After 10 successful years as a professional pianist, Bryan Edery was in high demand – so much so that he was having to turn down bookings.

Knowing he couldn’t be in two places at once, Bryan decided to create 88 Keys Entertainment. This new agency would allow clients to hire other pianists of the same style and standard in five sectors – hotels, restaurants, hospitality, corporate and private events – giving what he calls “a win/win for everyone”.

But setting up a new venture is never easy, especially as he still needed to run and maintain his existing businesses – Bryan Edery Pianist – for his own wedding and event work.

He says: “I knew I needed to make the shift and set up the agency, but I was feeling very apprehensive and reticent.”

THE BUSINESS JOURNEY:

Having worked with Maven Design – based in Work Avenue’s London Wohl Enterprise Hub – Bryan realised this space could be a great environment for him too.

He says: “I started off on a hot desk, then moved to a fixed desk and then eventually realised that I can’t do without it. It’s become invaluable to me.”

Bryan decided to make the most of being in the shared working space, by using every aspect of Work Avenue’s services.

The new Freelance Agency has provided him with a fantastic cost-effective way to build his business, particularly by creating a digital CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system to manage enquiries, send out information and secure repeat bookings. He is also looking into how the Agency can support his email and social media marketing efforts.

He receives monthly business coaching with Work Avenue’s Head of Business Jo Sadie to help give him focus and explore new ideas and opportunities.

And he’s attended many of Work Avenue’s workshops and courses, covering brand-building, AI, LinkedIn, and advertising on Instagram and Facebook.

THE IMPACT:

Thanks to the support and space offered by Work Avenue – and the offerings of the Freelance Agency – Bryan has turned 88 Keys Entertainment from an idea into a thriving new company, while still maintaining his original business.

Bryan concluded: “The Wohl Enterprise Hub is an incredible gift for our community. It offers you far more than somewhere like WeWork.

“It offers so much in terms of helping to build your business – coaching, courses and especially the Freelance Agency – for a third of the price of a standard working space.

“Plus being in a Jewish environment is really wonderfully supportive for me, and many of us here, especially at this challenging time. It really is just a lovely place to be.”