IN PERSON
Show / Display
Presentation
Thorngate Halls, Bury Road, Gosport, PO12 3PX
Experience a blast from the past with this hidden gem, a rare cinema organ, which is usually tucked away unseen behind the stage in Thorngate Hall…
But the organ will be out and ready for you to explore and enjoy for Heritage Open Days!
This Compton Pipe Organ has been in the Ballroom at Thorngate Hall since 1981 but was originally built to provide music and sound effects for silent films of the 1930s. The chambers contain over 900 pipes and a variety of percussion and sound effect instruments. This is the last of its type still surviving in original working order AND concert playable condition!
Your visit will include a brief history and explanation of the organ, followed by a viewing of the organ chambers which are truly ‘behind the scenes’. Finish this all off with a short but enjoyable recital by one of the Gosport & District Organ Club members, and the opportunity for visitors to “have a go”.
The organ is played regularly by amateur Club Members and also by International organ players who come for concerts.
Duration approx: 60-90 minutes
OPENING TIMES
Sunday 18 September: 1030 – 1530
BOOKING DETAILS
No booking required
ACCESS
Blue Badge and other parking on site. Charges apply. Level/ramped access to the hall for talk and music. Tours in the Organ Chambers are not wheelchair friendly, as access is narrow and many foot obstructions, but viewing from the doorway of part of the Chamber is possible.
COVID-19 Considerations
This event will run in line with local & national government guidelines at the time of the festival.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The presentation will be repeated throughout the day.
ORGANISED BY
WEBSITE
MAP/DIRECTIONS (approximate)
For travel information about how to get to and around Gosport, click here.
Thorngate Hall is next to Gosport War Memorial Hospital. It is on route for bus nos X5, 9/9A, E2.
To read a history of the Compton Organ click here
