Outside Visit to St Thomas Church

Rotary Club of Birstall Luddites
Outside visit to St Thomas Church
Speaker Organist Ken Wright - Story of life in music

Ken started by talking about the church organ at St Thomas Church. The organ was installed in 1878 and was converted to electric in 2014.  It is a medium Conica size organ.
Ken pictured on left in front of St Thomas Church organ.
Ken talked of him starting learning the piano aged 6 and his progress at St Lukes Thornhill and St Andrews churches as he got older.
Ken gave his first recital with a song he plays at weddings 
" Love changes everything"
In 1967 Kens wife encouraged Ken to play in working mens clubs.

Initially at Batley Central Fri/Sat/Sun for £3 a session. This started Kens career playing for musicians and singers in local clubs. 
 
Ken talked of his father who worked at Thornhill Power station.
Ken started there as an apprentice electrician. They started a skiffle group "Engineers Rhythm group".

Ken played more organ music
and produced Gang Shows in Huddersfield and played the song
"on the crest of a wave" gang show classic.
Ken produced drama groups and played Sound of Music songs on the St Thomas organ.
Ken played the St Georges march in a service for the scouts.
and he  played the organ at most churches in the district.
Ken played for 30 years in clubland and finished the evening by playing "The Trumpet Voluntary."

Pictured below is President Steve thanking Ken for his talk and recitals.
The church stained glass window gives a beautiful backdrop.

below the church with Ken at the organ.