Double Bill For Mighty Wurlitzer As Two Organists Share Saltaire Console

August brings something a little different to Victoria Hall, Saltaire, where two organists will share the console of the Mighty Wurlitzer for a single afternoon concert on Sunday 9th August at 2.30pm.

Two players, of course, means two personalities — and audiences can expect two distinct takes on this extraordinary instrument.

Dorian Collins, from Worcester, has spent a lifetime immersed in the organ. He began classical piano at the age of seven, moved to the church pipe organ at sixteen, and studied at Malvern Priory before a career that carried him as far as America, where he worked as musical director for singer and pianist Buddy Greco. Rarer still, Dorian owns a Mighty Wurlitzer of his own: over two decades he has built and expanded a complete 1930s instrument of more than 1,300 pipes at his Worcester home, one that now draws organists from across the country to play it.

Joining him is Paul Lee, a musician, recording engineer and teacher with 44 years in the industry and 39 spent inspiring students. Self-taught and equally at home on organ, piano and Hammond organ, Paul has built a lifelong passion for the theatre organ into regular appearances on BBC Radio 2's The Organist Entertains, where his versatility and distinctive style have won him a loyal following. His programmes range freely across theatre organ favourites, jazz, pop, classical and big band — all delivered with the warmth and audience rapport for which he is known.

Two players, one Mighty Wurlitzer: it promises to be an entertaining afternoon, with refreshments available (donations welcome) and the chance to visit the under-stage organ chamber, home to nearly 1,000 pipes and percussion effects.

The concert is presented by the Cinema Organ Society (registered charity no. 1189263). All welcome.