Dennis Frere-Smith Solo musical variety entertainer and freelance trumpeter

I perform in spaces ranging from a lounge to a theatre. I have two sizes of PA systems to suit small to large venues and need the 13 amp sockets to accommodate four plugs or my multi-plug/extension lead. I need one parking space for my estate car.

I need to know the precise directions to the venue as SatNav information is not always efficient. Also, please inform me of the unloading space.

I have a single ALTO PA for small venues and the more substantial Bose L1 Tower system for larger spaces. I can also provide a basic lighting rig, if required.

Yes, I do provide a Spotify service before and between sets.

I was honoured to have been chosen to perform my Musical Novelty Act at the London Palladium as part of Britain’s Got Talent 2024.
My best gig I have ever done as a solo entertainer was a Retirement Village show because the audience were so appreciative and pleasantly surprised at my act, which was an unexpected change for them.

I really enjoy fun events where everything has been organised to ensure that the client receives exactly what they expect. Everything from Care Homes, Charity events, cabaret shows and Anniversaries to Birthday Parties and Weddings are all my favourites.

I began performing in my own bands (1978-83) as a frontman together with my wife. We performed at many types of functions and Holiday Parks. As well as solo singing I played trumpet and flugelhorn both as backing to Elaine’s vocals and for instrumental solos. After 5 years we concentrated on our Duo, ‘Niki ‘N’ Diz,’ which played hotels, short cruises and tours (UK and Europe). I began my solo career in 1993 as ‘JustDEN,’ a keyboard vocal act. Most of my gigs were in clubs and pubs up to the point when I changed to using backing tracks (circa 2002). Since this time I have developed a new Act which has proved successful for shows, cabaret and every type of Private function. My forte is being able to ‘roam,’ personalise songs and play for dancing.

My vocal influences are Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole in particular but also Ella Fitzgerald and Chet Baker for the Jazz styles. For pop, I have been influenced by the Beatles and incorporate their fun style for dancing gigs. My favourite song is ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ closely followed by ‘Almost Like Falling in Love.’

I like to arrive an hour before the start time in order to set up and have a sound check but am happy to follow the clients instructions if they need me to set up earlier. My performance times are usually sets of 45 minutes although I sometimes entertain for longer when the Finale set becomes elongated.

I often perform outside and am happy to do this providing my equipment is protected from possible inclement weather.

My set lists are flexible and I am happy for clients to have a say in the program beforehand. Notwithstanding, I also like to take requests.

My performance are frequently referred to as ‘perfect’ and ‘the best we’ve ever had.’