TALENTED organists and pianists have been announced for Bournemouth Pavilion’s prestigious Compton Organ shows.

The shows, which began on Thursday, March 23, will run until the end of August on the Compton Organ, which was installed in 1929 for the opening of the Pavilion.

Each of the 11 shows will start at 1pm, with performers taking to the stage to entertain guests with an hour of popular light organ music.

Organists who will be performing include musician Michael Wooldridge, composer and performer Andy Quin and entertainer and musician Elizabeth Harrison.

Music will be from the 1950s to the present day, including popular tunes from past eras, music from the musicals and the occasional light classical march.

Steve Turner, associate director of venues for BH Live, said: “The Compton Organ shows first took place in 1985 and have continued to be hugely popular amongst guests. We hope everyone enjoys the music programme and fantastic array of hugely talented organists who can join us this year.”

Councillor Beverley Dunlop, BCP Council’s portfolio holder for tourism, culture and vibrant places added: “It’s wonderful that the theatre and BH Live are still able to offer these unique concerts to visitors, connecting with its wonderfully rich musical history.”

Shows are walk-in concerts, with tickets costing £5 on the door. Money raised will support the maintenance of the Compton Organ.

The full programme is as follows: 

  • Thursday 30 March: David Ivory, Organist
  • Thursday 27 April: Michael Wooldridge, Organist and Pianist
  • Thursday 18 May: Andy Quin, Organist and Pianist
  • Thursday 25 May: Donald MacKenzie, Organist and Pianist
  • Thursday 1 June: Richard Hills, Organist
  • Thursday 8 June: Byron Jones, Organist and Pianist
  • Thursday 15 June: Elizabeth Harrison, Organist
  • Thursday 27 July: Alec Walters, Organist and Pianist
  • Thursday 3 August: John Mann, Organist and Pianist
  • Thursday 24 August: Michael Wooldridge, Organist and Pianist