INSTUMENTS IN OUR COLLECTION
We have a collection of different instruments that tour Cornwall at a range of events.
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STREET ORGAN 'BLAUWTJE'Blauwtje was used to collect money on the streets from the early 1920's - street busking with the Draaiorgel is a big part of Dutch culture. It started life as a '49 Key Marenghi Organ’, but within the first few years of its life, it was totally rebuilt! When Organ Builder Carl Frei invented ‘Bourdon’ pipework in the 1930’s, it was the ‘must have sound’ and many Organs were rebuilt including Blauwtje.
The Organ was rescued in the 1980’s and rebuilt by Johan Verbeeck. Blauwtje’s distinctive carved front was redecorated by famous Organ artist Feite Posthumus. After a further 30 years playing on the streets of Holland, Blauwtje was bought by James Dundon in 2011 and imported to the UK. Much work has been done to the organ including the addition of new pipework and redecoration. |
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''FAIR ORGAN 'TREVITHICK'Built in 1991 by renowned organ builder David Leach, this fairground organ is celebrated for its exceptional build quality and rich sound.
Trevithick seamlessly combines tradition and innovation. It plays melodies using the classic perforated cardboard book system - but also has the option of a MIDI system, enabling it to play tunes directly from a computer. How it works: perforated cardboard strips are fed through the organ, with the placement and length of the holes determining the notes and duration, creating beautiful tunes. Its pipework replicates the sounds of string instruments like violins and cellos, while woodwind pipes add flute-like tones. Real drums, powered by air and spring tension, complete the orchestra. The organ is named ‘Trevithick’ in honor of Richard Trevithick, the Cornish pioneer who inventing the first operational steam locomotive in the early 1800s. |
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handturned organsExplore our charming collection of hand-wound mobile instruments, designed to play delightful tunes using perforated cardboard books.
Perfect for events where mobile music is needed to add a special touch - or for indoor venues looking for a a little ambiance. We also bring these instruments to group talks at venues like Women’s Institutes (WI) and friendship clubs, sharing stories and melodies that spark nostalgia. Looking for entertainment at your residential home? Book us to bring back cherished memories of a bygone era with music that resonates with the heart. Contact us today to see how we can help. |