Robert Wolfe plays the Mighty Wurlitzer

As a 14-year old school boy and budding organist Robert Wolfe visited the Thursford Collection in Norfolk and approached founder George Cushing to ask if he could play the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ. Mr Cushing happily agreed, as he was already aware of Roberts musical talent, that gesture was to lead to a relationship between Robert and Thursford that has continued for over 40 years.

Little did Robert realise at that time but that brief encounter was to be the start of a long career entertaining the summer visitors at Thursford. Before he took up the full-time post as resident organist, Robert, at the age of 16, became the youngest musician to join the team playing at the famous Tower Ballroom in Blackpool, home of “ Mr. Blackpool”, the late Reginald Dixon. Incidentally, Robert played for Reg Dixon’s 80th Birthday party held at Thursford.

He remained there, seated at the world famous Wurlitzer in Blackpool until he was 19 returning to the Norfolk Museum occasionally for one-off concert appearances. In 1981 John Cushing offered Robert the role as the solo regular, or resident organist, a first for both Thursford and Robert. Having been part of the team for three years of what was essentially the British home of the Wurlitzer, it was a tough decision to make, but the past decades have proved it was a wise choice to leave the Premier Northern Seaside resort and head back to Norfolk. During the winter months Norfolks’ “King of the Keys” travels the UK extensively giving concerts.

We are looking forward to welcoming back Robert Wolfe to the Musical Museum.

Streaming tickets are available for this event for those unable to attend in person. https://www.musicalmuseum.co.uk/whats-on