Pub piano revival: The last of a dying art form

Trev Woodison, better known as "Trev The Pianoman," is one of the last remaining traditional pub pianists, preserving a style of playing that is rapidly disappearing from public houses across Devon, the South West, and beyond.

With over 4000 songs committed to memory, Trev has become a living testament to the dying art form of pub piano, a cornerstone of British pub culture for more than 160 years.

In an era where the pub piano has become more of a novelty, Trev's performances stand out as one of the few remaining examples of this cherished tradition. Take a look for yourself here.

Despite the increasing rarity of musicians who play in the pub piano style, Trev continues to deliver his craft to the highest standard, ensuring that the essence of the pub piano survives.

However, this revival effort is not one Trev undertakes alone. He has partnered with Harry Crompton, a fellow enthusiast, who has travelled extensively around the region to locate pianos in various pubs, many of which were neglected and unplayable. Through their combined efforts, pianos have been revived and returned to working order, ensuring that this art form can continue to thrive.

Trev and Harry’s search for playable pianos has taken them to locations across the South West, including popular spots like The Bicton Inn in Exmouth, where Trev plays a regular Sunday afternoon session every six to eight weeks, and the Country House in Exmouth, where he performs the first Saturday of each month. Other venues, such as Bootleggers Bar in central Exeter, have also welcomed Trev’s performances.

The duo’s work doesn't just stop at reviving pianos in existing pubs; they also help pubs without pianos acquire free or low-cost instruments, preventing these historical pianos from being sent to landfill. Pubs like The Shooters Bar in Dawlish, where Trev plays to some of the rowdiest crowds in the region, serve as a perfect example of how pub piano music can bring communities together.

For Trev, it’s more than just a job; it’s a mission to preserve a piece of British heritage that many may soon forget. "If we don't act now, the pub piano could be lost forever," Trev said. "It’s a tradition that deserves to survive, and with Harry’s help, we’re doing everything we can to make sure it does."

As their work continues, Trev and Harry hope to raise awareness about the importance of the pub piano and encourage more pubs to adopt this art form, whether by acquiring a piano or providing the space for regular performances.

The pub piano may be rare, but thanks to the efforts of Trev and Harry, it still has a place in the pubs of Devon and the South West. With every performance, Trev keeps a cherished tradition alive—one song at a time.

To help keep the pub piano alive, consider spreading the word about this tradition and supporting venues that feature live piano music.