High pitch: Trafalgar buskers play hotel roof gigs

They've been playing for coins in the street outside but now Trafalgar Square buskers will get the chance to do a paid gig in the rooftop bar of a five-star hotel overlooking their usual pitch.

The Trafalgar St James, whose guests have included Tom Cruise, Emily Blunt, Nicole Scherzinger and Ellie Goulding, will host street performers on Thursday nights.

Matthew Maynard, director of food and beverages at the hotel, told how he realised he never had a chance to stop and listen to the “incredible” musicians he rushed past on his way to work. He asked his favourite performer, guitarist Joe Gravil, 28, to play the first gig.

Gravil, whose performance name is mex.fs, said: “A lot of people are capable of walking by and not thinking twice, but so many good acts have started from street performing — Ed Sheeran, Eddie Izzard, Rod Stewart, Robin Williams.

“It’s a great stepping stone to making a career out of music. The talent is golden, especially here in London.”

Others lined up to play at the Rooftop Bar include an “alternative” Spanish guitarist and an electronic violinist.

“People will be able sit up here with a glass of wine in a heated environment,” Gravil said. “The series will give people an opportunity to enjoy street music but in a more comfortable place.” Buskers in the square itself rotate in slots of about 40 minutes to an hour.

The Trafalgar St James relaunched in October after a multimillion-pound renovation during which a panel of young London “influencers” offered ideas on what guests would want.

Its dearest suite — the Landseer, with a view over the square — can cost just over £1,000 a night.

To hear the first session head to the hotel on Thursday at 6pm.