Posts Tagged ‘american songbook pianist’

Great American Songbook Piano Player CD “Music To Drive By” Li Long Island Ny New York Nj Ct Music You Will Love Stan Wiest

Monday, August 19th, 2013

GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK PIANO PLAYER CD STAN WIEST PERSONAL ARRANGEMENTS AND INTERPRETATIONS OF GREAT AMERICAN SONG BOOK STANDARDS -LISTEN TO STAN PERFORM -OVER 70 ENTERTAINMENT VIDEOS BELOW

STAN WIEST (631) 754-0594

EMAILS  STAN@STANWIEST.COM and STANWIEST@EARTHLINK.NET

MAIN WEBSITE  WWW.STANWIEST.COM AND WWW.WIESTENTERTAINMENT.COM

THE KNOT WEDDING AWARD” TO STAN WIEST MUSIC

VOTED BEST OF 2024 BY LONG ISLAND BRIDES

STAN WIEST WEDDING  REVIEWS

STAN WIEST KEYBOARD CEREMONY COCKTAIL HOUR

STAN WIEST MUSIC DJ MC RECEPTION

THE INN AT  NEW HYDE PARK OCT 14, 2023   MOTHER OF THE GROOM

THE INN AT NEW HYDE PARK NOV 11, 2023 MOTHER OF THE BRIDE

BRIDAL  PARTY SHOWCASE

TUESDAY MARCH 19  6:30 PM

RUSSOS ON THE BAY

162-45 CROSS BAY BLVD

QUEENS NY 11414

(718)   843-5055

 

 BRIDAL PARTY SHOWCASE

TUESDAY APRIL 9, 2024     6 PM

THE INN AT NEW HYDE PARK

214 JERICHO TURNPIKE NEW HYDE PARK NY 11040 (516) 354-7797

 

COINDRE HALL 11/12/2023 BRIDE AND GROOM

TOWN OF OYSTER BAY DISTINGUISHED ARTISTS SERIES PRESENTS STAN WIEST IN PIANO CONCERT DECEMBER 10, 2023 BETHPAGE LIBRARY

“Not only is he a terrific pianist, but his choice of material is absolutely first rate- some truly great songs, very well played”  PETER DUCHIN

 

BREEZE AIRLINES GRAND OPENING LONG ISLAND MAC ARTHUR AIRPORT   SELECTS STAN WIEST MUSIC JAZZ TRIO TO PERFORM

JAZZ TRIO STAN ON KEYBOARD – PLUS STRING BASS AND DRUMS

STAN WIEST IN PIANO CONCERT NORTHPORT EAST NORTHPORT LIBRARY  FRI AUG 11, 2023

“MUSIC OF THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK”

MUSIC TO DRIVE BY-CLICK BELOW

https://www.music-you-will-love.com/

MEET STAN WIEST

STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT APRIL 12, 2023 HIGH SOCIETY MUSICALS JEANNE RIMSKY THEATER

 STAN WIEST FEB 12, 2023 PIANO CONCERT AND “LOVE SONGS”AUDIENCE SING ALONG   HARBORFIELDS LIBRARY

 STAN WIEST IN PIANO CONCERT SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 18, 2022   SOUTH HUNTINGTON LIBRARY LONG ISLAND  STAN PERFORMS HIS PERSONAL PIANO ARRANGEMENTS OF MUSIC OF THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK

FOR YOUR CEREMONY/COCKTAIL HOUR STAN WIEST SPECIALIZES IN THE MUSIC OF “FINAL FANTASY”, DISNEY, JAZZ,  LOVE SONGS, BROADWAY AND CLASSICAL MUSIC

 

STAN WIEST PERFORMING TO ZANARKAND FINAL FANTASY X VIDEO GAMES  SOUNDS LIKE A GRAND PIANO AND FULL STRING ORCHESTRA

SEPT 16 WEDDING REVIEWS – STAN PERFORMING MUSIC OF FINAL FANTASY ON KEYBOARD

CLICK ON BELOW PICTURE– THEN CLICK ON

“OPEN LINK IN PRIVATE WINDOW”

TO SEE A SUMMARY OF OUR ENTERTAINMENTS

SPECIALTY PARTY MUSIC-ENTERTAINMENT

https://www.stanwiest.com/party-entertainment-long-island-new-york/

DJ/MC – DJ  PLUS SIMULCAST VIDEO – VIDEO DJ  

DJ AND  PERCUSSIONIST – CLOUD MACHINES

UPLIGHTING – PYRO SPARKLERS –  LED TV’S

KARAOKE   GREEN SCREEN PHOTO BOOTH -SCREENS

 

Strolling Violins                       

         Strolling Accordion –Italian –French Music

String Quartet                          

         Strolling Mariachi Musicians in Mariachi Attire

String Trio – String Duo          

        Steel Drums  – Reggae  Trinidad Jamaica Caribbean

Violin – Cello                             

        Persian  –  Arabic –  Israeli Music

Violin – Flute- Cello               

           Belly Dancers – Flash Dancers 

Solo Violin                              

            Salsa – Merengue – Cumbia – Bachata Latin Band

Classical Music  

    Octoberfest / Oktoberfest  German Band / Dancers   

Harp (Concert Grand Size)    

       Brazilian Band –     BAND DJ COMBINATION

Harp-Violin                             

           Bagpipes in Full Costume- Irish- Scottish

Harp-Flute                                

        Greek Bouzouki Band  –  Dancers

Harp-Flute-Cello                        

       Portuguese Band-Country Western Band-Bluegrass Band

Sinatra Singer                      

            Spanish Flamenco Dancers  – Spanish Music                    

Piano – Cocktail Hour  -Dinner Music   

    Line Dance Caller – Square Dance Caller             

Guitar and Flute                   

            Jazz Duo –Jazz Trio – Jazz Quartet

Classical Guitar                        

         Russian   – Romanian  – Gypsy  Music

Flamenco – Spanish Guitar      

        Jewish Music – Italian Music – Irish Music

Jazz Guitar                                        String Orchestra      

Solo Pianist / Vocalist                       Singers for Wedding Ceremony                                         

Opera Singers                          

         Christmas Carolers in Dickens Attire
Caricaturist                                        Sitar and  Tabla

Renaissance Medieval Music           Swing Band –Swing Dancers

Ballroom Dance Band – Ballroom Dancers –

Demonstrations Salsa Dancers – Tango Dancers  Swing Dancers –

Trumpeters in Medieval Outfits – One Man Band –

Piano Vocals Keyboard — Synthesizer — Walk Around Magicians –

Ventriloquist – Puppet Shows

CHRISTMAS CAROLERS IN DICKENS OUTFITS

 

STAN WIEST ON PIANO  “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY”   CD

https://www.music-you-will-love.com/                               

Jazz Guitar                                        String Orchestra      

Solo Pianist / Vocalist                       Singers for Wedding Ceremony                                         

Opera Singers                          

         Christmas Carolers in Dickens Attire
Caricaturist                                        Sitar and  Tabla
 

STAN WIEST ON KEYBOARD

  COCKTAIL HOUR WEDDING CEREMONY  

 STAN  WIEST in PIANO CONCERT

             https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtgMSxzpBJ0

 

DJ/MC  -LIGHTING -PHOTO BOOTH -LED TELEVISION SCREENS

BI LINGUAL SPANISH ENGLISH DJ MC WITH OR WITHOUT LATIN PERCUSSIONIST

BI LINGUAL ENGLISH SPANISH DJ MC WEDDING PARTY INTRO AND FIRST DANCE

ABOVE DJ AT A FANTASTIC CELEBRITY WEDDING IN THE HAMPTONS- CLICK BELOW

GREEN SCREEN OPEN AIR BOOTHLESS PHOTO BOOTH – UNLIMITED PARGE PHOTOS 4 HOURS – YOU GET AN ALBUM WITH A COPY OF EVERY PICTURE – BACKGROUNDS CUSTOMIZED TO YOUR WISHES INCLUDES PROPS AND ATTENDANT

GREEN SCREEN PHOTO BOOTH

PYRO SPARKLERS AND CLOUD INTRO

DJ AND PERCUSSION

DJ MC  AND PERCUSSIONIST LATIN SPANISH DANCE MUSIC WEDDING

DJ MC AND PERCUSSIONIST DANCE MUSIC WEDDING

OUR NEW FLYING SAUCER SPACESHIP DJ BOOTH SET UP

OUR MANY STAGE LIGHTING SET UP CHOICES

 OUR NEW LI LONG ISLAND MULTI DJ VJ SYSTEM SET UP

VIDEO DJ AND SPECIAL EFFECTS LIGHTING

 

PIANO KEYBOARD VOCALS STAN WIEST

THE KNOT WEDDING AWARD” TO STAN WIEST MUSIC

VOTED BEST OF 2023 LONG ISLAND BRIDES

OVER 301 RAVE REVIEWS

STAN WIEST IS A MEMBER ASSOCIATION OF BRIDAL CONSULTANTS

 “THE KNOT”

Stan is the most talented musician I have ever met. I choose unknown songs for my ceremony- and Stan learned the music and played the songs beautifully. Hearing him play was a highlight for me and all my guests. I highly recommend Stan – you won’t find a nicer more talented piano player

STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT    “LOVE SONGS AND THEIR STORIES”

2/9/22 JEANNE RIMSKY THEATER

STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT ELMONT PUBLIC LIBRARY NY  MUSIC OF THE GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK PERFORMING “ALL THE THINGS YOU ARE”  and “A NIGHTINGALE SANG IN BERKELEY SQUARE”

STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT THE ELMONT PUBLIC LIBRARY NY PERFORMING MUSIC OF THE GREAT AMERICAN SONG BOOK

COCKTAIL HOUR MUSIC    “WAVE”  “MEDITATION”  “GIRL FROM IPANIMA” “MORNING OF THE CARNIVAL” THEME FROM “A MAN AND A WOMAN”

“EMBRACEABLE YOU”   “MOONGLOW”  “IT HAD TO BE YOU”

 STAN WIEST PERFORMS ON PIANO WITH HIS TRIO FOR THE CAUMSETT FOUNDATION GALA FUNDRAISER LLOYD HARBOR NEW YORK

Caumsett Foundation Gala Fundraiser Lloyd Harbor Li Long Island Ny Stan Wiest Piano Jazz Trio

STAN WIEST IS RECOMMENDED BY  CBS RADIO, THE NEW YORK TIMES, THE DAILY NEWS, TIME OUT MAGAZINE, LONG ISLAND NEWSDAY, NEW YORK MAGAZINE, NEW YORK WEDDINGS MAGAZINE, BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINE, WEDDINGS BELLS MAGAZINE, WEDDINGS MAGAZINE

STAN WIEST IN CONCERT ON EDDY DUCHIN’S PIANO

4 SELECTIONS

  • CUMANA
  • AUTUMN LEAVES
  • IT’S ALL RIGHT WITH ME
  • BOOGIE WOOGIE

STAN WIEST MUSIC PIANO CD “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY”  AVAILABLE ON EVERY MAJOR DOWNLOAD SITE iTUNES, AMAZON ETC

LISTEN TO STAN WIEST IN PIANO CONCERT IN THE MANY VIDEOS BELOW AND READ THE REVIEWS FOR HIS PIANO CD “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY”

ALAILABLE FOR PERFORMANCES IN THE UNITED STATES

READ THE REVIEWS ON  “THE KNOT” AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE

WATCH THE VIDEO REVIEWS ON STAN’S PERFORMANCES BELOW

STAN WIEST MUSIC is recommended in NEW YORK MAGAZINE –THE ESSENTIAL WEDDING GUIDE SPRING / SUMMER  and FALL /  WINTER  ISSUE for the 9th year in a row

NEW YORK MAGAZINE “This agency provides an array of bands and DJs- think mariachis, steel-drum ensembles, strolling violinists, and musicians well versed in Persian and Greek music. It’s a favorite among Dixieland fans, sitar aficionados and bagpipe enthusiasts. The band and DJ combo packages are especially popular for weddings”

Maria Mc Bride-Mellinger Editor at Bride’s Magazine in New York City Recommends STAN WIEST MUSIC for WEDDINGS in her book “The Perfect Wedding Reception” 

 

JOAN HAMBURG -WOR AM RADIO PERSONALITY IN NEW YORK RECOMMENDS STAN WIEST MUSIC

In her award-winning book “City Weddings” Joan Hamburg says:

“With over 17 bands and orchestras working for him, Stan Wiest can get you the perfect music for your wedding, and, because he’s a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants, Wiest really understands the intricacies of wedding performances

The list of musicians he can get for you is enormous, since he handles everything from ballroom dance bands to steel drums, mariachi groups, bagpipers, bluegrass bands,classical groups, Greek bouzouki music, sitars, German Octoberfest, and DJs

Go to his website and take a look at the 112 music pages he has set up. He’s great to work with and an amazing wedding resource”

STAN WIEST PIANO CD “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY” NOW BEING PLAYED ON RADIO STATIONS IN UNITED STATES, EUROPE, ASIA AND AUSTRALIA

LISTEN TO YOUR FAVORITE SONGS FROM THE GREAT STANDARDS

GO ON GOOGLE AND TYPE IN  “STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT” FOR VIDEOS OF STAN IN MANY CONCERT LOCATIONS PLAYING A WIDE VARIETY OF  STAN’S PERSONAL ARRANGEMENTS  ALSO TYPE IN “STAN WIEST JAZZ TRIO PIANO STRING BASS DRUMS”

STAN WIEST MUSIC  HAS PERFORMED FOR GALAS FOR BARBARA WALTERS, SALLY JESSY RAPHAEL, TONY RANDALL, FRANK SINATRA, SAMMY DAVIS JR, VICTOR BORGE, THE RED CROSS, IBM, USO, FLEET WEEK,  TOURED WITH IRVING CAESAR (GEORGE GERSHWIN’S LYRICIST)  PERFORMED WEDDING FOR ROYAL FAMILY OF SRI  LANKA, THE DU PONT WEDDING, WEDDING FOR FAMILY MEMBER OF CONDUCTOR ARTURO TOSCANINI, THE TONIGHT SHOW BAND

THE ENTERTAINMENT FOR MARISHKA HARGITAY’S  BIRTHDAY PARTY (DETECTIVE OLIVIA BENSON ON TV “LAW AND ORDER SPECIAL VICTIMS UNIT” ),GALAS FOR COMMANDER “HOOT” GIBSON (IN CHARGE OF THE JOINT US-RUSSIA ATLANTIS SPACE SHUTTLE MISSION), BUD HARRELSON (NY METS MANAGER) , WEDDING FOR  ROLLAND SMITH’S  (CBS TV ANCHOR) SON

STAN WIEST PROVIDED THE MUSIC FOR THE WEDDINGS OF THE EDITORS OF RED BOOK, COSMOPOLITAN AND BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINES, THE WEDDING OF THE DAUGHTER OF GREG BUTTLES NEW YORK JETS ALL STAR PLAYER AND WEDDING OF THE LEAD ACTRESS IN THE BROADWAY MUSICAL “JEKYLL AND HYDE”

PROVIDED THE 15 PIECE ORCHESTRA FOR THE WORLD PREMIER OF THE MOVIE “MADE OF HONOR” STARRING PATRICK DEMPSEY AT THE ZIEGFELD THEATER IN MANHATTAN, CBS TV CHANNEL 2 ENTERTAINMENT TONIGHT 15 PIECE ORCHESTRA   PERFORMING FOR PATRICK DEMPSEY

 

VISIT OUR HOME PAGE STAN WIEST MUSIC FOR MORE ENTERTAINMENT INFORMATION  BY CLICKING THE HOME PAGE LINK BELOW

 

CLICK ON THIS HOME PAGE LINK FOR  STAN WIEST MUSIC CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

STAN WIEST IS A CLASSICAL AND JAZZ CONCERT PIANIST. STAN  WILL ORCHESTRATE THE MUSIC TO SUIT YOUR CEREMONY NEEDS

 

NEW PIANO CD “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY”
ARRANGED AND PERFORMED BY STAN WIEST FEATURE ON RADIO STATION IN THE UNITED STATES, EUROPE, ASIA AND AUSTRALIA

http://www.music-you-will-love.com/

INSIDE COVER SMALLER

ALSO AVAILABLE Amazon.com and     CDbaby.com

READ THE ALBUM NOTES AT  http://cdbaby.com/cd/stanwiet

WATCH THE BELOW VIDEO INTERVIEW OF STAN WIEST TALKING ABOUT HIS PIANO CD “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY”  RECORDED IN ONE 8 HOUR NON STOP RECORDING SESSION AT THE TOP RECORDING STUDIO IN MANHATTAN

Reviews for “Music to Drive By”

STAN WIEST PIANO CD http://www.music-you-will-love.com/

A Top seller on Amazon.com

STAN WIEST INTERNATIONAL  SONG BOOK RADIO PROMO

CD is a standout for its beautiful arrangements of beautiful music. For anyone who likes American “standards,” this is a great pick.
AMAZON.COM     5 STAR REVIEW

 

“Not only is he a terrific pianist, but his choice of material is absolutely first rate- some truly great songs, very well played”
PETER DUCHIN

 

“You’re clearly a talented guy”
JOE FAY – WNEW Metromedia Radio

 

“Completing the recordings in eight hours was “a feat,” says Euphoria owner David Sokol, who was impressed by Wiest’s performance. “The man knows every tune, he knows music history,” Sokol says. “He’s a serious musician and ‘serious musician’ is the highest compliment I can pay . . . I’ve heard the greatest musicians in the world, and Stan is excellent.”
DAVID SOKOL – OWNER EUPHORIA STUDIOS

 

“PIANIST STAN WIEST ADDS ‘RECORDING ARTIST’ TO HIS LONG MUSICAL RESUME”
LONG ISLAND NEWSDAY

 

Dick Robinson, host of WHLI/1100 AM’s “American Standards by the Sea,” is also impressed by Wiest’s piano stylings. “His album is a nice reflection of the American Songbook,” he says. “I love that a song like ‘Night and Day’ is just piano. No trio, no big band, no singer. Stan does a wonderful job.”
DICK ROBINSON WHLI

 

“AMERICAN STANDARDS BY THE SEA”

“It is as beautiful of piano playing as one would ever want to hear. It’s absolutely delicious. It’s gorgeous. Wonderful renditions of these songs. Each and every one a classic song. And you do a beautiful job, a masterful job on them. I want to compliment you on absolutely marvelous piano playing. A great great keepsake album. It simply could not have been better. It really is a group of brilliantly played selections. It’s as good as it gets. And you have every right to be proud of it.”
PAUL RICHARDS, PROGRAM DIRECTOR, WHLI

 

THE TIMES UNION

Piano virtuoso Stan Wiest offers “Music You Will Love –Volume On: Music To Drive By” – draws from the Great American Songbook and beyond; Wiest’s wonderful technique and flair for interpretation are front-and-center. A generous 17 tracks of solo piano and it lives up to its title.”

 

“Stan Wiest has the perfect touch for the American Songbook. You can recognize the melody because he cares about the composers. A delightful CD, one you’ll listen to many times.”
– John Bohannon, WRHU

 

“Move over Clayderman…there’s a new kid at the 88’s who not only tickles the ivories, but gives us 17 tracks of pure AMERICAN SONGBOOK pleasure. That “new kid” is Stan Wiest, a  piano wizard. Stan’s “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY” is “pure piano”. My radio show audience love’s Stan! I can’t wait for Volume 2″ – Bill Miller. Host of the syndicated Bill Miller Show, and Charter member of the Kansas Broadcaster’s “Hall Of Fame”

WEBSITE

http://www.music-you-will-love.com/

STAN WIEST IN PIANO CONCERT

“IT’S ALL RIGHT WITH ME”     ELMONT MEMORIAL LIBRARY NY

“CUMANA”   STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT ELMONT MEMORIAL LIBRARY NY

“BUMBLE BOOGIE”  STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT ELMONT MEMORIAL LIBRARY NY

AMERICAN SONG BOOK MEDLEY  “NIGHT AND DAY”  “I’VE GOT YOU UNDER MY SKIN”  “BEGIN THE BEGUINE”   “BESAME MUCHO”    ELMONT MEMORIAL LIBRARY NY

“AUTUMN LEAVES”  COMMACK PUBLIC LIBRARY STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT

“MALAGUENA”  STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT LOCUST VALLEY LIBRARY NY

“SUMMERTIME SUITE:    INCLUDES  “SUMMERTIME”    “I GOT PLENTY OF NOTHING”   STAN WIEST PIANO CONCERT

Music Samples from the CD

“ALL THE THINGS YOU ARE” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO  CD

“A NIGHTINGALE SANG IN BERKELEY SQUARE” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

“YOU WERE MEANT FOR ME”  ” SINGING IN THE RAIN” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “MY ONE AND ONLY LOVE” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “WHERE OR WHEN” “EAST OF THE SUN” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

“LOVE LOOK AWAY” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “LOVELY WAY TO SPEND AN EVENING”  “YOU’RE SENSATIONAL”  FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “WHAT A WONDERFUL WORLD” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “USE YOUR IMAGINATION” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “I’LL BUY YOU A STAR” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “MOON RIVER” “WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR” “SOMEDAY MY PRINCE WILL COME”  FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “I KNOW WHY AND SO DO YOU” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “NIGHT AND DAY” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “OVER THE RAINBOW” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “TILL THERE WAS YOU” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

 “NEW YORK NEW YORK”  “ONE” “IT HAD TO BE YOU” FROM MUSIC TO DRIVE BY PIANO CD

Featured on DICK ROBINSON “American Standards By The Sea” Syndicated National Radio Show

NEW YORK NEWSDAY FEATURE ARTICLE INTERVIEW
WITH STAN WIEST
STAN WIEST PLAYS EDDY DUCHIN’S PIANO

THE HUNTINGTON BOOK REVUE
“MUSIC TO DRIVE BY “
PRESENTATION AND CD SIGNING
http://www.bookrevue.com/StanWiest.html

 SIX INTERVIEWS
THE BILL MILLER SYNDICATED NATIONAL RADIO SHOW
KANSAS CITY

 CD PRESENTATION AND SIGNING
BOOKS AND BOOKS CORAL GABLES FLORIDA

 CD PRESENTATION AND SIGNING
FOREST BOOKS 182 BIRCH HILL ROAD LOCUST VALLEY LI

 PIANO CONCERT GLOVE THEATRE

42 North Main Street Gloversville NY 12078

EVERY YEAR IN DECEMBER LOCUST VALLEY LIBRARY HOLIDAY CONCERT

170 BUCKRAM ROAD LOCUST VALLEY NY 11560 (516) 671-1837

STAN WIEST to lead ANNUAL HOLIDAY SING ALONG AT THE LIBRARY FREE ADMISSION

CHILDREN WELCOME -FREE SING ALONG BOOKS GIVEN OUT

GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK RADIO BROADCASTING FROM THE NETHERLANDS TO THE UNITES STATES,

CANADA, EUROPE, ASIA, AUSTRALIA, AFRICA ETC.  FEATURES STAN WIEST PIANO CD “MUSIC TO DRIVE BY”

SAVANNAH GEORGIA

 ALBUM STARTS TO BE FEATURED ON RADIO SWISS JAZZ FROM SWITZERLAND

ALBUM NOTES

Album Notes -and THE STORY OF EDDY DUCHIN’S PIANO which STAN WIEST owns

a terrific pianist … truly great songs, very well played.”
Peter Duchin

STAN WIEST began his lifetime career as a six year old carving his name into the wood of the upright piano his family had as a protest to having to practice piano. This attitude abruptly changes when at twelve he fell in love with his new piano teacher. She inspired him to practice long hours and encouraged his musicianship by taking him to classical concerts. Out of this puppy love a career was born. Stan graduated from Hofstra University on full piano scholarship with a brilliant classical piano concert for his musical graduation requirement playing Scarlatti, Schumann, Debussy and Franz Liszt.

As a performer in the late 60’s Stan played all the major hotel and supper clubs in Manhattan. He also appeared as a supper club pianist on the soap opera “Another World Bay City” and “Another World Somerset” on NBC television. In the same era he was performing on stage Off-Broadway and in several movies. After that period his performances moved to the country clubs and yacht clubs of Long Island and the tri-state area. What then began as simple recommending of a few musicians when Stan was already booked for parties exploded into a full time agency – A.WIEST ENTERTAINMENT GROUP which is extant to this day.Stan is President and CEO of this agency but has never stopped performing as orchestra leader and also as solo pianist.

“…this album is a culmination of all the years of maturing as a soloist and orchestra leader enhanced by the many years of classical training. ” Stan Wiest

 Stan recorded at Euphoria Studios in Manhattan for 8 hours. He was offered two ways to record: One result would be a CD recording that sounded like it was done in the studio. The second way, which was more difficult, would sound as if the piano was in the car or room with you when you played the CD. Stan chose this method, resulting in a dramatically increased presence in the sound of the piano, it sounds like you are right next to the piano when you play the CD. This method of recording allowed no overdubs, each track had to be recorded straight through from beginning to end. The resulting sound, on a fantastic Yamaha Grand Piano, is an elegant journey through Stan’s piano arrangements and interpretations. When listening to this CD one can hear all the echoes of years of training. The finesse and grandeur of a truly classical training blaze forth in glorious details in finger dexterity.

The journey that culminated in Fort Salonga resident Stan Wiest’s first-ever commercially produced solo piano album began decades ago as a broke recent college graduate, when he knocked on the door of a Great Neck home and asked a family he had never met for permission to play their piano.

A young Mr. Wiest had just heard that the hand-made grand piano originally owned by famed 1930s and 40s American pianist Eddy Duchin was to be auctioned off by the owners of a wealthy Great Neck estate. Mr. Wiest knew he could never afford to win the auction, as he had barely enough money to scrape by at that stage in his life. “I was just barely making it from week to week,” he recalled. But his passion for piano and his love for Eddy Duchin inspired him to try to convince the owners of the piano to grant him a few moments to play it before they auctioned it off. He showed up at the Great Neck home unannounced and rang the doorbell. “I said, ‘I hear you have Eddy Duchin’s piano and it’s going to be auctioned off on Wednesday. Could I just have five minutes to play it?’ And they kind of looked at me like, Are you out of your mind? And I guess they felt sorry for me,” Mr. Wiest recalled.

The family granted his wish, but five minutes turned into three hours. From 9 a.m. to noon that morning, the family was captivated as they listened to Mr. Wiest play classical and jazz music on Eddy Duchin’s original grand piano. Since they never asked Mr. Wiest to stop, he kept on playing. When the family invited him to have lunch, Mr. Wiest accepted on the condition that he could play the piano in the afternoon. When the family invited him to stay for dinner, he accepted on the condition that he could play that evening. When Mr. Wiest finally stopped playing the piano at 11 p.m., he thanked the family and told them it had been the greatest day of his life. When the family asked him how much he had available to pay for the piano, Mr. Wiest told them the most he could raise on short notice was $450. Upon hearing that number, the homeowner left the room and Mr. Wiest feared he had insulted the family. “Ten minutes later they came back and they said, ‘Would you bring $450 tomorrow and take the piano?’ I almost passed out,” Mr. Wiest recalled. “I said, ‘I can’t do that this piano is priceless,’ and they said, ‘Show up tomorrow with the money and a moving van and the piano is yours.’ I was beyond astounded. I guess it was because they probably wanted somebody who really would love the piano and knows it for what it is, being a phenomenal instrument. I guess it was more important for them that the right person had the piano.”

Decades later, Mr. Wiest still has Eddy Duchin’s original 1910 Steinway model A grand piano in his home, which he estimates is valued now at more than $100,000. He is president of A. Stan Wiest Music based out of his Fort Salonga home, which provides music and entertainment at parties, weddings and events on Long Island and the tri-state area with his personal orchestra called the Stan Wiest Orchestra.

A man belonging to an exclusive north shore country club where Mr. Wiest has performed over many years approached him to ask if he would perform 24 of his wife’s favorite songs from the Great American Songbook, composed primarily in the 1920s and ‘30s, at a surprise birthday party for her. Mr. Wiest obliged and following that surprise birthday performance, the client was so impressed that he offered to pay for Mr. Wiest to record an album of his wife’s favorite songs.

Fully funded by the client, who has wished to remain anonymous, Mr. Wiest spent eight straight hours performing the 17-song elegant piano album at the prestigious Euphoria Studios in Manhattan. He chose a method of recording which results in a greater quality but is far more labor-intensive, since it involved playing the songs straight through with no opportunity of fixing mistakes with overdubbing. The songs were originally written for full orchestra, but Mr. Wiest prepared and arranged them to be recorded as piano versions.

In March, Mr. Wiest’s anonymous client contacted him about selling the album commercially, and he assured Mr. Wiest once again that he would pay for all the necessary expenses. “I said, ‘Why are you doing this for me?’ and he said, ‘It’s time for you to be recognized and we can have fun doing this.’ I was in a total state of shock. I just couldn’t believe this,” Mr. Wiest recalled.

The album was regarded as a tremendous success, and the accomplished pianist Peter Duchin, the son of Eddy Duchin, sent a letter for Mr. Wiest’s client praising the album. “I wanted to thank you for the wonderful CD you sent me. Not only is he a terrific pianist, but his choice of material is absolutely first rate – some truly great songs – very well played. Again, much thanks,” read that letter from Peter Duchin.

Mr. Wiest spent 16 hours over two days filming a one and a half minute long promotional video with a production company in his home on Eddy Duchin’s grand piano, featuring interview clips. The production company also took more than 350 still photos of Mr. Wiest and worked with him on the album design.

Next, Mr. Wiest set about on the task of copyrighting and uploading his songs online, as well as registering the songs for royalties, which took him more than eight hours to complete due to a lengthy, complex online process.

He also spent hours interviewing several actresses and selecting one among them to provide an introductory and ending voice-over on the promotional video.

“It’s a phenomenal amount of work,” he said.

The commercial CD, titled Music to Drive By, is marketed as the first volume of a series titled Music You Will Love. “The client is so thrilled with everything that he’s already talking about songs for the next album, so I’m just trying to stay above water with doing what I have to do with this album because as soon as this is made public, he wants to start talking about the next one,” Mr. Wiest said.

The commercial album is available on its website, music-you-will-love.com for $18.95. The album is also on cdbaby.com, amazon.com and iTunes.

Mr. Wiest and Peter Duchin now have plans to meet with each other in the comings days to talk about Mr. Wiest’s successful commercial album and about the incredible story of how Mr. Wiest came to own Eddy Duchin’s grand piano. Mr. Wiest said Peter Duchin has never known who the owner of his father’s original piano was until learning recently of Mr. Wiest’s story. Peter Duchin his given permission for Mr. Wiest to include his favorable review of the new CD on the album cover.

“It’s a dream come true. I’m calling this man my guardian angel,” said Mr. Wiest of the anonymous client who backed the entire production and promotion of the commercial album. “He is a guardian angel for me. He’s beyond wonderful. I just never expected something like this to happen. I’ve always wanted it but now I think the realization is hitting me that it’s happening, and that’s so great.”

CONTACT STAN WIEST (631) 754-0594  EMAIL  STAN@STANWIEST.COM

THE KNOT AWARD TO STAN WIEST

STAN WIEST MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT WEDDING REVIEWS ON  “THE  KNOT”

 Posted by Kim M

We were so lucky to have Stan as the pianist at our wedding! His excellency shone through at our very intimate, Christmastime event. Can’t recommend his live jazz work enough. He was truly a pleasure to work with from beginning to end. My mother even called him the star of the show lol!

 

Posted  by Allyssa L

We were honored that Stan Wiest was able to be our pianist at our wedding. From start to finish his playing was magical. All of our guests ranted and raved about how professional and enchanting the music was. Stan exceeded our expectations and we would choose him time and time again. Thank you for a wonderful Christmas Wedding filled with music that only a talented pianist such as Stan could pull off. If you’re looking for a pianist for your wedding or big event, Stan is the man! Thanks again!

Posted by Jon F

We were lucky enough to book Stan Wiest as the piano player at our intimate COVID-era wedding reception, and his music single-handedly (double?) elevated the ambience to match the sense of celebration of a large, more formal wedding. Stan is a gentleman, a consummate professional, and, most importantly, an extremely talented solo pianist (for those who know the reference, think Carmen Cavallaro in musical style and dexterity). Stan played enjoyable classics and all our songs requests seamlessly from cocktail hour through to cake cutting with just a few short breaks. As a testament to his musical prowess, we requested the showstopper “Bumble Boogie” as the last song, and Stan performed it flawlessly after hours of playing. It was a privilege to have a musician of his caliber at our event, which makes it easy for us to recommend Stan Wiest to anyone looking to make their night “unforgettable.” A class act! You will not find better.

posted by Chris R

Stan is the man! Very professional and responsive. He greatly contributed to our wonderful wedding day.

 

Posted by Jim W

Stan arranged the music for my daughter’s wedding and my wife and I could not be happier with all that he provided. He, himself played piano during the cocktail hour and provide a string quartet for the church. The musicians and DJ for the affair were outstanding. Stan is a very professional and all around great person to work with…. No regrets.. The Best.. Great value for the money..

  

Reviewed by Donna L

From our first contact to the end of the festivities, we couldn’t have asked for a better addition to our wedding than Stan. He was able to satisfy our desire for traditional music for the ceremony and upbeat dance music afterwards. In addition, he acted as MC and helped the event flow smoothly. Stan is definitely the whole package

 

Reviewed by Candice B

Stan was an absolute delight. He took the time to learn 2 songs for our wedding ceremony and really knocked it out of the park. The ceremony wouldn’t have been as beautiful without Stan’s personal touch.

  

Reviewed by Karen L

Excellent experience using Stan. Starting with the reasonable price, the flexibility and attention to detail. They deliver what they promise and more… last minute I requested Science themed backgrounds for the green screen… the ones I provided were not compatible so they worked diligently to customize them and somehow made it work and did not charge me for the extra work. A pleasure to work with… accommodating and I highly recommend them.

  

Reviewed by Sarah D

we used stan wiest for our ceremony and cocktail hour music for our wedding and were thrilled. we met with stan and he made the process very easy and fun. he was accommodating and made us know that if we had any problems throughout the wedding planning process, we could come to him. ceremony and cocktail hour music was reasonable and knocked it out of the park. we were so happy.

  

Reviewed by Samantha P

Working with Stan was the easiest and best decision we made while planning our wedding. Stan is very professional and easy to work with. His knowledge of not only music for ceremony and reception but also of wedding planning in general is unmatched. He has been in this business for a long time and it shows in the connections he has made and the service he is able to provide. For our wedding, Stan provided us with the most beautiful string quartet for our ceremony, the most amazing DJ and percussionist for our reception and he himself played piano at our cocktail hour. Not only was Stan the most professional and accessible out of all our our wedding vendors, he truly tries to connect with his brides on a more personal level and you don’t feel like just another client which is so important. Stan caters to the specifics of what you want for your wedding which was so important to us and he was able to deliver a truly unique musical selection to our preferences. We cannot say enough amazing things about Stan and hands down choosing him as your music vendor will be the best decision you make during the wedding planning process. Thank you Stan, for all you do and for making our wedding unforgettable!

  

Reviewed by Ken T

Stan Wiest and his crew were excellent during our wedding. They made the process very laid back and we didn’t have to intervene at all. Also, huge props to Stan for learning a few Final Fantasy songs to play during the pre-ceremony. The songs I selected were also fairly difficult but he was able to handle task with ease. What a great musician! DJ and photo booth that were provided were also top notch! They made sure that everyone was dancing and there was no lull during the event. All things considered, Angela and I are extremely pleased with Stan Wiest Music and recommend him and his team to anyone looking for DJ/Music/Entertainment for the event.

 

Reviewed by Karen C

Stan and DJ Ralph did a magnificent job performing at our wedding this past weekend. We could not have been happier. Stan is an amazing piano/keyboardist and the ceremony and cocktail music was so beautiful and romantic. He played all of our favorite songs. DJ Ralph was so much fun and everyone was tearing it up on the dance floor. All of my guest commented how much fun they had. Stan and Ralph were dressed to the nines. They were professional and receptive to our ideas and requests. We were so happy with our decision to use them at our wedding. Thank you Stan and Ralph xoxox Karen & John McHugh

 

Reviewed by Andrew B

Stan Wiest is awesome. He is such a friendly, down to earth guy. He’s quirky in a good way. He was very professional, accommodating, and most of all, talented. Stan and DJ Mike brought an energy and a sophistication to my wedding that exceeded my expectations. My wife Jillian and I were very happy. Plus, he lived around the corner from us so that was a big help too. DJ Mike played all the songs we requested and even sprinkled in some songs of his own choosing that fit our tastes and mood. DJ Mike knew I was an 80’s rock fan so he brought Jillian and me out to the dance floor and had everyone circle around us. It was really quiet since this was the beginning of the wedding. DJ Mike said we looked like a fun party couple and then he played “Any Way You Want It” by Journey. I started to dance and lip sync and everybody went nuts. It was funny and cool and unexpected. My wife thought I knew about it but I had no idea. Stan Wiest is great. I highly recommend them.

 

 Reviewed by STEVEN M

Stan did a phenomenal job ensuring the music selection for my wedding was executed as requested from myself and my beautiful wife. Stan played the piano during ceremony, cocktail hour and played all requests made during cocktail hour. The ceremony music was perfect as my wife walked down the isle to “Holy” by Florida Georgia line. Stan acted as the director for the band/DJ combination we had during the reception which was a wonderful balance between the two, honestly we couldn’t tell during some moments what song the band was playing and what song the DJ music was playing, Stan and the band were in fact that good! Lastly Stan’s attitude was wonderful and he was a pleasure to work with even with a change of venue 90 days away from the event and offered insight and solutions to help get us right on track! Stan Wiest Music IS the way to go and we will be going directly to Stan for any future music needs. Stan, thank you one last time from Myself & Carla!

 

 

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