Saltaire

Dorian Collins and Paul Lee.

August brings something a little different: a double bill, with two organists sharing the Victoria Hall, Saltaire Wurlitzer console on Sunday 9th August. Two players means two personalities, two styles and two takes on this remarkable instrument.

Dorian Collins hails from Worcester and has lived and breathed the organ all his life. He studied classical piano from the age of seven before graduating to the church pipe organ at sixteen, studying at Malvern Priory, and his playing career has taken him as far afield as America, where he served as musical director for the singer and pianist Buddy Greco.

Dorian is also that rarest of things: an organist with a Mighty Wurlitzer of his own. Over twenty years he built and enlarged a complete 1930s Wurlitzer, more than 1,300 pipes of it, at his Worcester home, where it draws in players from across the country.

With over 44 years in the music industry, Paul Lee is a highly experienced musician, recording engineer and music teacher who has inspired students for 39 years. A self-taught performer, accomplished on organ, piano and Hammond organ, with a lifelong passion for the theatre organ, he has appeared many times on BBC Radio 2’s The Organist Entertains, showcasing his distinctive style and versatility.

His programmes range across theatre organ favourites, jazz, pop, classical and big band, and he brings enthusiasm and a warm rapport with his audience to every performance.

Two players, one Mighty Wurlitzer! Join us for an entertaining afternoon of music with refreshments available (donations welcome), plus visits to the under stage organ chamber area and its nearly 1000 pipes and percussions.

Presented by the Cinema Organ Society – regd charity no 1189263 – all welcome.