Hitting the right note at reunion

Dec 8 2006 By Robert Brooks, The Journal

Music maestro Jools Holland swung by a Newcastle restaurant yesterday to play his old piano.

The performer, who played a second sell-out show at the City Hall last night, called in at Tavistock's on the Quayside, where his old touring Yamaha now takes pride of place.

It was bought by bar bosses at a charity auction in aid of the Drake Music Project, which brings technology to disabled musicians. Jools is a patron of the charity and said yesterday: "I have many fond memories of this piano.

"Over the top of it I've seen some of the world's greatest stars perform - Tom Jones, Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, Sting.

"I remember soul legend Barry White on one occasion banging his hand quite forcefully on the top of it. I stopped playing because I thought there was a problem, but he told me he was just getting into his groove. It's great to see it again."

Jools was also singing the praises of his North fans.

He said: "This region is my second home - I love it here. I always get a warm welcome and the City Hall is always a pleasure to play."