91-key (89) Marenghi 2456 playing: The Way You Look Tonight – Jerome Kern
This instrument was built in Paris c.1910; its early history is unknown, but by 1921 found its way to Derbyshire showman Harry Hall, who used it in his scenic whale switchback ride. The organ features one of only two known original examples of Marenghi’s ‘Grelotophone’ – a set of tuned sleighbells. It was later sold to West Country showmen Anderton & Rowland’s, who used it in their four-abreast galloping horse roundabout. The ride and organ passed to Sam Smart and, finally, The Kursaal in Southend-on-Sea. By 1968 the organ had suffered considerable damage and was purchased by Ted Reed for preservation. Chiappa Ltd, London rebuilt the instrument and James Tiller of Long Sutton redecorated the organ as you see it today.
