“Thank you, Sam, for providing such beautiful music at our summit welcome function in the Grand Hall at Parliament. Your performance complemented the elegance of the venue perfectly, and it was wonderful to see the grand piano brought to life. The music created a warm and sophisticated atmosphere that our guests truly appreciated. Ngā mihi mahana for adding such grace and charm to the evening.”
– Jo Duggan, Chief Executive – Facilities Management Association of New Zealand
“It was such a treat having Samuel play at our event at the Grand Hall at Parliament. His music added warmth and charm to the evening, creating an atmosphere that our guests truly appreciated. Samuel was wonderful to work with: responsive, professional, and genuinely passionate about his craft. We hope to have the chance to welcome him back for another event soon.”
– Holly Pears, Wellington Branch Executive – Institute of Directors
“Enjoyed your great piano playing, varied tunes we all know and really want to tap our feet to!”
“Great playing Samuel – All songs we knew and those compositions of yours we were sure of you gave us an introduction which was appreciated! Thank You”
“Beautiful Music – I can really feel your love and enthusiasm – would like you to come again for more old time sing-alongs!”
“What a joy to listen to his playing, and he plays all from memory. His compositions very calming.”
“Just loved your playing Samuel – do hope you come again please!”
“I loved your piano playing Samuel, I hope you come again so we can all enjoy your music.”
– Residents – Rita Angus Retirement Home Kilbirnie
“Sam played at one of our “Feierabendmusik” sessions and it was a soothing emotional performance. He spoke openly about his mental health struggles and guided the audience effortlessly through his programme. He described the messages behind his own compositions which was a wonderfully touching experience. His calm attitude is a pleasant company to his tunes and by ending with some well known old rock covers he saw us all off on a happy note. We look forward to hearing more of his music.”
– Anna Kalbhenn, Director – Goethe-Institut New Zealand
“Sam performed at our mental health awareness mini festival called Get Comfy. The goal of this event was to create a community that was open and honest with conversations about mental health, and Sam embodied this idea perfectly. He was brave enough to speak openly about his experiences in mental health (both on and off stage), and his music set a calm mood while also stirring up emotion, leaving people captivated by his playing. We loved having him perform, and will definitely look to have him again!”
– Conall D. Ryan, Co-founder of PATPAT – Let’s Get Comfy
“Sam was the guest performer at our High Tea on 15th July 2022. Sam was the perfect accompaniment for such a special occasion. Sam’s repertoire was vast; entertaining our residents with popular tunes, original compositions plus also soft background pieces when the moment required. The residents really enjoyed the music. Sam also spoke briefly and clearly about his musical journey. Sam was wonderful to deal with. Was prompt and reliable. I would recommend Sam Cooper as an entertainer. His piano ability is professional and the pieces varied. He is lovely young man who is very much in tune with his audience.”
– Debbie Quennell, Malvina Major RV Independent Residents Activities Coordinator
“Sam joined us for our wedding celebration and played the piano for the first hour while everyone was arriving. We absolutely loved having him there and everyone enjoyed his music so much! Afterwards people told us how much they enjoyed his music. He even studied in a new song to play at our wedding, so special. We can’t wait to see where his journey leads him and we will support him wherever we can. He’s a wonderful, talented musician and we can’t recommend him enough!”
– Finlay and Chrissy Scott
“Thank you Sam for your performance as part of Mental Health Awareness week 2022, it was such a pleasure to have you return to campus as a Lincoln University Alumni and share your talent and story with us. Your commitment to reducing the stigma around mental health through the vulnerability of your own experience touched everyone who came to hear you play, and we have had such beautiful feedback from many of the staff and students that attended.”
– Toni Lubbers, Lincoln University Wellbeing Team
“Sam Cooper has played piano at many of our club nights over the last few seasons and has added something special to the occasion each time. His repertoire covers a wide range of pop music and he has been able to accommodate many requests, which has led to some spontaneous karaoke performances by guests from time to time. Something of an Elton John specialist, Sam can play soft ballads through to rock & roll belters. I look forward to booking him again this season.”
– Tim Hyndman, Club Captain – Onslow Cricket Club
“Sam is not only a very talented musician, but also a great person to work with. He has participated in 3 Gold Awards occasions over the last year. At the recent Gold Awards night, he played in our VIP area and got a great response from the guests. He definitely added a warm atmosphere to the room and his music choices fitted perfectly.” We will definitely be involving him in future events. We can highly recommend Sam and wish him the very best in his music career.”
– Gayle Page, Event Manager, THE GOLD AWARDS (in association with The Post)
“I had the good fortune to work with Sam recently on a couple of major events in Wellington. Apart from his tremendous skill as a musician, I was particularly impressed with his attention to detail. He set up quietly in the background, was ready to go well before starting time, and delivered exactly what was required. His musicianship is outstanding, and his ability to ‘work the room’ is second to none. I’ve played his music on air (RNZ National) and look forward to featuring him again very soon.”
– Phil O’Brien (Radio New Zealand Presenter, Matinee Idle & Saturday Night Requests)
