshire
Thu 4th Nov 2010 - The Horns, Crondall, Hampshire (trio), 8pm
Thu 28th Oct 2010 - The Alexandra Rose Raffle Tea Party, Farnham Castle. 4pm
Sun 26th Sep 2010 - The Old Orleans Restaurant, Reading, Dinner Jazz (Solo) 5.30-8.30pm
Thu 23rd Sep 2010 - Farncombe Cavern @ The Freeholders, Farncombe, Surrey Tickets
Fri 17th Sep 2010 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Thu 16th Sep 2010 - The Horns, Crondall, Hampshire (trio), 8pm
Sat 11th Sep 2010 - Palette Bistro & Wine Bar, Woking, Surrey. 7.30pm
Sat 11th Sep 2010 - Jagz, Ascot, Berkshire. 1pm (Charity Event)

---

Sun 29th Aug 2010 - The Old Orleans Restaurant, Reading, Dinner Jazz (Solo) 5.30-8.30pm
Sat 28th Aug 2010 - The Barley Mow Beer Festival, Winchfield, Hampshire 5-7pm
Fri 27th Aug 2010 - Weyfest Presents, The Farnham Maltings, Farnham, Surrey
...guest appearance by Claire Phoenix with Vic Cracknell presenting Vic's new album "Nowhere to Somewhere"
Thu 19th Aug 2010 - Farncombe Cavern @ The Freeholders, Farncombe, Surrey Tickets
Sat 14th Aug 2010 - Palette Bistro & Wine Bar, Woking, Surrey. 7.30pm
Sun 8th Aug 2010 - Farnham Bandstand, Gostrey Meadows. 3pm (Free entry)
Fri 23rd Jul 2010 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Thu 22nd Jul 2010 - Farncombe Cavern @ The Freeholders, Farncombe, Surrey Tickets
Sat 17th Jul 2010 - British Legion private birthday party
Sun 11th Jul 2010 - The Coppid Beech Hotel Restaurant, Bracknell, 12.30-3.30pm (Trio)
Sat 10th Jul 2010 - Silver Wedding Anniversary, Leatherhead
Sat 10th Jul 2010 - Bisley private birthday party 2pm (Solo)
Sat 3rd July 2010 - Private Garden Party, Wantage (trio)
Sat 26th Jun 2010 - Guildford Corporation Club (contact club for details)
Sat 20th Jun 2010 - Private Function (duo)
Fri 4th Jun 2010 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Mon 31st May 2010 - Hampton Court Palace, Festival. 2pm
Sun 30th May 2010 - The Guardian Hay Festival, Hay-On-Wye, Wales
...guest appearance by Claire Phoenix with Denis Rollins and his band, Badbone & Co. 10.15pm
Sun 23rd May 2010 - Godalming Bandstand, Music In The Park. 3pm (Free entry)
Fri 21st May 2010 - CHIKS (Childrens Homes In Kerala State) charity event, The Hop Blossom, Farnham (duo) (Free entry)
Sun 16th May 2010 - Fernhurst Revels, Fernhurst, West Sussex. 1pm (Free entry)
Sat 8th May 2010 - Cellar Bar, Farnham Maltings (Duo)
Fri 30th Apr 2010 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Sat 24th Apr 2010 - Private party, Frensham Ponds Hotel, Surrey
Sun 4th Apr 2010 - The Coppid Beech Hotel Restaurant, Bracknell, 12.30-3.30pm (Trio)
Fri 19th Mar 2010 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Fri 12th Mar 2010 - The Lickfold Inn, Petworth, West Sussex, GU28 9EY (Duo)
Fri 14th Feb 2010 - Valentine's Day Lunch, the Princer Of Wales, Hammer, Nr Haslemere
...guest appearance by Claire Phoenix with jazz Quintet Sounds So Familiar
Sat 30th Jan 2010 - Oxjam, Elizabeth Hall, Hook, Hampshire

---

Fri 18th Dec 2009 - Private Function
Sat 12th Dec 2009 - Royal British Legion Christmas Lunch
Thu 10th Dec 2009 - The Keep, Guildford (Trio)
Sun 6th Dec 2009 - Private Function
Sat 5th Dec 2009 - Private Function
Thu 3rd Dec 2009 - Loch Fyne Restaurant, Farnham
...guest appearance by Claire Phoenix with Alex Forsyth's jazz ensemble
Sat 14th Nov 2009 - Private Function
Fri 13th Nov 2009 - Private Function
Thu 12th Nov 2009 - The Keep, Guildford (duo)
Mon 9th Nov 2009 - The Good Intent, Puttenham (duo)
Fri 6th Nov 2009 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Thu 5th Nov 2009 - The Star, Godalming (duo)
Fri 30th Oct 2009 - FirkinFest, Grayshott
Thu 29th Oct 2009 - The Alexandra Rose Raffle Tea Party, Farnham Castle
Wed 28th Oct 2009 - The Spice Of Life, London (duo)
Sat 10th Oct 2009 - Private Function (trio)
Sat 3rd Oct 2009 - Private Function
Sat 5th Sep 2009 - Weyfest, Tilford, Farnham (duo)
Sun 23rd Aug 2009 - Godalming Bandstand, Music In The Park
Mon 10th Aug 2009 - The Good Intent, Puttenham (duo)
Fri 7th Aug 2009 - Private Function (duo)
Sat 1st Aug 2009 - Private Function
Fri 31st Jul 2009 - The Claremont, Westbyfleet (duo)
Sat 25th Jul 2009 - Private Function (duo)
Fri 10th Jul 2009 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Thu 9th Jul 2009 - The Keep, Guildford
Sun 5th Jul 2009 - Farnham Bandstand, Gostrey Meadows
Sat 4th Jul 2009 - G-Fest, Dockenfield, Farnham (duo)
Sun 28th Jun 2009 - The Duke of Cambridge, Tilford (duo)
Fri 26th Jun 2009 - The Swan, Farnborough (duo)
Fri 19th Jun 2009 - The Bed Bar, Woking, Surrey. 8pm (Free entry before 10pm)
Sun 14th Jun 2009 - The Hilton Hotel, Cobham (duo)
Thu 28th May 2009 - University of Creative Arts, Farnham (duo)
Tue 19th May 2009 - The Georgian Hotel, Haslemere
Sun 17th May 2009 - Fernhurst Revels, Haslemere
Sun 10th May 2009 - Princes Hall, Aldershot (duo)

Web Sites Alexandra Rose Charities Farnham Music In The Park FirkinFest Fernhurst Revels Alex Forsyth Entertainment Exceeding Expectations The Claire Phoenix Band at Band-Me-Up Band-Me-Up LastMinuteMusicians Tom Vincent Vic Cracknell myspace pages The Claire Phoenix Band Claire Phoenix Steve Grattan Vic Cracknell

Acknowledgements Margaret Stock, National Director, Alexandra Rose Charities For her enthusiasm for the band and their music. Joy Poulter, Mayoress of Godalming For yet another invitation to play at the Godlaming Bandstand. Charles Johnson, Owner of The Bed Bar chain For repeated opportunities to play at his swish club. Andertons Of Guildford For their sound system, helpful advice and technical support. Haslemere Museum For the use of their gardens for a photo-shoot. Vic Cracknell For his enthusiastic promotion of live music. Sarah Longes For the use of her work as the main photo. Craddocks Print Solutions, Godalming For their help in producing print and recorded media. Tica For their professional photographic services. Keyedit Programming Limited For their development of this web site.

Why should I book The Claire Phoenix Band?
The Claire Phoenix Band is a professional function band committed to providing high quality entertainment for you and your guests. The band perform regularly at private functions and have several years experience of providing professional live entertainment. If you decide to book the band we will work closely with you to provide a quality service that exceeds your requirements and expectations. You can depend on our professionalism.

How are we different from other function bands?
We believe that The Claire Phoenix Band provide something different from a standard party band. We sensitively perform a range of jazz, soul and pop classics in a manner that creates a chic and sophisticated atmosphere. Although we perform plenty of upbeat numbers so guests can dance we are quieter than most bands giving your guests an opportunity to really appreciate the music. This also means we are well suited to venues with sound limiters as well as for performances during meals.

What type of events are you available for?
The band are ideally suited for performances at wedding receptions, birthdays, anniversaries, engagement parties, staff parties, corporate functions, dinner-dances or any event where you wish to entertain your quests with professional live music.

What type of music do you play?
The band performs a range of material as we like to provide something for everyone. The songs vary from jazz standards, soul classics and retro pop; latin dance tunes, swing and motown as well as up-to-the minute chart songs. Our Repertoire page lists our current play list.

What geographical areas do you cover?
The band is available for bookings in Hampshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Wiltshire, Sussex and also welcome enquiries from further a field.

How do I book the band?
To book The Claire Phoenix Band you can contact the band via email at info@phoenixmusic.org or by telephone on 07790 785619. Please provide details on the nature, date, location and timings of your event. In order to confirm the booking we will ask for a deposit.

Do you have a demo CD?
Yes we do and we are happy to send one to you if you provide your name and address via email at info@phoenixmusic.org. We also have mp3s on our website so you can hear the band in action.

How much does it cost to book the band and what do you provide?
For most events we perform 2 sets of live music of 45 minutes in length along with recorded music in between. We can also provide a DJ to add extra entertainment for extended events. The exact cost of your booking will depend on the timings, location and date of your event. Contact us for a quote via email at info@phoenixmusic.org or contact Claire on 07790 785619.

Do you have your own sound system and lighting?
Yes, we are completely self contained and provide a full sound and lighting rig capable of entertaining in venues that would accommodate up to around 300 guests.

How long does the band need to set up and will you be set up before the guests arrive?
Generally speaking the band needs about 60 minutes to set up and sound check. Ideally this is done before the guests arrive or, as is the case at many weddings, when the room is being arranged for the evening reception. However, if you require the band to be set up before the event starts this can be arranged as well.

What if my event/wedding is running over schedule?
With the best intentions and planning, you may find your timings change during the evening. Once set up and sound checked the band can be ready to perform at five minutes notice. They are also happy to wait in the wings if your event is running late.

How does the band dress and do I need to provide changing facilities and refreshments?
The Claire Phoenix Band dress appropriately for the occasion both off and on stage. Changing facilities would be appreciated but we recognise that this cannot always be arranged. We would normally retire to a quiet area of the venue while not performing. On many occasions we have been asked to mix with the audience when not performing and we are happy to do this as well. We neither require, nor expect refreshments or food to be laid on for the band but if they are they are always appreciated.

Is it possible to come and see you before booking?
Yes the band do make public appearances and you are more than welcome to attend any of those. Please visit the Events page to find out where the band are playing. Please note that some of the performances may be acoustic and will feature a duo or trio rather than the full band. Naturally, the main focus of the band is on Claire's voice and you will always get a chance to hear Claire sing at any of the events advertised on this web-site. Please contact the band via email at info@phoenixmusic.org or by telephone on 07790 785619 to find out details on the location and timings of any performances.

Does the band have Insurance Cover?
The Claire Phoenix Band have comprehensive Public Liability Insurance. For many venues this is a requirement.

Does the band have PAT compatible equipment?
Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) of electrical equipment is an important part of any health & safety policy. The Claire Phoenix Band use equipment that is fully PAT tested. Again, this is a requirement of many venues.