New Plymouth-based duo Frank and Erin to play at Whangamomona Hotel

New Plymouth-based music duo Frank John and Erin Manu play at Whangamomona Hotel on this Friday.

The musicians were recommended to the hotel by Tracey Haskell, who owns the Dolly Gray shop and is a musician. She arranges music for the hotel and has performed with the duo at the Tahora folk festival.

"I play music for the hotel myself so I know what they would want. There is a variety of people who come to the hotel so the hotel needs music that is warm, friendly, upbeat and not to loud and in your face. Erin and Frank are very good musicians and you just want to listen to them," Tracey says.

Erin was born and raised in Taranaki while Frank is originally from Amsterdam. Frank and Erin have known each other for 20 years and play a mix of country and blues.

"The audience response is our favourite thing. At the Tūī Farm Folk Festival we got a standing ovation. We love to move people with our music." Erin says.

Frank and Erin both worked at a music shop in Auckland. In 2005, they moved to New Plymouth to open the Rock Shop and started performing together.

"In New Plymouth we have more time to play music. I also do busking at the farmers Market in New Plymouth."

It is free entry to the event and Erin says she wants people to come along and enjoy.

"We love the country pub feel, and this gives us more opportunities to make music with Tracey."