Hire my Fair Organ for your Event!
I can ORGANise my Fair Organ to play at most events. I restored this instrument myself in 2003, and the public always want to know all about it and how it works. Interaction and public involvement is my number one aim at any event that I attend.
I spend my spare time in the workshop keeping this Fair Organ in top playing condition. Every year I begin working on new projects and improvements.
In 2010, I have added on extra percussion and another rank of large bass pipes. These additions have transformed the sound of the organ.
I can play anywhere regardless of the availability of mains power as I have my own Honda generator.
People always associate a Fairground Organ with NOISE! This organ is not loud. I've never had a complain from anyone!
These instruments were intended to attract attention, and the sound can carry a great distance, bringing more 'passing trade' to events, as well as a lovely backround ambience.
My Fair Organ has a large library of music ranging from popular traditional tunes to modern songs, plus a big selection of Christmas music for the festive period.
The mechanical dancing monkey ‘Bimbo’ who collects for local charity has raised hundreds of pounds for Cornish causes since 2003. The kids love him... as do I!
Young and old alike are always fascinated by the workings and the music of this Fairground Organ. It is truly a unique attraction.
Testimonials
Your music is a great atmosphere creator and makes people hang around for longer!
Rob Wing, Philleigh Village Committee.
Your music brightened up a miserable wet day. A very big thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Tess Hulland, Hayle Lions.
We raised over £1,400 on our charity day. I honestly think folk heard your music and it drew people in. A big thank you.
Sally Moore, The Cornwall Animal Hospital.
Having you outside out main entrace along side the steam engines made such a big difference on the day you were able to attend.
Dingles Steam Village, Lifton, Devon.
Why do I have a Fair Organ?
Fairground Organs have always fascinated me. How can it be possible for such a fabulous sound to come from a few holes in a strip of cardboard?
The way in which the public are entertained is a bonus for me. It is always very satisfying to watch the expressions on peoples faces when the Fair Organ plays out accross crowded fields and streets.
The history of this Fairground Organ is sketchy, finding out exactly when if was built has proved impossible, all we know is that a number of modifications and rebuilds have taken place over the years. I acquired the organ in 2003 in a unplayable state, I spent the next year restoring it and giving it a of TLC.
How does it work?
The organ doesn't have any 'loud speakers' playing canned music. All music is produced live, a little like a woodwind band, however with no musicians - clever!
There are 74 pipes on the front of this organ all tuned to a particular note. Some of these pipes sound like flutes and violins to add a tonal quality to the overall sound. To get the toes tapping, there is also a bass drum, cymbal, snare drum and glockenspiel. All of the mechanism is powered by compressed air.
The music is made out of a long strip of folded cardboard with holes in. Each hole signifies a note and the length the note that plays is dictated by the length of the hole in the cardboard. Once a hole appears, it releases air pressure on a valve that deflates. This valve having deflated exposes a hole underneath that sends a rush of air down tubing, through a wind box that amplifies the amount of air, then sending it straight out to the pipes on the front of the organ.
Although this may sound very complex, it is quite a simple system, and the general public can view the air valves and card music through the back door of the organ trailer. There is often a crowd gathered around the back of the organ staring in amazement!
Pricing and Availability
Hire rates are very reasonable and competitive, especially when compared to a the cost of hiring a brass, folk or steel band, which all of course have to stop for breaks.
Any profit generated after fuel, insurance, music wear and tear etc. is used towards the immense upkeep and improvement of the instrument. I have public liability insurance that covers claims of up to two million pounds.
During peak Summer and Christmas seasons, I can be very busy, so please book early to avoid disappointment!
For a quote, please CONTACT ME>>
