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Tony West began his musical career back in 1979 when he left his home town of Derby, in Derbyshire, and moved to Butlins Holiday Centre in Skegness where he auditioned for the position of Keyboard Player with The Patty Nichols Sound. In 1983, Tony travelled to another Butlins venue this time in Ayr, where he and accomplished Drummer Nick Woolgar took up the position of Resident House Musicians being responsible for accompanying visiting Cabaret Artistes, as well as performing for Modern and old-time sequence dancing. The highlight of the 83' season was working with Chris Drake, - son of veteran Comedian and Actor Charlie Drake. That was only the begining of Tony's involvement with the great and the good of the showbiz world. There was more afoot!
Upon his return from Butlins, Tony was approached by a gentleman in his home town asking if Tony would provide Keyboard tuition for his son whom had aspirations of one day playing keyboards professionally. After 2 years of tutoring under Tony's guidance the 'young man' in question aspired to the position of Musical Director for Cliff Richard, latterly working with legends such as Country singing star Tammy Winette.
Tony's introduction as a 'would-be' cabaret performer was nurtured during his residency at a local working mens club in his home town of Derby. It was at the O.P.T.A. Club that he worked as accompanist for visiting Cabaret Artistes, - whom Tony affectionally recalls as being termed, - The good, the bad, and the damned lousy! A stabling musical influence and guidance was offered to Tony by his drummer, - and excellent all-round Musician, Renato Zocchi. Tony recalls, It was a pleasure to work with Renato, his Musicianship was truly inspiring! However, Tony believed it was now his time to take to the stage!
Upon his return from Butlins, Tony was approached by a gentleman in his home town asking if Tony would provide Keyboard tuition for his son whom had aspirations of one day playing keyboards professionally. After 2 years of tutoring under Tony's guidance the 'young man' in question aspired to the position of Musical Director for Cliff Richard, latterly working with legends such as Country singing star Tammy Winette.
Tony's introduction as a 'would-be' cabaret performer was nurtured during his residency at a local working mens club in his home town of Derby. It was at the O.P.T.A. Club that he worked as accompanist for visiting Cabaret Artistes, - whom Tony affectionally recalls as being termed, - The good, the bad, and the damned lousy! A stabling musical influence and guidance was offered to Tony by his drummer, - and excellent all-round Musician, Renato Zocchi. Tony recalls, It was a pleasure to work with Renato, his Musicianship was truly inspiring! However, Tony believed it was now his time to take to the stage!
Tony West
Derby & Derbyshire Keyboards Vocalist Entertainer
