Ronnie Scott’s breaks 65-year jazz tradition with weekly classical nights

London: Classical music is taking centre stage at Ronnie Scott’s as the Soho institution launches its first weekly orchestral nights following the reopening of its refurbished upstairs space.

Upstairs at Ronnie’s closed in October 2024 for renovations and reopened in February 2026 as a reimagined 140-capacity room. The revamped space features dark wood interiors, soft lighting, upgraded acoustics, and upholstered banquettes.

Since reopening, the room has hosted Cuban salsa, gospel, and R&B as part of a seven-day-a-week programme spanning multiple genres. Now, for the first time in the club’s 65-year history, it will stage regular classical performances, with early and late shows scheduled every Monday.

The new series is part of a broader expansion that sees the venue move beyond its jazz roots to embrace chamber music, recitals, and cross-genre collaborations. The club maintains its reputation as one of the UK’s leading independent music venues.