Photograph: Dannie Price
Photograph: Dannie Price

Listen! is run by Carol Garrison and Graham Lee, enthusiastic gig-goers and avid listeners for many years. 

 

There are many hugely talented and dedicated musicians in the UK today, however we feel that opportunities to hear some of the more adventurous artists are scarce. Our aim is to complement Cambridge's lively music scene by giving musicians, who might not be heard elsewhere in the city, the chance to play for an enthusiastic audience with open ears. 

 

Here at Listen! we prefer music not to be pigeon-holed and like to support new innovative projects. We want to share the sounds that excite us and introduce listeners to the musicians we admire.

 

We feel that the importance of the relationship between an audience and those performing is often undervalued. Musicians respond not only to the room in which they're playing, but also to the people in it. Our aim is to encourage an inclusive, welcoming and sociable environment in which to share new, original and improvised music.

 

We wholeheartedly thank the many people who have supported us in this venture, without whom Listen! would never have happened.

 

"Last night was a confirmation of your success at what you are striving to achieve, presenting excellent music and creating an enjoyable social setting for it" Roger Gow ~ a dedicated listener

 

"Really enjoyed it, the music, the venue and the people" Mark Sanders ~ musician

 

"What a lovely gig and venue, and splendid hosts!" Jez Matthews ~ Jazz at The Lescar

 

"Thanks so much for having us. It's such a lovely friendly audience you've gathered there, and great venue" Rachel Musson ~ musician

 

"Last night's concert was great. The perfect mixture of old and new styles, brilliantly played. One of the best things you've put on" Simon Pike ~ a dedicated listener following Winifred Atwell Revisited