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Artist Bio

Joe Stilgoe is an acclaimed British pianist, singer, composer and all-round musical entertainer, known equally for his virtuosic musicianship and his theatrical flair. With five UK jazz chart-topping albums, Joe moves effortlessly between jazz, cabaret, theatre and improvisation, whether performing at Ronnie Scott’s, collaborating with orchestras, or creating bespoke shows that blend humour, spontaneity and dazzling musicality. A gifted improviser, he’s renowned for transforming audience suggestions into brilliantly inventive medleys, as well as for his work as a musical theatre writer and performer. His career spans Disney cruise ships to royal performances, radio and TV appearances, and an ever-evolving presence on the UK jazz and theatre scenes.

For more on Joe Stilgoe visit:

👉https://www.instagram.com/thejoestilgoe

Episode Summary

In this rich and entertaining conversation, Joe takes us through his musical upbringing—opera-singing mother, legendary father, and a Surrey childhood filled with sound—before charting his journey from university uncertainty to Disney cruise contracts, jazz education, and eventually the London scene. He dives into the craft of improvisation, the joys and dangers of live performance, his theatre work (including High Society at the Old Vic), and some unforgettable moments—like a royal gig where no one would shout out a song request. Joe also speaks passionately about the fragile state of UK jazz clubs and his campaign to support and protect them. Full of humour, stories, musical quirks, and heartfelt advocacy, this episode is a celebration of live performance and the vibrant, unpredictable world Joe Stilgoe inhabits.

• 35:01–37:48 — Demonstration and discussion of the mouth-trumpet solos
• 38:48–40:17 — The parlor-trick clapping game he learned from his mum
• 41:05–44:44 — Performing at the Queen & Prince Philip’s 70th anniversary, the awkward silence after asking for song suggestions, and King Charles requesting “Scriabin’s Third Piano”
• 49:13–52:43 — Getting fired during intermission of Footloose because of the keyboard patches

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🎵 Original title music written by Peter O'Donnell and produced by Chris Burgess.

Join Adam Sternberg next time for another captivating glimpse into the world of live entertainment.