BIOGRAPHY
Ian Henry – International Pianist & Vocalist
Ian Henry’s musical journey began in the choristers' stalls of St Albans Cathedral, where he studied organ and singing from the age of 6 to 16, performing frequently on TV and radio, and recording for EMI at Abbey Road Studios.
In the late ’70s, he launched the successful duo Kandi, blending keyboards, drums, vocals, and a growing flair for comedy. Touring across the UK’s cabaret circuit, he gradually embraced humour alongside his musical talent. This evolution led to the creation of the “Duelling Pianos” concept—first seen in Rank’s “Jumpin Jaks” venues—and the formation of Double Impact, a popular duo with his vocalist wife, Gill Henry (aka Teri Jae).
Ian’s international career has taken him across Europe, the US, Bermuda, and Spain (settling there in 2005), where he became a hotel and private-party favourite. In 2022, he returned to Central Bedfordshire, performing across the UK and Europe—including residencies on Hurtigruten, Havila, and Fjord Line cruises in Norway.
A highlight of 2024 was his induction into the prestigious Grand Order of Water Rats, fulfilling a lifelong ambition. A proud, active member of that society, he continues to perform regularly with high‑profile tribute acts including The Long Riders, a 9‑piece Blues Brothers show, a Meatloaf tribute (“Rock and Roll and Brew”), Ian Dury & The Blockheads (“Dury Duty”), OMD tribute “Electricity,” and ska duo “Skaramanga.”
When not performing solo or with bands around the UK, Europe, and cruise liners, Ian was resident compère at The Silver Hall in Graveley from about 1986 to 1992—hosting countless dinners and cabarets when he wasn’t working overseas. Over the years, many fellow Water Rats performed alongside him there.
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