about

A trained singer and dancer, I’ve been working professionally since 2011, performing on cruise ships and across international contracts. I’m now also a mum to two young children, finding a new rhythm between family life and doing what I love. Singing—especially harmonising—is still very much at the heart of who I am, and there’s nothing better than performing with a live band, especially, this one! I’ve been part of Area 52 since 2019, and it’s been a brilliant journey so far. It’s a great group of people, and I really value the chance to make music together and keep growing as a performer. I’m excited for what’s ahead and looking forward to many more gigs with the band.

Pete has a degree in music from the University of Southampton and a passion for shorts, oat-based confectionary and all things sax! He can be found performing on local street corners with saxophone quartet The Tootin’ Hoodlums (@tootinhoodlums), soul/pop duo Back Pocket (@backpocketmusicuk), as well as depping for bands such as the Jonah Hitchens band (@jonahhitchens), Tuba Libres (@tubalibres) and Red Stitches (@redstitchesmusic), to name but a few. Throughout the week he teaches saxophone, and he has been co-ordinating the Waffle Live music programme at The Community Waffle House, Axminster (@waffleaxminster) since 2021, which celebrates diverse and exciting music from grassroots to internationally-acclaimed acts.

One of two newbies for the band in 2025, Ed is in the foothills of his musical journey but even so brings lots of experience across multiple genres. Ed acquired his first drum kit at the age of just six and even before that he had an excellent pots-n-pans-kitchen-floor drum kit! He is currently studying at the London College of Contemporary Music and is the regular drummer for several bands with whom he has performed at venues and festivals across London & the South East where he hails from. He is passionate about theatre music and for the last two years has played in the band for National Youth Music Theatre productions.

Barry is a seasoned keyboard player and joined Area 52 in May 2024. He originally studied classical piano aged 12 and went on from the age of 15 to learn organ, synthesizers and trombone. Barry’s professional career began with residencies for MECCA and Pontins as well as playing on various ships in the Mediterranean and Caribbean including the QE2 for Cunard, P&O, Renaissance and Windstar cruises. Barry currently plays a midweek residency for Warner hotels. He is hugely experienced and is skilled at many genres including pop, latin, rock, swing, jazz, boogie, soul and blues making him the ideal keyboard player for Area 52.

David started learning the alto sax in the back of a container truck in the distant 1980’s – and there are many who wish he had stayed there. This was during the gap between shows while working as an actor touring in London. He then moved down to the South West and started teaching, continuing with learning the sax in his spare time. One day, many years ago, he was asked to join Area 52 and he has been with them ever since. David enjoys being with the band, working alongside such terrific musicians and being part of a live performance and contributing towards a special occasion.

Hugh studied the trumpet at The Royal College of Music. He has toured from China and Japan, to the Middle East and Europe with artists as diverse (or obscure..) as Alfie Boe & Johnny Mathis. Hugh has recorded at all the major UK studios performing a broad range of music including some on baroque trumpet others for video games. For 20 years he played in the West End on most of the famous shows from Les Mis to Evita and Chicago. He has played with The Royal Shakespeare Company, BBC Concert Orchestra and other London orchestras and has played live on BBC TV, BBC Radio, Classic FM and performed on soundtracks for TV shows (such as The Repair Shop) and advertising jingles . He was principal trumpet of The Orchestra of The Swan for 15 years before moving to the West Country. He joined Area 52 in 2018 and is now responsible for much of the day to day running of the band.

Paulo has been grooving on bass since 18, with a musical journey that started on clarinet at 13 and even took a detour through Dixieland banjo. A true live music addict, he’s played everything from musicals and philharmonics to jazz groups, indie bands and live national TV gigs. Whether it’s rock, funk, or a big band swing, Paulo brings energy, versatility, and a deep love for the stage. Now holding down the low end with Area 52, he’s right where he belongs—making music that moves the crowd.

Charlie has been the lead guitarist for Area 52 for over 7 years. During his time with the band, Charlie has been fortunate enough to play all across the country, taking to the stages of festivals, charity balls, weddings and more. He brings with him rhythmic chops, funky grooves and a variety of rock and blues influences. His passion is playing with energy to give your event the performance it deserves!

Emily has been with Area 52 for over six years now, bringing versatile vocals and high energy to all our performances. Having studied music at University, her love for different genres spans classical, jazz, pop, and beyond, making her a dynamic presence in any ensemble. Emily’s passion for performance has taken her to iconic stages, including recording at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, and providing backing vocals for BGT runner up Connie Talbot. She is always ready bring the party and give audiences the best experience!