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Geoff Todd |
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Geoff was founder Chairman of the British Organ Grinders' Association BOGA which was formed in 1992 by the late Peter Churchard following an exploratory meeting at Geoff and Joan's Deddington home. When Geoff stood down from the position in 2006 he and Joan were appointed Honorary Life Members of the association. Each year they play their street organ for traditional Christmas Eve carols around the village Christmas tree in the Market Place. The event is attended by around 400 people who are also able to enjoy a glass of mulled wine supplied by local licensed premises. Telephone: 01869 338532 |
Geoff and Joan Todd purchased their Trueman 21 street organ in 1991 from organ builder Peter Trueman of Derby. It is hand turned with 20 pipes, a small bell and a glockenspiel and uses music books (perforated card) to produce its cheerful sound. The couple first discovered this form of mechanical music at the village of Contravoz (Ain) while holidaying in France a few years earlier. Since acquiring their organ they have regularly participated in street organ festivals in France, Belgium and Holland as well as the UK. Over the years they have used their instrument to raise funds for a variety of charities including Macmillan Cancer Support and the local Cheshire Home. In 1992 Geoff started the annual Banbury Street Organ Festival and ran it for 13 years before Banbury Town Council took it over. This festival has raised many thousands of pounds for local charitable appeals including that for the Fine Lady on a White Horse statue, a number involving Banbury's Horton General Hospital as well as Macmillan Cancer Support and the Cheshire Home. The festival is usually held on the first weekend in September.
Most months the organ is played at Deddington Farmers' Market (normally the 4th Saturday of the month) to entertain shoppers and stallholders. The couple are also frequently found around the area giving talks to local organisations and clubs. When playing they are easily recognised by their Pearly King and Queen costumes made by Joan.