About the Compton Theatre Organ
A Short History
In the late 1920’s a church pipe organ was given an additional range of sounds and special effects so that silent movies could have accompaniment. A theatre organ is reputed to be the most complex musical instrument ever invented.
The Ballarat Theatre Organ Society owns the Compton Organ in Her Majesty’s Theatre. Built in England, this instrument (No 379) was installed in the Ritz Cinema in Warrington, Lancashire, England in 1937.
In the late 1920’s a church pipe organ was given an additional range of sounds and special effects so that silent movies could have accompaniment. A theatre organ is reputed to be the most complex musical instrument ever invented.
The Ballarat Theatre Organ Society owns the Compton Organ in Her Majesty’s Theatre. Built in England, this instrument (No 379) was installed in the Ritz Cinema in Warrington, Lancashire, England in 1937.
Timeline1969
Compton removed from Ritz Cinema due to lack of use 1970 Shipped to Melbourne and then purchased by Ballarat Theatre Organ Society. Installed in Her Majesty’s over ten years by volunteers 1982 Opening concert on 12th June 1982 to 1987 BTOS presented several concerts each year showcasing famous overseas artists and local musicians. Theatre owned by RSSS. 1988 to 1991 Her Majesty’s Theatre closed for restoration 1991 Concerts resumed at Her Majesty’s. Two concerts a year under agreement with Ballarat City Council 1999 Two Ballarat organists win sections of world wide American Theatre Organ Competition and go to England to play and receive awards 2000 Two more Ballarat organists win ATOS awards and go to America 2007 Pit cover installed limiting access to organ but concerts continue |
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