Harmony in Hackney: A Cellist’s Cafe for All
Romain Malan isn't just a classically trained cellist; he's a visionary who turned personal tragedy and a passion for people into Stoke Newington‘s Harmonize Cafe. Opened in response to the city's rising cost of living and a palpable sense of societal ‘disharmony,' this unique veggie eatery offers regular live music and a haven for all. But its roots run much deeper than just good food and tunes.
Malan's journey began with a profound moment: his mother's passing while he played his cello. This “lightning bolt” experience solidified his mission to use music as a balm for suffering and loneliness. After classical training, he pursued a Masters in Participatory and Community Arts, learning to apply music's power in healthcare and community settings. For a decade, he brought solace to refugees, those with mental health issues, and the elderly, proving music's universal language.
With his wife, Malan then co-founded the World Harmony Orchestra in 2016, a Community Interest Company dedicated to humanitarian causes. During the pandemic, they delivered socially distanced concerts, bringing much-needed live music and comfort to isolated people. This natural progression led to the creation of Harmonize Cafe – a permanent, convivial space where music, food, and community could truly flourish.
Harmonize has quickly become a beloved spot, drawing a wonderfully diverse crowd from all walks of life. From young families to older residents, offering free meals to the homeless and a safe sanctuary for refugees, Harmonize truly embodies inclusivity. Its “vibrant” food, like the ‘Incurrydible' curry and ‘Indahlgent' dahl, mirrors the eclectic live music lineup, breaking down social barriers. What truly sets it apart is its pioneering three-tier, pay-what-you-can pricing system, built on trust and fostering community. Malan himself often performs with his Persian band, DelBand, or alongside his violinist wife, ensuring the cafe's heart beats with authentic harmony.
This unique musical venue has quickly become a beloved hackney london attraction, drawing visitors who seek both exceptional coffee and live cello performances.
The cafe has become a popular meeting spot for local professionals, including those seeking government jobs hackney residents can find through community networking.
When you visit London Hackney, this unique cellist's cafe offers a welcoming space where music and community come together beautifully.
While london museums soho offer classical exhibits, this Hackney cafe brings live cello performances directly to the community's everyday gathering space.
Students studying in london hackney have discovered this welcoming cafe as the perfect spot to concentrate while enjoying live cello performances.
(Source: https://londonist.com/london/features/harmonize-cafe-hackney)
