​​​We have received a small number of comments on social media from visitors who may not be familiar with the long-standing tradition of the collection tray and raffle during live performances.

We are always delighted to welcome new faces to The Trumpet, so if you are visiting us for the first time, we would like to explain how this tradition works and why it is so important to the future of live music at the venue.

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1. The Trumpet is a traditional, single-room public house.
   Because the live entertainment takes place within the main public bar, we do not operate a conventional admission or entrance charge. Instead, we rely on voluntary contributions made through the collection tray.

2. Live music is at the heart of The Trumpet.
   For decades, The Trumpet has hosted live entertainment throughout the week, including our long-established Sunday lunchtime sessions. This involves a considerable number of musicians and performers, all of whom deserve to be properly paid for their work.

   Bar takings alone are simply not sufficient to cover the cost of the performers alongside brewery costs, staffing, utilities and the many other expenses involved in running a traditional pub and live music venue.

3. The collection tray is a long-standing Trumpet tradition.
   The tray has been passed around during live performances for as long as jazz has been played at The Trumpet and is something our regular customers have supported for many years.

   Every contribution helps us continue to bring high-quality live music to Bilston. We believe there are very few places where you can enjoy first-class musicians in such an intimate setting for little more than the equivalent cost of an extra pint or two.

   Importantly, every penny collected through the tray goes towards paying the musicians and supporting the live entertainment.

   You can read more about the history and traditions of The Trumpet on our website:
   https://www.thetrumpet-bilston.com/history

4. Social media has helped introduce The Trumpet to a new generation of visitors.
   We are extremely grateful for the positive response we receive online. Social media has helped increase attendances, introduce many new customers to the venue and played an important part in supporting The Trumpet, particularly during the difficult period surrounding the reopening of pubs following lockdown.

5. Keeping The Trumpet and its live music tradition going takes a great deal of hard work.
   The management and staff work extremely hard, often on a limited budget, to maintain the level of entertainment that customers have enjoyed here for many years.

   Our aim is simply to ensure that this unique venue, its musicians and its traditions can continue for many years to come.

6. We greatly appreciate your understanding and support.
   The collection tray and raffle are not intended to make anyone feel uncomfortable or under pressure. They are simply part of the long-established way in which live music at The Trumpet is funded.

   Whether you are a long-standing regular or visiting us for the very first time, we are genuinely grateful for your support.

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Your contribution helps us continue to provide first-class live music in one of the Midlands’ most distinctive and historic music venues.

Thank you for supporting The Trumpet, Bilston – and live music.

With kind regards,

The Trumpet Management

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