Derek Macrae
Toronto Guitarist
Weddings and Special Events
Upcoming Performances:
Helson Gallery, Georgetown. Sunday March 30, 2025, 1:30pm-3:30pm. Free.
“STOP LOOKING AND BOOK DEREK - Derek was astonishingly professional, kind, prepared and amazing at what he did. He was terrific with communication leading up to the event, arrived an hour early to be ready to play and wowed everyone at the party. If you'd like to skip the stress, hear amazing music that caters to the crowd and atmosphere and feel comfortable that you are in good hands - Derek is YOUR guitarist.”
Luke and Kristen
Guitarist serving Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Niagara, Muskoka, and surrounding areas.
The classical guitar of Derek Macrae will create an atmosphere that is elegant, sophisticated and intimate.
Derek has been playing and performing on the guitar for over 30 years. During this time he has performed both as a soloist and as part of various musical groups. His extensive musical education includes studying the guitar at The Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. He performs music ranging from The Baroque, Renaissance, and Spanish Classical periods to Celtic, Flamenco and Contemporary Popular music.
During the holiday season Derek performs at Christmas parties. His repertoire includes all of the Christmas classics.
Using a sound system to extend the sound of his guitar, Derek carefully tailors the volume of the music to the size of the room and the number of guests present. He ensures that each guest is able to hear and enjoy the music while still being able to engage in conversation.
Derek is a personable and talented musician who would like to help you make your event a truly memorable one.
Why Hire Derek?
Professional Attire: Clean and pressed attire suited to the formality of your event.
Early setup: Arrives early to set up so that he is fully set up and ready perform at the agreed upon start time.
Quick Response Time: From your initial inquiry right up to your event you will always get a quick response from Derek.
Great Repertoire: Derek has a huge repertoire of popular songs, including all of your guest’s favourites.
Pleasing Tone and Volume: Derek’s guitar has a pleasing tone, and his volume is set to an appropriate level.
Reasonable Pricing
Michael RoyalAugust 25, 2024. We had the privilege of having Derek play our wedding in August 2024 (pre-ceremony; ceremony; cocktail period; and after dinner). We could not have been more satisfied – 5 stars is barely enough! From the first time we contacted Derek, we knew we had made the right decision. He was incredibly responsive and friendly throughout. His song list is extensive and his talent is incredible. On the day of the ceremony, Derek was on time (actually, he was early), he was familiar with our itinerary (both our “main” itinerary and our back-up “rain” itinerary), and exceeded our expectations. Part of the performance included music after dinner. Dinner ran late, meaning Derek would start the last part of his performance later (and stay later) than expected, which Derek accommodated without issue. Many of our guests separately mentioned throughout the night how great Derek performed. My only complaint is that I don’t yet have another event for Derek to play, but I hope to find one soon (or make one up if need be)! Thank you, Derek. You were a highlight of our evening! Peyton DiPaoloJuly 8, 2024. Derek played at my father in law’s celebration of life. He gave a beautiful spark to a somber day. My father in law loved the guitar and would have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of Derek’s craft. Thank you for making this a memorable gathering for our family. Jessica CaprioDecember 23, 2023. Derek is very professional and met all our needs for the event. I highly recommend him for any event. Thank you again for making my night great.😊 Arielle LeeNovember 9, 2023. We had the pleasure of having Derek play for our wedding ceremony and cocktail hour and we couldn’t be happier with the service we received. He created a beautiful and unique atmosphere for each part of the day. He played exceptionally and the sound was excellent. Our guests were wow’d and loved all the music. Derek was extremely professional and so easy to work with right from the start. He went above and beyond to learn a specific song choice for my groom. His communication was always very timely and responsive, and he was so well-prepared on the big day. If you are looking for a classical guitarist that checks ALL the boxes, Derek is absolutely your guy! Thank you so much again Derek, you are truly amazing at what you do! Eric SummersAugust 20, 2023. Derek was a great addition to our family backyard BBQ. Would highly recommend. He was very professional and a delight to have. Austin WuJuly 15, 2023. After we first heard Derek at a wedding we attended, we knew right away we wanted him to play at ours! We got in contact with him through email. Leading up to the big day, Derek communicated details with us very clearly and always responded quickly to our questions, which made things easy and stress-free. On the wedding day, Derek did an amazing job! He arrived early so we didn't have to worry. He played a wide variety of songs at a professional level and appropriate volume. It created an enjoyable atmosphere without being distracting. Our guests loved him! Highly recommend Derek! Mary Anne YoungJune 25, 2023. We hired Derek to play at our wedding and it was a fantastic choice. He was professional, courteous, and easy to communicate with. And the music was fantastic! I would recommend him highly. Mary Jane CombeJanuary 2, 2023. Derek is very professional and wonderful guitarist. He made our wedding special.