The Jazz Bar In Edinburgh Saved From Closure

Just 7 weeks after the sudden announcement of its closure which shocked Scotland’s live music community, Edinburgh’s The Jazz Bar has been given a reprieve after the formation of a Community Interest Company (CIC) by former staff members, husband and wife Nick and Justyna Mushlin.

Nick Mushlin, Co-Owner, The Jazz Bar

“When it became apparent that The Jazz Bar would close, we couldn’t just stand by. With immense support from the music community, we took it upon ourselves to purchase the assets, the licence and the name and now look forward to continuing the legacy that has meant so much to us all. The Jazz Bar has always been a home for local musicians and music lovers, and we are committed to keeping that spirit alive.”

The Chambers Street venue, which has operated for nearly 20 years, closed its doors back in April with the owners citing the cost of living crisis coupled with operational challenges had proved too much to continue.

As a Community Interest Company The Jazz Bar now exists as a nonprofit social enterprise, channelling all operating surplus back into the venue with all assets locked into and owned by the social enterprise. The CIC benefits from an exemption from VAT on ticket sales and can apply for Business Rate relief, creating a more sustainable financial model.

Justyna Mushlin, Co-Owner, The Jazz Bar

“We would not have been able to do any of this if it weren’t for the love that runs deep for The Jazz Bar and all it stands for. Getting to this stage has been quite a complex process, but we are thrilled we’ve been able to do this in what has been a relatively short period of time. But this is just the start. We are now asking for support to get this new venture off the ground.

We have set up a Crowdfunder to help with startup costs and to repay some of the short-term personal loans taken out so far as well as the generous donations by former staff, crew and musicians. We are well on our way, but we still need help from the community, especially with the Jazz & Blues Festival and the Fringe just around the corner.”

Oliver Melling, Scotland Coordinator, MVT

“MVT has been supporting The Jazz Bar since the end of 2023, offering advice and support where possible until the point at which the previous limited company became overburdened with an outstanding Non-Domestic Rates debt and was forced to close.

We have worked closely with Nick and Justyna to help them set up their Community Interest Company, establish their crowdfunding campaign and engage local politicians. It’s been incredible to see the music community rally to support Nick and Justyna in this new incarnation.”