I've run Mill Hill Music Complex studios for the last 45 years. It started as a musician's collective as I had nowhere to for my band to practice.
Over the years, it evolved and grew. There has never been enough studio capacity in London, which means a studio run by musicians who care about other musician's success will always have a lot of loyal customers.
Throughout covid, when our customers couldn't make rehearsals they'd booked, very few asked for refunds. We emailed to say that it would help us survive if they accepted a credit. Some kind customers even paid for sessions a year in advance to help us.
But What Do We Do Differently?
Obviously they like the fact that we've always worked to make sessions affordable for musicians on a tight budget.
They like having decent quality backline available at all of the rooms as part of the package.
They like the fact that we've got an online, real-time booking system so they can book a session whenever it suits them, not just when reception is manned.
But most of all, they like the creative, community vibe.
In 2012, we opened our new studio block, which cost over £1.8 million to build. We ensured that there was a large communal cafe area there than anyone can use. It has free wifi and tea, coffee and snacks available. Many musicians bump into musician friends, some who they've not seen for a while. We've seen bands form in our reception area as people chat and network. We've seen bands recruit last minute stand ins for tours, who've gone on to be permanent members.
We have a stack of spare gear, so when, as happens occasionally, there is a problem with equipment, we can swap in spare gear on the spot. We also hire backline, etc for smaller bands.
We are plugged into local venues and festivals and have helped bands get gigs at such places as The Dublin Castle in Camden, The East Barnet Festival and all manner of other North London venues.
We have a great team of tutors and vocal coaches, who have brought the likes of Raye, Flo, Fleur East and even Rita Ora down to the studios.
Our rehearsal client list includes Amy Winehouse, who started her career at the studios, The Damned, The Beautiful South, Lemar, The Foundations, Lee Thompson from Madness, The Damned and Echobelly to name a few - Check out our spotify playlist of the best artists to use the studios - https://lnkd.in/e6F4kzik
On Thursday 14th February, the studios celebrate the 46th Anniversary of our launch. If you've not been down before, why not check us out and see what you've been missing our on!