IN PROFILE
MUSIC BANK: 25 YEARS IN THE MAKING 25 Years after it was first established, Music Bank unveils its brand-new facility in West London. TPi had a behind the scenes tour of the impressive new rehearsal venue during the glitzy launch event, which saw owner Trevor Horn perform some of his career highlights live…
Trevor Horn has arguably been one of the busiest men in music over the last few decades, with a career spanning over 30 years, he’s produced for many artists including Yes and Seal, and become the owner of Music Bank, Europe’s biggest backline vendor. Music Bank recently moved to a new state-of-the-art facility and rehearsal studio: SARM Music Bank in Acton, West London. Established in 1994 when Horn was offered the chance to purchase the backline rental business from Hilton Sound. Although he already had the very successful SARM group he was keen to acquire a backline business as he joked he would finally have more gear than Hans Zimmer. His new business Music Bank was originally housed in Bermondsey South London. As the company expanded the legendary North and South rehearsal studios were built on the top floor. The first rehearsal guests were Oasis and the initial success continued. Jimmy ‘Mac’ McNally, Director of Music Bank spoke to TPi. He said of the early days: “It was a different time, back then; we had some fun scenes, with every paparazzi in the country camped out in our car park hoping to get a glimpse of the acts coming through… and
yes we did see a few fridges and TVs go flying off the roof!” he laughed, in his trademark, deep Scottish twang. Since then, Music Bank has become synonymous with high profile events, from the Queen’s Golden and Diamond Jubilees, to iconic TV shows, festivals and as the official backline supplier to the 2012 Olympic Games. With backline rental and the rehearsal rooms complementing each other, it was also decided that the addition of dedicated storage cages would add to its offering. “These were not only for UK artists, but for many US acts wanting to hold a B-rig in the UK. We added cages throughout our time at the old haunt, and had almost 100 rigs in when we left,” Mac noted. As demand grew, so did the need for a bigger space. And, as to be expected with the longevity of any good business, Music Bank has enjoyed a strong team of employees at its backbone over the years. Mac’s own career started in audio and touring. Between tours he ended up at Hilton Sound – and transferred over to Music Bank when it open as such. When the previous manager left, Horn offered Mac the role. Mac is assisted by Bookings Manager, Julie ‘Jules’ Sparrow. 100
