Sutton organists create electrifying sounds at concert

Since Sutton in Ashfield’s Electronic Organ Society was set up in 1970 at the height of the instruments’ popularity, organists at the society have given crowds the opportunity to hear the vintage instrument in all its glory.

Ken Walker, chairman and secretary for the society, said it is a brilliant opportunity for young and old to hear what professional organists are playing in the 21st century.

He said: “The group was formed in 1970 when the electronic organ was a very popular instrument.

“By comparison to the pianoforte it was thought to be easier to get a melody and an acceptable sound from the organ.

“The modern electronic organ is very complicated, costing from a few hundred to thousands of pounds and a good knowledge is needed to play the instrument to its full potential.

“The concerts are a great opportunity to hear the electronic organ at its best and we encourage more people to come and see what we are about.”

Organists at the society hold monthly concerts open to the public which take place on the second Wednesday of every month.

At its concert on 11th December the society appointed the president, Baden Powell and his wife Nora, as honorary members to thank them for their years of service.

Mr Walker added: “Baden has been president for more than 30 years and it was hoped he and Nora would have many more happy years with the society by awarding them with Honorary membership.

“The couple were presented with a pen and pencil set in a carved presentation box and a bouquet of flowers.”

The box was hand-made by member Graham Ward.

The concert, titled Music For All, also celebrated the recently changed name of the society from the Sutton and District Organ Society.

Chris Powell will showcase music on his Roland Atelier AT900C Electronic Organ at the next concert on 8th January 2014.

All members of the public welcome. Concerts start at 7pm at St John’s Methodist Church, Titchfield Avenue in Sutton and admission is £5 for members and £7 for non members.

Annual membership for the society costs £5.