Carl Doy

Carl Doy was born in Camberley, Surrey, England in 1947. From a young age, he demonstrated a deep passion for music. At just six years old, Carl’s love for the piano was sparked when he discovered his grandmother’s instrument. Despite having no formal training at first, his natural gift for playing by ear led him to explore popular songs of the day.

At 18, Carl won a prestigious scholarship to the Royal College of Music, where he studied piano, organ, and composition. This early training laid the foundation for what would become an illustrious musical career.

A Musical Journey:

Carl Doy’s career has spanned several decades and crossed numerous genres - from classical to contemporary, from orchestral compositions to internationally renowned pop standards. His journey has taken him across the world, from cruise ships to concert halls, and from the UK to New Zealand.

• Early Career in the UK:

• At just 18, Carl embarked on a career as a resident pianist on the Arcadia cruise ship. He later became the Musical Director aboard the Ocean Monarch, which pioneered full entertainment units at sea.

• Relocation to New Zealand (1973):

• Carl moved to New Zealand with his wife, Kathy, in 1973. He quickly established himself as a session pianist and arranger at Television New Zealand. His work involved arranging music for major events, including the Royal Variety Performance for Queen Elizabeth II and the Pope’s Mass, featuring two orchestras and a large choir.

The Breakthrough - Piano by Candlelight:

While Carl was already well-known for his musical contributions, it was the Piano by Candlelight series that made him a household name. In 1987, after a chance encounter with Auckland record producer Murray Thom, Carl recorded his first Piano by Candlelight album.

• Piano by Candlelight (1987):

• The album debuted at number one on the New Zealand charts and went on to become one of the best-selling albums by a New Zealand artist. It sold over one million copies in the US alone, earning Carl the distinction of being the only New Zealand solo artist to have a certified platinum album in the US at that time.

• Follow-up Albums:

• Building on the success of the first album, Carl released Piano by Candlelight II (1989), which set the record for the most copies sold in New Zealand of a locally recorded album at the time.

• Over the next 12 years, Carl produced eight more albums under the Piano byCandlelight series, solidifying his place in New Zealand music history.

International Recognition and Success:

Carl’s music resonated not only with New Zealanders but with audiences around the world. His albums found success in Europe, the Far East, South America, and Canada. Notably, Oprah Winfrey featured Carl’s Together Collection on her Favourite Things show in 2002, calling it, “so fabulous.”

• His influence expanded beyond just the music charts. His arrangements for Dame Kiri Te Kanawa were performed to an audience of over 100 million people during the first live broadcast of the new millennium.

Notable Awards & Honours:

Carl’s contributions to New Zealand music have not gone unnoticed. His accolades include:

• 1992: Benny Award – The highest honour awarded by the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand Inc. for his exceptional contributions to the entertainment industry.

• 2009: Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) – For his services to music, recognising his long-standing dedication and impact on the New Zealand music scene.

Carl’s career includes a prolific discography, with notable albums such as:

1\. Piano by Candlelight (1987) – New Zealand: Platinum, Australia: Gold 2\. Piano by Candlelight II (1989) – New Zealand: Platinum 3\. The Christmas Album (1990)

4\. Piano by Candlelight III (1991)

5\. Night and Day (1995)

6\. Piano by Moonlight: Shadow of Your Smile (1996)

7\. Together (2002) – Featured on Oprah Winfrey’s Favourite Things 8\. The Solo Album (2011)

These are just a few highlights of his extraordinary body of work. His albums have consistently charted highly both in New Zealand and abroad, with several reaching platinum and gold certifications.

Carl Doy’s career is a testament to his unparalleled talent and dedication to his craft. From arranging music for major public events to creating albums that have become timeless favourites, Carl has not only shaped the sound of New Zealand music but also left an indelible mark on the international stage.

His contribution to the New Zealand music industry, his pioneering work in bringing lounge music to the masses, and his ability to connect with audiences across the world all speak to his lasting legacy.

Presentation of the Star:

Carl, with your incredible career, your contributions to music, and the lasting impact you’ve made not only in New Zealand but around the world.

Your star on the New Zealand Walk of Fame in Orewa is a fitting tribute to a lifetime of musical excellence.