Trev Woodison, widely recognized as “Trev The Pianoman,” is among the last traditional pub pianists, preserving a fading musical tradition once central to pubs across Devon, the South West, and beyond.
With an impressive repertoire of over 4,000 songs committed to memory, Trev serves as a living testament to the pub piano—a cherished part of British pub culture for more than 160 years.
In a time when pub pianos have become a rarity, Trev’s performances stand as a vital link to this vanishing tradition. Despite the dwindling number of musicians skilled in this style, he remains dedicated to maintaining the craft at its highest standard, ensuring that the legacy of pub piano endures.
However, Trev is not alone in this revival effort. He has teamed up with Harry Crompton, a fellow enthusiast, who has traveled extensively to locate and restore neglected pub pianos. Together, they have breathed new life into forgotten instruments, ensuring that pub piano music continues to thrive.
Their search for playable pianos has led them across the South West, including venues like The Bicton Inn in Exmouth, where Trev performs a Sunday afternoon session every six to eight weeks, and the Country House in Exmouth, where he plays on the first Saturday of each month. Other locations, such as Bootleggers Bar in central Exeter, have also embraced Trev’s performances.
Beyond restoring existing pub pianos, the duo also helps pubs without instruments acquire free or low-cost pianos, preventing these historical pieces from ending up in landfills. Pubs like The Shooters Bar in Dawlish, where Trev plays to some of the liveliest crowds in the region, highlight how pub piano music continues to unite communities.
For Trev, this is more than just a profession—it is a mission to preserve a crucial piece of British heritage. “If we don’t act now, the pub piano could be lost forever,” Trev said. “It’s a tradition worth saving, and with Harry’s help, we’re doing everything possible to keep it alive.”
As their work continues, Trev and Harry aim to raise awareness about the cultural significance of the pub piano and encourage more venues to embrace live piano performances. Whether through acquiring an instrument or providing space for musicians, pubs can help ensure this tradition remains a part of British pub life.
Though rare, the pub piano still has a place in the pubs of Devon and the South West, thanks to Trev and Harry’s dedication. With every performance, Trev keeps the spirit of pub piano alive—one song at a time.
To support this revival, consider spreading awareness and visiting venues that continue to celebrate live pub piano music.
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