Finchcocks
Finchcocks Will Open Its Doors To The Public Once Again…
If you’re a Kent local, you probably heard the news that 18th Century Finchcocks – home to our beloved Piano Museum – recently closed and went on the market for sale.
This came with much disappointment to locals and music lovers across the country, who’d previously been able to wander around the historic Georgian manor, taking in the beauty of the building that once played host to Second World War soldiers and a ballet school – as well as getting the opportunity to play on a vast range of impressive instruments.
But fast forward a year or so to today – and we have some extremely exciting business news to announce: the new owner will be continuing the musical legacy at Finchcocks!
Entrepreneur Neil Nichols has spent the last year or so transforming part of the Grade II listed historic manor into a contemporary piano school, which is now offering weekend and week-long piano retreats for adults of all abilities. So if you have been thinking about getting a new hobby now you’re retired, you’d like to be able to help your little ones with their piano lessons or practise, or you just fancy perfecting a piece you love to play – read on!
Take a peek inside the newly made over ‘Soho House’ style Coach House, which will accommodate guests taking piano courses
At Kent Business Radio, we’re always keen to hear about new entrepreneurial ventures in the area – and this one is particularly interesting. Neil actually grew up between Canterbury and Folkestone, and even visited Finchcocks on a school trip as a child. When he saw the property on the market, he was determined to find a way to keep the music alive – albeit in a more modest way. (His words – not ours!)
Neil and his team have carefully restored the Coach House, making sure to retain the fabulous period features. The cellar has been transformed into an impressive recital room, surrounded by vaulted practice rooms, each containing a grand piano. It truly does look fantastic.
So what goes on at piano retreat?
Guests are treated to world-class tuition in the form of workshops and fun group masterclasses, but also have a lot of alone time to practise in peace.
And though piano is at the heart of the retreats, courses at Finchcocks are also a social affair, where wine flows and friendships are made. After a day of learning and practise, guests are treated to a delicious meal cooked by Finchcocks’ private chef, where they can relax and unwind in one of the most beautiful manor houses in the UK.
We will be interviewing Neil to find out more about the new business venture soon – so keep your ears peeled for more details! Alternatively, head to the Finchcocks website to find out more about available courses and how to book: www.finchcocks.com
Listen to interview here
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