Derby Telegraph

Free live music will boost trade, says pub manager

RYAN’S BAR BOSS CALLS ON OTHERS FOLLOW HIS LEAD

- By TOM BOKROS tom.bokros@reachplc.com @Tom_Bokros

FREE entry to venues with live acts could help boost Derby’s music scene, according to a manager at a popular bar.

Shane Lynch, manager at Ryan’s Bar, in St Peter’s Street, has called on venues to follow his pub’s lead and give customers free live music.

He says that this will encourage more people to visit Derby pubs, clubs and bars and could drive up sales.

This follows recent news published by Leonardo Hotels, which ranked Derby as 45th out of 50 cities in terms of music scene.

Mr Lynch said: “Ryan’s Bar has a big Jam Night on a Wednesday and it has a strong music vibe.

“I wouldn’t say we are one of the worst cities in the country for music.

“We have great musicians and some experiment­al music too. That’s the reason why I work here – I came in and was blown away by the music scene.

“I think it is a case of just having free music. There are a lot of places where people have to pay to listen to bands so you’re paying for the music, and then when you get in you’re paying for drinks too.

“It becomes a very expensive night. That’s why we offer free entry.

“I know businesses have to make money to pay the acts but, on the flip side, if the artists are good then people will come and buy drinks.”

Readers have commented on the Derby Telegraph’s website, Derbyshire Live’s Facebook posts, about Derby’s night life.

Paul Joyce wrote: “When it comes down to simple things like night clubs, there’s no scene. Odd bars spring up and disappear just as fast, but they are always alcohol and price orientated. “Gin bars, cocktail bars. What about music bars, where music and scene comes first, price and drinks comes second. Fork out on the music, the DJ, the performer, the scene. The crowds will come. Derby is dead in that respect and has been for many years.” Ashley Cholerton wrote: “Derby is very impractica­l to host larger live events. The Vic and Hairy Dog make for a great venue for local bands and lesser known bands to get themselves out there. But neither are big enough to even hold 150 people comfortabl­y.

“The football stadium, arena and cricket ground all share one particular issue. There’s no effective diversions around the area, making parking and travelling very difficult.

“Anybody who drives in Derby will know how much disruption a football match has on traffic around Pride Park Stadium and the centre. “Worsened by their need to close off the only road between the Wyvern and the rest of Pride Park that people use for work and is the most convenient way to Alvaston.”

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