OrganFax News

Trevor Bolshaw

Monday 30th December

We are very sorry to bring news from Michael Carter, on behalf of Friends of Beer Wurlitzer, that organist Trevor Bolshaw passed away on 26th December 2024.

Trevor was a well-loved and respected ambassador of the cinema organ world, having received tuition on piano from Midlands cinema organist, Leslie Taff.  He went on to become a regular on the concert scene, including invitations to play in the USA for the American Theatre Organ Society, where one such appearance saw him perform at the Fox, Atlanta - a much revered instrument.

His life and work moved South, where he and his wife, Mary, have spent many happy years - and where music remained a very important part of their lives, with Trevor continuing to play theatre organ and also his Yamaha touring organ, often accompanying singers.  

His contribution to making the Beer Wurlitzer a success is gratefully acknowledged and we would like to pay a tribute to everything Trevor achieved and to the way he so graciously gave his time to over the years.

Our thoughts are with all Trevor's friends and family, and especially with Mary.  Trevor will be much-missed and remembered fondly.

Photos: Trevor Bolshaw collection / Wayne Ivany

Video of Len Rawle MBE Tribute Afternoon

Thursday 5th December

A couple of weeks ago there was a very special afternoon in celebration and memory of the life of master musician Len Rawle, who passed away a year ago. 

Len had a huge impact on the organ world internationally, being largely responsible for the design of Yamaha Electones for many years, including the popular D85 and the FX/FS/FE range, and also saved over 40 theatre pipe organs. 

The 2 hour long event was put together by Len's long term fan and friend, organist Michael Wooldridge, with guest appearances from fellow organists Byron Jones and Andy Quin, oration from Richard Moore and Richard Cole, and photo and video memories shared by the Woking Wurlitzer Team.

If you would like to enjoy this informative and musical celebration of Len's life, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2V9LgBKrqM (link opens in new tab)

For more information about future events at Woking visit www.wokingwurlitzer.co.uk (link opens in new tab)

Gary Head Joins OrganFax

Thursday 5th December

We are delighted to welcome Gary Head to the ranks of players with Advanced Pages here on OrganFax.

Gary was in the trade many years ago but then moved away from playing shows whilst his family were growing up.  He is now back playing concerts of popular music on his Yamaha Genos2. 

For more information and booking details visit his OrganFax page.  (link opens in new window)

KORG Gallery Now Open

Thursday 12th September

Experience the Korg Gallery launch at The Musical Museum – an exploration of decades of music innovation and legendary synthesizers!

The new Korg Gallery opened on 17th September at The Musical Museum, 399 High Street Brentford TW8 0DU.  it is a new permanent exhibition that takes you on an immersive journey through the evolution of modern music creation.  This unique gallery celebrates the incredible history of Korg, one of the most influential names in music technology, and its role in shaping the soundtracks of our lives.

Explore the history of modern music-making

Learn about Korg's founding in 1962, inspired by a Japanese nightclub, an accordionist, and the need for a revolutionary rhythm unit—the DoncaMatic.  The gallery showcases over fifty classic and contemporary instruments, from Japan’s first mass-produced synthesizer to the globally best-selling synths and workstations that have defined generations.

Exclusive first look at iconic instruments

Be the first in the UK to see and hear the highly anticipated PS-3300 synthesizer reissue, a recreation of one of the rarest and most coveted synthesizers ever made.  Revered for its rich and complex sound, the PS-3300 is a legendary instrument among collectors and musicians alike.

Interactive displays and more

Dive deep into interactive displays that explore the technology behind Korg’s groundbreaking instruments, and discover how Korg’s innovations have been used to create unmistakeable sounds in records, film scores, and game soundtracks.

Explore the Musical Museum

The Musical Museum is home to one of the world’s foremost collections of automatic musical instruments, from tiny music boxes to the Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ.  The Museum tells the story of how music was recorded and reproduced over the last four centuries, and the new exhibition expands that story from the 1960s to the present day, adding an impressive collection of over fifty classic and contemporary instruments.  The Korg Gallery is the latest chapter in the Museum’s sixty-year history, celebrating the intersection of art, technology, and creativity.

Location and Parking - The Museum is close to Kew Bridge on the north side of the Thames. It is easily accessible from the M4 and the North & South Circular roads. The Museum has a small car park which is free for the duration of your visit; but spaces are limited and availability is not guaranteed.

Train - From London’s Waterloo Station to Kew Bridge. Turn right when leaving the station and the Museum is a 5 minute walk.

Underground/Bus - Take the District Line to Gunnersbury, then the 237 or 267 bus, alighting opposite us at the "Musical Museum" bus stop (we are a 10 minute ride away).  Alternatively, catch the Piccadilly Line to South Ealing, then the 65 bus passes the Museum.

Keyboard and Organ Music Books from Tom Horton

Thursday 2nd March

Organist and internationally acclaimed teacher, Tom Horton, has released a series of super music books for us all to enjoy.  Containing lots of original melodies, all beautifully set out for ease of reading, they will make a very enjoyable addition to your music collection!

Very reasonably priced, visit Tom's Website to find full details of the range available and how to place your orders. (link opens in new window - just close it to return here)