"It's a special thing from this region that we have remarkable talent, and Jerry is delighting audiences with the sounds of one of the most classic American experiences. It just doesn't get any better than that. We have Jerry play, but he doesn't just play. He talks to our audiences and explains things about the Wurlitzer organ, which is really exciting for our patrons and audiences both young and old."
"There are many other organists in the business that play better and more accurately than I do, and I always refer to them as the organists that want to impress people. That was the point where I said, 'I would much rather entertain my audience than impress them, so I will work on giving my audience a fun, good time.'"
"Jerry Nagano is a walking, talking, breathing slice of nostalgia."
Jerry Nagano is a veteran theater-organ performer and retired Stanford systems engineer who performs on historic Wurlitzer organs across the Bay Area. He plays restored instruments such as the California Theatre's 1928 Wurlitzer and salvaged pipes from local venues. He programs a mix of Broadway standards, contemporary shows like Hamilton, and classic rock arrangements while explaining the instrument to audiences of all ages. He emphasizes entertaining audiences rather than showcasing technical virtuosity. A small group of dedicated musicians and volunteers in the region maintain and preserve these classic American organs and experiences.
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