Organ playing skills in danger

Classical organ students Poppy and Kip Colling show off their musical ability at Ipswich’s Central Church.

Sarah Harvey

KIP and Poppy Colling are unaware that they embody the musical hopes of many classical organists.

For two-year-old Kip and his sister, 5, playing the organ is fun.

These Karalee siblings are students of music teacher Michelle Jaques, who's doing her best to keep the art of classical organ playing alive.

The need for young players is "desperate", she says.

"Most organists playing for churches are elderly.

"In 10 years time, some won't be able to play any more.

"If we don't do something, there will be nobody to replace them."

Ms Jaques is holding a Discover Pipe Organ session this Friday at Central Church, corner of Limestone and Gordon streets, Ipswich, from 6pm.

"It will include me, my friend Tom Appleton and students playing pieces, and any visitors who might like to have a go," she said.

"It is fairly rare that young people would have the opportunity to get their own hands on a pipe organ."

Emma Colling said her son Kip had "amazing musical ability".

"He's just starting to play organ after watching his sister do it," she said.

"It's a nice instrument to play because of the tones. It sounds different every time you play."