BIOGRAPHY
Nigel Hopkins is a classically trained pianist, keyboardist, composer, arranger, programmer, and musical director, whose career spans decades and includes collaborations with some of music’s biggest names. A proud member of the Grand Order of Water Rats, he holds the distinction of Water Rat number 703, a mark of recognition from the prestigious British entertainment industry fraternity and charitable organisation.
Born in Swansea, Nigel’s musical journey began early. At just under three, a mini drum kit set the tone for his rhythmic start, but a few years later, his path shifted when a reed organ arrived and sparked a lifelong passion for keyboards and piano. Although his first piano teacher ruled he was far too young at age four, by seven, he had not only overcome the sustain-pedal hurdle but won a piano exam with flying colours. This achievement earned him a secondhand upright piano after scoring 93 out of 100.
That early foundation shaped a career marked by adaptability and ear-honed precision. Nigel can play accordion, guitar, bass, tuned percussion, some drums, recorders, and whistles, often brought out for comedic effect rather than concert-level performance.
He has graced stages and tours with names that read like a who’s who of music, including Elvis Costello, Chris de Burgh, Deep Purple, Francis Dunnery, Mica Paris, Bonnie Tyler, Alfie Boe, Glenn Hughes, Bruce Dickinson, Lulu, Jon Lord, The Blow Monkeys, and Lenny Henry.
A standout moment came in 2014, when he was invited to perform at the Celebrating Jon Lord concert at the Royal Albert Hall. What began as a one-song cameo transformed into a sweeping performance of most of Jon Lord's classical compositions on piano and Hammond organ, including “Durham Concerto” and even “Burn” on Hammond and Moog. Nigel described this as a deeply humbling honour.
He also serves as Musical Director for Chris de Burgh and others, and brings his musical sensibility to sound design, having contributed to Moog and Roland’s development teams and even the creation of the Moog Little Phatty synthesiser.
Thanks to his wealth of talent, experience, and warmth, Nigel Hopkins has earned his place as Water Rat No. 703, a testament to his standing among peers in the performing arts and his contribution to entertainment philanthropy.
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