Best Piano Entertainer on Carnival? (Part 2)

[oncruisecontrol]

Short answer: He is not someone I would book a cruise to see.

 

Long answer, and why: Jeremy takes a lot of artistic liberties with his songs. What I mean by that is he likes to sing in a different key than the one being played, and change that key randomly throughout the song. He also has a habit of playing around with the rhythm and adding falsetto vocalizations (think yodeling) in a non-ironic, non-sarcastic way. This makes it hard, even drunk, to sing along with him. Good repertoire of contemporary pop songs, much more so than any PBE who spends the majority of the year hopping from ship to ship. No "adult" songs, and the piano bar typically closed by 12. This was on the Breeze in June, after Seth's departure from Carnival.

 

I think the attitude of the PBE makes or breaks the experience for me. I rather hear one willing to play Don't Stop Belivin' five times in one night (subbing lyrics, joking around, etc) than one who cuts off the song just before the chorus, and demands a $20 to stop it. Borders fortunately doesn't do either, which is why he might be ok in between shows.

 

Thank you for taking the time to give me such a detailed answer to my question. We really love the piano bar (especially if the PBE can sing some good 80's rock like Bon Jovi, Journey, Billy Joel, Elton John, Mellencamp, Genesis etc.). Good piano bar entertainers can be hard to come by on Carnival these days as we only sail out of Ft. Lauderdale (seems like the best Carnival piano singers are on ships that sail from other ports). Thanks again for your opinion on Jeremy Borders.

[MAO]

its interesting that so many are wondering who is the PBE and Carnival doesn't seem worried about it. I think that they would want the best to encourage more to cruise for good entertainment. Need more like Ron Pass!

[divetrash]

its interesting that so many are wondering who is the PBE and Carnival doesn't seem worried about it. I think that they would want the best to encourage more to cruise for good entertainment. Need more like Ron Pass!

 

I have to disagree (except about that Ron Pass thing, love him). Carnival has made a pretty big effort to bring in good talent (as well as expanding their live music offerings once again). They've been actively recruiting from the dueling piano bar world to get high energy interactive entertainers.

 

As an admin on the Piano Bar-barians page on the social media site that shall not be named, as well as a lurker over here, I read a lot of reviews/opinions on the piano bars/entertainers. I would have to say that the majority of the entertainers get overwhelmingly positive feedback. There are a handful maybe that get a bit mixed reviews.

 

Look for names like Ben Gentry, "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter, Jeremy Ray Borders, Matty Sanchez, Russell Villarin, Todd "TC" Fugate, Elizabeth Setzer, Christine Hetfield, Carson Rhodes, Jorge Ramirez, Roger Concepcion, Roddy Spassov, Patrick Duffy, Mark Johnson, Brad Alexander, just to name a few off the top of my head that I have heard great things about.

 

There are more than a couple of new names on the rolls that we don't have any info yet, but I have high hopes for them. A good friend just sailed with newbie Andre Mieux on the Ecstasy and reported back that he was terrific.

 

They've made a bunch of changes in the hiring, like doing away with those 6th month contract requirements, that helps bring in a bigger mix of good people. Although, I think, they may have to take it further since I heard recently that Holland America is going to start with dueling pianos on their new ships, that will pull from the same pool Carnival is recruiting from. And HA is offering the entertainers guest status, which is a big perk.

 

Happy Cruising,

 

Laura

[NWACruiser]

I just got off the dream a couple weeks ago. Barry Meijer was the piano guy for the trip. I will say he is a very skilled player. The piano bar-barians got to see a couple great nights. The first was when Marcus Anthony joined in to sing several different styles of music (Motown to Country) with Barry playing along.

 

The second night Barry was joined by someone on the ship (crew) who could pound the ivory and sing. The two of them finished off with Great Balls of Fire, with both players switching between the bass side to the treble side of the piano. I was lucky to be sitting even with the keys to enjoy what was 2 skilled pianists having a blast pounding the ivory.

 

I will admit Barry's voice was not too good. He did say he was fighting strained vocal cords and was looking for a break after the cruise to get them checked out.

 

He was very entertaining and kept the piano bar-barians going all night.

 

I was on the Ecstasy last year and had the pleasure to be entertained by Elizabeth Setzer. She was a skilled player and had one of the best voices I have ever heard. She was also a great entertainer and kept the bar-barians going all night.

[MAO]

Laura your probably right, I hope your right. unfortunately the last 2 cruises have had not so good PBE and I was disappointed as I really do enjoy that environment. travelling on the Breeze 2016 and hope to have a blast. of course having good piano bar company is helpful, miss my friend Brad!

[Cruisin 4 Ever]

Is there a schedule somewhere of who is on what cruises? I was on the Victory last fall and Jordan was the pianist and he was FANTASTIC!!

[divetrash]

Is there a schedule somewhere of who is on what cruises? I was on the Victory last fall and Jordan was the pianist and he was FANTASTIC!!

 

Usually if you scroll down you will find it. However I don't always get over here to update it in a timely fashion. The most up to date list can be found over on the social media site that shall not be names in the pinned post on the Carnival Piano Bar-barians page. But here it is in the mean time: (please note that if it is not listed, it is not known yet.

 

*** A note about this list: This list is compiled from reports and reviews of current cruisers and reports from the entertainers themselves. There is no guarantee of accuracy. An actual date usually means that the schedule has been confirmed by either the performer or someone inside Carnival. Schedules are subject to change.

 

Current (ish) list as of 8/31/2015

 

 

Breeze: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 8/23/2015 - 9/20/2015

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Breeze: ??? 9/20/2015 - 11/15/2015

Breeze: Jonathan Thompson 11/15/2015 -1/10/2016

Breeze: Russell Augustin Villarin 8/21/2016 - 10/16/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Conquest: Milburn Dumas 7/4/2015 - 9/5/2015

Conquest: Jeremy Ray Borders 9/5/2015 - 10/31/2015

Conquest: William Brawner 10/31/2015 - 12/6/2015

Conquest: Kenneth Giordano 12/6/2015 - 2/6/2016

Dream: Michael O'Quinn 8/23/2015 - 9/20/2015

Dream: Ron Pass 9/20/2015 - 9/27/2015 https://www.facebook.com/events/701006383294854/

Dream: William Brawner 9/27/2015 - 10/25/2015

Dream: Matias Sanchez 10/25/2015 - 2/7/2016

Dream: Todd "TC" Fugate 2/7/2016 - 4/3/2016

Dream: Russell Augustin Villarin 4/3/2016 - 8/7/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Ecstasy: Andre Mieux 8/14/2015 - 9/4/2015

Ecstasy: Roger Concepcion 10/19/2015 - 12/14/2015

Ecstasy: Leon Novembre Jr. 12/14/2015 - 1/22/2016

Elation: Patrick Duffy 8/13/2015 - 10/8/2015

Elation: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 10/8/2015 - 12/3/2015

Elation: Milburn Dumas 12/3/2015 - 2/1/2016

Elation: Russell Augustin Villarin 2/1/2016 - 4/2/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Fantasy: Robert Crucilla 8/15/2015 - 10/11/2015

Fantasy: Kenneth Giordano 10/11/2015 - 12/5/2015

Fantasy: Reynold Senn 12/5/2015 - 2/1/2016

Fascination: Tom Grable 7/18/2015 - 11/12/2015

Fascination: Chris Porcelli 11/12/2015 - 1/7/2016

Freedom: Anthony Ward 7/18/2015 - 11/16/2015

Freedom: Russell Augustin Villarin 12/17/2016 - 2/11/2017 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Glory: Martyn Lucas 8/1/2015 - 9/5/2015

Glory: Jimi Finn 9/5/2015 - 10/3/2015 www.jimifinn.com

Glory: Elizabeth Setzer 10/3/2015 - 11/28/2015

Imagination: Todd "TC" Fugate 6/18/2015 - 9/3/2015

Imagination: Scott Lyles 9/3/2015 - 11/19/2015

Imagination: Mark Haven 11/19/2015 - 1/10/2016 http://www.markhaven.com

Inspiration: Elizabeth Setzer 7/13/2015 - 9/28/2015

Inspiration: Hailey Weibe 9/28/2015 - 12/14/2015

Inspiration: Carson Rhodes 12/14/15 - 1/18/2016 www.carsonrhodes.com.

Legend: Mark Johnson 8/25/2015 - 9/15/2015

Legend: Adam Sayer 9/15/2015 - 12/1/2015

Legend: Christine Hetfield 12/1/2015 - 12/20/2015

Legend: Todd "TC" Fugate 4/10/2016 - 6/7/2016

Liberty: Jordan Heppner 6/14/2015 - 8/30/2015

Liberty: Peter Thompson 8/30/2015 - 11/15/2015

Liberty: Jorge Ramirez 11/15/2015 - 1/10/2016

Liberty: Russell Augustin Villarin 10/17/2016 - 12/12/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Magic: Greg Alcock 8/16/2015 - 11/1/2015

Magic: Michael O'Quinn 11/1/2015 - 12/13/2015

Miracle: Roger Concepcion 8/29/2015 - 10/17/2015

Miracle: Ben Gentry 10/17/2015 - 12/13/2015

Paradise: Gustavo Garcia 8/13/2015 - 9/28/2015 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Paradise: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 9/28/2015 - 1/14/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Pride: Stephen Dooks 8/16/2015 - 10/11/2015

Pride: Todd "TC" Fugate 10/11/2015 - 12/6/2015

Sensation: Russell Augustin Villarin 6/18/2015 - 10/8/2015 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Sensation: Gustavo Garcia 10/8/2015 - 12/3/2015 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Sensation: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 2/4/2016 - 4/7/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Spirit: Ben Gentry 8/30/2015 - 10/14/2015

Splendor: Martin Aucoin 8/20/2015 - 9/6/2015

Splendor: Christine Hetfield 9/6/2015 - 11/22/2015

Splendor: David Currier 11/22/2015 - 1/17/2016

Sunshine: Craig Quiter 8/21/2015 - 10/10/2015

Sunshine: Russell Augstin Villarin 10/10/2015 - 1/24/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Triumph: Scott Casey 7/9/2015 - 9/26/2015

Triumph: Barry Meijer 9/26/2015 - 12/10/2015

Valor: Reynold Senn 7/25/2015 - 9/19/2015

Valor: Mark Johnson 9/19/2015 - 11/14/2015

Valor: Robert Crucilla 11/14/2015 - 1/9/2016

Victory: David Lovett 8/22/2015 - 11/5/2015

Victory: Tom Wolf 11/5/2015 - 7/9/2016

[xerenthar]

peter (conquest christmas 2k14) was amazing.

[Whenisdinner]

Had a good time with Gustavo on the conquest March '15.

 

Sent from my HTC One_M8 using Tapatalk

Edited September 12, 2015 by Whenisdinner

[GB Chicago]

Just got off the Victory on Thursday. Newcomer David Lovett was one of the best I have ever seen. He is talented, funny, engaging and brought the crowds in every night. Such a nice change from some of my recent cruises. He's from Austin and has a following there.

[patrice1]

so, by the latest listing, there is no piano man on the Ecstasy cruise from 9/28 to 10/2.

[divetrash]

so, by the latest listing, there is no piano man on the Ecstasy cruise from 9/28 to 10/2.

 

Hi, I updated the list over on the Bar-Barians page, but then left for a cruise. I will copy it over here when I get back. In the meantime, Steven Burks is on the Ecstasy from 9/18 to 10/24.

 

Happy Cruising,

 

Laura

[divetrash]

Okay, I'm home from the Rontourage Cruise and back to the grind. This is the most recent updated Piano Bar Entertainer schedule. Please remember, that it is always subject to change and if it is not on this list, it is not yet known. Thank you.

 

*** A note about this list: This list is compiled from reports and reviews of current cruisers and reports from the entertainers themselves. There is no guarantee of accuracy. An actual date usually means that the schedule has been confirmed by either the performer or someone inside Carnival. Schedules are subject to change.

 

 

Current (ish) list as of 9/17/2015

 

 

 

 

Breeze: Peter Thompson 9/20/2015 - 10/18/2015

Breeze: Gregg Akkerman 10/18/2015 -12/19/2016

Breeze: Ben Gentry 1/10/2016 - 3/6/2016

Breeze: Russell Augustin Villarin 8/21/2016 - 10/16/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Conquest: Kenneth Giordano 9/5/2015 - 10/4/2015

Conquest: Jonathan Thompson 10/4/2015 - 10/31/2015

Conquest: William Brawner 10/31/2015 - 12/6/2015

Conquest: Kenneth Giordano 12/6/2015 - 2/6/2016

Dream: Ron Pass 9/20/2015 - 9/27/2015 https://www.facebook.com/events/701006383294854/

Dream: William Brawner 9/27/2015 - 10/25/2015

Dream: Matias Sanchez 10/25/2015 - 2/7/2016

Dream: Todd "TC" Fugate 2/7/2016 - 4/3/2016

Dream: Russell Augustin Villarin 4/3/2016 - 8/7/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Ecstasy: Steven Burks 9/11/2015 - 10/19/2015

Ecstasy: ??? 10/19/2015 - 12/14/2015

Ecstasy: Leon Novembre Jr. 12/14/2015 - 1/22/2016

Elation: Patrick Duffy 8/13/2015 - 10/8/2015

Elation: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 10/8/2015 - 12/3/2015

Elation: Milburn Dumas 12/3/2015 - 2/1/2016

Elation: Russell Augustin Villarin 2/1/2016 - 4/2/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Fantasy: Robert Crucilla 8/15/2015 - 10/11/2015

Fantasy: Kenneth Giordano 10/11/2015 - 12/5/2015

Fantasy: Reynold Senn 12/5/2015 - 2/6/2016

Fascination: Tom Grable 7/18/2015 - 11/12/2015

Fascination: Chris Porcelli 11/12/2015 - 1/7/2016

Freedom: Anthony Ward 7/11/2015 - 11/16/2015

Freedom: Roger Concepcion 11/16/2015 - 1/9/2016

Freedom: Russell Augustin Villarin 12/17/2016 - 2/11/2017 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Glory: Jimi Finn 9/5/2015 - 10/3/2015 www.jimifinn.com

Glory: Elizabeth Setzer 10/3/2015 - 11/28/2015

Glory: Scott Casey 11/28/2015 - 1/23/2016

Glory: Tom Grable 9/3/2016 - 12/12/2016

Imagination: Scott Lyles 9/3/2015 - 11/19/2015

Imagination: Mark Haven 11/19/2015 - 1/10/2016 http://www.markhaven.com

Inspiration: Elizabeth Setzer 7/13/2015 - 9/28/2015

Inspiration: Hailey Weibe 9/28/2015 - 12/14/2015

Inspiration: Carson Rhodes 12/14/15 - 1/18/2016 www.carsonrhodes.com.

Legend: Daniel David 9/15/2015 - 12/1/2015

Legend: Christine Hetfield 12/1/2015 - 12/20/2015

Legend: Scott Lyles 1/18/2016 - 2/17/2016

Legend: Todd "TC" Fugate 4/10/2016 - 6/7/2016

Liberty: Natalie Carboni 8/30/2015 - 11/15/2015

Liberty: Jorge Ramirez 11/15/2015 - 1/10/2016

Liberty: Russell Augustin Villarin 10/17/2016 - 12/12/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Magic: Greg Alcock 8/16/2015 - 11/1/2015

Magic: Michael O'Quinn 11/1/2015 - 12/13/2015

Magic: Greg Alcock 12/13/2015 - 2/21/2016

Magic: Tom Grable 5/1/2016 - 8/21/2016

Miracle: Roger Concepcion 8/29/2015 - 10/17/2015

Miracle: Ben Gentry 10/17/2015 - 12/13/2015

Miracle: Mark Johnson 12/13/2015 - 2/13/2016

Paradise: Gustavo Garcia 8/13/2015 - 9/28/2015 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Paradise: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 9/28/2015 - 1/14/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Paradise: Gustavo Garcia 01/14/16 - 03/10/16

Pride: Stephen Dooks 8/16/2015 - 10/11/2015

Pride: Todd "TC" Fugate 10/11/2015 - 12/6/2015

Sensation: Russell Augustin Villarin 6/18/2015 - 10/8/2015 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Sensation: Gustavo Garcia 10/8/2015 - 12/3/2015 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Sensation: Martin Aucoin 12/3/2015 - 2/4/2016

Sensation: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 2/4/2016 - 4/7/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Spirit: Ben Gentry 8/30/2015 - 10/14/2015

Splendor: Christine Hetfield 9/6/2015 - 11/22/2015

Splendor: David Currier 11/22/2015 - 1/17/2016

Sunshine: Craig Quiter 8/21/2015 - 10/10/2015

Sunshine: Russell Augstin Villarin 10/10/2015 - 1/24/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Triumph: Scott Casey 7/9/2015 - 9/26/2015

Triumph: Barry Meijer 9/26/2015 - 12/10/2015

Valor: Reynold Senn 7/25/2015 - 9/19/2015

Valor: Mark Johnson 9/19/2015 - 11/14/2015

Valor: Robert Crucilla 11/14/2015 - 1/9/2016

Valor: Tom Grable 1/9/2016 - 4/23/2016

Victory: David Lovett 8/22/2015 - 11/5/2015

Victory: Peter Thompson 11/5/2015 - 7/9/2016

[divetrash]

*** A note about this list: This list is compiled from reports and reviews of current cruisers and reports from the entertainers themselves. There is no guarantee of accuracy. An actual date usually means that the schedule has been confirmed by either the performer or someone inside Carnival. Schedules are subject to change.

 

 

Current (ish) list as of 12/2/2015

 

 

 

 

Breeze: Gregg Akkerman 10/18/2015 -12/19/2016

Breeze: Brandon McLean 12/19/2015 - 1/10/2016

Breeze: Ben Gentry 1/10/2016 - 3/6/2016

Breeze: 1/24/2016 - 1/30/2016 Bar-Barians Cruise with Ben Gentry, Bob Berhalter, TC and Marty Gast

Breeze: Scott Lyles 3/10/2015 - 5/1/2016

Breeze: Christine Hetfield 5/1/2016 - 6/26/2016

Breeze: Russell Augustin Villarin 8/21/2016 - 10/16/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Conquest: William Brawner 10/31/2015 - 12/6/2015

Conquest: Kenneth Giordano 12/6/2015 - 2/6/2016

Conquest: William Brawner 2/6/2016 - 5/28/2016

Conquest: Milburn Dumas 5/28/2016 - 7/23/2016

Conquest: Jimi Finn 7/23/2016 - 9/17/2016

Dream: Matias Sanchez 10/25/2015 - 2/7/2016

Dream: Todd "TC" Fugate 2/7/2016 - 4/3/2016

Dream: Russell Augustin Villarin 4/3/2016 - 8/7/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Dream: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 8/7/2016 - 10/2/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Ecstasy: Brandon McLean 10/19/2015 - 12/14/2015

Ecstasy: Larry Carlton 12/14/2015 - 1/22/2016

Ecstasy: Steven Burks 1/22/2016 - 2/6/2016

Elation: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 10/8/2015 - 12/3/2015

Elation: Milburn Dumas 12/3/2015 - 2/1/2016

Elation: Russell Augustin Villarin 2/1/2016 - 4/2/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Elation: Jorge Ramirez 4/2/2016 - 5/30/2016

Fantasy: Kenneth Giordano 10/11/2015 - 12/5/2015

Fantasy: Reynold Senn 12/5/2015 - 2/6/2016

Fantasy: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 2/20/2016 - 4/11/2016

Fantasy: Greg Alcock 4/11/2016 - 6/6/2016

Fantasy: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 6/6/2016 - 8/5/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Fascination: Robert Duncan Jr. 12/2/2015 - 12/19/2015

Fascination: Anthony Ward 12/19/2015 - 5/1/2016

Fascination: Michael O'Quinn 5/1/2016 - 6/26/2016

Freedom: Roger Concepcion 11/16/2015 - 1/9/2016

Freedom: Craig Quiter 1/9/2016 - 3/10/2016

Freedom: Ben Gentry 3/10/2016 - 5/7/2016

Freedom: Russell Augustin Villarin 12/17/2016 - 2/11/2017 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Glory: Scott Casey 11/28/2015 - 1/23/2016

Glory: Natalie Carboni 1/23/2016 - 3/19/2016 https://www.facebook.com/NatalieCarboniMusic/

Glory: Martin Aucoin 3/19/2016 - 5/14/2016

Glory: Hailey Weibe 5/14/2016 - 7/9/2016

Glory: Tom Grable 9/3/2016 - 12/12/2016

Imagination: Mark Haven 11/19/2015 - 1/10/2016 http://www.markhaven.com

Imagination: Michael O'Quinn 1/10/2016 - 3/6/2016

Imagination: Scott Casey 3/6/2016 - 5/1/2016

Inspiration: Hailey Weibe 9/28/2015 - 12/14/2015

Inspiration: Carson Rhodes 12/14/15 - 1/18/2016 www.carsonrhodes.com

Inspiration: Barry Meijer 2/5/2016 - 5/27/2016

Inspiration: Reynold Senn 5/27/2016 - 7/22/2016

Legend: Christine Hetfield 12/1/2015 - 12/20/2015

Legend: Barry Meijer 12/20/15 - 1/18/2016

Legend: Scott Lyles 1/18/2016 - 2/17/2016

Legend: Jimi Finn 2/17/2016 - 4/10/2016 www.jimifinn.com

Legend: Todd "TC" Fugate 4/10/2016 - 6/7/2016

Liberty: Jorge Ramirez 11/15/2015 - 1/10/2016

Liberty: Hailey Wiebe 1/10/2016 - 3/6/2016

Liberty: Reynold Senn 3/6/2016 - 5/2/2016

Liberty: Matias Sanchez 5/2/2016 - 6/27/2016

Liberty: Russell Augustin Villarin 10/17/2016 - 12/12/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Magic: Michael O'Quinn 11/1/2015 - 12/13/2015

Magic: Andrew Sauer 12/13/2015 - 2/21/2016

Magic: Milburn Dumas 3/6/2016 - 4/30/2016

Magic: Tom Grable 4/30/2016 - 8/20/2016

Magic: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 12/10/2016 - 2/4/2017

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Miracle: Ben Gentry 10/17/2015 - 12/13/2015

Miracle: Mark Johnson 12/13/2015 - 2/13/2016

Miracle: Elizabeth Setzer 2/13/2016 - 4/9/2016

Miracle: Patrick Duffy 4/9/2016- 6/4/2016

Paradise: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 9/28/2015 - 1/14/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Paradise: Gustavo Garcia 1/14/2016 - 3/10/2016 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Paradise: Gustavo Garcia 4/16/2016 - 6/16/2016 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Pride: Todd "TC" Fugate 10/22/2015 - 12/6/2015

Pride: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015

Pride: Todd "TC" Fugate 12/20/2015 - 1/13/2016

Pride: Patrick Duffy 1/13/2016 - 2/7/2016

Pride: Rob Crucilla 2/7/2016 - 4/10/2016

Pride: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 4/10/2016 - 6/1/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Pride: Scott Lyles 6/1/2016 - 6/20/2016

Sensation: Gustavo Garcia 10/8/2015 - 12/3/2015 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Sensation: Martin Aucoin 12/3/2015 - 2/4/2016

Sensation: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 2/4/2016 - 4/7/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Sensation: Natalie Carboni 4/7/2016 - 6/2/2016

Spirit: Craig Quiter 10/14/2015 - 12/9/2015

Spirit: Billy Reid Zimmerman 12/9/2015 - 12/19/2015

Spirit: Thomas Listebarger 12/19/2015 - 2/3/2016

Spirit: Lacey Troutman 2/3/2016 - 3/27/2016

Spirit: Daniel David 3/27/2016 - 5/23/2016

Splendor: Steven Burks 11/22/2015 - 1/17/2016

Splendor: Jorge Ramirez 1/17/2016 - 3/6/2016

Splendor: Gregg Akkerman 3/6/2016 - 5/7/2016

Splendor: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 5/7/2016 - 7/2/2016

Sunshine: Russell Augstin Villarin 10/10/2015 - 1/24/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Sunshine: Christine Hetfield 1/24/2016 - 3/26/2016

Sunshine: Jimi Finn 5/21/2016 - 7/12/2016 www.jimifinn.com

Triumph: Barry Meijer 9/26/2015 - 12/10/2015

Triumph: Greg Alcock 12/10/2015 - 2/6/2016

Triumph: Martyn Lucas 2/6/2016 - 3/21/2016

Triumph: Carson Rhodes 4/4/2016 - 6/6/2016 www.carsonrhodes.com.

 

Triumph: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 10/6/2016 - 12/1/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Valor: Robert Crucilla 11/14/2015 - 1/9/2016

Valor: Tom Grable 1/9/2016 - 4/23/2016

Victory: Stephen Dooks 11/5/2015 - 12/7/2015

Victory: Peter Thompson 12/7/2015 - 2/11/2016

Victory: Lacey Troutman 2/11/2016 - 3/6/2016

Victory: Steven Burks 3/6/2016 - 5/1/2016

Victory: Robert Crucilla 5/1/2016 - 11/6/2016

[Pesh]

Apparently Timothy Lyles goes by Scott Lyles. Found quite a bit on him. Looks like he may be a decent entertainer.

 

How was he?

[FloridaGram]

We were on the Sunshine last week and he was in the piano bar. We have been known to book a B2B solely because of the PBE, so this is where we usually hang out. But we could not handle it this time. He goes by Russell Blues and is a great pianist. Singing voice is just OK IMO.

 

The reason we could not hang there too long is the way he does his set and he is rude to the patrons. He plays only slow songs from 9 to 10, then allegedly party music from 10 to 11 and nasty songs after 11. We never were there that late to see. No one who comes in knows HIS agenda so he is constantly telling the crowd that, and anyone who wanders in after 10 and requests a slower song gets reprimanded and told to come back at 9 tomorrow night. I prefer a mix of songs and usually it is what the crowd at the time wants to hear. I could not stand a performer who is going to do it HIS way no matter what. Some times it was full but then people would leave, like us, I suspect for that reason.

 

He was also very vocal about the fact that songs given with money were requests and songs given without money were suggestions. I don't mind tipping and enjoy tipping for good entertainment but I loathe being asked for money between most songs and putting people down because they did not tip. Most people do not carry cash around on the ship because it is not necessary.

 

So, if I had a choice between 2 cruises and he was the PBE in one, I would take my chances with a different PBE.

[Pesh]

We were on the Sunshine last week and he was in the piano bar. We have been known to book a B2B solely because of the PBE, so this is where we usually hang out. But we could not handle it this time. He goes by Russell Blues and is a great pianist. Singing voice is just OK IMO.

 

 

 

The reason we could not hang there too long is the way he does his set and he is rude to the patrons. He plays only slow songs from 9 to 10, then allegedly party music from 10 to 11 and nasty songs after 11. We never were there that late to see. No one who comes in knows HIS agenda so he is constantly telling the crowd that, and anyone who wanders in after 10 and requests a slower song gets reprimanded and told to come back at 9 tomorrow night. I prefer a mix of songs and usually it is what the crowd at the time wants to hear. I could not stand a performer who is going to do it HIS way no matter what. Some times it was full but then people would leave, like us, I suspect for that reason.

 

 

 

He was also very vocal about the fact that songs given with money were requests and songs given without money were suggestions. I don't mind tipping and enjoy tipping for good entertainment but I loathe being asked for money between most songs and putting people down because they did not tip. Most people do not carry cash around on the ship because it is not necessary.

 

 

 

So, if I had a choice between 2 cruises and he was the PBE in one, I would take my chances with a different PBE.

 

 

Which piano player are you talking about? Scott Lyles from the question above you? Good info so just trying to figure out who you mean, thanks!

[Pesh]

Which piano player are you talking about? Scott Lyles from the question above you? Good info so just trying to figure out who you mean, thanks!

 

 

Oh sorry, I see now from looking at the Sunshine schedule!

[FloridaGram]

Which piano player are you talking about? Scott Lyles from the question above you? Good info so just trying to figure out who you mean, thanks!

 

Not Scott Lyles, I do not know him but hope to meet him one day! I put the name in the subject and that he goes by Russell Blues on the Sunshine right now.

[Hedle]

There is a gap in the Sunshine's schedule from 3/26 to 5/21/2016.

I am sailing 4/29/2016. Anyone have an idea who is in this gap?

I would think it would be known in order to schedule someone starting

on 5/21. It's a 9 day cruise so I hope we get a good one.

Do I need to check with Carnival (John Heald?)?

[vwrestler171]

Ben Gentry just announced that he will be on Vista from May-September.

[Pesh]

Ben Gentry just announced that he will be on Vista from May-September.

 

 

I was so happy to see that!! Ben was awesome when we had him on the Breeze! Glad we'll have him again in a few weeks!

[divetrash]

There is a gap in the Sunshine's schedule from 3/26 to 5/21/2016.

I am sailing 4/29/2016. Anyone have an idea who is in this gap?

I would think it would be known in order to schedule someone starting

on 5/21. It's a 9 day cruise so I hope we get a good one.

Do I need to check with Carnival (John Heald?)?

 

 

The schedule is an ever evolving thing. Things can and do change often at the last minute. There are some changes coming up that they need to finalize. I'm hoping for some info this week.

[divetrash]

*** A note about this list: This list is compiled from reports and reviews of current cruisers and reports from the entertainers themselves. There is no guarantee of accuracy. An actual date usually means that the schedule has been confirmed by either the performer or someone inside Carnival. Schedules are subject to change.

 

 

Current (ish) list as of 01/21/16

 

 

 

 

Breeze: Ben Gentry 1/10/2016 - 3/6/2016

Breeze: 1/24/2016 - 1/30/2016 Bar-Barians Cruise with Ben Gentry, Bob Berhalter, TC and Marty Gast

Breeze: Scott Lyles 3/10/2015 - 5/1/2016

Breeze: Christine Hetfield 5/1/2016 - 6/26/2016

Breeze: Gregg Akkerman 6/26/2016 - 8/21/2016 https://www.facebook.com/pianomangregg

Breeze: Russell Augustin Villarin 8/21/2016 - 10/16/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Breeze: Tony Ward 12/11/16 - 2/5/17

Conquest: Tom Grable 1/9/2016 - 4/24/2016

Conquest: Brad Alexander 4/24/2016 - 5/8/2016 http://www.bradthepianoman.com

Conquest: Timothy Jenkins 5/8/2016 - 5/28/2016

 

Conquest: Milburn Dumas 5/28/2016 - 7/23/2016

Conquest: Jimi Finn 7/23/2016 - 9/17/2016

Dream: Matias Sanchez 10/25/2015 - 2/7/2016

Dream: Todd "TC" Fugate 2/7/2016 - 4/3/2016

Dream: Russell Augustin Villarin 4/3/2016 - 8/7/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Dream: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 8/7/2016 - 10/2/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Ecstasy: Larry Carlton 12/14/2015 - 6/15/2016

Elation: Milburn Dumas 12/3/2015 - 2/1/2016

Elation: Russell Augustin Villarin 2/1/2016 - 4/2/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Elation: Jorge Ramirez 4/2/2016 - 5/30/2016

Fantasy: Reynold Senn 12/5/2015 - 2/6/2016

Fantasy: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 2/20/2016 - 4/11/2016

Fantasy: Greg Alcock 4/11/2016 - 6/6/2016

Fantasy: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 6/6/2016 - 8/5/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Fascination: Tony Ward 12/19/2015 - 5/1/2016

Fascination: Michael O'Quinn 5/1/2016 - 6/26/2016

Freedom: Craig Quiter 1/9/2016 - 3/10/2016

Freedom: Ben Gentry 3/10/2016 - 4/2/2016

Freedom: Brad Alexander 7/2/2016 - 7/23/2016 <a>http://www.bradthepianoman.com</a>

Freedom: Russell Augustin Villarin 12/17/2016 - 2/11/2017 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Glory: Scott Casey 11/28/2015 - 1/23/2016

Glory: Natalie Carboni 1/23/2016 - 3/19/2016 https://www.facebook.com/NatalieCarboniMusic/

Glory: Martin Aucoin 3/19/2016 - 5/14/2016

Glory: Hailey Weibe 5/14/2016 - 7/9/2016

Glory: Tom Grable 9/3/2016 - 12/12/2016

Imagination: Michael O'Quinn 1/10/2016 - 3/6/2016

Imagination: Scott Casey 3/6/2016 - 5/1/2016

Inspiration: Barry Meijer 2/5/2016 - 5/27/2016

Inspiration: Reynold Senn 5/27/2016 - 7/22/2016

Legend: Scott Lyles 1/18/2016 - 2/17/2016

Legend: Jimi Finn 2/17/2016 - 4/10/2016 http://www.jimifinn.com

Legend: Todd "TC" Fugate 4/10/2016 - 6/7/2016

Liberty: Hailey Wiebe 1/10/2016 - 3/6/2016

Liberty: Reynold Senn 3/6/2016 - 5/2/2016

Liberty: Matias Sanchez 5/2/2016 - 6/27/2016

Liberty: Russell Augustin Villarin 10/17/2016 - 12/12/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Magic: Andrew Sauer 12/13/2015 - 2/21/2016

Magic: Milburn Dumas 3/6/2016 - 4/30/2016

Magic: Tom Grable 4/30/2016 - 8/20/2016

Magic: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 12/10/2016 - 2/4/2017

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Miracle: Mark Johnson 1/11/2016 - 2/13/2016

Miracle: Elizabeth Setzer 2/13/2016 - 4/9/2016

Miracle: Patrick Duffy 4/9/2016- 6/4/2016

Miracle: Gregg Akkerman 10/1/2016 - 11/26/2016 https://www.facebook.com/pianomangregg

Paradise: Gustavo Garcia 1/14/2016 - 3/10/2016 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Paradise: Gustavo Garcia 4/16/2016 - 6/16/2016 http://www.facebook.com/GUSTAV.INT

Pride: Patrick Duffy 1/13/2016 - 2/7/2016

Pride: Rob Crucilla 2/7/2016 - 4/10/2016

Pride: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 4/10/2016 - 6/1/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Pride: Scott Lyles 6/1/2016 - 7/20/2016

Sensation: Martin Aucoin 12/3/2015 - 2/4/2016

Sensation: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 2/4/2016 - 4/7/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Sensation: Natalie Carboni 4/7/2016 - 6/2/2016

Spirit: Thomas Listebarger 12/19/2015 - 2/3/2016

Spirit: Lacey Troutman 2/3/2016 - 3/27/2016

Spirit: Stephen Dooks 3/27/2016 - 5/23/2016

Splendor: Ewart Williams 1/17/2016 - 1/31/2016

Splendor: Steven Jaymes 1/31/2016 - 3/6/2016

 

Splendor: Gregg Akkerman 3/20/2016 - 5/7/2016

Splendor: Zdrazko "Roddy" Spassov 5/7/2016 - 7/2/2016

Sunshine: Russell Augstin Villarin 10/10/2015 - 1/24/2016 http://villarinfamily.wix.com/pinoypianoman

Sunshine: Christine Hetfield 1/24/2016 - 3/26/2016

Sunshine: John Milligan 3/26/2016 - 5/8/2016

 

Sunshine: Jimi Finn 5/21/2016 - 7/12/2016 http://www.jimifinn.com

Triumph: Greg Alcock 12/10/2015 - 2/6/2016

Triumph: Martyn Lucas 2/6/2016 - 3/21/2016

Triumph: Carson Rhodes 4/4/2016 - 6/6/2016 http://www.carsonrhodes.com.

Triumph: Tony Ward 6/6/2016 - 10/6/2016

Triumph: "Piano Bar Bob" Berhalter 10/6/2016 - 12/1/2016

http://www.facebook.com/bob.berhalter http://www.pianobarbob.com

Valor: Daniel David 1/9/2016 - 2/6/2016

Valor: William Brawner 2/6/2016 - 5/8/2016

Valor: Andrew Sauer 5/8/2016 - 7/16/2018

 

Victory: Peter Thompson 12/7/2015 - 2/11/2016

Victory: Roger Concepcion 2/11/2016 - 3/6/2016

Victory: Brandon McLean 3/6/2016 - 5/1/2016

Victory: Robert Crucilla 5/1/2016 - 11/6/2016

Vista: Ben Gentry Inaugural through September

[summersigh]

Sorry, I didn't read the thread but wanted to report that last week on the Sunshine the piano bar player was Russell Blues and it was almost painful to listen to it was so bad ... the piano was even out of tune while the song choices were lame. The place was less than half full at 10pm halfway into the cruise. We made 4 songs before we had to get up and leave.

 

Everyone we talked to who had been said the same thing so it wasn't just us.:(

Edited January 21, 2016 by summersigh