Welcome to the website of the Empire Wurlitzer Theatre Pipe Organ

Len Rawle Residence, Chorleywood (Photographer unknown)
Len Rawle Residence, Chorleywood (Photographer unknown)

This website showcases the famous Empire, Leicester Square Wurlitzer Organ, its history, present and future.

Built in 1928, this instrument entertained over 50 million patrons throughout its life in the Empire, Leicester Square until 1961, when the theatre was closed for redevelopment and conversion into a new cinema & dance hall. The Wurlitzer was rescued by a young organist/enthusiast – Len Rawle, who installed the organ in his purpose-built house in Chorleywood, Hertfordshire. In 2015, Len sold the Wurlitzer to another like-minded enthusiast, who is currently building a purpose-built concert hall in Suffolk for the Empire Wurlitzer to be installed in. After a period of over 60 years, the Empire Wurlitzer will once again be able to be heard in public, following restoration and installation into its new home.