Sunderland Theatre Organ Preservation Society.
Looking after the ex Odeon Sunderland John Compton (3/9) Organ.

Next Concert Details...

Sunday 21st October 2018... Andrew Nix

An afternoon of lively entertainment with Andrew Nix.

Andrew was born near Selby (North Yorks) on 22nd August 1968 and has well established himself on the organ circuit as a musician and entertainer. From the age of 10 years he had an interest in (electronic) organs and lessons were arranged. On leaving school he was engaged by a local club where accompanied artistes and played for dancing. He became MD for Butlins (Barry Island) and also Haven Holidays. He tours countrywide with a fine Roland Atelier AT900c instrument. but is also equally at home on the theatre pipe organ. We are assured of a fantastic afternoon's music to suit all tastes.


Future concert details...
Sunday 9th December 2018... David Ivory

Well known on the UK concert circuit...David Ivory.

Sunday 20th January 2019... Elizabeth Harrison

The ever popular Elizabeth Harrison (NW)

Venue.. Ryhope Community Centre, Black Road, Ryhope Sunderland SR2 0RX
Use side red door to gain access.

Recent concert reviews...

Stephen Austin Sunday 19th August 2018.

Ryhope favourite Stephen Austin (NW)

Stephen was born in Taplow (Bucks) in 1952. During the next 21 years, living in the home counties he developed an interest in the piano and the classical organ. On leaving school he became a salesman and demonstrator for Hammond Organ UK. Following on and with the  support and recommendation of Ena Baga he became demonstrator for the prestigious Cavendish Organ Centre in London's West End. In 1974 he moved to Blackpool where he set up an organ & camera shop with friend John Nunns. They also started the very popular Blackpool keyboard club. Stephen travelled from his home in Poulton-le-Fylde to play for us and presented an interesting and varied programme. Following his signature tune he played the "Barnard Castle" march and then two versions of "Spanish eyes". We had a selection of Tower Ballroom favourites and some popular Gershwin melodies including "How long has this been going on ?" Stephen remembered Aretha Franklin who recently passed away, and then to conclude the first half a compilation of "Dutch" tunes including "Tulips from Amsterdam" and "Jonny Heykens" serenade. After tea and biscuits and the raffle, Stephen continued with an Autumn themed selection including "September in the Rain" and "Autumn leaves". Following on with some 1960's songs made famous by Cilla Black, Sandie Shaw and Dusty Springfield. The final selection featured tunes from the early 20th century including some more Gershwin. A splendid afternoon of entertaining music warmly received by an enthusiastic Ryhope Audience.

A pleasure to listen to Adrian Rose (NW)

Sunday 17th June 2018 we welcomed Adrian Rose who had travelled from Southport to play for us today. Adrian and his wife had brought the caravan to a park near Durham so it was in fact just a short journey here. He opened with his theme tune "Everything's coming up Roses" followed by "Down the mall" and "Toy town trumpeters". We enjoyed "Let there be piece on earth", "By a sleepy lagoon" and a few novelty pieces including Trevor Duncan's "High heels". After that a medley of tunes with colours in the titles, "Blue moon" and "Deep purple" amongst many more. After refreshments Adrian continued with "March of the Cobblers" and a few pleasant waltz tunes. Rutter's "The Lord bless you and keep you" and the lively "Peanut polka" followed. A selection featuring girls names came next..."Eleanor Rigby", "Sally" and "June is busting out all over" plus a few more. There were selections from the Jerome Kern songbook and popular tunes from Leroy Anderson. He finished with a roof lifting "Dam busters march". A really superb afternoon's music to suit all tastes I'm sure.

Members Sunday afternoons...

Member Paul having a "go" (NW)

Come along and listen to, or play the Compton Organ. Second and fourth Sundays of the month (1.30-3.30pm). Except Bank Holidays or Sunderland Air Show weekend.

From the Archives...

The ex Odeon auditorium after conversion to a Bingo Hall. (NW)

Poster for the John Mann concert in year 2000. (NW)

The former Odeon now as "Mecca Bingo" set in rather dilapidated surroundings (NW)

Doreen Chadwick at the Sunderland Compton Organ.

Reg Dixon at the Compton when located in the Odeon (1977)

Posted by Neville
contact us ryhopecomptonorgan@gmail.com
see our "facebook page"