NEW technology and careful restoration have ensured a historic pipe organ is looking and sounding its best ahead of the summer concert season.

Arguably the most comprehensive musical instruments ever devised, the theatre pipe organ has a distinct sound that transports listeners back to the glory days of British theatre, seaside holidays and silent films.

The Mighty Wurlitzer, located in Howden-le-Wear, near Crook, County Durham, is one of the finest remaining examples. And now, thanks to new audio-visual equipment and essential restoration work, audiences can experience its musical delights like never before.

With support from the Masonic Province of Durham, the North East Theatre Organ Association (NETOA) has bought additional screens and cameras to allow it to project footage of the organist playing the instrument from different angles. The internal workings of the Wurlitzer, including percussion instruments like the xylophone, can also be filmed and shown to the audience to enhance the experience further.

In addition to the new equipment, the keys have been readjusted and the pedal board has been cleaned and repainted. The worn out gold-plate adorning the 87-year-old organ has also been restored to its former glory.

John Heslop, chairman of NETOA, said: “When the organist is playing the theatre pipe organ he or she has their back to the audience and the audience can’t see what they are doing. The cameras have made a great difference and we’ve had a fantastic response from people so far. “It means the audience can see the organist from different angles, which really adds to the concert experience.”

The new equipment has arrived just in time for the summer concert season at the New Victoria Centre. Upcoming events include the New Vic All Stars with cream tea on Sunday at 2.30pm and Jean Martyn on Sunday, May 14, at 2.30pm. Tickets cost £8 and booking is essential.

A new CD is also in pipeline featuring a selection of ‘easy listening’ tracks performed by international recording and concert organist Howard Beaumont, of the Spa in Scarborough.

To find out more or to book tickets, visit netoa.org.uk or call 01388-762467.