Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you first got involved with live music?
My dad and Uncle owned Zenon’s and Tramps in London in the mid/late 70’s, grew up around musicians and running around rehearsals.
How did your journey lead you to PizzaExpress Live, and eventually to becoming Head of Live Programming?
Started after years of working from home, book-keeping and raising 3 children to doing some PR for a professional author who was also a part time musician.. Word got around. Started as a live booking agent for some artists in and around London and on having a meeting with then Music Manager Ross Dines in 2014, he offered me a job in the office... The rest they say is history.
PizzaExpress Live has a legendary reputation, can you tell us in your words how it all started?
Peter Boizot founder of PizzaExpress loved Jazz/Live music and started letting musicians play/jam in the basement of the restaurant in the early 70’s and later in 1976 he went official with the first ticketed night. And the rest is also history..
PizzaExpress Live has a reputation for supporting grassroots musicians, and this year you are hosting the Jazz Horizons Supporters lunch which is focused on emerging talent and artists’ wellbeing. Why are these things important for you?
We have always prided ourselves in opening the doors to young, emerging talent from across the world and the UK scene to perform on our small stage. Many have gone on to perform at arenas around the world.
What do you look for when booking up-and-coming artists?
Passion, collaborative mindset, understanding that our venues cross many genres now and how the importance in working together to promote is key.
What advice would you give to young musicians trying to break into the scene today?
Perseverance, Passion, Perform
What can guests expect from their experience at the Jazz Horizons Supporters lunch at PizzaExpress Live during this year’s Soho Jazz Festival?
Top quality musicians, top quality sound and experience in an intimate room in the heart of Soho, all for a good cause!
