BELPER began in the 13th century as a small settlement called Beaurepaire (beautiful retreat) in a Royal Forest. Today it is a vibrant town with a very diverse shopping centre.
It is also home to the small but friendly Belper & Organ & Keyboard Club.
The Club was formed in 1987 by three people sharing a common interest in organ music. In the early days the Club held it's meetings in various local public houses. The founder of the Club, a local businessman David Parkin, would take along his own Elka portable for members to play.
The Club became more popular locally, and members using their own instruments began to give charity concerts, raising vast sums of money for local and national charities.
It was during one such concert we came across Belper's oldest building, St.John's Chapel (1250 AD) now known as The Belper Heritage Centre. This was to become our social night venue for many years.
Over the years various fund raising events enabled us to purchase a Yamaha EL70 for members' use.
Since moving to the Congregational Church concert venue we have added to the EL70, a piano, Orla GT8000 Organs & Yamaha psr 2000 keyboard & the church's Orla Roma organ
Our venue: The Congregational Church, Church Walk, Belper, Derbyshire DE56 1DB
For a number of years Belper has won the best high street award. Why not treat yourself to a day out in Belper & browse our many varied shops, numerous coffee shops/tea shops and fish & chip shops.
Then finish off your day by making your way to our concert for an afternoon of superb keyboard music.
On the 2nd Saturday of each month at 2pm we present professional concerts, with the top names of the Organ & Keyboard world. Thanks to a dedicated team the church is transformed into a mini theatre with stage curtains, lighting, video projection and comfortable seating .
PLEASE NOTE THAT WHILST THE VENUE DOES HAVE SOME PARKING THERE ARE ALSO THREE PAY AND DISPLAY CAR PARKS ALL WITH IN 3 MIN WALK WITH REASONABLE CHARGES.
We now also have our own you tube channel & Facebook page.
Click on the links at the top right of the home page.
The charge for concerts is £10.00 payable at the door.
Refreshments available at the interval.
Great Value for an afternoon of the very best live keyboard music.
Many people have the idea that organ music is all about being in church. Ok we are in a church building, which is used on a daily basis for numerous activities. The Address is The Congregational Church but when you experience one of our concerts you are transported away to a relaxed atmosphere of popular music created individually by our visiting artistes.
Whilst the original Church Pipe & Theatre Organs can be brilliantly replicated by todays versatile electronic instruments, we are regularly treated to the sounds of Full Orchestras, Big Bands, Woodwind, Brass Bands, Guitars, Piano and modern sounds with many artistes also performing cabaret style vocals.
Every month we aim to provide a different type of instrument and playing style for your entertainment.
A warm welcome always awaits you at Belper Organ & Keyboard Club where our main objective is to promote the world of Electronic Organ & Keyboard music in a friendly atmosphere and encourage future generations into the wonderful world of organ & keyboard music.
Further Details are available from: Liz or Nigel 01773 827204
E mail : belperorganclub@aol.com or use the Enquiry contact us tab.
