Karen Newby

Karen is a professional musician, who started playing piano at the age of 4, and working in northern clubs and restaurants 10 years later. After graduating from Trinity College of Music she began her career in earnest. Music has taken Karen all over the world, on land and on cruise ships. She plays all styles of music, whether classical, jazz, showtunes or current charts.

After several years as a resident pianist playing at the Ritz in London for the legendary Afternoon Teas (and sampling the cakes and amazing espresso), she can now be found working with artistes such as a vintage close harmony group and a Weimar Cabaret duo. Pre (and hopefully post) lockdown, she plays for open mic sessions at West 5, a gay venue in Ealing. She also teaches piano and violin.

Karen is a lifelong Kate Bush fan, and can often be found singing along to Meat Loaf, Queen, Paloma Faith and Rag'n'Bone man. She also loves the irreverent humour of Fascinating Aida and Victoria Wood. Theatre is a great love, taking in everything from the Book of Mormon, Hamilton and Come From Away to West Side Story, Guys and Dolls and Sweeney Todd.