OUR STORY
Back in 1980, Scott Barbarino walked into the Duplex Piano Bar for the first time, but his heart never left. Since that day, he and his band of merry-makers have been keeping the Piano Bar scene alive.
Inspired songwriting legend John Wallowich and his public access show, which featured John at the piano singing to the TV audience, the idea of using social media and the Internet to bring this special art form to people around the world, seemed a natural way to take the piano bar experience into the 21st century.
One of the greatest joys for all of us at PBL! is the the chance to see veteran performers pass the torch to the next generation of merry-makers, while witnessing young talent blossom.
As much as times change, they also stay the same.
ABOUT PIANO BARS
Since humans were first called to sit around the fire to sing the first song, enjoy the first conversation and share the first jokes, we’ve been compelled to repeat the ritual of basking in the warmth it provides our bodies, our minds and our souls.
This yen to come together still persists. Piano Bars were the 20th century version of that proverbial fire, serving as a place to create, inspire and have one hell of a good time.
A major resurgence of the New York City Piano Bar scene first took place when Rob Hoskins and Irv Raible arrived in the late 1970’s and established a vibrant culture and circuit, starting with The Duplex in the West Village at 55 Grove Street, Don’t Tell Mama in Hell’s Kitchen on West 46th Street and Brandy’s on the Upper East Side on East 84th Street.
The friendships and traditions forged during those times still lives in all of us who were there, but there’s so much more to be learned, just by sharing.
In many ways, the Piano Bar of 2019 is still that special place where we can gather, entertain, support and create a healthy sense of community, while connecting with live music.
See you around the fire real soon.
OUR ACHIEVEMENTS…
In two short months, we’ve entertained thousands through the magic of Facebook’s live stream.
FAN TESTIMONIALS
Here’s what fans have to say about the social media’s newest sensation.
“We can’t wait until next Sunday, either. I am going to invite friends over to watch on Facebook. Tonight we streamed it on the “big screen” and it was the next best thing to being there in person.
““Congratulations Michael! Fantastic show! You are so charming and talented…what a treat!”
“Wonderful idea to bring Cabaret to the Book of Face!
Want to Sing with Piano Bar Live!?
Singers can schedule in advance. Go to our Facebook page and post a message to Michael there, or email michael.mcassey@gmail.com. Michael will follow up to talk music.
Please include your resume and portfolio link in the e-mail.