Care Home Resident Plays Church Organ Again After Six Years

An 88-year-old former organist at a Methodist Church has got behind the keys for the first time in six years – thanks to the generosity of care home staff.

Downham Grange Nursing Home resident Brian Bannister was supported to attend his beloved Downham Market Methodist church and performed three hymns on the church organ following their Harvest Festival Service, led by the Revd Paul Critchley, according to Kingsley Healthcare (Back playing behind the church organ for Brian at Downham Market Methodist church | Kingsley Healthcare).

Mr Bannister, who was helped by activities coordinator Amy Belfield, played the organ at the church for many years, until 2020 when the coronavirus pandemic brought his playing to a halt.

Originally from Witnesham, five miles outside of Ipswich, Mr Bannister recalls stepping up and volunteering to play for an evening Christmas Day service in Downham Market church – the existing organist had already performed in the morning, and Mr Bannister wanted to help.

This experience led to Mr Bannister becoming a well-known face in the church community as he continued to play the organ for decades to come.

Ms Belfield said: “Brian was able to show us that at an age was just a number as he played.

“His first piano lesson was at 9 years old but now, at an amazing 88 years old, he still plays at ease, remembering the notes as if it was yesterday.”

Homes manager Kelly Bermingham added: “The home is no stranger to arranging these special moments for our residents."