An American showman dubbed the “Pavarotti of the organ world” is descending on St Ann’s Catholic Church in Banstead.

Carlo Curley is more accustomed to playing in front of crowds of up to 4,000 and heads of Europe, including the late Princess Grace of Monaco.

In September he will be pulling out all the stops to raise funds for St Ann’s Primary School.

A spokesman said: “This is a man who argues Bach fathered modern-day rock ‘n’ roll and whose performances carry an informal air geared to entertaining.

“He has confessed his first taste of later stardom was an illicit one – breaking into a church as a child, having been refused entry by the priest. He need not fear such a cold reception in Banstead.”

Flick Saunders, music co-ordinator at the church, added: “This is an exciting event for Banstead and a real coup for St Ann’s. We are eagerly looking forward to welcoming Carlo to our church and we expect the evening to be a sell-out.”

The recital will be held from 7.30pm on Friday, September 11. For tickets, priced £10, call 01737 351 282.