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 Why not hire a live Saxophonist / Sax player for your wedding, function or event?
Are you looking for smooth wedding saxophonist music to set the scene for a romantic evening? Do you need some live sax background music to provide an elegant touch to a private function, birthday party or special celebration? Or perhaps you require a relaxed and yet sophisticated atmosphere for welcoming drinks or dining music, as opening saxophone entertainment for a corporate event? Why not consider the universal appeal an artistic and expressive Sax player can hold for your guests?
Many of today's wedding professionals and event facilitators all agree alike that the soulful moods and vibrant sounds of a well-played Solo Saxophone, by a skilled and experienced Saxophonist, can add a major contribution to the success of your wedding or party. A good Saxophone player is always a popular and affordable choice for any venue size amongst many wedding coordinators, function organizers, event planners and service providers, when it comes to selecting an event entertainer, function artist or wedding musician.
Already well known as an experienced live sound engineer, acoustics expert and studio music producer, Sax player Friedel Knobel is also a talented musician and professional Saxophonist, available for live performance, and comes highly recommended as a specialist in weddings, private functions and corporate entertainment events requiring classy, easy-listening, unobtrusive background music, well suited to sundowner or dining sets.
Music material covered is of a wide variety, accessible to all ages and the repertoire usually includes various Jazz and Latin standards, Gospel, popular Contemporary Pop and Oldie ballads, funky jazz-rock instrumentals, as well as many recognized Saxophone tunes. Playing has been described as smooth, ranging from soulful and soothing melodies to passionate and vibrant passages, sensitive, full of feeling, and of giving a sense of style, elegance and sophistication to any occasion. Accompaniment is by well-orchestrated, studio produced backtracks, and serves well as general background music during breaks.
Typical functions and events performed at include: weddings ( ceremony, pre-reception and / or reception ), private birthday and garden parties, anniversary celebrations & other dining occasions ( Valentine's day, Mother's day ), hotel, restaurant & poolside cocktail lounges, art galleries, corporate year-end and other special / gala functions & opening events, award / prize-giving ceremonies, product launches, company conferences, matrimonial & bridal expos, art & photographic exhibitions, festivals, etc.
Client comments ( extracted from Service Testimonials below )
On performance: On music selection: On service:
* "exceptional, outstanding, fantastic, brilliant" * "wide variety, high quality, well suited to audience" * "professional, reliable, punctual, prepared"
* "wonderful, beautiful, fabulous touch, finesse" * "perfect for the occasion, exactly the right atmosphere" * "excellent, proficient, an absolute pleasure"
New Live performance Sax-o-gram service: In addition to Wedding, function & event packages, a new specialized & exclusive, mornings-only package affectionately called "Sax-o-grams" has been introduced. Surprise a friend, loved one or colleague at work with a live saxophone rendition of "Happy Birthday" ... and then show them how much you care and make them the envy of their co-workers by having a special meaningful song performed for them live at the office! |
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Biography & Background
+ View Biography & Background (click to expand)
Friedel's career in the entertainment industry started almost 30 years ago. As a young and keen self-taught musician, he later became an accomplished guitarist and performed in a variety of musical settings, including various solo acts and bands on the local club circuit. His exposure to jazz in the early eighties led to a love for the saxophone, an instrument he found as flexible and expressive as the guitar.
Friedel is perhaps better known as a practising sound engineer, audio technician, producer and recording studio owner of 25 years. He has worked on a multitude of music projects and audio productions, comprising every conceivable form of audio recording both in the analogue and digital domain, and includes work done for numerous record companies, music producers and arrangers, as well as recording of live bands, choirs and orchestras, television and film sound tracks, voice-overs, radio advertisements and various artists’ musical productions, many of which included session work on Sax and guitar.
He is respected for his knowledge and experience in the design, construction and installation of a number of recording studios, and is frequently approached by young entrepreneurs for help in this regard. In the late nineties, the Pretoria Technicon held his then most recently designed studio as an example of a prime professional facility to their students, and on occasion asked him to address them in aspects of audio engineering and contemporary technology.
Later accomplishments include the development and presentation of a specialized sound engineering course for disadvantaged students, as well as serving as a sound & acoustics design consultant to the music industry. He currently still practises as one of the resident live sound engineers at the Pierneef Theatre for the performing arts in Pretoria.
His exposure to a wide variety of music styles and genres, both in the studio and on stage, has given him a keen sense of discernment when selecting appropriate material for any function; as a Saxophone player and instrumentalist, his expertise in acoustics and quality sound reproduction also ensures a pleasant experience by the audience; both are arguably only matched by his passion in playing and professionalism in performance.
Of his unique diversity in the realms of "creative artist" and those of "logical analyst", he says:
" ... knowing what to do with the notes, is the musician's legacy; knowing how to make them sound good, the engineer's... I couldn't pursue one without the other! "
Great Saxophonists / Sax players listed as early influences and favourite listens:
Dave Koz (I love this guy!), David Sanborn (passion & tone), Jay Beckenstein (Spyro Gyra), Sadao Watanabe (recently visited South Africa), Kenny G (romantic commercial), Stan Getz (latin & jazz standards), Charlie Parker (improvisation), Michael Brecker (jazz), Grover Washington (soul, jazz-funk), Stanley Turrentine (blues, R&B), Paul Desmond (Take Five), Plas Johnson (Pink Panther), Fausto Papetti (old time standards). |
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Rates and Bookings
For rates & bookings in South Africa, Gauteng ( Pretoria, Midrand, Johannesburg ) and surrounding areas of Limpopo, Mpumalanga, North West province, KwaZulu-Natal and the Free State. Travelling locations & destinations +- 400km. ( Cape Town, Durban, Bloemfontein - include flight tickets ! )
Call Friedel on 082 807 4333 or contact me via eMail: friedelknobel@gmail.com For availability and an accurate quote, include details on date & time, venue location, and duration of engagement required. Average response time 5 - 20 minutes ( when I'm not playing or travelling ! ). |
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Sample playlist
 Listen to audio samples
View video sample
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Service Testimonials
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Allen Park, Kempton Park, Gauteng. - 2012-04-04
Friedel,
‘n Hartlike opregte dankie vir ‘n wonderlike, WOW en geseënde Paassangdiens hier by Allen Park. Die terugvoering wat ek gekry het, saam met my eie gevoel –
· Baie professioneel · Opregte gevoel wat mens meevoer · Uitstekende aanbieding met goeie agtergrondmusiek · The Holy Spirit came through your gospel songs to our hearts
Dit was voorwaar ‘n groot voorreg om jou hier te kon hê.
Dankie,
Marie Ras - Dienssentrum Organiseerder |
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Rooihuiskraal, Centurion, Gauteng - 2012-03-10
"Dear Friedel,
Thank you so much, you were fantastic and as you most likely saw, you really got the party going. I really appreciate all your efforts, professionalism and kindness.
Your music was beautiful.
Regards,
Rochelle" |
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Olivedale, Randburg, Gauteng - 2012-03-09
"Hi Friedel,
We were very happy with your performance on Friday night, it was really great and the music you played fantastic. Terry and I were just sorry that as we were so busy with our guests we didn’t have time to just listen and watch you!
We have had good feedback from our friends and how they enjoyed it because it was a surprise for most of them as well as we did not let on.
We would definitely recommend you and use you again should we have the need.
Thanks Friedel and most kind regards,
Karen, Terry, Natalie & Michelle" |
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Hungarian Alliance, Halfway house, Midrand, Gauteng - 2011-09-25
"Dear Mr Knobel,
Long after your performance ended yesterday at the Hungarian Club we were still talking about the high quality of music you provided to us. Your saxophone solo play was outstanding and selection of music was well suited to the mostly elderly audience.
Once again I thank you for accepting our invitation with such short notice and we are looking forward to seeing you again soon.
With kind regards:
Dezso Halbauer" |
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Didima Resort, Cathedral Peak, Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal - 2011-09-24
"Hallo Friedel!
Ek wil net baie dankie se vir jou optrede by my troue. Dit het n wonderlike atmosfeer geskep en ons het ongelooflik baie komplimente gekry by gaste wat jou optrede geniet het!
Baie dankie ook vir jou klank dienste in die kerk. Ons is werklikwaar baie tevrede met die diens wat jy vir ons gelewer het, om die waarheid te praat het jy ons verwagtinge oortref.
Groete,
Johan en Ilze Pretorius" |
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Bryanston, Johannesburg, Gauteng - 2011-09-11
"Dear Friedel,
An ordinary Sunday afternoon turned into a magic, memorable day with friends – is the difference you brought to our Party with your Saxophone!
It was just perfect. Your experience, professionalism, finesse was certainly felt – our friends would testify to this – the fact that each guest asked for your business card speaks for itself. We certainly will have you back and will in fact make excuses for a party to hear you play!
Thank you again for being a huge part of creating a beautiful Sunday.
Aneta Koscielska" |
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Fairland, Randburg, Gauteng - 2011-09-10
"Dear Friedel
Thank you for helping me surprise my husband at his 40th birthday celebration. Your presence turned a super evening into a superb occasion. All our guests commented on the wonderful music and on how well you played.
Today, good service is hard to come by but your professionalism both before and on the evening made the whole experience such a pleasure. Now we just have to think of another excuse to have a party and hire your services again!
Thanks again so much
Liesel Grimbeek" |
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Klipskuur,Heidelberg, Gauteng - 2011-09-04
"Liewe Friedel,
Wow! Jy het die dag help maak. Jou musiek het by die ouderdomsgroep gepas. Baie dankie vir jou bydra tot 'n baie suksesvolle 60ste feesvieringe. Jou keuse van musiek was puik, asook die uitvoering daarvan. Jy is geseend met 'n wonderlike talent.
Persoonlik is daar geen instrument wat sulke wonderlike musiek kan voortbring, soos 'n saksofoon nie. En dat jy spontaan saam met Rochelle ingeval het.... Ag man dit was awesome!
Herstel nog van die naweek se lekkerte.
Nogmaals dankie (van Flip ook),
Alta Swart" |
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Shepstone Gardens, Johannesburg, Gauteng - 2011-06-04
"Dear Friedel
We were more than happy with your services, it was exactly the atmosphere my daughter wanted and the comments from the guests were all fantastic. They loved your music in the church and in the garden and especially enjoyed the variety of music you played.
I will definitely be placing my comments on your website. Once again thank you for your excellent service.
Kind regards
Leizelle Pletschke - Financial Manager | Sally Williams Fine Foods (South Africa)" |
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Summer Place, Johannesburg, Gauteng - 2011-04-02
"Hi Friedel,
We have just received our video and finally had a chance you hear you work your magic!
We are so upset that we missed your performance while having our pictures taken at the wedding. We have had so many compliments on your music and we'd like to thank you from the bottom of our heart and soul! The music was absolutely fantastic and you really brought a modern twist and sense of style to our special day!
Thank you Friedel, you helped turn our day into the fairytale we dreamed of! We will definitely be in touch again!
Take care
Kind Regards,
Andrew and Samantha Lowe" |
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Nt'ShonaLanga Valley, Centurion, Gauteng - 2011-02-26
"Dearest Friedel..
I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of myself & my hubby, to thank you for playing at our wedding on the 26th of February 2011. Everything from setup to the end was exceptional and very professional.
You have really made a fantastic impression on all my guests, it was not what they expected as I have kept this a secret to the day of the wedding. There were endless compliments about the way you played, as this never happens at an Indian Wedding, LOL! By you making the appearance with your Saxophone really put the cherry on top for my fabulous wedding.
It was an absolute pleasure having you there and we look forward to using you again in the near future.
Thanks again & take care!!!
Shaafika & Muhommed Syed" |
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The Westcliff Hotel, Johannesburg, Gauteng - 2011-01-16
"Dearest Friedel,
On behalf of Russell and I, we'd like to thank you for the proficient manner in which you have presented yourself and also your "nothing is too much" approach. We thank you for the way you have presented yourself at our wedding ceremony, punctual and prepared.
You have turned just another rainy Sunday morning into an ambiance of happiness and fulfilment, while we enjoyed Sunday breakfast with family and friends at the Westcliff. You have truly contributed a major share towards making our wedding day the most memorable and beautiful wedding ever!!
Kind Regards,
Russell & Hester Hollander."
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StillPoint Country Haven, Chartwell Estates, Midrand - 2010-07-23
"Dear Friedel,
I would personally like to thank you most sincerely for the most amazing Sax performance you performed for us on Friday 23rd July at StillPoint Country Haven.
We have these product updates each year and I try and provide some form of entertainment for my clients either during or after lunch. I must be honest that your performance has far outstripped any other entertainment that I have organized over the last 10 years. Your choice of music, professionalism and passion is most evident and I received so many compliments that I felt I needed to pass my utmost thanks onto you personally.
Thank you so much for creating such a wonderful setting for my clients to sit and relax in over their lunch. I certainly will recommend your services and look forward to being able to use them again myself.
My very best wishes.
Lynne Roberts - CEO - South African Online Information Services"
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Leriba Lodge, Centurion, Pretoria, Tshwane - 2010-04-25
"Friedel
Ons gee vir jou hiermee 'n goeie getuigskrif vir die wonderlike saksofoon bydrae wat jy tot ons bruilof gemaak het. Jou webwerf was maklik, kontraktering was maklik, jy was bereikbaar, buigsaam, op tyd en het gespeel soos verwag.
Baie dankie.
Johann en Alta Theron" |
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Helderfontein Estate, Midrand, Gauteng - 2010-04-04
"Hi Friedel,
A very big thank you for playing at our wedding, we had many compliments on how beautiful you played, so all in all I think we had a terrific wedding! I think you set a wonderful tone for the wedding and welcome drinks and we true do appreciate it. We will be sure to recommend your services to family and Friends.
Once again many thanks.
Brett & Nadia Mason" |
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Johannesburg Securities Exchange, Sandton - 2010-01-21
"Hi Friedel
Just a quick note to thank you so much for playing for us last night at the opening of our photography exhibition. You certainly added a fabulous touch to the evening with your wonderful performance. Your choice of music and performance was exceptional and perfect for the occasion, many thanks.
We will certainly keep in touch, it would be lovely to have you play at our other functions if you are available.
Kind regards
Pips Kumleben - Marketing Manager | Snowden Group" |
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Le Souffle Restaurant, Pineslopes, Randburg - 2009-12-31
"Hi! Almal praat met die grootste lof van die musikant. Nogmaals dankie! Jy is goeie waarde vir geld. J. La Vita" |
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Birchwood Hotel & OR Tambo Conference Centre, Benoni - 2009-11-22
" Dear Friedel,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the service rendered to me, my Daughter, family and friends on Sunday 22nd November 2009.
When my Daughter decided that she wanted a Saxophone player to play at her Garden wedding at the Birchwood Hotel, and also to play a Van Morrison composition as I walked her down the isle, I was quite sceptical, but your music came across, well planned, professional and beautiful.
Your professionalism and the way you arranged your sound equipment at the service and then at the reception was outstanding, you kept our guests so well entertained while we were having the usual photos taken, and continued until late into the evening. We loved your arrangements with a large variation of music from the Golden oldies to the modern numbers.
Thank you for being so reliable and on time, an absolute pleasure, you most definitely added to the success of the Wedding. It would be my pleasure to recommend you at anytime.
Regards
George De Bruyn - Director : Operations (Babcock Africa Services) " |
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Belgravia Bowling Club, East Rand, Gauteng - 2009-11-20
" Hello Friedel
Just a big thank you for helping to make Selwyn's 50th birthday party a huge success on Friday.... You were fantastic. Your music is brilliant.
Shelley van Zyl - Bedford Buzz ( Bedfordview ) " |
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Songlist
+ View Songlist (click to expand)
Please note:
Special requests for bridal marches or meaningful songs not on songlist are gladly accommodated - please enquire!
Wedding / Special
- Mendelsohn Wedding March
- O Sole Mio
- Onse Vader
Gospel
- Holy and anointed One
- I can sing of your love forever
- I exalt Thee
- In the presence of Jehovah
- I worship You, almighty God
- O when the saints
- Precious pearl
- Shout to the Lord
- Sweet Wind
- There is none like You
- Thy Word
Jazz Standards
- Ain't misbehaving
- Autumn leaves
- Black Orpheus
- Besame mucho
- Don't make my brown eyes blue
- Ebbtide
- Feelings
- Greatest love of all
- Mac the Knife
- Mona Lisa
- Me and Mrs. Jones
- Meditation
- Misty
- Moonriver
- Polka dots
- Stormy weather
- This masquerade
- Unforgettable
Latin
- Aquarella
- Blue Bossa
- Copacabana
- Europa
- Flor de Luna
- Girl from Ipanema
- Quando
- Samba pa ti
- The way you look tonight
Contemporary Pop / Oldie Ballads
- All out of love
- An Englishman in New York
- Baker Street
- Beauty and the beast
- Black Velvet
- Careless whispers
- Clair
- Do that to me
- Every breath you take
- Every time you go away
- Forever in love
- Going Home
- He ain't heavy
- How deep is your love
- I believe
- I will allways love you
- Just the way you are
- Killing me softly
- Lemontree
- Little Linda
- Maputo
- Parisian walkways
- Rock Blues
- Saving all my love
- Since I fell for you
- Songbird
- The way we were
- Try a little tenderness
- What a wonderful world
- Wonderful tonight
- Xmas song
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Links
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