Some weddings simply stay with you — and Hitendra and Sherona’s celebration at Bourton Hall was one of those days. From the moment we arrived, there was a wonderful sense of excitement and elegance that carried through every part of the day. Set in the rolling Warwickshire countryside near Rugby, Bourton Hall is a breathtaking Italianate mansion with its own chapel, sweeping staircase and grand reception rooms — a perfect match for live music on cello and piano.
We were delighted to provide music for the ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast, and even the first dance, moving seamlessly between spaces and instruments as the day unfolded.
The Ceremony in the Chapel
The day began in Bourton Hall’s beautiful chapel — a serene, light-filled space with gilded details and an intimate acoustic. We used our own setup here: the Nord Stage piano, Yamaha electric cello, and Yamaha sound system.
As guests gathered, we set the tone with a vibrant mix of modern classics and emotional favourites chosen by the couple:
- Levitating – Dua Lipa
- Sweet Child o’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
- Iris – The Goo Goo Dolls
- Arrival of the Birds – The Cinematic Orchestra
- What I’ve Done – Linkin Park
For the bridal procession, the five bridesmaids entered to Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, a romantic Bollywood classic that added a joyful cultural touch. As the final notes faded, we transitioned seamlessly into Snow on the Beach by Taylor Swift for Sherona’s entrance — a brand-new arrangement we’ll be recording soon.
During the signing of the register, we played Hoppípolla by Sigur Rós and Follow You by Bring Me the Horizon, both beautifully expressive choices that fitted the moment perfectly. The ceremony concluded with a rousing version of Paradise by Coldplay as the newly-married couple made their exit to applause and confetti.
Drinks Reception in the Main Hall
After the ceremony, guests made their way to the main reception area where we switched from our own setup to the venue’s grand piano — a real treat to play — paired with our electric cello. The music here was light, modern and upbeat, reflecting the celebratory atmosphere.
We performed a wide range of favourites including Faded by Alan Walker, Firestone by Kygo, Lover (Timeless Blend) by Taylor Swift, Dreams by Fleetwood Mac, Bitter Sweet Symphony by The Verve, Hero by Enrique Iglesias and A Sky Full of Stars by Coldplay.
As always, everything was performed entirely live — no backing tracks — allowing us to adapt to the flow of the afternoon. The mixture of modern pop and mellow instrumentals suited the grand yet relaxed atmosphere beautifully. Guests mingled across the reception rooms, enjoying drinks while we kept the music gently uplifting in the background.
Wedding Breakfast in the Dining Room
Later in the afternoon, we moved once more — back to our Nord Stage piano and electric cello for the wedding breakfast. The newlyweds made their entrance to Sweet Disposition by The Temper Trap, a perfect opening track that filled the room with energy and joy.
From there, our setlist was full of variety — a true reflection of Hitendra and Sherona’s eclectic musical tastes:
- Strangers – Bring Me the Horizon
- Fix You – Coldplay
- Save Your Tears – The Weeknd
- Time and Cornfield Chase – Hans Zimmer
- Ezio’s Family – Jesper Kyd (Assassin’s Creed II)
- Formula 1 Theme – Brian Tyler
- Young and Beautiful – Lana Del Rey
- Still Into You – Paramore
- Love Again – Dua Lipa
- Summertime Sadness – Lana Del Rey
- Wonderwall – Oasis
- Rather Be – Clean Bandit ft. Jess Glynne
We love when couples give us the freedom to blend genres — moving effortlessly from cinematic soundtracks to rock anthems, pop hits, and romantic ballads. The acoustics in Bourton Hall’s dining room made everything sound rich and resonant, and guests frequently paused between courses to listen more closely.
The First Dance under the Grand Staircase
For the evening, we returned once more to our own instruments and set up beneath the staircase for the first dance — a truly special moment. It’s not often that we’re asked to play live for this part of the day, as it’s included in our top package, so it always feels like a privilege.
Hitendra and Sherona had chosen The Only Exception by Paramore — a tender and emotional song that suited them perfectly. As we played, guests lined the staircase above and showered the couple with confetti while they danced. It was a magical sight and a wonderful way to end our part of the evening.
A Day of Music and Movement
This wedding was a lovely reminder of how music can shape the flow of a celebration. From chapel to reception, ballroom to staircase, we moved easily through the venue, adapting the sound for each space. Every note was played live — no pre-recorded backing, no loops — just the natural dialogue between cello and piano that defines JAM Duo.
Thank You
Our heartfelt thanks to Hitendra and Sherona for inviting us to share in such a joyful and music-filled day at Bourton Hall. It was a pleasure to perform across every part of the celebration — from the first notes of Levitating in the chapel to the final chords of The Only Exception beneath that magnificent staircase.
JAM Duo – Live Wedding Music Across the UK
If you’re planning your wedding and would like elegant, versatile live music for your ceremony, drinks reception, wedding breakfast or first dance, we’d love to be part of your day.
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