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Keyboard Komedy Weekend 2009
Due to the tremendous demand for Keyboard Komedy weekends, M&A Entertainments, in conjunction with Cled Griffin, have decided to stage another event in 2009, but at another venue.
The Trecarn Hotel, Babbacombe, Torquay, has been selected for the event to be held on 27th-30th March 2009. The tariff has been held at £149 for the 3 nights with dinner and bed and breakfast. Guests who have been to past events will know that the Keyboard Komedy weekends are totally different to all the rest with cabaret acts in addition to star keyboard players. Every past event has been filled to capacity and everyone is advised to book early. The weekend will feature THE KEYBOARD KLAN - that's Andy Oakley with Europe's award winning Keyklix duo - Ian Griffin and Richard Bower. See details on the M&A website 4.7.08 |
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CD News from Organ1st We thought readers would be interested to know about the top selling organ-keyboard CDs so we asked Organ1st to give us details of their top selling albums for last month (June) Here are the results:- 1 Klaus Wunderlich - Bar Erinnerungen (Hammond & Piano All Time Favourites) (2CD) 2 Ken Griffin - Skate On (2CD) See featured album of the month 3 Alan Haven - Everybody's Talkin' 4 Nicholas Martin - For Your Pleasure 5 Alan Haven - Collectors Item Details of the CDs, including audio samples, are on The Organ1st website 4.7.08 |
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Lottery Funding For Your Society? Many have already benefitted Many organ-keyboard societies have benefitted from Lottery awards. Below we give some links to give society officials more information. Do you know that over £21 billion has been raised for good causes? Awards have been given to several organ-keyboard societies to enable them to buy cameras, projectors and screens to replace the dated mirrors that used to show the reverse side of the instruments. The new systems show close-ups of hands on the keyboard and therefore make the performance more interesting. The Llanelli Electronic Organ Society had an award that enabled them to buy a Yamaha Tyros Keyboard and speakers for use on their informal club nights. In addition to this, it is loaned out in turn to members to play at home. Read about Lottery good causes How to apply for Lottery funding 23.6.08 |
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Over 304,000 Sign The Downing Street Petition to Lower Tax on Motor Fuel 
The petition expired on 17th June 2008. Click on the crest to see the final figure. More would have signed if it was left on longer - and if more people knew about it. We only knew about it because a reader told us.
Players hit by motor fuel prices Petitions have long been sent to the Prime Minister by post or delivered to the Number 10 door in person. You can now both create and sign petitions on the PM website too, giving you the opportunity to reach a potentially wider audience and to deliver your petition directly to Downing Street. LATE EXTRA - On 2nd July the Daily Express newspaper delivered 100,000 paper petitions from their readers to the PM's office at Downing Street. The petition was basically the same as the online one. More info on Downing Street petitions - and how to create one Updated 4.7.08 |
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Casual Affair at the BBC The BBC looks at the Casual Affair Cabaret Show Band. Click on the links below and read about their award winning keyboard player. The band has appeared at several organ-keyboard festivals and at anniversary events at organ societies. Look for the Lenny Dee connection. BBC looks at Casual Affair Casual Affair Website Lenny Dee Jo Stclaire - the Band's vocalist - hear her sing 16.6.08 |
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How Many Societies Have Projectors and Screens? We would like to know how many organ-keyboard societies have video projectors and screens? Two readers have come up with a brilliant idea that could help clubs with their cash flow at a time when motor fuel prices are soaring. The idea could also help players to limit their travelling. Email information to keyboardnews.com/keyboardchat.com More details will be given when we have the information. 14.6.08 |
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Motor & Home Fuel Prices UP Keyboard Festival Prices DOWN Big Savings at Lyme Bay and Sand Bay It's great news to cheer up organ-keyboard enthusiasts - prices at some events have been lowered and will more than make up for the motor fuel increases. In fact, with all home heating bills and the cost of food considered, the Lyme Bay and Sand Bay Keyboard Experience Festivals now look more attractive than ever. Read about the special prices 6.6.08 |
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Playing For A Good Cause At Beer On Saturday, 7th June, Michael Cull, the webmaster of www.organshow.co.uk had the pleasure of entertaining Wurlitzer pipe organ enthusiasts at the Congregational Church located in the village of Beer on the Devon coast. Michael writes: "My performance was not the issue: it is the organ itself is what I am trying to promote. The Church Secretary is now keen on the idea of setting up a Friends of Beerwurly Organisation, similar to that which has been done at Rye." The Beer Wurlitzer, along with the one at Rye, is the oldest in the UK. The one at Rye has had a lottery award of £10,000 for its refurbishment and the one at Beer is also hoping to get funds for the same reason. Michael's show, for the fifty or so enthusiasts who came along to see the organ, is just a another step in the right direction. Michael went on to say: "I have only received positive feedback so far with no criticisms, which is encouraging and is also good for the aging ego!" The Organshow website, when updated, will no doubt give more details about Michael's first attempt to raise money for the organ's refurbishment. The Church website, given below, also gives information about their cherished Wurlitzer, and the Secretary writes about an earlier event: "We had a wonderful afternoon on Saturday 17th May, when the Theatre Organ Club had its meeting at our Church. It was the first time that many of the audience had seen our historic Wurlitzer, and for our Wurlitzer it was the first time in many a year that it had had such a workout. Stephen Dutfield, secretary of the SW branch of the TOC introduced 7 or 8 eminent organists and the afternoon closed with the wonderful playing of Trevor Bolshaw. At the end of the afternoon, Stephen said that the visit was to become an annual event. Everyone was given the details below of how the Wurlitzer came to Beer." The Beer Wurlitzer - a page from the Church website. There is also more about the organ on Our page 2 The Big Question Should The Church Accept A Lottery Award? It is possible that the Beer Church officials may be reluctant to accept a lottery award because of a moral conflict on ethical grounds - with the thought that it is linked to gambling. Having said that, the lottery was set up in the first place with the aim of helping good causes. If a possible lottery award could refurbish the historic Wurlitzer it could result in more people going to the Church and being inspired for what it stands for. It is said that God works in mysterious ways - his wonders to perform. What do you think the Church should do? Read about Lottery good causes How to apply for Lottery funding Updated 22.6.08 |
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Theatre Organ Club - TOC AGM and Concert - 6th July 2008 The Theatre Organ Club was founded in 1938 and therefore it's their 70th anniversary this year. The Annual General Meeting of the Club will take place at the Town Hall, Ossett, West Yorkshire, on Sunday, 6th July, 2008, at 1.00 p.m. The meeting is expected to terminate at around 2.00 p.m., allowing time for members to take their seats in the main hall for the 2.30 p.m. organ concert by Kevin Morgan. The club's website is interesting and there is an item (on their news page) about their May meeting at Beer (see item above). There is news on the grapevine that the Beer Wurlitzer will be discussed at the AGM - especially in view of the fact the Church at Beer will be a venue for future meetings of the club. TOC website 12.6.08 |
Summer is here - or is it?
No matter what the weather is like, music will help to make the Summer better. With this in mind,
we give below details of several seasonal special events. If the unsettled weather is keeping you indoors you can listen online to Organ1st Radio. The July edition features a Ken Griffin double CD (only £8.95), which is available from the Organ1st online CD shop website.Keeping the programme in tune with the ITV series, Britain's Got Talent, presenter Alan Ashton makes appropriate comments on the judges rather odd remarks about keyboards. Alan's links make the show as interesting as some of the tracks he has selected for your July entertainment. Remember you can listen to the current and past editions from the following link:- Organ1st CD Shop - and links to Organ1st Radio 2.7.08 |
The Scarborough Fair Collection
The new steam and organ museum opened its doors to the public on 21st June at the Flower of May Holiday Park at Lebberston, just south of Scarborough, "The Scarborough Fair Collection" is the brainchild of enthusiast - Graham Atkinson, who has built up one of the largest and finest collections of steam Showman's Engines and Mechanical Organs in the UK.
The Gala Opening Concert, featured both Wurlitzer organs took place on Saturday 21st June at 2.30pm. The concert featured the new venue’s Resident Organist – Kevin Grunill, who was joined by Andrew Nix and Nigel Odgen – presenter of BBC Radio 2’s “The Organist Entertains”. Full report - features on other dates. Updated 21.6.08 |
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T & A - Summer Special Another summer event worth noting is the Musical Magic weekend at Hayling Island with Tony Stace and Andrew Nix - 18th-21st July 2008. Full details can be seen on their website:- Musical Magic 4.6.08 |
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New Look We thought that we would give the front page of our website a new look by cutting down on the borders around each item. It may be easier on the eye and save ink for those who print it out to take it to their organ society. We'll see how it goes and await your comments. 1.6.08 |
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Britain's Got Keyboard Talent But not on ITV Brief comments on the recent ITV series - Britain's Got Talent There's no doubt that the ITV programme 'Britain's Got Talent' captured large audiences - with over 12 million viewers for each show. It's just a pity that the producers, through the judges, made a mockery of keyboards. The image they created has made a scar that can only be rectified by producing a programme in which viewers can have the opportunity to see and hear performances by professionals using two hands and two feet with no gimicky aids. 
One of our readers has done some research on the Internet revealing a surprising fact that keyboard contestant Michael Machell (on right in photo) is a music teacher. We know that many good teachers are not star players. In fact some have written books, to name two: Roy Neal and Brenda Hayward, who were never known for their playing and avoided doing so at the festivals they attended. It seems that teaching is one thing and playing is another. Having said this, there are players that are brilliant at both, again naming just two: Richard Bower and Chris Stanbury. As far as Michael Machell's playing on the show is concerned, it would not inspire
anyone we know to have lessons with him - but for all we know he could be a brilliant teacher.
Perhaps one of his pupils could let us know.
Getting back to putting keyboards in perspective, one can look at the YOUTUBE website and see performances by keyboard professionals playing for up to ten minutes in front of a live audience.
As for the ITV show, the sound and vision could have been much better. In some shows the sound mixing left much to be desired with many backing tracks being too loud for the singers. The flashing lights were often a distraction for the performing act and there was evidence of someone sitting at the vision mixing console with ants in their pants. 
There is nothing more visual, in our opinion, than an organ-keyboard player using two hands and feet. When it is a duo, then it is more so. Compare this with some of the instruments played on the talent show and this must be true. Perhaps a female organ-keyboard player in hot pants with bare legs and feet dancing over the pedalboard may be what the producers want. Ethel Smith made a name for herself in films - so why not go a step further and have something more spectacular for the finger twitching operators on the ITV lighting and vision consoles?
We must tell you that one of our readers is going to teach his dog to play some basic tunes on a keyboard because he feels sure that it will be the only way to get a keyboard accepted by the judges on this particular show. Another reader mentioned that the show was rather like a circus (especially with the dog in mind) with one of the judges like a clown and Ant and Dec the ringmasters. We end by saying that telephone voters for the winning act must have been influenced by the wet weather that we have been having lately. Britain Has Got Keyboard Talent On YOUTUBE View the YOUTUBE organ-keyboard videos and see the talent. 1.6.08 |
Hip Hip......
Cled Griffin wishes to thank all those who have sent him get well cards and best wishes following his recent hip replacement operation. They were very much appreciated. Now back at home, Cled is working on some new ideas to give pleasure to readers of this website and the keyboard events he is involved with.
24.5.08 |
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Players and Motor Fuel Prices With the price of petrol and diesel at record levels, players now find they are actually out of pocket at some engagements. Sometimes a player quotes a low fee in the hope that his CD sales will make all the difference. Other players currently lose out after a round trip of travelling 300 miles or more. Society secretaries must now expect letters from players to allow for the motor fuel increases or possibly cancel the contract. One player is considering playing for nothing to meet his obligations (in the hope that he will benefit from CD sales) providing the society pays for his travelling expenses based on the cost per mile as quoted by the AA and RAC - yes, it is that serious! Yet another player has come up with the idea of raffling a CD in the hope that every member of the audience will buy a ticket. If anyone comes up with any other ideas to overcome the present difficuties then please send us an email so that we may publish it. AA Running costs - Diesel cars AA Running costs - Petrol cars RAC figures Running cost examples Esquin Rijnaard Writes... 
"Here in Holland we set a fee for the concert and then the
society is always paying separately for the travel expenses. For an example:
When I am asked to play for a society I say
my fee will be ....... Euro's and my travel expenses ........
Euros. Of course the travel expenses are based on the location of the
society.
This is the same when I invite the UK artists to come over to Holland for a concert. I always ask what their fee is (without the travel expenses) and the society is paying the fee as well as the total amount of the travel expenses." Michael Cull Writes... "I have now found a more practical solution, having flogged my gas-guzzling 4L V8 Landrover Discovery wot I could no longer afford to feed at between 12.8 - 15 MPG! I bought myself a nice 2003 Volvo S-80 DUAL FUEL, factory converted to run on LPG. This is likely to be the only way forward as, unlike petrol, LPG is not subject to UK law on duty. That's probably why the Government doesn't push it, 'cos they get sod all out of it! It is an EC directive that the price of LPG cannot be more than 50% of the price of petrol. Having set up an account with Countrywide Farmers autogas, and now able to re-fuel (24/7 self service) at any of their outlets in the southern half of this country, I can motor quite happily at 46.7p per litre!" Updated 12.6.08 |
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Society Officals Shocked Organ-Keyboard Society officials have expressed their shock when being told the annual motor fuel bill of some of Britain's players who visit societies all over the UK. Totals exceeding £5,000 have been recorded by some players - and that is before the recent motor fuel increases. On top of this is the vehicle's depreciation and the time travelling. With motor fuel prices reaching record levels, it is likely that more and more players will be selective about engagements away from their home town and will give priority to local gigs where little travelling is involved. 29.5.08 |
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Send a Newsletter to Your Local Radio Station Organ-Keyboard society secretaries should send a copy of their monthly newsletter to the Programme Controller at their local radio station. This was done some years ago by one secretary and, after a while, it brought results with a weekly keyboard programme he had the pleasure of producing. The newsletter will also enable the station to mention the dates, times and venues of monthly concerts. Local radio stations have an obligation to highlight and promote cultural activities in their area. Many are crying out for material and interested music enthusiasts to be involved in their evening programmes. Sending them a newsletter is just the first step. The next step is make them aware that keyboard music is a pleasure for all listeners - a copy of a carefully selected CD should do the trick - mark it: "For Promotional Use - not for resale." A little effort may bring some surprising results. Show your enthusiasm and be patient - he who waits wins. See also the item by Alan Ashton. 29.5.08 |
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Cheque Details In Advance Some organ societies have accounts with building societies and cheques for paying guest players have to be prepared in advance. This means that it not possible to alter a cheque at the time it is handed to the player. The following item sent in by an organ society secretary illustrates the situation:- "Our society has been inconvenienced on several occasions by artistes who have informed us at the concert that our cheque is unacceptable - usually because the payee's name was incorrect or, on one occasion, because cash was required. Payment arrangements are always set out in our concert agreement letter but the problem still arises - and, because we have a building society account, a solution is not straightforward. No doubt, we are not the only society to experience this problem so, through your website, could you please remind artistes to specify any variances in advance." 24.5.08 |
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Sand Bay Bargain for October 2009 Massive Savings For New Venue As you will see elsewhere on this website, the Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience is moving to Sand Bay at Weston-Super-Mare in October 2009 (16th-19th). Those who have booked for the February 2009 Lyme Bay event have been offered the October 2009 Sand Bay event at the same price - saving up to £14. The big news is that others booking for the Sand Bay October 2009 Keyboard Experience can now book for £129 - saving up to £26 on the October 2008 Lyme Bay price. This extra special bargain has been arranged by the festival producer, Cled Griffin, who is now producing the best value residential events in the UK. Be sure to book early, because at this price it is likely to be an early sell out. Those who may have paid the original price will have a price adjustment on their final invoice. The October 2008 Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience takes place on 17th-20th October with a full board tariff of £135 (saving up to £20) on the 2007 price. Please note that concessions for the February 2009 event that was to have taken place at Lyme Bay cannot be brought forward - they only apply to next year. Lyme Bay/SandBay Keyboard Experience Tariffs and booking information 6.5.08 |
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Torquay Keyboard Komedy Weekend More..More..More... 
Guests at the May Bank holiday weekend were not content with it being the last weekend in the series and there were shouts for more, more, from the guests on the last evening.Andy Oakley and Mick Brown, in conjunction with Cled Griffin, were urged to do another similar event in 2009. Mick thought that another event at a different venue may replace the February event at Lyme Bay, which is closing down in January because Tesco have bought the ground. All guests at the Torquay event will be contacted by post and details will be published on this website as soon as they are available. LATE EXTRA - News of the 2009 event is announced at the top of this page. 4.7.08. Just A Quick Review It was just one standing ovation after another with laughter on the way. The laughter highlights were Andy Oakley's dog singing as he played the trumpet and the knickers being thrown at him when he sang a number made famous by Tom Jones - now Sir Tom Jones. Guests thought it was the best and certainly the most hilarious organ-keyboard event they had ever been to. The Italian selection of songs by Andy Oakley in The Keyklix Klan spot was absolutely stunning. Everyone thought it was fantastic value for money - and it's no wonder why there is a demand for another event in 2009. M&A Entertainments - website update 6.5.08 |
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New Wersi International Website One of our regular readers has written to tell us that the New Wersi International website is now on line and looks interesting. www.wersiclub.co.uk 8.5.08 |
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Postcode Players Nearly all players are now using satellite navigation to get them to their playing venues. All organ society and keyboard club secretaries are therefore advised to ensure that the venue postcode is on their letters and booking confirmations. Webmasters of directories and club websites are requested to include venue postcodes from now on. First Time Visitors Satellite navigation is also attracting first time visitors to many clubs because it makes the venue easier to find. Here again postcodes are used to great advantage. Most readers are aware that putting a postcode into the search box of Google finds the venue - or one can go a step further and use the Google map facility. If you click on 'satellite' you will get an arial photograph of your destination. Some players are using postcode venues on their website engagement list - see below:- Example of a player's engagements with venue postcodes added. Google search page Google Map facility How to find a Postcode with the Royal Mail INVITATION - Readers are invited to tell us what society or player website they consider to be the most informative (postcode included). We will be delighted to mention them and give a link to their site. 25.4.08 |
News About The Rye Wurlitzer
We invited Richard Moore, the captain of The Rye Wurlitzer, to look at our website and then say a few words about the goings on at Rye. Richard says that the organ came into the UK in 1925, around the same time as the Beer Wurlitzer (mentioned on part 2 of our Front Page) and share the honour of being the oldest Wurlitzer in the country. However the one at Rye has got all its percussion and effects whereas Beer's remains a straight organ for its secular environment. Both instruments look very similar as you can see from the photo on the right.We feel sure that the officials at the Beer Congregational Church will be interested to know about the £10,000 Lottery grant given for the Rye Wurlitzer. It is strange how things gel together, perhaps Richard may be able to guide the struggling church along the road to having help in the same way. You can read the item from Richard by clicking on the link below:- News from Richard Moore 23.4.08 |
Organ1st - Latest Catalogue
Those on the mailing list of Organ1st are due to receive catalogue No. 4. MSS Studio's, the home of Organ1st, are one of the world's biggest firms dealing with organs and keyboards recordingsYou can either download the catalogue (as a PDF file) or if you live in the UK you can send for a free copy. Details Organ1st Radio Organ1st also have a very professional monthly internet radio programme presented by Alan Ashton, on which many of the new recordings can be heard. Links to Organ1st Radio Shows 7.6.08 |
Michael Wooldridge - Website Overhaul
Michael has written to tell us that his website has had a complete overhaul and invites
viewers to look at it.His show production partnership: 'That's Entertainment Productions' will be featured as one of the Summer season shows at the Royal Hippodrome Theatre at Eastbourne. The production will include Michael or his deputy, Chris Stanbury,at the helm of a Yamaha EL700. In addition to this, plans are in hand for shows at the North Pier Theatre in Blackpool. Michael writes: "I am still very much enjoying my many concerts around the country for organ clubs and societies and look forward to seeing friends old and new at them over years to come." More details of Michael and his shows can be seen via the links below:- Michael's Website That's Entertainment Productions COMMENT: We like to add that the above website is one of the most colourful ones we have seen and includes music and video clips. 20.4.08 |
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Organfax - Inside Information No doubt Organfax are aware of the number of hits their news page has had this month with visitors lookings for comments about the future - especially as their webmaster promised a press release as far back as last February. Speculation may have, in fact, increased because of no comments to date. We can reveal, however, that there is something happening behind the scenes, more of a domestic situation, that will be revealed within less than nine months - or to be more exact, in around twelve weeks time from the date of this item. With this in mind we must ask everyone to give some understanding and consideration to what is involved. We are delighted to see the Organfax news page back in action after a month of no updates, because the inactivity was raising questions. Their latest news item, with a link to a YOUTUBE video, is yet another step forward in making use of videos like so many other websites seem to be doing these days. It is certainly a means of attracting visitors to both websites. Getting back to the press release we mentioned above, the Organfax webmaster, Stuart Hutton, will no doubt produce one when he is good and ready. He knows that Organfax has always had our full support and always will when it receives the dedicated attention it deserves. The Organfax home page Organfax News Page Organfax Links For A Quick Response We have arranged a direct link to ORGANFAX to enable emails to be double checked at the receiving end. Any complaints or suggestions should go down this route. This is in addition to the change of information form on the ORGANFAX website, which should be used for all requested updates in the first instance. NEW Direct link to ORGANFAX ORGANFAX contact form Other Information Websites.... To be fair and give a comprehensive view of organ-keyboard sites with information on concerts and venues, we give below links to another two websites:- Various Pipe Organs The opening page refers to the popular Rye Wurlitzer but there are links to other venues. Cinema Organs - the COS website There is also more information in our magazine section 22.4.08 Just for the Record A Look Back at Organfax 
ORGANFAX was created in 1999 by Margaret Falkner who sadly died of cancer in February 2007 at the age of 72. In 2003 ORGANFAX was acknowledged as the world's most authoritative website for organ-keyboard enthusiasts. On the weekend of Margaret's death a new version of ORGANFAX was launched by Stuart Hutton at the Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience.We feel sure that ORGANFAX can be developed still further - look what happened to the YOUTUBE website that was eventually taken over by Google for millions of dollars! In order that Organfax may be kept up to date we hope that organ-keyboard societies will check their ORGANFAX websites and notify them of any updates, including change of venues etc. More about the creator of Organfax 19.4.08 |
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Your Last Opportunity To Visit Lyme Bay in October 2008 Change of Venue for KEYBOARD EXPERIENCE in October 2009 The Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience is moving to the Sand Bay Leisure Resort in October 2009. The same production team will present a new experience at the new venue. Those who have booked for the February 2009 Lyme Bay event are offered the October Sand Bay event at a saving of £14 in a letter sent to them. It is a bargain they are unlikey to refuse. Enthusiasts are advised to book as soon as possible for the last Keyboard Experience at Lyme Bay, in October 2008, which will be a very special event with a party atmosphere and something that will be remembered for years to come. Telephone Lyme Bay on 01297 626800 and make your booking now for October 2008 - in order not to miss out on the event of the year at a special price. And remember, there is also the new X-FACTOR - the first event of its kind ever to be held at an organ-keyboard festival. The Lyme Bay Experience - More details and Booking information 16.3.08 |
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AOL on The Video Bandwagon The success of the YOUTUBE video website is highlighted by the fact that AOL has jumped on the band wagon. Those with vision (pardon the pun) have forecast that YOUTUBE videos will become popular on domestic television sets as computer technology merges with conventional TV broadcasting. AOL is using many of the video clips downloaded to YOUTUBE by the originators. In addition to this, many commercial firms are becoming aware of the value of entertaining videos and are using them as a window dressing to attract people to their sites. One of our readers say they don't choose the videos! They get automatically syndicated onto the page. Perhaps he may know more about it than we do - but it does not explain, at least to us, the text that goes with some of them. If AOL and others can use the Youtube videos to their advantage, then so can Organfax. We think that keyboard videos will greatly enhance their site and draw more attention to it. The AOL video Page 16.4.08 Hours of Visual Entertainment Available Just as a matter of interest, we totalled up the running time of the organ-keyboard videos on YOUTUBE just to see how they would fare for an evening's entertainment at home. The total ran into several hours with the Lyme Bay Experience videos alone adding up to one hour and forty-five minutes and, incidentally, having a total of over 11,000 hits to date. Although you may think this is good, the hits for some pipe organs are far greater - but we must say the ones we looked at have been on the website for over a year compared to a fraction of the time of the Lyme Bay videos. With the search facility on YOUTUBE you can look around at many various organs - we give three examples below. If you know little or nothing about pipe organs then these sites are certainly worth a visit. If you come across anything that you may think will interest others, then please let us know and we will put a direct link to it. Largest Pipe Organ in China - 93,192 hits Historic Pipe Organ - 72,304 hits Theatre Pipe Organ - 15,039 hits 16.04.08 The figures given were correct at the time of uploading. |
Phil Brown - New Website
Phil Brown (left) informs us that his new website is now online. Like many other electronic organ-keyboard players he decided that the best way to keep up to date is to produce his own website.With his most recent highlights of his career, he can call himself truly international. He has performed as far afield as America, Spain, Channel Islands where he has also been on the "air waves" playing on Radio Guernsey. He has also performed in Germany and Switzerland for Bohm Electronic GmbH at Organ Festivals. www.philbrownmusic.net 13.4.08 |
Gaumont State Kilburn - The Future
The new owners are reported to be Rauch Ministries, said to be one of the fastest growing churches in the UK. The State Kilburn, which originally had 4,004 seats, will eventually hold services similiar to those held at their church in Brixton Hill where they minister to thousands every Sunday.It is thought (or at least hoped) that the Wurlitzer organ (right) will play an important part in the services and that the building may be a base for broadcasting religious programmes around the world on various television networks. Music will play an important part in these services as it does in America with some Pentecostal Churches. An example of the music played is given in the link below with Billy Alexander playing a Hammond organ. In fact, Billy is rather remarkable because he is handicapped with only only finger on each hand. He was featured in a previous version of Keyboardnews and many viewers have asked us to restore the link to hear him again. If music like this is played in future at the State Kilburn it will surely attract many thousands of people - including those who have seemed to have lost their way in our troubled world. You can read more about the building and the organ with our Direct Link 
Click to hear Billy Alexander
Notes from the Cinema Organ Society When The Kilburn State was opened in 1937, was the biggest auditorium in Europe, with seating for 4,004 people. Since then, The State has played host to a galaxy of stars -- The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Marilyn Monroe, David Bowie, Louis Armstrong, Sarah Vaughan, George Formby, Deep Purple, The Faces and many many more. And for the past 20 years, The State has been run by Mecca Bingo. 21.4.08 |
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Organise A Radio Progamme After reading the item on the way that the Weyhill Society is run, one of our readers has suggested a new angle to attract members. With the number community radio stations rapidly increasing, the writer suggests that an organ-keyboard programme could easily be put on by either an official of the society - or by one of the members. It is easier than you may think. Read all about it via the link below. The Weyhill way How to get on local radio 10.4.08 |
A Suggestion To Think About
An organ society secretary has suggested that other society officials should look at the site below and think about creating an association for the UK organ-keyboard world - and possibly having an affiliation to it. We have asked him, in view of his enthusiasm, if he would like to organise this and be prepared to be the secretary or chairman of the association.If there is anyone else interested please let us know. If you want to submit your views on this, or if it has triggered another idea, then please let us know. Making Music Website 30.3.08 |
Nicholas Martin in the news at Weyhill
Following The Weyhill Electronic Organ Society’s sell-out March charity concert with Nicholas Martin, the society is planning a trip to the Worthing Assembly Hall on Sunday, 22nd June 2008, for another concert by this popular player - this time on the Wurlitzer. For details go to the
Worthing Wurlitzer website mentioned below.
The Weyhill Society has now raised around £4,500 for charity in less than six years. To see how much they raised at the Nicholas Martin show put your mouse arrow over the picture on the left. The Weyhill Society were included in the nominations for the 2007 British Keyboard Awards. Weyhill's website The Sussex Theatre Organ Trust has their own website giving information of all their dances and concerts - including the one mentioned above:- www.worthing-wurlitzer.org Further details can always be found on the COS site:- www.cinema-organs.org.uk 25.3.08 |
The Cinema Organ Society --- COS 
The society webmaster, David Reed, has drawn our attention to the COS website www.cinema-organs.org.uk which he says he is proud to keep up to date with news and details of all known UK concerts featuring theatre pipe organs.We were also interested to learn that David builds websites for organ societies and players. Anyone that is interested can obtain further details by contacting David via his website - see the link below. www.cinema-organs.org.uk - the society website www.davidreed.org.uk - David's own website 23.3.08 |
Paul Carman -- New Contact Details 
Contact Details:Paul Carman, 20 Hogarth Drive, Hinckley, Leicestershire LE10 0JG 24/7 mobile phone No: 07703 741325 Email: paul.carman1@o2.co.uk X FACTOR Paul will be closely involved with the new X Factor feature at the October 2008 Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience in conjuction with ORLA UK. 6.5.08 |
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News For Wurlitzer Pipe Organ Enthusiasts More external links have been added to our item on the Wurlitzer organ in the village of Beer in Devon. As previously reported, this is the oldest Wurlitzer in the UK and efforts are being made to get it refurbished in the near future. Link to the item 22.3.08 |
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More of the Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience on Youtube The brilliant technical team at Lyme Bay have been working hard to put more videos of the Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience on YOUTUBE - the world famous broadcast it yourself web site. Dennis and John Willcocks reveal a glimpse of some of the players who have appeared at the Lyme Bay Leisure Resort last February, along with some others who appeared there last year. We feel sure that viewers will make many return visits to see how the viewing figures increase over the coming weeks. It brings a friendly competitive spirit into it - remember its all for fun. Thanks to YOUTUBE, the Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience is now known worldwide by organ-keyboard enthusiasts and music lovers. Keep looking to see what's new. View the videos 20.3.08 |
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Tesco Upsets Lyme Bay Residents The BBC South West news programme (Tuesday, 18th March 2008) revealed that the residents in the Lyme Bay area of Devon are upset about the forthcoming closure of their leisure resort, which includes a heated indoor swimming pool and gymnasium used by local inhabitants on a club basis. The report states that the supermarket chain, Tesco, have bought the ground for development. A spokesman for the Lyme Bay Leisure Resort says that holidays and site facilities will continue until January 2009. After that date holiday-makers will be offered holidays at their other sites at bargain prices - often saving up to £24. It appears that some holiday-makers have made a good investment by booking early and will not be disappointed with the alternative offers. The BBC News Report Other information on a positive note 20.3.08 |
Congratulations Claire!
Claire Greig writes to say she has passed her Masters degree and has sent a photo from her Graduation in Chester Cathedral. She is now a MSc in Exercise and Nutrition Science, allowing her to advise people on food intake, then go for a curry herself!
In 1989 we had a Keyboard Music and Wine Festival - perhaps we can think up something for a visit to a Keyboard Experience event - such as a music and keep fit session. Are there any ladies out there who want to improve their figures? Claire's website 18.3.08 |
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35 Festivals/Events To Choose From In 2008 It's another great year for organ-keyboard festivals and holiday breaks. Enthusiasts have a great choice to choose from with many people going to more than one because they enjoy them so much. To help you to choose the most suitable one for you we give some points for you to consider after you check on the link below:- 1. Is it an established event that has been running for many years? 2. Will you be booking directly with the venue or through the organiser? 3. Is optional cancellation (for any reason) insurance available for only £4? 4. Is it full or half board tariff? 5. Will the programme include new features and concerts with popular players - plus masterclasses, dancing, handcraft sessions for the ladies and cabaret with lots of laughter? 6. Does the venue have additional facitilies such as: an indoor heated swimming pool, gymnasium, snooker room, etc.? 7. Does the restaurant have a choice of meals plus an omelette and salad bar.? 8. Is there a waiter service to your own table? 9. Has the accommodation central heating with no meters for electricity - plus free coffee/tea making facilities? 10. Is the price right and good value for money? Complete List of Festivals as shown on the independent Organfax website. 7.3.08 |
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X FACTOR Coming to Lyme Bay in October 2008 The sessions will take place in the informal setting of the Lyme Bay Tavern lounge with expert players on hand to give comments and advice on their playing. Based on the response of the commentators and audience, a selection of players will go through to the finals the following day when the winner will given a free holiday from Martyn's Leisure Holidays - and also the opportunity to play a couple of tunes in the concert hall on the final evening. Who knows, it could be the the start of things to come with possible engagements at organ clubs? Cabaret X-Factor In addition to those showing their skill on the ivory keys, there will be also be an opportunity for vocalists to sing to the music of Ian Griffin, as in past events, but this time with the chance of going forward to the finals for the winner to given another Martyn's holiday. With two free holidays up for grabs it will give an added incentive for guests to join in the fun and take part with the chance of getting something really worthwhile for their efforts. Details, dates and how to book your holiday break. Remember, The Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience aims to give keyboard enthusiasts the most exciting holiday break they ever had - and the best value for money. LATE NEWS --- THIS IS THE LAST ORGAN-KEYBOARD EVENT TO TAKE PLACE AT LYME BAY - DON'T MISS IT! It moves to a new venue in 2009. Request a Martyn's Holiday Brochure NOTE. The Lyme Bay Keyboard and Cabaret X-FACTOR is a totally new form of keyboard related intertainment with a constructive element and should not be associated with any other event at any other venue. 8.3.08 |
Sheila's Cards At Keyboard Festivals
It is interesting to know that while the men are at organ-keyboard masterclasses or looking at what's new at dealer's showcases, the ladies will have somthing else to do at the Pontin's Pakefield Keyboard Cavalcade Festival (21st - 28th April 2008).Sheila Bower's handcraft sessions are where many ladies spend their time making a variety of greeting cards for all occasions. The hand made cards look very professional under Sheila's guidance, who shows various decorations to make them look exclusive. In addition to being at Pakefield, Sheila will also do similar sessions at the Pontin's Blackpool festival and at the Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience in October. A selection of readymade craft cards will also be available for sale for those who spend their time elsewhere at the festival. 16.3.08 New photo added. |
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Keyklix Secret To Be Revealed At Lyme Bay 
The big Keyklix secret will be revealed at the October Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience when Richard Bower will explain in a masterclass session how he reads Ian Griffin's mind in a musical way. With graphic illustrations, Richard will show how it is done and how others can do the same thing.
The session will deal with harmony and chord sequences when Richard will tell the audience what chords Ian is going to play - before he actually plays them. Ian will also reveal how pitch sensitivity is another part of Keyklix's ability to play in the most amazing way and the audience will be
invited to participate and challenge him with chord recognition.
Few enthusiasts know Richard's amazing ability to follow Ian when he plays a new number for the first time. In fact Ian often tests Richard's ability just for fun but has yet to catch him out. It can be said that the duo are prepared to share their secrets for others to benefit their playing. Both are looking forward to the next Lyme Bay Experience when all will be revealed. LATE NEWS --- THIS IS THE LAST ORGAN-KEYBOARD EVENT TO TAKE PLACE AT LYME BAY - DON'T MISS IT! It moves to a new venue in 2009. The Keyklix Website Ian's website Video of Ian Richard's website Video of Richard Video of Keyklix The Lyme Bay Experience - Booking information 10.3.08 |
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Fake Players The debate continues Robert New, organist, has written an interesting article on his experiences with professional musicians' in the recording industry. It highlights how the music scene is changing and suggests that the older generation do not appreciate this. Read what he has to say and the editorial replies and see what you think. Fake Players - Readers views 3.3.08 |
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Is This The Way To Get Larger Audiences? One secretary has come up with what may be the answer for some societies who complain of low or falling attendances. It is a completely new approach - and he says it's working. What's so different? To have the full story you must click on the link below. Many secretaries will be surprised when we reveal that there are no membership fees and there is not even a membership list also that less than 5% of those attending actually play an organ-keyboard. The attraction is the music - those attending concerts are music lovers. In addition to this, local businesses have increased their trade. Many secretaries have been asking us for ideas - well, here's one that has been proved to work. How to promote your club and get results 25.2.08 |
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The Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience New Webpage www.lymebayexperience.com The brand new webpage gives full details of The Lyme Bay Keyboard Experience, the location, the dates, the tariffs, the facilities and even a booking form. The players booked for the next event are also listed. The webpage will be developed to keep all enthuisiats informed about Britain's most popular weekend breaks. LATE NEWS --- The Keyboard Experience moves to a new venue in October 2009 - don't miss the last one at Lyme Bay. Details 25.2.08 |
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We Want Your Views and Comments Here's an easy way to send us your comments:- We look forward to hearing from you. |
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Front Page ADDITIONS and UPDATES: 20.02.08 Organshow.co.uk - Michael Cull videos Jean Martyn 17.02.08 Visit to Britain's oldest Wurlitzer 20.02.08 Robert Hope-Jones - Wurlitzer Creator 20.02.08 Down Town Dancing with Angie Diggens 17.02.08 Another success at Lyme Bay 17.02.08 More about star ratings - and a word from YOUTUBE 03.02.08 BBC iplayer - Link to KEYBOARDNEWS.COM 03.02.08 Video added to Roland news item 01.02.08 New Roland Atelier on YOUTUBE 01.02.08 Hammond Feature Programme on Organist Entertains iplayer 28.01.08 Keyklix Greetings from Holland 21.01.08 Are star ratings of any value? 20.01.08 Hammond Organs Making a Comeback? 20.01.08 The Lyme Bay Video Collection on Youtube 15.01.08 Area Concert Guide for Societies 07.01.08 Don't Give Away Your Email Adddress Book 06.01.08 Society Maps and aerial views of location 27.12.07 Yamaha Sales Policy In Question 27.12.07 Simon Smith's Tutorials 27.12.07 A New Name for Hollybush - new website info 23.11.07 Electone - More than a name? 26.11.07 Roland Atelier - Owners Club 14.11.07 News from the Yamaha World 22.10.07 The New Roland Ateliers 25.10.07 Yamaha compliment Roland? 26.07.07 Liverpool Echo Feature Click to see above items on Part 2 of Front Page FEATURE ITEMS: (Click to see KEYBOARDCHAT magazine feature contents) |
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