Paramount to the unforgetable S.F. Fox ... I'll play this record - the way it is, and enjoy the sounds of the mighty theatre pipe organ - the way it was. Also looking forward to all future issues of THEATRE ORGAN, I remam Your very truly, John Mecklenburg Central Indiana Chapter eHAPTERNOTE~

Dear Sir: I found the article by John Muri, "Our National Music," quite in­ and versatility of numbers at the teresting. One thing which happened Let us know what's Alabama Theatre Wurlitzer made along the road to the selection of a happening in YOUR Chapter! for most enjoyable listening. National Song, or "Anthem," was Send Photos and News to: Our chapter was saddened by the overlooked. Mr. Muri was probably passing of Norville Hall this past too young to have encountered it. GEORGE THOMPSON P.O . BOX 1314 month. He was a valued and loved About the time I was in third SALINAS , CALIFORNIA 93902 member of our chapter, having grade grammar school (1911-12) a known the Alabama Theatre since form of petition from the school Deadlines it was constructed and actually children of the U.S. was being pre­ Jan . 1st . for Feb ./ Mar . helped to uncrate and install the prepared. All school children were Mar . 1st. for Apr. / May Alabama Theatre Wurlitzer in 1927. May 1st. for June / July polled as to their preference for "The We will all miss him. Star Spangled Banner" or "America July 1st . for Aug ./ Sept . Sept . 1st . for Oct ./ Nov . RIEDEL WEST The Beautiful." We were told that Nov . 1st . for Dec ./ Jan . Congress would be notified of our vote when they took up the matter of legalizing our National Anthem. "America The Beautiful" won out ALABAMA because, to us, it was easier to sing May and June were very busy and was more inspiring. months for the members of the Ala­ Congress voted the other way and bama Chapter - all of us were in­ the "Star Spangled Banner" was volved in planning for the 1978 finally legalized as our National ATOS Convention. This is a team Anthem. The objection to "America effort in every sense of the work, and The Beautiful," we were told, came I believe our chapter has the best from those with an anti-religion possible members any chapter could sentiment who complained that the want - nearly everyone has pitched piece appeared in "too many Hym­ in to make sure the "Alabama Day" nals" of different denominations. is a success. Our monthly meeting For that matter in recent years that for May was planned as open con­ has happened to "God Bless Amer­ sole to allow our various committees ica" as we] I. to get together and firm up the last From years of playing in theatres. bit of planning for the convention, for large audiences, and, at the and also to allow our members to try circus during patriotic pageantry, their talents on our 4/ 20 Alabama Cathy Hoffman , artist for the Alabama Chapter "America The Beautiful" brings the Theatre Wurlitzer. The music and June meeting. best audience participation, or re­ planning were well-received. sponse. and the most spirit. I. there­ For our June meeting, we were de­ fore favor that piece. lighted to have Cathy Hoffman back CEDAR RAPIDS This same subject recently came with us. Cathy and her parents made This coming September 1. CRA TOS up in the Retired Officers Associ­ the trip down from Bristol, Tennes­ extends a big invitation to join us in ation publication "letters" with see, and delighted our members with celebrating the 50th Anniversary of somewhat similar results. It seems two programs. Her first stop was at the opening of the Paramount. It is that there is a movement to finally the Don Cole's, in Northport. where in unbelievably pristine condition, make "America The Beautiful" our she had a ball at the 2/ 6 Robert having just been completely redeco­ National Anthem. Morton that Don and Alleen recently rated to exactly like new. True, it Yours sincerely. installed. Our members in the west­ doesn't have palm trees, minarets. Harry J. Jenkins ern Alabama area were treated to a an Arabian Nights motif, star-stud­ Lt. Col. USAF. Retired great performance by this young ded ceiling, or elephant heads taunt­ San Diego. Calif. D lady. Cathy's stylings. registrations ing the patrons. instead it is a non-

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 55 distracting house which accom­ follows: Charles Stanford, chair­ which we toured the pipe chambers. modates whatever personal mood man; Jan Bennett, vice chairman; It was discovered they could hold up you brought in with you. It probably and Tom Hoehn, secretary-treasurer. to fifteen ranks instead of eight as is the outstanding example for its Since Don Baker resides in the area, per the original 2/ 8 installation plus age with the fewest changes in basic a motion was made and carried to use of the proscenium arch for per­ design of circa 1928 theatre archi­ initiate him as an honorary mem­ cussions. It was decided at this meet­ tecture. ber. ing we would participate in a musical Present plans include a day-long Our goal at the present is to find film festival at the Tampa to raise celebration with Hector Olivera as and install a pipe organ in the Tam­ money for the organ fund. the featured performer. pa Theatre. Since the theatre has For our fourth meeting we travel­ We believe that a lot of people been named a national historical ed to Lakeland to play the 2/ 4 Bar­ will be surprised to find a theatre ex­ landmark, federal funds are coming ton at the Carpenter's Home, a re­ actly as they remember it. We also into the cigar city to restore the the­ markably well-designed installation wish to again reiterate our municipal atre to it's original condition, in­ with the organ and chambers at the gratitude to CRATOS member Peter cluding the pipe organ. The three left side of the auditorium. Open F. Bezanson who gave the theatre staff orgnists at J. Burns have vol­ console was welcomed by all. The to the city of Cedar Rapids as a The­ unteered, along with the manage­ regular meeting was held at Holiday atre for the Performing Arts. ment, to give a benefit concert for Music in Lakeland, Fla. Our logo Once again, the Paramount housed the Tampa Theatre organ. was submitted and accepted by the a near-SRO audience on May 20 for Our second meeting was held at membership. our 18th Silent Movie Night/Organ Stanford Music in April. Secretary At this writing, we have thirty Spectacular featuring Ron Rhode. Tom was in Sebring, Fla., concert­ members and two Wurlitzers at our He played a nice program which izing so veep Jan took over the pen disposal. The J. Burns Pizza organ was well-liked by the people. We and scroll. Open console was held on 3/25 and a 2/7 Style E at Central were impressed with his use of origi­ the Conn 580 Theaterette. The chair­ Music Warehouse, St. Petersburgh, nal music which was free of dis­ man called the meeting to order and Fla. Our membership area includes traction to accompany the Laurel presented ideas for stationery and a 125-mile radius from Tampa. Any­ and Hardy film. CRATOS is proud membership cards. The ideas were one wishing more info about our to proclaim a paternal interest in accepted and sent to the printers. A chapter. may contact us - P.O. this young man. program chairman was elected. Bill Box 82419, Tampa, Fla. 33682. LOREN FRINK Coffman of Lakeland. Bob Lillie of Holiday Music. in Moving along to our third meet­ Lakeland. has consented to donate CENTRAL FLORIDA ing. our members were treated to the a Wurlitzer electronic spinet to us Well, here it is finally, our first splendor of the "Andalusian Bon­ to raffle off at one of our benefit con­ Chapter Notes. Bet you thought we'd Bon" of the Tampa Theatre, com­ certs. We are also in the process of never do it. plete with "doves circling in the bal­ getting our corporate and nonprofit Our first meeting was held in cony, peacocks preening on the or­ status. Wish us luck!! March at J. Burns Pizza & Pipes, 103 gan grilles and Christopher Colum­ TOM HOEHN E. Fowler, Tampa Fla. Approxi­ bus discovering the orchestra pit." mately 20 ambitious members ar­ to quote Ben M. Hall. The meeting rived and enjoyed the food, fellow­ opened with a short concert given by CENTRAL OHIO ship and organ music of Don Baker Bob Lillie at the Wurlitzer Model Dave Love and his mother. Mar­ at the 3/25 Wurlitzer. An election of 950 plug-in. Open console followed tha. hosted our March meeting. officers was held, the results are as the regular business meeting after Dave had his Hammond and Kim-

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56 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 ball available for our use. We en­ Zanesville home of Rosemary and popular through the years. joyed a fine concert by Dave and two Bob Hamilton to enjoy their 3/21 The final scheduled number on of his students, Alberta Lipp and Morton. The guest artist was Earl the program was a masterful ren­ Ruth Chervier, attested his success Reisdorff. A pre-med student, Earl dition of the "Carmen Suite" (Bizet). as an organ teacher. With two or­ plays a 3/ 9 Kimball at the Lamp­ The opera house Marr & Colton or­ gans available it was pretty much a lighter Restaurant in Olmstead gan was given a real workout with night of duets. Tom Hobson and Falls, Ohio. Many members were this one, and both organ and organ­ Stanley Jay are good in this area and aware of his adeptness at 'trilling' - ist shone brilliantly. we are always glad to have both pres­ not too often heard on a pipe organ, Needless to report, after this rare ent when more than one organ is and outstanding solo pedal work. treat, we called it an evening. but on hand. Also a composer, Earl played his not without having our concert com­ April was the "How Sweet It Is" own tune, "Forever Yours," ar­ mittee chairman, Stillman Rice, month with our Wurlitzer at the ranged in the 1940's style of pop announce that Mr. Koury will be Worthington High School sounding ballads. Open console followed back next year. Good news. indeed, for the first time. Our program be­ Earl's concert with many members and "thank you," Mr. Koury. gan with two movies from Willard taking part. Our June meeting was held at the Ebner's collection of oldies and a Our congratulations to Heidi home of Preston and Bea Miller in slide show presented by Bob Shaw James on her election to member­ Glastonbury, Ct. Open console was showing some of the restoration of ship in the American society of Com­ the order of the afternoon. At 7:30 the organ when it was in a down­ posers, Authors and Publishers p.m .. Chairman Ray called the busi­ town warehouse plus the pictures of (A.S.C.A.P.). ness meeting to order and went the actual moving of the Wurlitzer IRENE BLEGEN through the items expeditiously, to the school. Secretary Tom Thorn­ so that member Allen Miller. our ton said it best in his newsletter and chapter founder, could get on with I quote: "So folks, the last meeting the promised concert on his own CONNECTICUT VALLEY was a high point in our work. We pipe organ which he designed and were all most happy. I think the ex­ In May. we were introduced to built. This is a remarkable instru­ pression on Stan Arsenault's face Rex Koury in concerts at the Thom­ ment and an outstanding example told the story. Stan, our closest con­ aston Opera House. His first per­ of Al's technical capabilities. tact with the school, had to have real formances in Thomaston were most His musical talents are also note­ wondering, was this thing really enthusiastically received and justly worthy as we once again enjoyed an going to be worth the time and ef­ so. We were treated to a program hour of Al's fine arranging and play­ fort we were putting into it, and which was varied, well-chosen, gen­ ing. We especially enjoyed hearing more important, would it be an asset erous, and truly artistically executed. him play his very own instrument. to the school? That meeting let us all To the obvious delight of the audi­ Al will appear with Tom Gnaster know it is worth it and will be a great ence, the program was liberally in­ in formal concert at the Thomaston joy to the school." terspersed with music of several of Opera House on September 22nd We have a long way to go to com­ the enduring composers; Tscaikow­ and 23rd. pletion. Actually hearing the organ sky, Bizet, Herbert Friml, Chopin The Scholarship Committee, this was what we needed to rejuvenate and Thomas. We are seldom favored year under the chairmanship of Tom sagging spirits and bent backs. The with such musical variety. The pro­ Gnaster. took considerable satis­ adrenalin is running and it is now gram covered the musical spectrum faction in this year's competition. fu 11steam ahead. with classics, standards, and con­ The playing this year was outstand­ Going from our own pipes to temporary selections. ing. Senior competition winners electronic might seem like a letdown A special delight was the "Grande were David Senak, 12, of Bristol. but not when the meeting is hosted Valse Brilliante" (Chopin). very first prize. and Ronald Fabry of by Dale Durthaler. Dale's Home of nicely keyed to the organ. For an Shelton. second prize. Junior com­ the Lowery Organ is a great meet­ "extra," requested by Rosa Rio, was petition winner was Cheryl Larri­ ing place but even greater when you the Gunsmoke theme music, com­ vee. 12, of Waterbury. get Dale's expert demonstration of posed by the artist and, he said, WALLACE F. POWERS the organs. Members were all over played by him about 4,000 times. the studio enjoying, listening to and Heard in its entirety, it becomes an playing the multitude of organs. On enjoyable composition. DAIRYLAND leaving. Dale gave each family a Rex Koury was with the late Jesse copy of the Dennis Awe recording Crawford for awhile in New York. so In May. members and friends of the Lowery. our program included. as a tribute were treated to an excellent concert Our June meeting was a nice to Crawford, musical pieces most by Kay McAbee at the home of Fred change of pace. We met at the sum­ frequently featured by him, all done Hermes. mer cottage of Jim Hamilton along in the Crawford style, and very well, Kay started out with a medley the Muskingum River near Zanes­ too. Victor Herbert and Rudolf from Carousel to show off the ver­ ville for a potluck picnic and games Friml were given a place on the pro­ satility of Fred's Wurlitzer. His pro­ and Honda riding. A very pretty and gram with selections from their op­ gram also included two excellent nice place to be on a hot summer erettas from both stage and screen. classical pieces. day. In the evening we went to the It is obvious why their work remains Aside from the music. our host

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER. 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 57 explained to us that it has taken him twenty-two years to get his instal­ lation looking like it does. Recently, Fred has been adding to the decor of the place by installing parts of a leveled Racine theatre. The organ out of this theatre is being installed by club members at the Racine The­ atre Guild Building. He has in­ stalled some of the grillwork in front of his swell shades and is presently working from the organ pit to the rear of the theatre. Probably, if all goes smoothly, he'll be done in an­ other twenty-two years. Our project at the Racine Theatre Guild is coming along fine and should be ready in early 1979. Member Perry Petta is really start­ ing to make a name for himself. In May, he played a concert for Eddie Weaver at the Stc;:meham Town Hall 2/ 14 Wurlitzer, explains how Chopin wrote the "Minute Waltz." CATOE at Downer's Grove High /R . Schwe iger Photo / School and is also playing at the Organ Piper in Milwaukee. Not nations for endless tone coloring and ation in playing one number, then bad for a teenager. Well done, Perry. appropriate use of traps and per­ a second, followed by both simul­ Clark Wilson, the new organist at cussions. He remembered the earlier taneously. Our seniors responded Pipe Organ Pizza, played a concert radio days with the beautiful theme heartily to t!le brief sing-along with at the Genesee Theatre in Wauke­ of the Firestone program and that of many in good voice, and his thought­ gan. 111., for our June social. The TV's All in the Family. For novelty, fully planned program had music Barton Organ was completely re­ he played Chopin's "Minute Waltz" appropriate for both Mothers' Day built by members of CATOE from a with a large timer near the console, and Sunday, which gave further bal­ water soaked mess. Both the organist and the 60-second buzzer sounded ance to his program. The concerts and the organ received a well-de­ just as our veteran organist played were over all too soon for this rare served round of applause from mem­ the last note - a dead heat. career theatre organist of the older bers who attended. The youngsters present were not school who has kept pace with his WILLIAM CAMPBELL forgotten as Eddie showed that the­ constant playing. Eddie explores atre organ is "right with it" (as he the organ and is in tune with his is) by cleverly playing familiar mu­ audiences. sic with a disco beat, including "The May 27 was our regular meeting EASTERN MASS. Hu tle." night at Babson with Royal "at the How does one do justice in de­ Charlie Clarke supplied a fine old helm." Tim Holloran introduced our scribing the talents of our spring silent comedy, The Blacksmith with artist of the evening, Dr. Jonathan concert artist, Eddie Weaver, who Buster Keaton, allowing our old pro Kleefield. When Jon is not at Mas­ made his fourth appearance in May? full scope with marvelous cueing. A sachusetts General Hospital as a It was evident that he is a very tal­ further nostalgic touch was a brief skilled neuroradiologist, he is happy ented organist who has played the­ sing-along. Eddie received a hearty on the bench of a theatre pipe organ. atre organ continuously for over SO and deserving ovation for his ex­ His pleasure in performing is very years. Few others have such a record! cellent program and we were re­ evident in his playing as well as his This exuberant showman is a witty, warded with the lively "Granada" avowed "wedding to this mass of humorous personality with an un­ as a fitting encore. wood and pipes, for a long time," usual ability to tailor his programs The second weekend concert was he hopes. to please all musical tastes. Between on the Stoneham Town Hall 2/ 14 His program was well thought out playing pipes two shows nightly at Wurlitzer. Two bus loads of senior with numbers of Leroy Anderson, the Richmond, Va. Byrd Theatre citizens who were in attendance for Broadway showtunes, old favorites, Wurlitzer, concertizing, broadcast­ the afternoon performance were movie music and other listenable ing. recording. and entertaining at among those welcomed, including all tunes, tastefully registered. resulting a Hammond at the Miller & Rhoads mothers, by Chairman Royal Schwei­ in long applause and an encore. Tea Room, there is no shortage of ger. He expressed thanks to Art Sunday afternoon at Babson, May energy with Eddie. Goggin and his crew for the many 28. was a casual open house gather­ Eddie's program on our club Wur­ hours spent in getting both organs ing around the Wurlitzer with several litzer was a real crowd pleaser with concert-ready, and then introduced playing members, including our ex­ something for everyone. Those busy our artist. Eddie gave a similar con­ theatre organist, Len Winter. He in­ hands and feet made our organ work cert without the silent (too much cluded a "Name-That-Tune" seg­ with constantly changing combi- light) and introduced a clever vari- ment as well as a request session.

58 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST / SEPTEMBER. 1978 Rosalie and Pat Fucci had their Although Danny collects and lis­ annual cookout for EMC members tens to theatre organ recordings. he and guests on Sunday , June 11. has developed his own style. He Their hospitality extended to the greatly admires the work of George basement where resides a 4/ 19 Rob­ Wright. Danny believes Houston ert Morton. Pat and Charlie Clarke has a great potential as a city of showed slides of the organ 's rebuild­ many theatre organ enthusiasts and ing as well as a number of short sub­ looks forward to working with mem­ jects. followed by several having a bers of the Houston Area Chapter. go on the bench as a perfect close GEORGE R. HOCKMEY ER to the event. Our final meeting until Septem­ ber occurred at Babson. June 24. INDIANAPOLIS again with Royal in charge. Program The chapter May meeting was held Chairman Holloran introduced at the Anderson Music Co. in Ander­ member Tim Bjareby as our evening son, Indiana. Tim Needler was the artist. giving a thumbnail sketch of artist of the day, playing Bruce his organ background. Tim 's best­ William Tunstall (George R. Hack meyer Photo / Thompson 's 2/ 6 Wurlitzer and known teacher was Miss Doris Tir­ everyone enjoyed his playing as al­ rell. a regular on the Boston air­ cated theatre organ enthusiasts and ways. His program consisted mainl y ways "back when." they are missed by their fellow mem­ of Cole Porter selections and a clos­ Tim has changed and improved bers in Houston. ing rendition of "Waltz of the Flow­ his style along with commentary On April 1st Danny Ray took over ers" from Nutcracker Suite. between selections. His program Jerr y Bacon's duties at Pipe Organ The news media has it that the showed very careful planning and Pizza 's 3/ 31 Wurlitzer after Jerry beautiful old Indiana Theatre has the fitting of available tone colors returned to Dallas after a little more been saved from the demolition to best advantage. His first selection than a year in Houston. squad and is in the hands of the city was in the style of Ken Griffin with Dann y, who comes to Houston of Indianapolis. This will be the new little improvising, following closely from Landmark Pizza & Pipes in home of the Indiana Repertory The­ to the melody. "I Never Knew," in Dallas. where he put in two years as atre. The Indiana is to undergo some the Jesse Crawford mold , was next musical director and organist. has remodeling but the Spanish Baroque and both could easily be indentified. already made many friends among of glazed terra cotta tiling and in­ A typical beginner at the piano was the Houston pizza and organ lovers. terior Grand Corridor will be pre­ well-imitated at the organ. The bal­ Shortly after his arrival he joined the served. The Indiana Roof Ballroom ance of his program were nice ar­ Houston Area Chapter. (past home of the big bands and rangements of Cole Porter, George Born in Ft. Worth, Texas , Danny name performers) will be used for a Gershwin and old favorites. includ­ was a music major at Texas Christain convention center as well as for social ing the complicated Brahm's "Hun­ University. Here he studied church events. It is nice to know that the garian Dance No. S." Tim also in­ music. concentrating mainly of the profound efforts of many can still cluded a tango with all the required pipe organ. His initiation to theatre save something beautiful from the traps and percussion in skating-rink organ was at the famous Casa Mana­ past and put it to good use for the tradition of playing. His good form na. where Rex Koury played a con­ future. earned him long and appreciative cert several years ago on the 3/ l l The June meeting was held at applause by an attentive audience, Wurlitzer which had originally re­ Frank and Francis May's home in resulting in a nice encore. sided in Fort Worth's Worth The­ in Kokomo. There was a good at­ STANLEY C. GARNISS atre. tendance and the day was a success. The wonderful 4/ 18 Barton instal­ lation in the Mays' home is reall y HOUSTON AREA something to be proud of. Frank has Past chairman of the Houston Area worked on this installation for six­ Chapter, William H. Tunstall. has teen years. He certainly turned out left Houston to accept a position as a beautiful product. An electronic building manager of the Buckner string bass and a side pull-out draw­ Square Office Park in Shreveport, er which houses a synthesizer was Louisiana. added. It is a magnificent sounding A native of Mobile. Alabama. Bill instrument and has a nice easy-pla y­ and his wife, Mary Jo. came to Hous­ ing action. The artists of the da y ton about six years ago. During their were Carroll Copeland, Ken Double stay here they made many friends and Tim Needler. Carroll. for an and were active in various musical opener, played a medley of nostalgic groups. They were instrumental in hits. Ken then played a mixture of helping to organize the Houston new and old including Barr y Mani­ Area Chapter last summer. low's "I Can't Smile Without You." Bill and Mary Jo are truly dedi- Danny Ray (George R. Hackm eyer Pho to/ His arrangements were interesting

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER , 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 59 Having him in person in our best theatre, on our 'Anglicised' Wur­ litzer, and before our own audience, added a whole new and unexpected dimension to our already fullsome appreciation of this sensational and legendary star, on the celebration of our first birthday. As it turned out, George is par­ ticularly fond of London, took an instant liking to our favourite 4/16 'Torch' Wurlitzer in the famous Gaumont State Theatre, Kilburn in North London, and was a sellout at­ traction several weeks before con - cert day on Sunday April 30th. This was the day that so many of the British theatre organ fraternity Husband-manager Bill Yeoman narrates as Rosa Rio plays soap opera themes at Rockford's Coronado Theatre. had awaited so long - the day when (Bil/Lamb Photo/ we would be able, for the first time, to hear George at a Wurlitzer organ and very enjoyable. Tim then joined provide us with balancing feats, and in England. Never before, in its him on the Hammond "H" in a jam De Yip Loo, World's #1 Chinese colourful 40 years can the Gaumont session playing old-time standards. Magician will confound all present State have been the focal point for Tim couldn't stay away from the with amazing magic. enthusiasts from all parts of the pipe so finished off with a beautiful Restoration of the usher signal country and indeed from several arrangement on "This Nearly Was system at the Coronado is now com­ parts of the world (including the Mine" from South Pacific. Open plete, which also includes signals Netherlands, Spain, Australia and console followed. for the artists in the dressing rooms the USA), and it certainly was most BEE BUTLER from the switchboard back stage. heartening to our chapter, as well as We would be interested in how many the theatre management, to see the of these signal systems are still work­ 1,800-seat auditorium filled to ca­ LAND OF LINCOLN ing around the country. If you know pacity with so many dedicated and of one, please write to LOLTOS, On June 15th, Rosa Rio appeared appreciative people. We were also c/ o Coronado Theatre, P.O. Box delighted to have West Coasters in concert at the Coronado Theatre 118, Rockford, 111.611 OS. in Rockford, 111., in Rosa By Star­ Judd Wal ton and Bob Jacobus with light. She did an excellent job on BOB SCHMOOCK many concert numbers, but the out­ standing feature of the evening was a nostalgic look back to the days of LONDON AND SOUTH the radio 'soaps,' when Rosa played OF ENGLAND the background music for many of We have had the pleasure of hav­ the old favorites. Husband-manager ing our mutual good friend Lowell Bill Yeoman, narrated while Rosa Ayars over to establish a significant played the old themes on the 4/ 17 first on the British organ scene - a Barton, and slides of the stars of the hom e pipe organ tour. Playing Brit­ shows appeared on the screen. She ish Comptons and Christies in three closed her appearance with a splen­ residence venues, he also gave two did performance of Ferdy Grofe's delightful musical evenings at Wur­ Grand Canyon Suite, while pictures litzer Lodge, home of Edith and Les taken in the depths of the canyon Rawle. Lowell also played the Comp­ were shown in wide-screen splendor. ton in the Regal Cinema at Henley­ Comments from the audience in­ on-Thames. He gave another con­ dicated that everyone enjoyed an cert at the very fine sounding Comp­ evening of great entertainment. ton / Christie organ in the Town Hall Everyone in LOLTOS is looking at Ossett in Yorkshire - which was forward to October 22nd, when the supported by a chapter coach party 51st birthday of the Coronado will from the London area. be celebrated with another great What else is there to say about the variety show. Myron Floren of The great George Wright that has not al­ Lawrence Welk Show will be the ready been said so many times over. featured attraction, Chad Weirick When he comes to London for his

will be the organist. Jay Marshall first pipe organ concert, the answer Lowell Ayars during his home pipe organ tour in will emcee. The Great Lamberti will is -plenty. England . (John D. Sharp Photo/

60 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 Our monthly chapter at home meetings, mainly held at Wurlitzer Lodge, are highly popular and well­ attended. Live organ music, chat, records, tapes, silent films and slide shows have all been featured. Good news, too, on the organ front itself from two other well-known chapter members - Father Gerard Kerr and George Harrison. To­ gether they have most successfully transplanted the delightful vintage Compton formerly in the Rialto / Granada Leytonstone in East Lon­ don to St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in nearby Hornchurch, Es­ sex. Opened and dedicated during the 1976 ATOS Safari, this instru­ George Wright and Len Rawle prior to George's concert at the 4/16 Wurlitzer in Gaumont State Theatre, ment is a frequent and popular Kilburn. (John D. Sharp Photo) chapter attraction and currently con­ sists of seven conventional pipe us. who had come over especially in appreciation of his first visit to ranks plus two ranks of harmonics for this concert. Kilburn. for synthetic reeds (Krumhorn, Opening with his up-beat ren­ This most exciting day was then Clarinet and Baryphone). By adding dition of "I Got Rythm," George's rounded off with a delightful dinner a relay to the top (coupler) manual programme was a mixture of his at a nearby hotel - in what was also it is now intended to add a further greatest standards carefully and de­ effectively the first mass social gather­ seven ranks to be operated from this lightfully blended with modern and ing of chapter members. manual and the appropriate work is lesser-heard items. Chosen almost Two more discs have emerged already well-advanced. on-the-spot to match the mood of on the Amberlee label - which On a sad note, we mourn the pass­ the day, every number drew its own interchanges with Doric. The Brit­ ing of our member Ernest Houlden, particular appreciation, all charac­ ish label that is run by Organ En­ a life-long devotee of the organ and teristically in the 'Wright' touch; all thusiasts for Organ Enthusiasts. organ music. His technical knowl­ combined to provide a feast of mu­ is the highly successful and appreci­ edge of organs, theatre as well as sical charm and delight. Each was ated venture of chapter members traditional. was very extensive and played in absolutely exquisite, if John Peters and John and Noreen over the years he had amassed a vast mainly muted, stylings and regis­ Foskett. collection of data on installations trations. Our universally popular trans­ and specifications which has been George showed that his most de­ atlantic member David Hamilton, bequeathed to the Royal College of lectable tones are produced by small now resident in Chicago and giving Organists. In the mid-1930s Ernest registrations. often with merely two musical promotions and presen­ was invited to join the committee of to four stops and with the shutters tations throughout the world for Bernstein (Granada) theatre circuit only just open. Thus, he was able Conn, has cut David Hamilton in organists - which notably also in­ faithfully to reproduce so many of Conn-cert (AEL 205) featuring the cluded Reginald Dixon - to devise the sounds which have long been fa­ three-manual Conn 651 with Conn the specification of the famous and miliar to us through his records. The electronic pipes and electric band. distinctive Granada 2 3/ 8 Wurlit­ tonal percussions and traps also be­ This is almost certainly David's best zers subsenquently installed in their came particularly effective when they disc to date. theatres in the London suburbs of were not drowned by massive sound. Simultaneously appearing is the North Cheam, Harrow. Clapham, The famous Wurlitzer had never long-awaited By George (AML 310) Greenford, Welling and Slough - sounded as it did on this momentous featuring the outstanding talents of of which that at Clapham is prob­ occasion. for at George's request, our member George Welling - en­ ably the best known, and the fine ex­ considerable attention had been tertaining at the strident 3/8 Wur­ ample at Harrow is now maintained given to it during the week prior to litzer until recently in the Granada by our well-known chapter members the concert, with George himself Theatre in the London suburb of East Les and Len Rawle. In more recent donning overalls in order to help Ham. As well as being a bright and years Ernest wrote a masterly 'Trea­ re-set the tremulants to provide the exciting display of musical choice tise on the Wurlitzer Organ' which shimmering splendour that we were and musicianship, this also provides was serialised in the Journal of the all able to enjoy so much. the first up-to-date recording of one Cinema Organ Society (COS) - and At the conclusion of his perfor­ of the famous Granada fleet of 3/ 8 which it is hoped that the COS will mance Edith Rawle, current Hon­ Wurlitzers that were the highlight soon re-publish in booklet form. His orary ATOS member and our en­ of the imaginative organ policy of passing is a great loss to the theatre ergetic chapter secretary. presented this noted British theatre chain from organ world. George with an engraved silver salver their inception in the mid-1930s. NORMAN BARFIELD

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER, 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 61 LOS ANGELES tern Theatre we refer you to page 17 (Dinny's Colyum) in the June/July An organ concert played by of­ 1978 issue of THEATRE ORGAN. ficers of the chapter was held on Scooped by - Ulp! - Dinny Tim­ April 30th to promote a scholarship mins! Gad! fund. The cause was the late Joe May 21 was a day of triumph for Koons Scholarship, a memorial to Candi Carley. It was the day of her the wonderful guy who was for 10 years a one-man ATOS chapter in first major pipe organ concert, play­ ed at the Wiltern Theatre for the LA his organ-equipped cycle shop in Chapter. Her story was told in a re­ Long Beach, Calif. cent issue of THEATRE ORGAN so The organists were 1978 Vice we won't repeat. It suffices to state Chairman Mike Ohman; Laison that Candi is blind. Therefore, the Chairman John Ledwon; Chairman organ crew had been extra cooper­ Bob Power, and Program Chairman ative to make certain Candi had all Rod Skelding, the latter being a possible advantages. One was to recent import from Great Britain. mark every stopkey on the console We had prepared what we felt was stoprail with a self-adhesive label a fitting and witty account of this marked in Braille. Her program in extraordinary event for display here. Braille was taped over the console's Then we received our June/July issue ATOS nameplate. Candi was ready. of THEATRE ORGAN and dis­ Yet a lot of things went wrong. Candi (Max Herr Photo/ covered that Dinny Timmins had The Wiltern projectionist, who was scooped us with an account of the supposed to run the spotlight and one of the largest and most complex concert written in his semi-ignorant channel the PA system through the organs in southern California, in style which tells the whole story, house speakers, failed to show. Crew complete control. Her varied pro­ despite lousy spelling and a syntax members jumped in to fill the void. gram had something for all tastes. we can't begin to cope with. There­ Candi came up on the 4/37 con­ "Is she really blind?" was a fre­ fore, readers who want to find out sole as though nothing was wrong quently heard question as the audi­ (or review) what happened on that and took her audience along with ence filed out. It was difficult to be­ fateful April morning at the LA Wil- her. Here was a blind girl playing lieve, so skillfully had she performed. Yes, in one sense she is sightless. But there are compensations and an in­ ner sight. Candi Carley has them, and more. On Friday, May 19, a plane load of LA Chapter members safari'd 500 miles northward to the Bay Area to visit organ installations. First stop was the Cap'ns Galley in Red­ wood City where Tom Hazleton did the honors at the 4/18 Wurlitzer. Next stop was the Avenue Theatre where surprise artist Ann Leaf play­ ed a concert on the 3/14 Wurlitzer. Next day it was on to Daly City where Warren Lubich presided at the Pizza & Pipes 3/22 Wurlitzer. After that it

Elmer Fubb hands out worthless "prizes" to concert participants Mike Ohman, John Ledwon, Bob Power and was the Pizza Pub in San Raphael Rod Skelding. fZjmfotoJ where Larry Yannucci did his stuff.

DENNIS JAMES CONCERT SCHEDULE "Master of the Silent Film" August 30 - Palace Theatre, Marion, Ohio September 3 - Free Trade Hall, Manchester, England September 10 - Regal Cinema, Henley-On-Thames, England Dennis James September 17 - Granada State Theatre, London, England September 24 - Ohio Theatre, Columbus, Ohio Resident Organist September 28 - Civic Center, Sioux City, Iowa for the Ohio Theatre October 7 - Indiana University Auditorium, Bloomington, Indiana October 27 - War Memorial, Trenton, New Jersey October 28 - Ohio Theatre, Columbus, Ohio October 31 - Indiana University Auditorium, Bloomington, Indiana DENNIS JAMES November 4 - Dort Music Center , Flint, Michigan PRODUCTIONS November 7 - Paramount Theatre, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 29 East State Street December 1 and 2 - Emery Auditorium, Cincinnati, Ohio Columbus, Ohio 43215 March 24 - Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana (614) 488-9207 March 25 - Civic Opera House, Chicago, Illinois

62 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST/SEPTEMBER, 1978 On Sunday morning some went to a Jeff Seale, perhaps the quietest Sam Feltenstein, Tuddy Soley and Grace Cathedral service during of the theatre organ enthusiasts and Jeff Seale, the job would not have which the huge Aeolian-Skinner was whose deeds and contributions spoke been completed. heard. Others went to Concord for louder than any spoken word, passed Reproductions of the original 1928 a session with the Bella Roma Pizza's away April 20, 1978. Jeff had the program were available for sale, and Wurlitzer. The two groups con­ best of any home installation in the there are a few that are still avail­ verged at Ye Olde Pizza Joynte in state, and perhaps the Southeast. able. Please send $1.25, to cover cost Hayward in the afternoon to hear Jeff spared no time, energy nor and handling, to Tommy Darsey, Ann Leaf at the 3/ 12 composite money to have the best that could 2217 25th Ave., Meridian, Ms. Wurlitzer. There was ample time for possibly be. With the aid of Senton 39301. sight seeing and shopping between Granberry, and Tuddy Soley, he The opening day program was shows. The group planed back to achieved just that. duplicated as closely as possible. We Los Angeles on Monday morning. Dolton McAlpin, Starkville, Ms., were not able to obtain a print of All agreed that Ralph Meeker did played a concert on Sunday after­ the original movie, We Americans a fine job of organizing the excur­ noon April 16th. Jeff passed away so the second movie to be shown at sion. while listening to a tape of that con­ the theatre Speedy starring Harold The LA Chapter manned a booth cert. There is no doubt that Jeff will Lloyd, was featured. The organist at Keyboard World Magazine's May be missed. for the evening was Tom Helms, of 18-24 "Home Organists' Adven­ Norville Hall, a long-time organ Pensacola, Fla. The standing ovation ture," through the courtesy of pub­ mechanic, and an organist of the si­ that he received after the show speaks lisher Bill Worrall. The event was lent movie era, passed away on May of his talent better than words can held in a Pasadena hotel. Chapter 5th in Michigan. As reported in say. members Annie Olive and Ralph past issues of THEATRE ORGAN, As previously reported, Major Beaudry made pitches in behalf of Norville played at the Alabama The­ Jack Moelmann is leaving the Mis­ pipes and ATOS to the predominately atre in Birmingham, and at the time sissippi area. Jack has been an in­ plug-in oriented visitors. of his death was active in the repair tegral part of the rebuilding of the On Saturday, June 17, at 8:30 and maintenance of organs. Many Saenger Theatre in Biloxi, now used p.m. former Radio City Music Hall times in the past Norville helped with as a fine arts house. Numerous con­ Organist Ashley Miller performed the tuning of the Robert Morton in certs have been held by Jack, at his for the chapter at San Gabriel Civic the Temple Theatre prior to a con­ highly modified Hammond, in an Auditorium. It was Ashley's first cert, and without his help the job effort to raise funds to refurbish the concert on the 3/ 16 Wurlitzer and he would not have been completed on house, and this job has almost been explained how pleased he was ex­ time. This writer was most impressed completed. The Magnolia Chapter perimenting with all the colors avail­ by his knowledge, and his willingness would not be what it is today with­ able. to share that knowledge. The Ala­ out the aid of Jack. We will miss For the next two hours he proved bama Chapter will be most vacant him. his musical prowess with outstand­ without him. TOMMY DARSEY ing arrangements, an Ashley Miller On May 22, 1978 the Magnolia trademark. Chapter celebrated the Fiftieth An­ MIKE OHMAN niversary of the Saenger's Temple MOTOR CITY Theatre in Meridian. It was a tough Our Second Sunday program at go after the Robert Morton suffered the Michigan Theatre in Ann Arbor MAGNOLIA another dousing from the air-con­ featured Steve Stephani in May and It is with sadness that we must an­ ditioning in September of last year. Bob Cowley (from Springfield, Ohio) nounce the passing of two avid sup­ A lot of hard work on the part of a performing at the 3/ 13 Barton in porters of the theatre organ, Jeff lot of members brought the organ June. Seale, of Laurel, Ms., and Norville back and playing on Thursday night, Rupert Otto was the artist at the Hall, of Birmingham, Ala. Both four days before the celebration. 3/ 16 Barton for the Fourth Sunday were members of the Magnolia Without the hard work of Frank at the Royal Oak Theatre, and John Chapter. Evans, Pop Evans, Marl Cobler, Lauter did the honors in June. Open

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AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 63 series of eight films began the end s1c1an adept at pure entertaining. of June. Each evening features a "In the Mood" and "Lady Be Good" top box office attraction of the past, selections demonstrated his excellent with a few in 70 mm and 6-channel arranging. The Latin melodies and stereo sound. Chapter members will marches had to be heard to be ap­ continue , as in the past, to provide preciated. the organ overture and intermission The organ is the former Buddy music throughout the series. Cole 3/26 Wurlitzer/Robert Morton. In June, chapter member Lance Bill Breuer's technicians had worked Luce won the National Yamaha hard to have the instrument in top Com petition in his division (Senior I) shape for the concert. held on the campus of the University Following the concert, open con­ of Southern California in Los Ange­ sole was held. Lori Fraser, a new, les. young talent, played for us the first After first winning the local com­ time. She is a student of Marian petit ion, Lance won out over 24 other Richie and is well on her way to be­ entr ants at the regional competition coming a fine musician. Ten other in Wisconsin, enabling him to com­ members entertained us for an hour. pete in the finals as one of the four An afterglow was held at the home regional winners. The prize was a of Dave Schutt in San Jose. Featured $2000 cash scholarship and a trophy. was his 3/ 10 Robert Morton, a grand Lance hopes for a career on the con­ piano, a pump organ, a new shiny cert circuit. Hammond, and a room full of mu­ DON LOCKWOOD sical antiques. Needless to say, the National Yamaha Competition winner Lance Luce musical sounds continued to flourish displays his trophey won at the finals in Los Angeles . for hours. console follows each of these regular NOR-CAL JIM DUNBAR chapter activities. The Johnson's Alexander Vine­ Rex Koury returned to the Royal yard Winery in Healdsburg, Cali­ Oak Theatre for a two-night engage­ fornia was the site of the May meet­ NORTH TEXAS ment in May. He accompanied three ing. The Johnson family, our gra­ A regular meeting was held at silent two-reel comedies in addition cious hosts, opened the winery doors, Gene Powell's Organ World in Gar­ to his concert selections. It was evi­ picnic ground, and 2/7 Marr and land on June 25. Business involved dent from the response of the audi­ Colton to us. Members and guests a few modifications of our by-laws, ence that they enjoyed his program. kept the bench occupied all after­ including separations of the officer Our giant two-day garage sale and noon with continuous music. Visitors positions by dropping "chairman­ paper drive at the Redford Theatre to the wine tasting room were in­ elect." If the membership so de­ in June netted the chapter over trigued with constantly changing sires, it can keep a chairman for as $3600 which included the profit on organists. Not every ATOS meeting many terms as it desires. The an­ over 14 tons of newspapers collected can be so pleasant and accompanied nouncement was made that two new by members and supporters of the with that unique wine keg fragrance. members, Neil Gower, of Plano, and Buy the Redford project. Man y On June 11 at the Capn 's Galley Dr. Robert Lloyd, of Dallas, raised chapter members provided con­ in Campbell, California, Larry Yan­ our roster to an even 100 members. tinous music at the console of the nucci entertained about 250 mem­ Most of the progress so far on our Barton throughout the event. The­ bers and guests with his fine theatre ex-Loew's Jersey City Wonder Mor­ atre tours were available for any who stylings! Larry has a tremendous ton has been verbal and on paper. were interested. following which was further in­ The main result of meetings, be­ Our first bi-weekly film series creased after the Sunday concert. sides learning a lot of detail about proved to be profitable so a second He is a polished and versatile mu- the varied and myriad facets of the

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64 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 three of our talented organists, Grace Larner, Bob McGilvery and a rousing finale by Gene Powell at his Organ World theatre organ in­ stallation. JOE KOSKI

OREGON In April we had the opportunity to hear nationally-known Rex Koury at Bob Burke's 3/ 13 Wurlitzer. This organ was acquired by Bob from the Criterion Theatre in Medford as a 3 manual Special Style "D" in 1963. It is a basement installation, clearly speaking up into a beautiful living

Chairman Charles Evans beside the Wonder Morton room through a very large floor console. (Koski Photo) grate. The organ is now 13 ranks in­ cluding a Post Hom , plus a piano, Rex Koury at Bob Burke's Wurlitzer in April. refurbishing and installing of the in­ and represents a most successful (Claude V Neuff er Photo) strument , was a feeling of closer transplant into an existing home. cooperation and team effort among Rex Koury, a veteran theatre or­ Wurlitzer in Wichita, Kansas. Rex 's the members. ganist, played a varied program playing is ultra-smooth and pro­ As mentioned, many of us need ranging from nostalgic tunes such as fessional , with excellent registration. more training and experience in " Blue Skies" to selections from Star Thanks to Bob and Laura Burke leatherwork, woodwork , metalwork, Wars. A special bonus was "Center for their hospitality and the use of electrical wiring and crafts and skills City USA," a march composed by this magnificent organ. found in organ work. Details will be Rex to inaugurate the installation On May 21st we assembled at left to the leaders of the various work of the former NY Paramount 4/36 Benson High to hear a new member, sessions. The site committee will be Marti Lynch at the 3/ 18 Kimball. As making an evaluation chart to de­ previously reported , several ranks termine which location gets the best have been added to each of the two overall grade. We have already had chambers, their stop tabs located on several offers of potential sites, and the back rail, with couplers required they need to be evaluated before to assign them to different manuals the October 1st deadline set by as desired. This, plus the console Site Committee Chairman Gordon location making it difficult for the Wright. There are many things to organist to hear the left chamber , be considered , not the least of which usuall y requires several sessions to is financing. Secretar y-treasurer get acquainted with this complex Lorena McKee 's financial report at but beautiful sounding instrument. the meeting indicated we are keeping But because of school activities, our head above water and making Marti was limited to only a last our loan payments , but we still have minute stud y of this organ. However a good distance to "swim" and need this handicap was not at all apparent all the help we can get, financially in her superb playing. and otherwise. Marti Lynch has appeared on

The June 25th session at Organ Marti Lynch at the Benson High School Kimball. radio and TV throughout the Mid­ World concluded with cameos by (Claude V Neuff er Photo) west and was on concert tour for Cap'nsGalleys -Pizza & Pipes WURLITZER THEATRE PIPE ORGAN

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AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 65 Hammond. She had been in semi­ other side lives" and to recruit some action of keyboard and pedals of a retirement in Florida while raising new people to our cause. tracker type, demonstrated the capa­ a daughter, has now moved to the SCOTT CHRISTIANSEN bilities of the instrument, playing ap­ Portland area and plans to resume propriate classical selections and a her career. Her style is quite unique, POTOMAC VALLEY sprinkling of popular tunes. Charles combining fine theatre counter­ Monthly concert-meetings of the Affelder played at open console. melody with fresh modern harmony chapter alternate between Virginia May 19-21 was a memorial week­ - the best of both worlds. An un­ and Maryland to accommodate the end of organ music away from home usual feature is the artistic non-use geographical separation of suburban in another aura of a backdrop of his­ of tremulants. Her phrasing and ex­ membership. In April 70 members tory. Saturday evening at the Wil­ pression are exquisite , whether met at the former First Presbyterian liamsburg United Methodist Church. punching out a fast rhythm number Chu rch, in Ellicott City. Maryland. Marcia Koller enthralled our group or a sentimental ballad. The church. originally constructed in with a varied program of light clas­ Marti's carefully planned program 1844. was rebuilt in 1894 after it col­ sics. She showed to advantage the was arranged in groups, each with lapsed while under restoration. In full capability of the 2/23 Moller and it's own theme and appropriate 1959. the building was donated to her mastery of it. She is currently a numbers. the Howard County Historical Soci­ lecturer in organ at the College of Our chapter is proud and happy ety. The imposing. stone faced edi­ William and Mary. to welcome this most talented and fice. has been preserved as a mu­ Our own Earl Sharits followed and charming lady. Florida's loss is seum. despite the lack of tremulants and Oregon's gain. Of particular interest to the PVC only a "nodding acquaintance" BUD ABEL was the Hilgamacher (Elie. Pa.) with the Moller. made the church 2/ 9 tracker organ. installed in the ring with theatre style tunes. old original church in 1850. The tracker standards and musical film numbers. PIKES PEAK AREA console is now set on a raised plat­ He studied with Johnny Winters at The PPATOS is eagerly antici­ form in the main auditorium of the the Colorado Theatre in Pueblo. and pating the completion of the Chief restored building. The organ has by 1927 was the youngest featured Theatre organ in Colorado Springs mechanical intermanual couplers organist in that state. Earl came to City Auditorium. As usual for organ and a manual to pedal coupler - all Washington in 1934 and worked projects we are well behind schedule mechanical. Since these fascinating with the IRS for 37 years. but we will still be done in time for instruments operate on low wind Sunday afternoon. Frank Lybolt the planned dedication this fall. pressure of 2 to 2½ inches. voices was the featured artist at the ·3/ 15 The organ has now filled the new are subdued and very pleasing to the "Johnson-Kimball" in the Williams­ chambers and winding and wiring ear . particularly in the relatively burg home of P.K. and Annis John­ are underway. The purchase of a small room into which the organ son. Much of the organ was built second blower from a Montana the­ speaks. Originally hand pumped. it by Mr. Johnson. including the con­ atre will ease our installation by was only recently equipped with a sole and some pipes. Though the alleviating long and inconvenient blower. Kimball is not a theatre organ. windline runs. There will be a blower Bob Stratton, Lem Keller. Don Frank thrilled guests with light clas­ on each side of the auditorium run­ Johnston and Marshall Stone spent sical numbers. Frank showed the ning directly up to the chambers. many hours repairing and tuning the wide range of his skill and easygoing Many of our talented members tracker. Frank Harris made the ar­ style by responding to requests which will be performing for the local rangements that permitted us to were in the popular theatre style. chapter of the Amateur Organ As­ hold the meeting at the museum. Those joining in for open console sociation International. We will be The concert portion of the April included host. Mr. Johnson. Earl playing for the group in the home meeting was informal. Ron Kragler Sharits. Ron Miller. Ted Ansink. of a local music store owner on an and Michael Britt. with no prior Marion Long. Layton Fordham. electronic organ. The program will pr actice time to familiarize them­ Margaret Martin. and Delores Dyke. be a good chance to see "how the selves with the different "feel" and HAROLD R. RICHMAN AlSacker THEATRE ORGAN CONCERTS Currently 29th Year at the Jefferson Theatre

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66 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST/SEPTEMBER, 1978 PUGET SOUND the Coordinated Arts Fund Drive last regularly used theatre organs in The chapter continued its spring had the Wurlitzer for background the country, mainly due to the ef­ program in May by proceeding north music for their TV ads, as Lance forts of one man , the late Joe Brite. to Bellingham to hear a concert by Johnson played an abbreviated ver­ Joe was theatre manager and organ­ Gunnar Anderson on the 2/ 10 Wur­ sion of "Petite Waltz." ist and many a theatre organ buff litzer in the Mt. Baker Theatre. This On June 20th, Ted Larson, in­ made his pilgrimage to Alamosa to was followed by lunch and a drive structor of film studies at Moor­ see and hear this historic instrument. to Mt. Vernon , approximately half­ head State College, brought a group Our efforts began a few years ago way between Bellingham and Seattle of high school students, who are when Joe was killed in a holdup. where the Lincoln Theatre still taking a summer theatre workshop , We helped obtain his song slides and houses a Wurlitzer Style D Special. to the Fargo Theatre for a special projector for the ATOS National Jeffrey Fox of Bellingham , who has program. After introductions by Library and made inquiries as to the been spending his weekends re­ Dave Knudtson and Ted, our own future of the organ. The theatre storing the organ, did a concert "Incomparable Hildegarde" played owner was contacted and asked to there. a short concert for the kids who gave donate or sell the organ to us for Other concerts of interest have her their rapt attention and a stand­ preservation. Unfortunately, even been the two sponsored by Granada ing ovation. She began with silent after repeated letters and phone Organ Loft at Bellevue Pizza and movie music, without the movie. calls. the owners sold the instrument Pipes: Helen Dell in May and Bill so they could form their own movie to a well-known organist. Ron Rhode Bill Langford of the Pizza Joynt in from the music. Following a break, of Phoenix. We then contacted Ron Hayward in June. Ted introduced Lance, who scored who agreed to let us have first option Our pre-summer programming a silent comedy feature. The stu­ to buy should he ever sell it. We had will conclude with a July concert at dents toured the theatre and were in mind that this might happen some Seattle Pizza and Pipes by Ashle y given a demonstration of the organ. time in the future. Well. it happened Miller, as a finale of his west coast They asked many questions. Hilde­ in April of this year. and we were tour. garde talked with them and told of given the option to buy the organ. some of her experiences getting The 3/ 8 Wurlitzer from Seattle Our board of directors discussed Center, formerly installed in the 5tarted in her career. and of the famous people she had met , such as the possibility. but saw no way of Food Circus. was auctioned by the raising the money within the alloted city on May 4th. High bidder was Jimmy Stewart and other film stars. After summer vacation. our first time of April 23. 1978. It was an­ member Bill Carson. who also man­ nounced at the last meeting held at ages time after his regular work to project will be to install a lift at the theatre. It was donated to us last the Aladdin Theatre and lo and be­ keep the three area Pizza and Pipes hold. a miracle happened. One of Wurlitzers functioning. spring and will be undergoing a few changes to resemble a Barton four­ our newest and most active mem­ GENNY WHITTING poster. bers, Ivan Duff. agreed to loan the chapter the money. With this new SONIA CARLSON source of funding , an emergency RED RIVER board meeting was called and voted The local educational TV station. unanimously to accept the offer. K FME. has a new way to begin their ROCKY MOUNTAIN The organ is part of Colorado the­ Friday night double feature of old Our chapter is overjoyed with the atre history and preserving organs is movies. It starts with film of the idea that we have been able to pur­ one of our chapter's stated objec­ Fargo Theatre marquee and then chase our very own Wurlitzer the­ tives. It would serve to be a unifying moves into the theatre itself. showing atre pipe organ. It is a 2/ 6, Opus project for the chapter which has various angles, while our chairman. 1370. that was installed in the Legion gained momentum in the past couple Dave Knudtson, plays the Wurlit­ Theatre in Alamosa, Colo. The name of years , has been involved in other zer. The big velvet curtain opens, was later changed to the Rialto. This successful activities and is gaining and the organ music fades into the piece of Colorado music history has a national reputation. The ranks are: movie overture. Also, this spring. the reputation of being one of the Trumpet, 61; Salicional, 85; Flute,

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AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 67 97; Clarinet, 61; Tibia Clausa, 73; when it was replaced by a Keates Vox, 61; Chimes, 18. classic organ of 30 ranks. Jim ob­ There are no percussions. At this tained the organ and with a lot of writing there are two crews enroute help from his friend, Bernard Nord­ to pick up the organ - one to Phoe­ mann,' another chapter member, nix and one to Alamosa and we hope began the tedious fifty-three-week the Phoenix crew meets the Alamosa job of installation, voicing and crew and all will get to Denver at tuni ng. Bernard was also the guest the same time 'cause they only have organist for this meeting and he one moving van. demonstrated with first-hand knowl­ Work on Fred Riser 's Wurlitzer edge all ranks, percussions and an is progressing better than average. infinite number of registrations as he As soon as the wires are connected skillfully played a program of show to the main box, we're gonna turn 'er tunes. The evening was concluded on and stand back. with open console. FRANK R. GANDY The June meeting was in reality a going away party at the home of ST. LOUIS Anne and Fred Pillsbury honoring Jim Grebe, chapter historian, and thei r 3/ 19 Wurlitzer theatre organ his wife Dolores hosted the May which they have sold. The organ was Gerry Marian, one of St . Louis ' most talented or ­ meeting in their home. Jim's pride originally built for the McVickers ganists. and joy, a 2/ 8 Kimball theatre pipe Theatre in Chicago. Pillsbury sold organ, is on the lower level of their the organ to make room for another the professionalism of so many of home. It was originally installed in Wu rlitzer, the famous 4/26 (origi­ the guests present enhanced the en­ 1921 in the Wheaton, Illinois, Grand nally 21 ranks) organ from the now­ thusiasm of the entire group. Bill Theatre (now known as the Whea­ closed Ambassador Theatre in St. Bartlow from Rushville, Illinois, was ton). In 1937 the organ was rein­ Louis. a guest who has a 2/ 12 Wurlitzer in stalled in the Kankakee, Illinois, The evening of this June meeting his home where St. Louisians have Presbyterian Church until 1976 was special in many respects, but spent many enjoyable hours. Bill Hansen of Quincy, Illinois, and Harry Hoffman of St. Louis were there and had spent many hours be­ fore the meeting preparing the or­ gan for the occasion and their efforts proved invaluable. The guest organ­ ist, John Ferguson , was the former chapter chairman and presently pizza organist in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He expertly played a full program with something special for every taste. During open console, former San Diego pizza organist Jack Jenkins, who is now minister of music at the Granite City Baptist Church, took his turn followed by Joe Barnes, formerly of Rochester. Leo Kiken­ dall from Springfield, Illinois also played. Jim Grebe at the console of his 2/ 8 Kimball which he refers to as ' My Lady of the Lower Level.' Gerry Marian, former organist on ~LTER 5TRONY Tom Cotner' " ... a show stealer" THEATRE ORGAN Or-ganis-t CONCERT DATES AVAILABLE

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68 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 the 4/ 36 Crawford Special Wur­ resound to the beautiful sounds of litzer at the St. Louis Fox Theatre organ music. for many years as well as many other One Sunday last spring we met at organ spots, then took over the con­ the home of Ray Krebs in Mira Mesa. sole. It was quite evident why Gerry After many hours of tedious work, is considered one of the most tal­ his two-manual Wurlitzer is in play­ ented organists in this area. He ing condition and sounds beautiful. knows the capabilities of an organ It was a treat enjoying open console and how to get the most out of one. and seeing his collection of player Gerry studied music at Meremac pianos. College and Washington University A few weeks later several of us and was for many years associated went to a Joe Koons benefit concert with the St. Louis theatre organist, held in the cycle shop in Long Beach. antique collector and TV comic Several professional artists as well as Stan Kann, who now lives in Cali­ a number of the regular Saturday fornia. nighters took turns at the 3/ 34 Wur­ BILL ANTHONY litzer Welte pipe organ installed in Gerald Nagano at the Organ Power Pizza. the back of the shop. (Ed M1i1derPh oto/ SAN DIEGO Our spring concert was a big suc­ These are exciting times in San cess. The 3/ 12 Wurlitzer at Organ Leslie Wolf, a young organ teach­ Diego. The organ installation is mov­ Power Pizza sounded beautiful when er, church organist and advisor to ing along with Ray Krebs directing three of our own talented chapter Young Keyboard Artists, continued a dedicated volunteer group which members performed. with a wide range of tempos and works every Wednesday night and Tim Kriefels, started the program stylings. Saturday morning. The organ can with several medleys, including show Following intermission Chris make sounds now; and very soon it tunes, sweet ballads, oldies-but­ Gorsuch, popular staff organist at will be ready for tuning. The old goodies and closed with "The Impos­ Organ Power, finished the concert California Theatre will once more sible Dream." with gusto. The Wurlitzer responded beautifully to his changes in mood and tempo. Maria Kumagai did an outstand­ ing job at the Wurlitzer for our April concert at Organ Power Pizza. She has a special talent which can easily transport one into another world - a world of nuances, expressed with delicate sensitivity. A week later our chapter met at the home of Tim Kriefels in La Jolla. Following an abbreviated business session. music filled the air as mem­ ber after member entertained at the three-manual Rodgers. In late April we had a tour of San Sylmar the "Tower of Beauty - a unique treasure house devoted to the concept of beauty." Unlike other museums everything here is com­ (L to R) Chris Gorsuch, Leslie Wolfe and Tim Kriefels at the Organ Power Pizza. ( Bob Cochrane Photo / pletely restored and in use. Mr. and

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AUGUST / SEPTEMBER. 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 69 Mrs. J.B. Nethercutt are proud and in Nevada , for brunch and a chance happy in their ongoing project of to "win or lose a few" before reach­ collecting and restoring beautiful ing our first destination - the home objects to their original condition, of Fred Beeks and his three-manual and sharing their use with all those Wurlitzer-Smith where Rex Koury who love and appreciate beauty of was scheduled to give his first con­ sight and sound. We heard live con­ cert at noon. He was a little late, certs here as well as a computer which gave us the opportunity to concert on the 1926 three-manual hear a young man, nearly blind, give Wurlitzer. Many noted organists us a mini-concert at the grand piano. have played here and their tapes Then we listened to a perforated tape have been added to the computer which actually played the Wurlitzer. bank , so during tours there is always We were primed and eager to hear a concert , even without an artist Rex's magic touch and gave him a present. Our thanks go to the Nether­ warm welcome. He didn't disappoint cutts and their organization for a June 25 was Ashley Miller Day in San Diego . us as he made many familiar tunes wonderful experience. (Ed M inder Pho to) come alive in his special style. He On Sunday afternoon, May 7th, ended his concert with several ar­ Gerald Nagano , an exciting and Power Pizza in the afternoon to the rangements of "When the Saints dedicated young organist from Los California Theatre in the evening. Come Marching In," including a Angeles, took command of the three­ We had a bonus concert by Ashley jazzy piano version on the electri­ manual Wurlitzer at Organ Power for those who had attended the after­ cally-cou pied grand piano. Pizza. Jerry captivated his audiences noon concert. We were totally en­ Then we headed for the First with his charming personality and thralled by the beauty and sounds Baptist Church of Reno, where Rex his ability to produce entertaining of our now perfectly-voiced organ. presides at the specially-designed organ music. His concert covered a The master musician wove his sound Artisan "straight" electronic organ. wide range of tunes and tempos to magic with ease and dexterity as He was as much at ease playing please everyone. exemplified in "The Flight of the "How Great Thou Art" as he is at In June members of the chapter Bumble Bee." great movie themes. met at the California Theatre, in What a day , what a way to close Leaving the church, our bus fol­ downtown San Diego. We got rid of our concert series for the summer. lowed Rex's red pickup truck out of the business in a hurry so that we Ashley Miller, for using your terrific Reno southward to the Koury home could, for the first time, admire, talent in such a beautiful and gen­ at the base of a snow capped moun­ play, listen to, talk about and share erous manner to make us happy, tain peak. We all squeezed into his our joy for our very own pipe organ we thank you. home and again listened to the mas­ - a gift from Sandy Fleet. GWEN O'CONNOR ter as he involved us in a group of Wayne Seppala played the organ sing-along numbers on colored as the curtains parted , unveiling our slides. Then we laughed our way Style D Wurlitzer surrounded by SIERRA through a silent comedy as Rex cued the volunteers who worked hours Saturday morning, May 6th, each scene with appropriate songs and hours to install it. Following the found about 40 enthusiastic chapter and sounds. unveiling Colonel Jenkins, a retired members aboard a chartered bus There was more fine organ mu­ serviceman, still going strong as an headed for Reno to hear Rex Koury. sic ending with Mrs. Koury inviting organist despite arthritis in one hip What excitement! Imagine a whole us for dinner, served buffet style. and pins in the other, did a mini­ afternoon with Rex who was to play The music didn't stop there for concert which took us back over the for us at three different organs - some of our members played Rex's years. including one in his own home. We Artisan and others discovered an­ June 25th was Ashley Miller Day felt privileged indeed. other organ, a Thomas electronic, in in San Diego. What a day; perfect We stopped at Boomtown, a ca­ the family room. We also discovered in every conceivable way from Organ sino just across the California border a stack of Rex Koury records and

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70 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST / SEPTEMBER, 1978 eagerly purchased most of them. Routsong; John Roberts; Gene Rob­ that prompted begging Bill Biebel, Some wouldn't give up until we inson, and Fern Dean - all con­ theatre organist, for encores? It was coaxed Rex to the Thomas and then tributed many muscle-hours, when a very enjoyable, relaxing evening to his piano. and where their work schedules per­ of scrumptious arrangements, cry­ We are indeed fortunate to have mitted. By Sunday, May 21st, every­ ing tibias, wailing voxes and mes­ such talented members as Rex Koury thing was out and in storage except merized members. and several excellent pipe organ in­ the relay and switch stack. We took Our thanks to a very gifted artist. stallations available for our frequent one night off to recuperate, then And. "It's only a hobby." he says! enjoyment. came back Tuesday to do the rest. STEVE FITZGERALD The organ is in storage for now, SOONER STATE but we expect to find a suitable home SOUTHEAST TEXAS for it so it can be heard again before Now it can be told! Things were too long. The first Sunday in April, 1978 quiet in Tulsa early this year be­ was a most strikingly beautiful day DOROTHY SMITH cause of our long faces - the Ameri­ in the Sun Belt when the Southeast can Christian College, home of the Texas Chapter held its meeting at 3/ 10 Robert Morton where we'd had SOUTH FLORIDA the ornate Jefferson Theatre in Beau­ many delightful meetings, was to In May, we gave "Welk"ome to mont where the second half of The be closed and the organ put up for Bob Ralston. for matinee and eve­ Mark of Zorro was shown on the sale. Could we raise the money to ning concerts on the Gusman Hall smaller of two screens, accompanied buy it? And if we did, where would Wurlitzer. Lest the reader form an on the famous Robert Morton pipe we put it? Time was running out; if erroneous opinion, let me state that organ by Al Sacker. We were de­ we bought it, we had to remove it while Bob has champagne taste in lighted to have several visitors to be by May 31st. We're a small group - music, it was not champagne music with us and enjoy this superb silent could we round up enough people to that Bob coaxed from the some­ film. take it out by then? Here was prob­ times balky beast. A T.O. concert Again, we thank Nick Harper, our ably our last chance to acquire a was promised and T.O. style music program chairman and projectionist, theatre pipe organ of our own, right it was, to the delight of those who for providing his expertise and the in our back yard - IF we could do braved the tropical downpour to film. Our business meeting mostly it. attend. A professional musician, Bob concerned a proposed trip to spend Well, we did it! After much dis­ quickly earned the respect of the a weekend in Baton Rouge, La .. as cussion, and being told about all the skeptics, playing around the occa­ the guest of Don May who has been problems we would face, we came up sional cyphers, while charming his responsible for the maintenance of with an acceptable bid and the Rob­ fans with his personal magnetism. the fine 2/ 6 Robert Morton pipe or­ ert Morton was ours! Our May meet­ Bob's sunny show more than made gan in the Paramount Theatre, where ing started on Mother's Day at 4 up for the dreary, wet day. A cham­ a fine friend, Dolton McAlpin, once p.m. (all the speaking pipes were pagne toast to this trooper, mit lots presided at the console. out and the small ones wrapped by of bubbles! The next day, we continued our 8:30 p.m.) and lasted for the next Fr. Bill Biebel needs no intro­ journey to New Orleans and the ten days! We did have lots of help: duction to most lovers of the Jesse beautiful Saenger Theatre to be the Phil and Laura Judkins; Bruce and Crawford, Don Baker, Gus Farney. guest of Dr. Barry Henry and hear Mart ha Wilson and sons Derek (age Lyn Larsen styles of playing. We and play one of the greatest of them 11) and Deshayn (age 5); Lee and were fortunate to corral Fr. Biebel all, the 4/26 Robert Morton, which Dorothy Smith and son Jeff; Jim and for one of the few concerts his Bishop was the prototype of the later fa­ Helen Reel and son Tony; Bill Rob­ allows him to give each year. mous Wonder Morton (which, if you erts; Bob Busby; Harry Rasmussen; The Andre Wurlitzer, in Bob and recall, were five in number and in­ J.B. Ellis; Joe Crutchifeld; Sam and Vivians dream-come-true hall, never stalled in the New York Metropolitan Nona Rhoades; Paul Lynch; Bob sounded better. Area). The Wonder Morton from the and Betty Weddle; Harvey Young; Was it the magic of the evening. Jersey City Theatre is now the prop­ Drs. Raymond Maguire and Jim or the artist. or the electric moon, erty of the North Texas Chapter and

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AUGUST / SEPTEMBER. 1978 THEATRE ORGAN 71 plans are to install the instrument in Bill Brown, restaurant manager Nita Dallas or Ft. Worth. Seamen, and Organ Stop's featured The May meeting was devoted to artis t Ron Rhode for their coop­ a board of directors meeting, open eration and assistance in making our console and delightful refreshments, program a success. at the Jefferson Theatre. This meet­ Friday, May 19th through Sun­ ing gave members an opportunity to day, May 21st, we were on the move. relax with the Robert Morton. Members of the Southern Arizona The Robert Morton console, Chapter joined us on a chartered bus which was mahagony for only five for a weekend excursion to the Las years of its fifty-year history, was Angeles area. We started the week­ disassembled in May for complete end by attending a George Wright restoration and refurbishing. all-request concert at the San Gabriel The June meeting was in the form Civic Auditorium on Friday night. of a summer picnic, held at the home We returned to San Gabriel Satur­ of Ralph and Ruth Lindholm with day morning for a closer look at the Michael McCullough made his pipe organ debut at Organ Stop . good ol' Texas barbecue as the en­ Wurlitzer installation and open con­ tree. Don Lyons of Lyons Music Co., sole. Our host was Bob Hill of the the local Hammond Organ dealer, L.A. Chapter. Our lunch stop was performed at the Hammond Con­ at the Great American Wind Ma­ corde organ along with Spence Ad­ chine Restaurant in Reseda, where ams, Ralph Lindholm, Thelma we munched on pizza and sand­ Debes, Ruby Holleman Monore, a wiches while some of our members former Jefferson Theatre organist. played the 2/ 13 Wurlitzer. and several others. A grand time was The most breathtaking part of had by all. our weekend was our tour of the AL SACKER Merle Norman Cosmetics Tower of Beauty at San Sylmar. VALLEY OF THE SUN Saturday night we heard the 4/24 May was a busy month from be­ Wurlitzer at Old Town Music Hall ginning to end - especially for Pro­ in El Segundo while watching some gram Chairman Don Reasor. We old-time silent and sound comedies. found out just how capable an orga­ Sunday morning we attended a con­ Lynn Staininger - youngest performer at VOTS program . nizer he really is! cert at the Wiltern Theatre in L.A. The chapter presented a program which featured Candi Carley. We at the Mesa Organ Stop Pizza res­ were back in Phoenix by 10 p.m. tau rant as part of our monthly social Sunday night. meeting. The program was presented Also in May, chapter members without charge, and the public was gathered at the Don Reaser resi­ invited. We featured four young lo­ dence for a farewell party for our cal artists at the 3/25 Wurlitzer - vice-chairman, Steve Schlesing. He our own vice-chairman , Steve Schles­ left at the beginning of June on a ing. Lynn Staininger of Tucson, Dave world tour with a musical group Broskowski (who filled in for another from his church. organist at the last minute). and It was silent movie time again in chapter member Michael McCul­ June, at Gammage Auditorium at lough of Scottsdale. These young Arizona State University. Several people gave excellent performances, chapter members gathered there to presenting a variety of music. Special hear Lyn Larsen play an original Steve Schlesing also emceed VOTS Chapter organ thanks go out to Organ Stop owner pipe organ score for The Phantom program .

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72 THEATRE ORGAN AUGUST / SEPTEMBER. 1978 hope to have a dedication concert on Our First Saturday programs have the instrument before the end of been gaining attendance each month, the year. and the summer months seem to MADELINE LI VOLSI have no deterrent to folks who drop in at Lansing's Michigan Theatre to hear the 3/ 11 Barton. In May, WOLVERINE Scott Smith and Fr. Miller perform­ ed an all-improvisation concert. In Our May meeting was at the Fab­ June, Barry Rindhage and Dave ulous Fox Theatre in Detroit, with Dunlap, from the Flint-Saginaw Gary Reseigh at the console of the area, split a program. Highlighted 4/ 36 Wurlitzer. The long-awaited were several interesting numbers, concert (nearly 2½ years after the including some live violin solos, ac­ re-premiere) began not in the audi­ companied by the organ. July was torium, but in the lobby with Don the 50th Anniversary of our Barton, Jenks at the 3113 Moller for a nice and we celebrated by premiering a "warmup" concert. new star at the console, the very The 5000-seat auditorium had Dave Broskowsk i filled in at last minute noti ce. talented Gary Wick of Holly, Michi­ been relamped prior to the occasion, gan. as was the giant spherical chandelier Da Capo Inc. continues its efforts of the Opera. The movie was good, in the center of the dome. After a to puchase Lansing 's 57-year-old. too! brief introduction, the console ap­ 1500-seat Michigan Theatr e for use We held our June social meeting peared on the stage lift, center stage, as a performing arts center, includ­ at Phoenix College, where past chap­ against a star-studded, dark-blue ing Barton Opus 206. The building ter chairman Bill Hagey performed background. The lift descended to itself is architecturally fascinating. a varied program of organ music on stage level and the console, mounted It houses not only the main aud i­ the college's partially restored 2/ 9 on the band cart, moved forward to torium, but a two-story arcade. A Wurlitzer. the orchestra lift as Gary played his former bowling alley lies beneath At our June-July board meeting, opening number. The program was the whole affair. John Eberson de­ Michael McCullough was appointed well performed, widely varied and signed this theatre (originally the vice-chairman to fill the vacancy left wel I-received. Strand) with the intention that it by Steve Schlesing. On June 25, the Flint Capitol The­ be a cultural center. Da Capo di­ For the rest of the summer, we atre Organ Club and several of our rector. Tom 0. Thompson. intends will be mostly occupied with the own members traveled to Fr. Jim to see it return to that capacity. as completion of our organ restoration Miller's residence to see, hear and does the Wolverine Chapter. project at Phoenix College. We still play his 2/7 Barton. SCOTTS. SMITH

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