They say that nowadays you need many strings to your bow. In 2021, during the uncertainty of the pandemic, I decided to take on a new challenge and became involved with a live music venue in Central London - Piano Smithfield. Like many venues, it had been severely affected by Covid-19. Despite the difficult economic climate, I saw an opportunity to reinvent the business. My vision was to transform the former piano bar into an elegant jazz venue while retaining its long-established late-night piano bar tradition.

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Driven by the belief that "if you don't ask, you don't get", I began reaching out to both long-standing contacts and new connections throughout the music industry. My ambition was simple: to attract some of London's finest musicians to the venue. Over time, I achieved exactly that.

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For three years I played a hands-on role in every aspect of the business. I programmed and promoted the live music, hosted guests at the door, performed regularly as a pianist, installed and managed the sound system, and even worked behind the bar when needed. This broad involvement gave me a unique understanding of both the artistic and commercial requirements of running a successful live music venue.

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In 2022, I fulfilled a long-term goal by acquiring a beautiful Yamaha grand piano and establishing a professional backline, significantly enhancing the venue's reputation among musicians and audiences alike. The venue went on to receive outstanding five-star reviews from both customers and performers. The stage welcomed an impressive roster of artists including Liane Carroll, Claire Martin, Nikki Iles, Derek Nash, Jason Rebello, Elaine Delmar, Alan Barnes, Noel McCalla, Sarah Jane Morris, among many others. The venue also became an established part of the annual EFG London Jazz Festival. 

 

Alongside its growing reputation on the jazz scene, the venue also attracted some of the biggest names from London's West End and wider music industry. Performers included John Owen-Jones, Lee Mead, Rachel John and Cassidy Janson, all of whom brought their own audiences and further enhanced the venue's profile. The stage also welcomed artists from the worlds of pop, soul and contemporary music, creating a diverse programme that appealed to a broad range of music lovers while maintaining the venue's distinctive identity.

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Alongside the early evening jazz programme, I maintained the vibrant late-night piano bar atmosphere that had long been part of the venue's identity. The combination of high-quality live jazz and accessible late-night entertainment proved to be a successful and profitable business model, allowing the venue to thrive throughout my tenure. The success of the venue reinforced my belief that great live music is only one part of the equation. While quality artists are essential, long-term success comes from combining strong programming with effective marketing, audience engagement and a clear vision for the venue.

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Following three successful years developing and operating the venue, I stepped away in 2022 after becoming a father, allowing me to focus on performing full-time. However, I continue to work with selected venues in a consultancy capacity, helping them develop profitable and sustainable live music businesses.