The Blackpool Tower Ballroom

Phil Kelsall MBE

How did it all start for you at the Tower: At eighteen I was recommended to play the Hammond Organ in the Tower Circus, then I deputized for Ernest Broadbent, former Tower Ballroom organist until he retired. The rest is history, as the saying goes!

What made you take up the Organ: As a boy I used to frequent the Blackpool Tower's Ballroom regularly. I remember watching legendary organist Reginald Dixon performing. The atmosphere was infectious and I must have imagined myself up there one day!

The Wurlitzer is celebrating 70 years this year. How does it compare to other organs you have played: I have played nearly every theatre organ in Britain but with the fine acoustics of the Ballroom the Tower Wurlitzer makes a totally unique sound and in my opinion is one of the finest ever built by Wurlitzer.

What particular highlights stand out during your time at the Tower: The most memorable has to be the Tower's Centenary Celebrations in 1994. Her Majesty The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited the ballroom and I was honoured to be introduced to them both.

How do you feel every time you rise up on the Wurlitzer in front of an audience in the Tower Ballroom: I do sometimes think as I'm half way through the stage what a strange way of earning a living!

In June 2010 Phil was awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours list for what was described as a "35 year love affair" with the Tower Ballroom.

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Chris Hopkins

What made you start playing the organ: The fact that the organ was much more versatile than any other instrument, you can create almost any sound on it.

What did you do before you started at the Tower Ballroom: I was an HGV and tanker driver for Texaco and Kellogg's.

How long have you been performing at the Tower Ballroom: Since 1995

What is your favourite piece that you play in the Ballroom and why: There are many favourite pieces but if I had to choose it would be "Music of the Night" from Phantom of the Opera.

What is your favourite band or performer: My favourite band is the Beatles, favourite performer Elvis Presley.

What do you think of the Wersi organ: A nightmare to Wurlitzer Organists! In my opinion, the Wersi is the best electronic organ in the world, nothing has been developed that comes anywhere near it. I think the technology is amazing and is the best thing to happen in the Ballroom since Reg Dixon. However, in the wrong hands, it can be musically fateful.

One unusual fact about you that would surprise the public: I do all the music for the Organ game on the Paul O'grady show.

If I weren't at the Tower Ballroom I'd be: Travelling the world, playing on cruise liners, touring the country playing concerts, dances etc.

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John Bowdler

What made you start playing the organ: My parents found I had a passion for music as early as 6 years old. I started on a small home organ, then had lessons at 8 years until I left school at the age of sixteen.

What did you do before you started at the Tower Ballroom: I played at hospitals and did charity work. At the age of 16 I got an audition to play in the Winter Gardens which led to me playing at Blackpool tower.

How long have you been performing at the Tower Ballroom: 18 years

What is your favourite piece that you play in the Ballroom and why: Various sounds, but I really like Ragtime.

What is your favourite band or performer: Robbin Williams.

What do you think of the Wurlitzer and Wersi organs: Wurlitzer is a fabulous sound and in my opinion one of the best in the world. The Wersi has got some great sounds.

One unusual fact about you that would surprise the public: There is a Race Horse called Bouncing Bowdler named after me.

If I weren't at the Tower Ballroom I'd be: On the Organ circuit full time entertaining around the country, playing for dancing and concerts.

David Lobban

What made you start playing the organ: A love of music from an early age. Being involved in the installation of organs and as an apprentice organ pipe builder gave me the determination to become a professional musician.

What did you do before you started at the Tower Ballroom: An apprentice organ pipe builder, played in Canada and the USA, Malaysia, Taiwan, Musical Director of Gerry Cottles Circus, cruise ships and much, much more.

How long have you been performing at the Tower Ballroom: From 1992 to 1995 and from 2000 to present.

What is your favourite piece that you play in the Ballroom and why: Too many favourites to name.

What is your favourite band or performer: As a musician I try to appreciate and learn from a whole array of bands, groups and performers. My tastes range from classic to hip hop, some jazz to funk.

What do you think of the Wurlitzer and Wersi organs: The Wurlitzer is the jewel in the companies' crown and we are so lucky to have such a magnificent and breathtaking Ballroom with wonderful acoustics.
The Wersi is one of the most exciting orchestral packages yet designed, with no limits to artistic progress which is paramount to musical development. I look forward to properly exploring and utilizing this potential in the future.

One unusual fact about you that would surprise the public: I used to be involved in breeding champion Burmese Pedigree Cats and was involved in the rearing of Tiger Cubs at the Circus in Malaysia.

If I weren't at the Tower Ballroom I'd be: Either touring with a circus, or teaching in the Far East. For now, being able to perform in the world's most famous Ballroom on the Wurlitzer and Wersi is enough to keep my Wunderlust at bay!