An incredible treasure lays beneath Baycourt’s stage – one of the world’s most famous and rarest theatre pipe organs - the Mighty Wurlitzer.
This almost century-old instrument, known affectionately as the Mighty Wurli, rises dramatically from beneath the stage in the Addison Theatre to charm audiences with its unique sound. It was built in New York by the Rudolph Wurlitzer Music Corporation and was originally designed to accompany silent films. Thanks to almost 1000 pipes and 47km of wiring, it can replicate the sound of a full orchestra (including strings, brass, woodwinds and percussion) as well as produce theatrical sound effects like whistles, sleigh bells and thunder.
There are only four Wurlitzer organs left in New Zealand and Baycourt’s is in pristine condition. Regular maintenance is undertaken to ensure it functions flawlessly, and special concerts are held every year so audiences can enjoy this remarkable piece of musical history.
We are most grateful to the Tauranga Theatre Organ Society who help finance and maintain this organ on behalf of our city. If you would like to join the society, please complete this application form (4mb pdf).
A detailed history of Baycourt’s Mighty Wurli (2/10 Wurlitzer Model H Opus 1482) is available from Tauranga City Libraries’ online archive. Read the article about its colourful past and its journey from New York to Wellington, Tokoroa and eventually, Tauranga.