What Exactly Is Dueling Pianos?

If you've never been to a dueling piano bar, you're missing out on one of the most fun, interactive, and unpredictable nights out you can have. Here's everything you need to know before your first visit.

The Basics

Dueling pianos is a live entertainment format featuring two pianists (and often additional musicians) performing on two grand or baby grand pianos facing each other. Unlike a traditional concert where performers play a pre-set list, dueling piano shows are entirely driven by audience song requests.

The performers compete in a friendly "duel" - not to see who plays better, but to see who can get the crowd more engaged, singing louder, and having more fun. It's part concert, part comedy show, part karaoke, and 100% audience participation.

How Song Requests Work

The magic of dueling pianos lies in the request system. Audience members write their song requests on napkins or request slips, along with a tip, and send them up to the pianos. The bigger the tip, the more likely your song gets played sooner.

But here's the twist: the other side of the room can try to "kill" your song with a bigger tip to play something else. This back-and-forth creates the "duel" and keeps the energy high all night.

What to Expect on Your First Visit

• Loud and lively: This isn't a quiet cocktail bar. Expect singing, clapping, and a party atmosphere.
• Audience participation: You'll be encouraged (sometimes strongly) to sing along, especially on crowd favorites.
• Bachelorette parties: Dueling piano bars are popular for celebrations. Expect birthdays and bachelorette groups to get called out.
• Covers only: The performers play requests, so it's all cover songs - from classic rock to current hits to guilty pleasures.
• Tipping culture: Bring cash for song requests. It's how the performers make their living and how you get your songs played.

Popular Songs at Dueling Piano Bars

While the setlist changes every night based on requests, some songs are perennial favorites:

• "Piano Man" by Billy Joel (obviously)
• "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey
• "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond
• "Livin' on a Prayer" by Bon Jovi
• "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen
• "Friends in Low Places" by Garth Brooks

Ready to Experience It?

The best way to understand dueling pianos is to experience it yourself. Check out our venue directory to find a piano bar near you, or explore hosting a private event at one.