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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN THEATRE ORGAN SOCIETY

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008

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THEATRE ORGAN NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 Volume 50 | Number 6

FEATURES THEATRE ORGAN 11 Missing Link 18 A Lasting Obsession 20 The Wheaton Fox 50 Camp ATOS YEARS 26 Play it Again 30 Indianapolis Convention Review Jack Moelmann & Friends 42 at Radio City Music Hall Floods Damage 46 Cedar Rapids Theatre Organs

DEPARTMENTS 4 Vox Humana 5 Headquarters 6 Vox Pops 7 Directors’ Corner 8 Letters 12 News & Notes 48 Professional Perspectives 50 For the Records 54 Chapter News On the cover: The art department at the Rudolph Wurlitzer Manufacturing Company was kept busy turning out spectacular advertisements to be published in exhibitor trade 64 Around the Circuit publications such as The Motion Picture Herald and Motion Picture News. This spectacular ad comes to us courtesy of the Theatre Historical Society. 69 Meeting Minutes

THEATRE ORGAN (ISSN 0040-5531) is published bimonthly by the American Theatre Organ Society, 70 Obituaries Inc., 5 Third Street, Suite 724, San Francisco, California 94103-3200. Periodicals Postage Paid at San Francisco, California and at additional mailing offices. Annual subscription of $33.00 paid from members’ dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THEATRE ORGAN, c/o ATOS Membership Office, P.O. Box 5327, Fullerton, California 92838, [email protected].

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Paid Advertisement ABIGTHANKYOU!!! 

–‘ǣ‡Ž•‘ƒ‰‡ǡ ƒ ‘‡ŽƒǡƒŽ––”‘›ǡ —• ”ƒŽ‹ǡ‡™‹ŽŽ‹ƒ•ǡ—••‡ŽŽ ‘Ž‡•  Š‡ ƒ†‹‘ ‹–› —•‹  ƒŽŽ ƒŽƒ ˜‡– ƒ† › Dz†”‡ƒdz ƒ”‡ ‘™ ‹•–‘”›Ǩ ™ƒ––‘’—„Ž‹ Ž›–Šƒ–Š‡‘‡•™Š‘”‡ƒŽŽ›ƒ†‡–Šƒ–‡˜‡‹‰ƒ —•‹ ƒŽ ‡˜‡– ‘– –‘ „‡ ˆ‘”‰‘––‡Ǥ Š‡› ƒ”‡ ƒŽ– –”‘›ǡ ‡™ ‹ŽŽ‹ƒ•ǡ —••‡ŽŽ ‘Ž‡•ǡ —• ”ƒŽ‹ǡ ƒ† ‡Ž•‘ ƒ‰‡ǡ ‘—” ‡ ‡‡Ǥ Šƒ– –ƒŽ‡– ƒ† ™Šƒ– •Š‘™ƒ•Š‹’ ‰”ƒ ‡† –Š‡ —•‹  ƒŽŽ •–ƒ‰‡ ƒ† –Š‡ —”Ž‹–œ‡” Š‡ƒ–”‡ ”‰ƒ ‘•‘Ž‡•Ǥ  ™‹ŽŽ ‡˜‡” ˆ‘”‰‡– –Š‡ „‡‹‰ ’ƒ”– ‘ˆ –Šƒ– ™‘†‡”ˆ—Ž‡˜‡‹‰Ǥ ƒŽ•‘™ƒ––‘–Šƒ–Š‡Š‡ƒ–”‡”‰ƒ‘ ‹‡–› –‡”ƒ–‹‘ƒŽȋ Ȍ ˆ‘”–Š‡‹”•—’’‘”–Ǥ†ˆ‹ƒŽŽ› ™ƒ––‘–ŠƒƒŽŽ‘ˆ–Š‡‡„‡”•‘ˆ ƒ† ™Š‘ ƒ‡ˆ”‘ˆƒ”ƒ†‡ƒ”–‘ƒ––‡†ƒ†•—’’‘”––Šƒ–‰”‡ƒ– ‡˜‡‹‰ǡƒ•™‡ŽŽƒ•–Š‡‰‡‡”ƒŽ’—„Ž‹ ™Š‘Šƒ†ƒ—‹“—‡ƒ†Š‹•–‘”‹ ƒŽ —•‹ ƒŽ ‡š’‡”‹‡ ‡Ǥ Šƒ–ǯ• ‡š–ǫ  ƒ ƒ ‡’–‹‰ ƒ ‹˜‹–ƒ–‹‘ –‘ ’Žƒ› ƒ Š”‹•–ƒ• ‘ ‡”–ƒ–ƒƒƒ‡”ǯ•‹‡ ‡„‡”Ǩ   

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Journal of the American Theatre Organ Society Library of Congress Catalog Number ML 1T 334 (ISSN 0040-5531) Printed in U.S.A. NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 Volume 50 | Number 6

THEATRE ORGAN EDITORIAL OFFICE CORPORATE OFFICE ELECTRONIC ORGANS (ETONES) WEBSITE (www.atos.org) 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905 American Theatre Organ Society, Inc. Bucky Reddish Tom Blackwell Chicago, Illinois 60616 5 Third Street, Suite 724 5370 Vinings Lake View Drive 9717 Dayton Avenue North Voice/Fax 312-842-7475 San Francisco, California 94103 Mableton, Georgia 30126-2542 Seattle, Washington 98103 [email protected] [email protected] 206-784-9203 DESIGN & TYPESETTING 206-778-2724 mobile CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Sleeping Giant Creative ENDOWMENT FUND [email protected] Craig Peterson Indianapolis, Indiana Michael Fellenzer 7800 Laguna Vega Drive 6041 Garver Road PRINTING & MAILING Elk Grove, California 95758 Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 916-682-9699 Johnson Press of America Pontiac, Illinois 317-251-6962 [email protected] Fax 317-251-6940 ATOS MISSION STATEMENT—The Ameri- VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD ATOS COMMITTEES & CHAIRS [email protected] can Theatre Organ Society (ATOS) is TBA the leading international organization ACQUISITIONS & EXPANSIONS INNER-CITY YOUTH/SCHOOLS PROGRAM dedicated to pursuing a positive SECRETARY Ken Double (see above at President) TBA Bob Evans difference in conserving and promot- AMATEUR THEATRE ORGANIST MENTOR PROGRAM ing the theatre pipe organ and its 798 Old Warren Road Donna Parker (see above at Education) Swansea, Massachusetts 02777 COMPETITION music, preserving original instruments Voice/Fax 508-674-0276 Susan Cole NOMINATIONS—BOARD ELECTION where possible. We provide support [email protected] P.O. Box 653 Bill Carr and guidance to all ATOS chapters Mount Dora, Florida 32756 11815 North 77th Drive and others, with promotional and TREASURER 352-383-6875 Peoria, Arizona 85345 educational opportunities to both Paul Van Der Molen [email protected] 623-694-1746 those within the Society, and to the 0 N 468 Willow Road public worldwide through the Internet, Colonel Mike Hartley [email protected] Wheaton, Illinois 60187 publications, conventions, and per- 17 Whippoorwill Drive 630-653-4986 ORGANIST SCHOLARSHIPS sonal contact. We are passionately Palm Coast, Florida 32164 Fax 630-653-4987 Carlton Smith devoted to providing professional 386-445-7562 [email protected] 2175 North Irwin Street leadership and resources so the theatre [email protected] DIRECTORS (current term) Indianapolis, Indiana 46219-2220 pipe organ will thrive in the 21st century. Don Near (2009) ARCHIVE/LIBRARY 317-356-1240 Donna Parker (2009) Jim Patak Fax: 317-322-9379 Doug Powers (2009) Rialto Square PIPE PIPER THEATRE ORGAN (title registered U.S. Jelani Eddington (2010) 5 East Van Buren Street, Suite 210 Jonathan Ortloff Patent Office) is the official publication Michael Fellenzer (2010) Joliet, Illinois 60432 CPU 274369 of the American Theatre Organ Allen Miller (2010) 708-562-8538 Rochester, New York 14627 Society, Inc. (ATOS), a non-profit John Apple (2011) [email protected] 518-572-8397 organization. © 2008 American Theatre John DeMajo (2011) [email protected] Bucky Reddish (2011) ARCHIVAL LIAISON Organ Society, Inc. All rights reserved. Jeff Weiler (see above at Journal PUBLIC RELATIONS YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE Advertising) Donna Parker (see above at Education) Annual membership in the American TO THE BOARD Theatre Organ Society is $40.00 per Tyler Morkin AROUND THE CIRCUIT PUBLICATIONS REVIEW year ($55.00 outside of the U.S.A.), 1240 East Broomfield Street, Apt 00-8 Dave Luttinen Doug Powers which includes six issues of THEATRE Mount Pleasant, Michigan 48858 4710 225th Place SW 3323 Belvoir Boulevard ORGAN. Make check or money order 906-367-1454 Mountlake Terrace, Washington 98043 Beachwood, Ohio 44122 payable to ATOS and mail to the [email protected] 425-678-8813 216-401-9671 ATOS Membership Office, P.O. Box [email protected] PRESIDENT/CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Fax 440-338-5651 5327, Fullerton, California 92838, Ken Double AWARDS & RECOGNITION [email protected] [email protected]. MasterCard 5705 80th Street North Don Near RESTORATION & PRESERVATION and VISA are accepted. St. Petersburg, Florida 33709 9700 Chapman Avenue Allen Miller Single copies of current and back issues 281-798-6205 Garden Grove, California 92841 167 Carriage Drive are available for $6.00 each (please [email protected] 714-544-1106 Glastonbury, Connecticut 06033 add $3.00 per issue sent outside of the Fax 714-539-5734 JOURNAL ADVERTISING 860-633-5710 U.S.A.). Make check or money order [email protected] Jeff Weiler Fax 860-633-7230 payable to ATOS and mail with your 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905 BYLAWS [email protected] order to ATOS Marketplace, Dennis Chicago, Illinois 60616 Jelani Eddington SIMONTON LITERARY PRIZE Unks, 4002 Westbury Ridge Drive, Erie, Voice/Fax 312-842-7475 1706 West Palomino Drive Jelani Eddington (see above at Bylaws) Pennsylvania 16506. [email protected] Racine, Wisconsin 53402 Donna Parker (see above at Education) ATOS MARKETPLACE 262-639-8788 Fax 262-639-8242 STRATEGIC PLANNING Dennis Unks Doug Powers (see above at Opinions expressed in articles and 4002 Westbury Ridge Drive [email protected] Publications Review) advertisements appearing in THEATRE Erie, Pennsylvania 16506 CHAPTER RELATIONS ORGAN are not necessarily those 814-838-8794 Craig Peterson TECHNICAL of the American Theatre Organ Society Fax 440-338-5651 7800 Laguna Vega Drive Allen Miller (see above at Restoration or the Editor. ATOS is not responsible [email protected] Elk Grove, California 95758 & Preservation) for omissions or errors that result MEMBERSHIP/EXECUTIVE SECRETARY 916-682-9699 TECHNICAL CONSULTATION PROGRAM from misrepresentation of information Jim Merry [email protected] Allen Miller (see above at Restoration provided. Advertisers and their agents P.O. Box 5327 assume all liability for advertising con- CONVENTION PLANNING & Preservation) Fullerton, California 92838 tent. Advertisements in THEATRE ORGAN Mike Kinerk 714-773-4354 DAVID L. JUNCHEN TECHNICAL do not constitute an endorsement by 2655 Pine Tree Drive SCHOLARSHIP Fax 714-773-4829 ATOS or the Editor of goods or services Miami Beach, Florida 33140 [email protected] Allen Miller (see above at Restoration offered. The Editorial Office reserves the 305-532-9000 & Preservation) right to accept, reject, or edit any and JOURNAL STAFF Fax 305-376-3679 YOUNG THEATRE ORGANIST COMPETITION all submitted articles and advertising. EDITOR Jeff Weiler [email protected] CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Jelani Eddington (see above at Bylaws) EDUCATION Donna Parker (see above at Education) Article submissions: We are pleased to Vern Bickel, Jonathan Ortloff, accept manuscripts for review. Contact Scott Smith Jelani Eddington (see above at Bylaws) YOUTH INITIATIVES: the Editor, Jeff Weiler ([email protected], PUBLISHER Doug Powers Donna Parker GEORGE WRIGHT MEMORIAL 312-842-7475) to discuss length and PUBLICATIONS MANAGER P.O. Box 6103 FELLOWSHIP content. Alden Stockebrand Aloha, Oregon 97007 THEATRE ORGAN INSTRUCTOR ADVERTISING Jeff Weiler 503-642-7009 & STUDENT LISTS Reproduction: No part of THEATRE ASSOCIATE EDITORS Fax: 503-530-8610 Jelani Eddington (see above at Bylaws) ORGAN may be reproduced in any AROUND THE CIRCUIT Dave Luttinen [email protected] form by any means without prior written THEATRE ORGAN STUDENT OF THE YEAR MUSIC Steven Ball consent from ATOS. For additional Tyler Morkin (see above at Youth REVIEWS Andy Antonczyk, THEATRE ORGAN WORKSHOPS reprint information, please contact Representative) Stanley D. Hightower Jonas Nordwall Jeff Weiler, THEATRE ORGAN Editorial PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVES 7221 SW 13th Office, 1845 South Michigan Avenue Edward M. Stout III Portland, Oregon 97219 #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616, WURLITZER RARITIES Ron Mitchell 503-246-7262 [email protected]. [email protected]

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Ed Seward, one of the prime movers Smith in my life? And were it not for and shakers in Detroit area theatre organ ATOS, I would likely have never known circles, asked a number of ATOS officials Lee Erwin or had him as a mentor. to describe the benefits of membership. In Later on, the leadership of ATOS Some interesting response, he received lists of programs, granted me permission to pursue a scholarships, competitions, and awards. number of projects which I felt were discussions have Of course, these offerings are all impor- important, such as founding the David tant. But to me, there are personal benefits Junchen Technical Scholarship, the recently ensued which far outweigh any number of line creation of a first educator’s guide, and, of items in a column. course, the realization of the Wurlitzer regarding the ATOS has, in no small way, guided my book. Had it not been for ATOS support, life’s work. My association with the Cedar that book would have remained just boxes benefits of Rapids Theatre Organ Society as a kid not of photos and a typescript in a file drawer membership in only allowed me regular access to the in my office. first Wurlitzer pipe organ I ever knew but I am indeed extremely grateful for the the American also to a large, thriving association of opportunities ATOS has provided me and dedicated hobbyists. People like Howard many others over the years. And much Theatre Organ Burton, Ray Snitil, Jim Olver, and the more than any menu of committee pro- Adams family were very patient and grams listed on a sheet of paper, I want to Society. taught me a lot. This eventually led to do what I can to see that the great tradition exposure to highly respected, professional of interpersonal guidance and support pipe organ restorers at conventions, and I continues. There is much for which to be continue to learn things from these men to thankful. this day. Where would I be if there had not Greetings of the Season. been an Edward M. Stout or a Carlton B. —Jeff Weiler, Editor

Happy Holidays! From: Jeff Editor Editorial Office Joanne Administrative Assistant Dannielle Designer

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D

I’m going to the best to you as you celebrate The Year of in early October as the Garden State the Organ. chapter did themselves proud in showing feature, as the old Technically, this is my first message to off the new Wonder Morton installation at you in my new position as President and Loew’s Jersey Theatre in Jersey City. And Peggy Lee hit says, CEO of ATOS. Basic changes to the I would be remiss if I did not include here organization continue as we slowly work my reminder about Cleveland in July, “a little bit about a on the development of programs in 2009, and Western Reserve chapter’s fundraising, marketing and promotions, hosting of the upcoming annual conven- lot of things.” and education. We will keep you posted on tion. Details are on the website, and I hope progress in these pages, and also on the you are making your plans. ATOS website, where you can find my Finally, I cannot let go of a lingering “blog” that will regularly update different thought that dates back to my Australian events and programs. tour last July and August. While I was One of the new endeavors is an effort bouncing from city to city (10 concerts in led by Allen Miller. As we continue with five weeks), so was the intrepid and programs such as the Summer Youth wonderfully entertaining violinist Andre Camp and the Adult Getaway, where the Rieu and his orchestra, singers, and focus is teaching young and not-so-young dancers. What I cannot get out of my head players how to improve, Allen has begun is the fact he presents the same music we organizing a camp aimed at the tech- do in our pipe organ concerts. Light nicians. This is a vitally important new classics, popular Broadway, marches and initiative for ATOS. I am not too concerned waltzes and a lot of musical schmaltz. He about finding new players. Every year draws tens of thousands at each show, and brings along fresh and amazing playing the ticket buyers are paying over $200 a talent. I have often stated my concerns ticket to hear the same music we present First, I take note of our friends in the about generating a new audience. Equally on the theatre organ. American Guild of Organists who are now as important is finding qualified tech- Yes, Virginia, there is an audience for well underway celebrating The Year of the nicians to keep the organs playing, and to theatre organ music, and Rieu proves it! Organ; the celebration will continue into properly install new ones. Truly qualified Our art form is in need of a little re- 2009. While we in ATOS are drawing up technicians are too few and far between. packaging, a little fresh thought, a new plans for a celebration in 2010 honoring Those “who think they know, but don’t approach, and a broad invitation to all to the 100th Anniversary of the Hope- really” threaten to do much more harm come and give it a try. Jones/Wurlitzer connection, we urge all of than good. This new camp-like event can Since we will not visit again in this our ATOS members to support their local be ATOS’ first step toward filling an ever- forum until January, I wish a Merry AGO chapters and to help them celebrate widening gap. Christmas to you all; in whatever manner in this special year for all of us who love Hats off to our friends at the Desert you celebrate, have a wonderful holiday the pipe organ. Lest we forget, Hope-Jones Winds chapter as they prepare for their season. had to have something to experiment with spectacular weekend event in the Phoenix —Ken Double to invent the instrument we love. Congrat- area in late November. Hope to see you President and CEO ulations to our friends in the AGO, and all there. And, it was good to see many of you

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Please send your items of interest to the Editor.

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The Technical Committee is working extension of the convention, following the forms, are available on the ATOS website, on several ways to expand education on afterglow, such as the following Friday, www.atos.org. the workings, maintenance, and repair of Saturday, and Sunday? Would you prefer a If you have an instrument you believe pipe organ mechanisms. We will be totally separate event at some other time to be worthy of inclusion in the National returning technical seminars to con- later in the summer? If you would like to Registry of Historic and Important ventions, starting with next year’s in attend, what is your age? We would like to Instruments, contact us with your request. Cleveland. We will also be continuing a open this event to youth and at least young As you work on our beloved instru- technical session or two during the adults, possibly older technicians as well. ments, keep in mind that they are no Summer Youth Camp. Does your chapter have any young longer made. Always keep in mind that We are working on a technical week- people working on your organs? Would you must “first, do no harm”! end, possibly starting as soon as next you be interested in sponsoring young —Allen Miller, Chair summer. To that end, we would like your technicians to attend a Technical Week- ATOS Technical Committee input. end? The weekend would include some All comments are welcome to help us classroom or seminar-type sessions, as structure this new event. Send an e-mail well as some hands-on working in shop or to [email protected] or write to me at the chamber environments. There would be address on the masthead. opportunity for attendees to play the If you or your chapter are restoring or seminar organ and to visit additional installing an organ, consider following the instruments where available. The event ATOS guidelines and filling out the would be similar to the Youth Camp and restoration worksheets while doing the Adult Getaway in structure. work. This can be most helpful in avoiding Would you attend: (a) if this can be in costly mistakes. an area easily accessible from the con- The “Guidelines for Restoration and vention location; and (b) if it were an Preservation,” as well as the worksheet

This summer has been a whirlwind of expenses (airfare, tuition, and hotel) in As we head into this autumn season, I theatre organ activity! Our ATOS con- memory of two dear mutual friends—John am more encouraged than ever that ATOS ventions have become huge “family” Catherwood and Betty Darling. John and is making an all-out positive effort to reunions of sorts, with old friendships Betty would be thrilled to be remembered thrive, rather than to just survive. With renewed and new ones formed. We in this way, and it meant the difference Ken Double in the newly restructured enjoyed some great music, fabulous whether or not a talented camper was able position of President/Chief Executive instruments, and one of the best banquets to attend. Many chapters have donated Officer, I know we have the right person ever—all delivered with legendary amounts small and large—even chapters with the specific skill set and experience Hoosier hospitality by the very competent which have no students attending. An- required to lead the organization. There is Central Indiana chapter. other crucial decision that benefits the much work to be done, and your board and Later in July, the second ATOS Sum- program tremendously is an annual gift staff have our sleeves rolled up and the mer Youth Camp took place. I walked commitment by the NorCal chapter. It elbow grease ready. It is, indeed, an away totally inspired! It is the most creates a financial foundation we can exciting time in our history to see the exciting program I have personally been count on as Jonas Nordwall builds this gleaming light of growth and success on involved with in the theatre organ world worthwhile program. the horizon. in a long time. The talent, insight, The first ATOS Adult Getaway was —Donna Parker enthusiasm and dedication that come from held in August, and this offered an these students are awesome. They are the educational opportunity that many of our ones who will carry ATOS and the theatre members have requested, to help sharpen organ art form into the future…and very their playing skills and learn a few new capably, indeed. The camp is made techniques. Charlie Balogh and Patti possible by the hard work of many folks Simon were a terrific teaching team for and the total support of the ATOS board, this event. If you are a player, think about but the ones who step up to the plate with joining in next year. Ads and information specific financial donations and gifts are will be published in THEATRE ORGAN our foundation. Longtime member Bill well in advance. Mollema gifted one camper’s entire

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He asked me to wait a moment. He returned with a favorable word that Diaphone 1 Mr. Leibert would gladly speak to me I enjoyed reading the technical article, following the concert, that I should “Demystifying the Diaphone” [THEATRE come out to the lobby just before the ORGAN, vol. 50, no. 4, July/August 2008]. final number and an usher would escort In my 40-plus years of being around these me to Dick Leibert’s dressing room unique instruments, I have wrestled with where he would meet me. The rest is many sets of these sound generators. The history. major problem was, for the most part, that Again, thanks to Geoffrey Paterson they wouldn’t tune properly. I agree with the for this splendid series. authors of the articles that many of the —Donald P. Robinson sets may never have been regulated from Rockford, Illinois the time they were built. We added a very well-cared-for set of Morton 10" pressure Diaphones to the Visalia Fox Wurlitzer and found that all but one note tuned up fine. Preservation This one note was way off pitch, and upon I have read with considerable getting into the “works” it appeared not to interest the articles in the last two have been tampered with, so I assume it THEATRE ORGAN journals con- never was in tune. I have also heard cerning preservation, protection, Wurlitzer sets that played softer than and continued innovation/devel- Bourdons! opment of the theatre organ. All I was involved with the San Gabriel the articles were well-written, Auditorium installation many years ago, factual, and persuasive. However, and remember all too well a visit by George I found that none of these articles Wright before the organ was ready for him to overwhelmed the others. Therefore, I play. The original wood Diaphones would Leibert conclude that ATOS does not have an not fit into the chamber and, if memory “either-or” situation, but a “both-and” serves me right, George had asked for a THEATRE ORGAN is to be highly situation. metal set, as they are generally more useful commended for publishing Geoffrey By this I mean that both preservation for most playing. I know the set that was Paterson’s complete discography of the late and innovation/development must, and can, installed was not in tune because I had tried Dick Leibert. I thoroughly enjoyed the proceed simultaneously. Preserve and to tune it, with no luck, and hadn’t had the whole series, which was excellently pre- protect is a good idea, but not for every time to make adjustments to the Vibrators. sented. theatre organ that exists. ATOS should Of course George sat down at the console It brought back special memories. For select a few (15 or less?) original instru- and immediately noticed the out-of-tune 27 years, beginning in 1963, I was host and ments from several different manufacturers pedal stop. That did not get things off to a producer of central New York’s successful at locations scattered throughout the good start. organ music broadcast, The Organ Loft, on country to be restored and kept original. Having been involved in George’s final which many of Mr. Leibert’s albums were These could be used as objects for study, for recording instrument, I had many chances featured. One of the highlights of producing nostalgic concerts, and also nostalgic to observe him play. He rarely used the program was covering theatre organ recordings. ATOS should simultaneously Bourdon/Flute combinations as pedal stops conventions [and] interviewing noted organ help the remainder grow into modern in his ballad playing. The metal Diaphone personalities. The ATOS 1970 convention theatre organ specifications and playing as and 8' Open was his choice, along with the remains one of the most memorable in The discussed by Jelani Eddington. Possibly two 16' Cor Anglais. Organ Loft programming. I thought it would separate committees should be formed to In this day of “ready-made” everything, be a crowning achievement if I could accomplish these two goals. an article like this might not have much arrange to interview Dick Leibert. There- By this approach, ATOS can cure its interest for your general members, but to fore, I followed the usual protocol by internal dissention and concentrate all its the diminishing few of us who are into the consulting the convention officials who energies towards the innovations necessary “nuts and bolts” of these electro-pneumatic thought it would be impossible to arrange to prepare ATOS for its next 50 years. marvels, we find this reading very inter- and thoroughly discouraged the idea. —Pete McCluer esting and educational. There are always However, not one to take no for an answer, Shingle Springs, California things to learn. I hope you will continue to before the midnight concert began, I publish technical articles like this one. tracked down the on-duty Music Hall —Ken Kukuk manager [and] presented my case to him. Los Angeles

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The Wonders of the Wurlitzer, a free series of band? No; with a few exceptions, the theatre Diaphone 2 concerts in the spring and fall. organ was installed to increase the profit for Regarding the Diaphone article, I’m The Morton went to San Diego, the theatre operator by cutting costs, or surprised you didn’t say anything about the California. keeping up with the theatre across the ultimate reasons most theatre pipe organs By the way, the first organist was the late street. Why else would the operator sub- have Diaphones in the first place. They Joseph Stobels (Stobbles?) known as Joseph stitute an imitation orchestra for the real have the quickest speech of any 16' pitch Stoves. He was followed by the three thing? So many of the innovations allowed pedal rank. This is most valuable when Cooks—the late Maurice Cook, John Cook the organist to do a better job or keep the accompanying a march or polka. of Braintree, Massachusetts (EMCATOS), organist happy, which obviously allowed the The Boston Paramount, seen and men- and Jack Cook, current organist at the “better” organ to attract the “better” player tioned in the Wurlitzer book, had a large- Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket, Rhode which would attract the bigger crowd scale metal Diaphone which gave a sound Island at the 2/10 Wurlitzer. which translated to more profit. It seems a much like a loud Violone. The Keith Please let either me or the theatre know mistaken notion that an organist at an organ Memorial next door (now [the] Boston Opera if you can locate the film Excess Baggage. can successfully recreate the symphony House) had a wood Diaphone which worked Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 orchestra whether or not it has unlimited wonders with its 16' Tuba (alas, all gone). Weybossett Street, telephone 401-421-2997. pistons (and pipes, I suppose). All of those The superb articles about Leibert at Give your info to Allan Chilli or call me at piston changes are only of potential value in Radio City Music Hall are just that, superb! 781-322-2427. an organ sufficiently large to have “that I have Leibert Takes Richmond on We do thank you all out there in the many” usable combinations. Such organs Westminster Records, [recorded] at the United States and abroad for your great did not exist “in nature,” so it is only the Byrd Theatre. The long insert by the late support for Going for the Gold, the EMCATOS new breed of what might still be called by Ben Hall helped me to better understand mini-convention. We trust you’ll come back some a “theatre organ” that allows such the whole business of theatre pipe organs. for many of our local presentation[s]! symphonic works to be attempted and thus Along with [the] late Don Baker, Wright, Please, however, keep our theatre pipe to need 40 piston changes per measure. and Leibert, I sure got an enormous music organs visible so we can pass them on to a And to whom is this “new breed” of music appreciation lesson via the recordings, bright future. Theatre pipe organs forever! directed? Is there some sort of pent-up starting in 1955, by listening at length. —Robert K. Legon demand for an organ to displace the Regarding the future in Massachusetts, Malden, Massachusetts symphony? If the potential, target audience we have the new Hanover Theatre in wants to hear a symphonic work, they want Worchester, a 4/35 composite theatre pipe to hear it played by a symphony orchestra, organ, and the Chevalier Theatre in Diaphone 3 not a pipe organ trying to imitate a Medford has a 2/9 (to be 10) Wurlitzer from I really enjoyed the recent article on the symphony orchestra. If you buy the premise B.F. Keith’s Theatre, Dayton, Ohio. So our Diaphones. Such a thing can be really that a pipe organ is a reasonable, acceptable future is looking brighter in these times. helpful in the future as well as the present. substitute for an orchestra, then it only It is our freedom that allows us to see the I have a Diaphone in my home which is follows that a synthesizer (or electronic theatre pipe organ into the future. That is mitered just like the one on page 21 of organ) is a reasonable, acceptable substitute why we must share the instruments, not the July/August issue. Its parentage is for a pipe organ. What has evolved is a possess them. unknown. The chest is rather bulky, though group of wonderfully talented organists Would someone out there please let me made of rather lightweight wood. It is trying to outplay each other. There is an know where we can find a film exchange stained the way Möller liked to do, and it audience for this sort of thing, and you can that has the silent film, Excess Baggage. We has mostly Möller internal magnets, but it see it at any American Guild of Organists believe it was was a 1928 MGM film. has a few of the short, fat Morton magnets. event. But how many non-organists does/ 1 The Providence Performing Arts Center It is playing beautifully on 7 ⁄2". would that attract? Let’s not forget that opened in 1928 as Loew’s State Theatre What I am really writing about is the the theatre organ was only part of the with a 4/20 Robert-Morton that was twice Jelani Eddington article. I know Jelani is a entertainment and never the whole show. damaged in the 1938 and 1954 hurricanes. brilliant, talented, educated man to be Today’s organ audience is just looking for a It’s going to be the theatre’s 80th year respected, and I can see his point of view nice outing—something to do on a Sunday (1928–2008), and it would be fine to show and how he could draw his conclusions. afternoon. I used to joke that at some un- the first film, Excess Baggage, as the 80th True, the theatre organ was blessed with named “pipes and pizza” Joe Enthusiast anniversary show. many innovators in the heyday, but what jumped up, slammed his pizza to the floor, The 5/21 Wurlitzer is doing fine, Jelani fails to understand is the reason the and stormed out with the wife and kids although not totally restored. Master Xylo- theatre organ came into existence in the first because the Aeoline Celeste only went phone and Piano are not working. We still place. Was it to bring culture to the masses? down to low G. I don’t see anyone leaving a use the Wurlitzer for special shows and Was it to provide organists with a job? Was theatre organ program that has evolved into it to do a better job than the orchestra or a “concert” because there were only 12

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 9 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 7:49 PM Page 10

Season’s Greetings!

general pistons. In fact, I will submit that 99.6% of the people there would have no idea what a piston is, [nor] care whether or not they are working. No amount of “perfect” playing or piston changes or bewildering amount of manuals or ranks or console gyrations can substitute for genuine entertainment. Give the audience a reasonably competent organist, a magician, a juggler, an acrobat, and a short film or two in less than two hours, and they will come back over and over. It is a wonderful thing that Jelani and several others are so motivated to hone their craft to perfection, and I hope they find that in the end it is worth the effort and fulfills a need, even if it is only a Season’s personal need. Greetings& On another topic, I wish that the pizza organ had been differentiated Happy from a theatre organ. For the most part the only thing that the pizza organ and New Year theatre organ had in common was a horseshoe console and theatre organ from the pipes, lots and lots of theatre organ Board & Staff pipes. I can’t help but think that had at ATOS. some of the pizza installations been more modest, purchase and main- Need a great gift idea? tenance costs could have been held Buy a membership for a to a level where the restaurant could friend. It’s inexpensive, fun, have been profitable. Once the “oh and good for all in ATOS! wow” had worn off and you wanted to talk with your party, you either had to wait until the break, scream in their ear, or retreat to the washroom. In my humble opinion, the big “impressive” organs of today are an offshoot of the pizza organ, not the theatre organ. Moderation in everything! In short, (too late, I know) I don’t think we have to do anything to push the organ’s or organist’s evolution to where they are “enthusiasts” because they think they need 63 ranks, a 5,000 square foot music “all the same,” competing in that last step traditional theatre organ you remember, room, and an organist with a master’s toward perfection. If someone wants to the one we loved the first time we heard degree in order to produce an acceptably spend the money for 87 ranks and 50 it. So my vote is for less “perfection” and “presentable” program. Potential enthu- pistons per manual so be it, but for anyone more entertainment—more FUN! siasts don’t know (because they weren’t to expect that to be the norm or that it will Most respectfully, and with a wish for around in the ’60’s) that they can put a somehow appeal to the masses, or “the peace. younger generations” is unrealistic. Not to five-rank organ together for pennies —Gary Rickert take anything from Jelani, his name just and have a blast with it. Just like there are Oak Forest, Illinois happens to be on the article which and will always be bagpipe (talk about sparked my comments, but is there a need needing updating) enthusiasts, accordion to set the bar so high? The theatre organ is enthusiasts, banjo enthusiasts, etc., there suffering in the eyes of potential will always be enthusiasts of the more

10 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/27/08 1:19 PM Page 11

= Missing Link The vintage Link organ materials appearing on pages 20–23 of our September/October issue raised several favorable comments. The Link company also produced an interesting series of postcards which we recently rediscovered. (Weiler Collection)

Th ea tr e, L os An gel es (Exterior>

A Link T wo Manu a l Console

! ~ L,i ------ii --- .-..- v; .~.:. .:..:..:.':.:..:...... ~ -~ -,-

' ·\ · " B ab y G r a nd " Tw o M a nu al Co ns ole Unk- C Sha r pe- ,v ,n or

Wo Manual C ------~-AALink T onsole

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 11 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 7:56 PM Page 12

OPENING OF NOMINATIONS FOR CALL FOR AWARD THE 2009 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS NOMINATIONS

It is time to nominate candidates to fill and theatre organ experience, a short Now is the time to consider nominating three (3) positions for ATOS directors for platform statement, an evening/weekend someone you feel is deserving of consid- the three-year term of 2009 to 2012. All telephone number, and a photo. Statements eration for one of the ATOS honors. As a ATOS members who have maintained exceeding the one hundred fifty (150) word people organization, we need to recognize continuous membership in good standing limit will disqualify the candidate. The individuals who have done an outstanding for at least the last two years are eligible nominee’s name, city/state of residence, job in promoting, preserving, presenting, for nomination and may nominate them- contact telephone number, fax number, or and otherwise furthering the art form we all selves or be nominated by another member e-mail address are not to be included in hold so dear. in good standing, in which case written the word count. There are many unsung heroes working consent of the nominee is mandatory and 2. Candidate résumés and photo are to quietly and diligently who may be unknown must be received before the nominee’s be sent to the nominating committee chair, to anyone outside of their local chapter. name can be placed on the ballot. Bill Carr. It is strongly recommended that Please take the time to nominate these folks A nominee need have no special talent nominations be sent via “return receipt” or so they may receive the recognition they or experience in pipe organ technology or similar mail class if international. Nomina- deserve. musicianship; however, nominees should tions may also be sent digitally; however, As chair of the Awards Committee, I have a demonstrated interest in ATOS and the sender MUST verify receipt of the stand ready to help you or to provide any have the time to work toward the goals and nomination by the chair. The postmark information you may need. Nominations growth of the society. While there are deadline is January 15, 2009. may be submitted to any director or chapter certain benefits enjoyed by directors, one 3. We will use a separate mailing of liaison. of which is the reimbursement of certain ballots and résumés of the candidates. All nominations for ATOS awards must meeting-related expenses, there are also While this method is costly, we hope that it be in writing, not to exceed one typewritten responsibilities. Along with a willingness will encourage members to vote for the page. Any member of ATOS may nominate to participate in the administrative affairs candidates of their choice, thus demon- anyone for any ATOS award. of the society, it is most important that strating their interest in and support of Some of the categories are: directors faithfully attend both board and ATOS and its objectives. • Hall of Fame committee meetings. 4. If you have questions, please contact • Honorary Member The ATOS board usually meets twice a the nominating committee chair: • Organist of the Year year, the first being just prior to the annual Bill Carr • Ron Musselman Member of the Year convention, usually in the summer, and 11815 North 77th Avenue • Awards for Technical Excellence— again in mid-year, usually sometime in late Peoria, Arizona 85345 Technician of the Year January. Attendance of all directors is 673-694-1746 • Volunteer Technician Awards necessary if the decisions and actions of [email protected] There are an additional 20 categories! the board are to be truly responsive to the 5. Counting words: More information, and a complete listing membership. In addition, directors chair a. Name, city, and state in the of categories, may be found on the ATOS and/or serve on one or more committees heading do not count. website (www.atos.org), ATOS Front Desk, providing valuable input to the board. The b. Hyphenated words count as one Board meetings and reference documents, committee chairs are responsible for sub- (1) word (e.g. Vice-President, two- ATOS Policies, #4 Awards. mitting a written report of their activities term…). —Don Near, Director and recommendations prior to meetings of c. Articles and prepositions count Chair of the Awards Committee the board. (the organ caretaker = three (3) words, The board is currently taking action on an avid lover of theatre organ = six (6) several exciting programs that should words. increase public awareness of ATOS and set d. ATOS = one (1) word; MCTOS = a course for the future. This is a great time one (1) word; American Theatre Organ to become involved in the work of ATOS. Society = four (4) words. Procedure to be observed in the nomi- e. Abbreviations count as one (1) nation process is as follows: word (Asst., Mrs.). 1. Each nominee shall furnish a f. Numbers count as a word [26 = statement, not to exceed one hundred fifty one (1) word, 5 = one (1) word]. (150) words, including the name and city/state of residence, personal data, work

12 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 7:56 PM Page 13

YOUTH THE 2009 A CALL FOR REPRESENTATIVE GEORGE WRIGHT DOCUMENTS TO THE BOARD MEMORIAL Theatre Organ Installation Document Research Project A program to encourage FELLOWSHIP dialogue and exchange of ideas The ATOS Technical and Education A program to bring a young between our young members Committees are jointly requesting the person to the ATOS annual and the ATOS board assistance of all ATOS members who have convention to be held in access to original factory organ cham- The position of ATOS youth represen- Cleveland, Ohio and surrounding ber and contractor blueprints, drawings, tative to the board has been established to areas June 30–July 6, 2009 contracts, photos, specifications and corre- encourage a two-way avenue for dialogue The George Wright Memorial Fellow- spon dence. The goal is to acquire historic and the expression of ideas from a youth ship has been established to pay for an docu ments to include in the ever- perspective. The youth representative will interested young person between the ages expanding ATOS Archive. This request for serve on the ATOS board of directors for the of 15 and 24 to attend his or her first ATOS documentation includes all builders of two-year period from 2009–2011 and annual convention. ATOS will pay the theatre pipe organs. should be involved in as many ATOS events convention registration fee, jam session Although a number of original Wurlitzer as possible. The position is available to fee(s), hotel, economy round-trip airfare, drawings are presently available through young persons between the ages of 15 and the cost of the banquet for the winner. the Smithsonian Institution, they represent and 24. All young people interested in applying less than 10% of the total number gener- ATOS will cover the approved costs for this fellowship should request an ated by the firm. We are seeking originals, associated with attending events such as application today by contacting Jelani or high-quality copies, of prints and the annual convention and any mid-year Eddington, ATOS Youth Initiatives Chair, documents that do not exist in the board meetings the youth representative is 1706 West Palamino Drive, Racine, Smithsonian Wurlitzer collection. Equally required to attend. Wisconsin 53402, or by downloading the important is the acquisition of installation All young people interested in applying forms online from the ATOS website, blueprints and technical drawings of for this position should request an applica- www.atos.org. If you know of a young person Robert-Morton, Barton, Marr & Colton, tion today by contacting Jelani Eddington, who might be interested, please have him Kimball, and other theatre organ builders. ATOS Youth Initiatives Chair, 1706 West or her fill out an application today. Please assist us with this important Palamino Drive, Racine, Wisconsin 53402. All applications must be submitted by project, before any more of our history is The application forms may also be down- certified mail, return receipt, postmarked lost. loaded from the ATOS website, www.atos.org. no later than February 28, 2009. Contact Jeff Weiler, Archival Liaison, at If you know of a young person who might be For more information or for general [email protected] or 312-842-7475. interested in serving in ATOS in this inquiries, please contact Jelani Eddington capacity, please have him or her send for at the address listed above, by e-mail at an application today. Be sure to include [email protected], or at 262-639-8788. your mailing address. All applications must be submitted by certified mail, return receipt, postmarked no later than February 28, 2009. For more information or for general inquiries, please contact Jelani Eddington at the address listed above, by e-mail at [email protected], or at 262-639-8788. ATTENTION ALL THEATRE ORGANISTS! ATOS is adding an expanded section to its website with information about all performing theatre organists. The information will include a biography, publicity photo, and contact information (name, address, phone, e-mail, website). Having this information available to concert promoters, program directors, and chapters will help them, and will give you added visibility. Please send all information to [email protected] or to Donna Parker, P.O. Box 6103, Aloha, Oregon 97007. E-mail or call with questions (503-642-7009).

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 13 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 7:56 PM Page 14

2008 STUDENT OF THE YEAR AWARD WELCOME TO NEW

The Theatre Organ Student of the I’ve been interested in organ since ATOS MEMBERS Year Award recognizes a theatre organ I was three or four. My parents took July 15 through October 11, 2008 student who has demonstrated excep- me to classical recitals and to a silent Donald C. Auberger, Jr., Cincinnati, Ohio tional commitment to, and improvement movie accompanied by Steven Ball at C.W. Belcher, Bowie, Texas in, his or her theatre organ studies. It the Michigan Theatre in Ann Arbor, was a difficult process to select this Michigan. When I was six years old, I Sherri L. Boschen, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina year’s recipient; however, a particular started taking piano lessons. I was told Peter Chester, Beckenham, United Kingdom student made exceptional progress in my “legs weren’t long enough to reach Chris Carver, Jacksonville, Florida her theatre organ studies. the pedals” on the instrument that I Robert N. Cowley, Parrottsville, Tennessee Emily Seward, from Southfield, really wanted to play. When I was nine, Anthony Cozzolino, Hempstead, New York Michigan, is a highly motivated and I met my current classical organ teacher David J. Cucuzza, Margate, Florida exceptionally intelligent young lady who at a Wayne Leupold pipe organ demon- Steven Eaklor, Brookhaven, Pennsylvania takes a deep interest in theatre organ. stration and began lessons with her soon William Enos, Richmond, Virginia She attended the ATOS summer youth after. camp in both 2007 and 2008. She has A year or so later, my mom took me John W. Ferreir, Sarasota, Florida also been featured quite extensively at to the Redford Theatre with its 3/10 William E. Foote, San Rafael, California the Redford Theatre in Detroit, Barton. We joined the theatre’s staff and David Gooding, Strongsville, Ohio Michigan. the Motor City Theatre Organ Society Woodie Grayson, Jr., Vinita, Oklahoma Emily was officially presented this (MCTOS) soon after. I then started Bob and Mary Green, Fair Oaks, California award at the Young Artists’ Competition coming down to practice every chance Gerald C. Hammers, O'Fallon, Missouri at the 2008 ATOS convention in I could. Not knowing much theatre Bill Hardacre, Anderson, Indiana Indianapolis, Indiana. music, I was having trouble playing Curtis Hoppins, Los Gatos, California —Donna Parker Bach with the tremulants! In 2007, on the advice of Jennifer Candea, a regular Dr. Floyd W. Hoyt, Tampa, Florida organist at the Redford, I joined the Joseph C. Kearly, Dallas, Texas Detroit Theatre Organ Society (DTOS) Jeffrey A. Korns, Marion, Iowa and was able to practice on its 4/34 Laurie Sebastion Koval, El Paso, Texas Wurlitzer at the Senate Theatre in Ken Kukuk, Los Angeles, California Detroit. We also added a two-manual Brian Larkin, Providence, Rhode Island Conn 640 electronic organ at home as I Howard B. Lawson, Santa Barbara, California started getting serious about learning Mr. R. J. Long, Ashland, Virginia the theatre organ style. Steven Ball and Dave Calendine Charles Mallory, Phoenix, Arizona gave me a few lessons. After the ATOS Marilyn Matson, Spring Valley, Minnesota summer youth camp in 2007, I was even Joseph McCabe, Lakewood, Ohio more encouraged, practicing harder Dennis and Marilyn McGorman, Cerritos, than ever; it was now my goal to play the California overtures and intermissions at the Kevin Neafie, Indianapolis, Indiana Redford. Finally, in March of this year, Kathleen H. Porter, San Diego, California I got my opportunity! Since then, I’ve Edwin C. Rogers, Phoenix, Arizona played before and during intermissions Patrick Sheehan, Dixon, Illinois for Grease, The Incredible Shrinking Man, and Pride and Prejudice. Ross Skelton, Toronto, Canada I continue to learn classical organ Daniel B. Talbot, Hudson, Massachusetts and to play for church services. Una B. Tonnesen, Queensbury, New York Recently, I have been studying with Richard W. Vann, Dublin, Ohio John Lauter. Sandra Watjean, Pawtucket, Rhode Island —Emily Seward John P. Watts, Kent Lakes, New York Max Wexler, Boynton Beach, Florida Robert H. Wilson, Punta Gorda, Florida Anita Wolff, Omaha, Nebraska

14 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 7:56 PM Page 15

NEW ATOS DIRECTORS

D. John Apple John G. DeMajo Bucky Reddish Growing up near Ann Arbor, Michigan, I feel that I could be of service to ATOS, Hello, I’m Bucky Reddish from Atlanta, I first heard an organ on my mother’s not only because of my lifelong fascination Georgia. Besides being a new national Christmas carol recordings by Jesse with and commitment to the theatre organ ATOS board member, I have been vice Crawford and Lew White. When my church and its music, but because I believe that I president of the Atlanta chapter for five acquired a used Estey spinet, I was eager to have much to offer with regard to ;years and am presently serving as president learn how this instrument worked. The first distribution of information, which is critical of the chapter. I have a Walker RTO theatre time that I heard a theatre organ live was to maintaining the public’s interest in our organ in my home and sponsor several when Gloria Swanson (my mother’s cousin) hobby. It is evident that without increased programs featuring out-of-town artists each and Lee Erwin came to the Royal Oak public awareness of the organ in general, year for the chapter. Theatre for a showing of her silent film, interest in organ performance and restora- I am a pharmacist by trade; however, my Queen Kelly. I also learned more of the tion will suffer or be lost as far as future passion has been the theatre organ since theatre organ when a neighbor became generations are concerned. I believe that the 1977 when I heard a Rodgers Olympic involved in the restoration of the Barton at Internet and modern computer science have while visiting the Macon Mall. I bought it the Michigan Theatre, Ann Arbor. In my provided us with a vehicle to bring all facets that day! In addition to the Walker, I have late teens, I began my organ study at the of theatre organ directly in front of the owned a Barton and an Allen R-311. local Hammond dealership that eventually public and to reach people who may not be By the way, I also have the honor of being led to a Master’s degree in music. aware of what we, as an organization, have to editor of the ATOS ETONES group, and I In 1982, I moved to Charlotte, North offer. I foresee the potential use of web would appreciate any information, news, Carolina, where I played and directed in seminars, databases, and interactive web- feedback, etc., concerning electronic organs churches as well as worked for a retail sheet sites as the building blocks for a virtual in order to help the ETONES prosper. music dealer. In 1983, I began working on a university for future organ historians, Please feel free to contact me; my infor- project to research and produce a book on technicians, and performers. While ATOS mation is on the masthead. the pipe organs in Charlotte; that book was has made strides recently in its use of the published in 1985 for our American Guild internet to reach members, I believe that we of Organists’ regional convention. Because have only scratched the surface with regard of my interest in theatre organ, I inves- to bringing our interests to a new generation tigated whether any theatres remained in of people through this medium. Charlotte that had had a pipe organ. This Over the last 10 years in my work with began a project that continues to this day: the American Guild of Organists, the Organ to preserve and restore the Carolina Theatre Historical Society, and my local ATOS in Charlotte and to find a theatre organ for chapter, I have applied my skills as a its chambers. After joining ATOS in 1986, I professional network engineer and infor- founded Metrolina Theatre Organ Society mation systems specialist to make coveted during the fall of 1989 and co-founded the information available to the pipe organ Carolina Theatre Preservation Society in community. I have also endeavored to use 1997 to help save this theatre. I served on my engineering and electronics skills to the ATOS board from 2003–2005, serving better understand and apply electronics to D. John Apple as a liaison to AGO and creating a task force pipe organ control systems and to virtual for strategic planning. I continue to research instruments; I believe it is important to and edit organ music for MichaelsMusic reach those who are not fortunate enough to Service.com, an organ music restorer and have a real theatre pipe organ at their publisher. In addition to serving on the disposal. ATOS board, I am president of our local chapter of ATOS, secretary of the Carolina Theatre Preservation Society, and archivist for the Charlotte chapter of the AGO.

Bucky Reddish (Photo by John Nelson)

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 15 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 7:56 PM Page 16

MY FIRST ATOS CONVENTION BY GLENN TALLAR

a regular shift at Beggar’s Pizza in Lansing, Perhaps the event I enjoyed the most was Illinois, exposing young people to the Clark Wilson’s silent film at the Embassy theatre organ. Some of them might follow in Theatre. I always enjoy seeing silent films, the same footsteps as Jelani Eddington, and Clark did an amazing job. I have often Dwight Thomas, Martin Ellis, and me. heard that when you accompany a silent The artists did a great job preparing for film, you should try not to make the organ this convention. They made it really exciting overly noticeable. Clark did that very well. for us, and they seemed very happy to be When I was watching the film, I started to there. We started off with Simon Gledhill think that people back in the 1920s who from across the pond playing impressive watched these films didn’t care who made arrangements, including a great song from the organ or what was in it. All they knew The Beatles—that’s the type of “new” music was an organist was playing and an I like to hear! Scott Foppiano did an enjoyable sound came out from somewhere. excellent job making the two-manual I had a lot of fun on this trip. It was a Hedback organ really sing. Walt Strony wonderful experience, and now that I know played songs that most everybody in the better what ATOS is all about, I can’t wait audience would know. Richard Hills’ until next year. I would also like to thank I would like to thank ATOS for awarding program was just filled with fun. He has two people who encouraged me to apply for me the 2008 George Wright Memorial such a good time playing and brings great the George Wright Fellowship: Jelani Fellowship to attend the ATOS convention songs. Ken Double has a great onstage Eddington and Richard Sklenar. Both Jelani in Indianapolis, as well as for support with presence and also gave us a very enter- and Richard have been helping me along three years of scholarships to study with taining afternoon. Mark Herman had variety this exciting adventure. Jelani has been Jelani Eddington. The week of events in in his performance, including a vocalist and coaching me musically, and Richard has Indianapolis were some the best things I’ve pianist, and I really enjoyed the lighting been introducing me to many interesting seen in the area of theatre pipe organ. I effects during the show—switching colors people. listened to great people play, heard their in the walls and ceiling. The Trio Con Brio, I would like to extend an invitation to viewpoints, and met many interesting Jonas Nordwall, Donna Parker, and Martin come hear the 3/17 Barton/hybrid organ I people. I would also like to thank the Ellis, provided another fun experience. The play on Tuesdays and Saturdays in Lansing, Central Indiana chapter for hosting us and Trio played contemporary music, including Illinois at Beggar’s Pizza. Also, you are providing a well-run convention. popular movie themes and show tunes, well welcome to visit our 3/14 Barton my family One thing that I noticed is that, for some arranged with specific parts for each has installed in our home. On a final note, reason, there seems to be a greater number individual. Jim Riggs played a delightful I would like to thank the people who of male than female ATOS members. Also, program and had such a good time showing have raised me around theatre organs—my as many of us have discussed before, ATOS off the piano on stage. The Young Theatre parents, Bob and Janet Tallar. as a society needs to continue recruiting Organist Competition program was also very I look forward to seeing all of my ATOS younger people, particularly at the local enjoyable. I give the young artists so much friends again soon! chapter level. We need to look for them credit for performing in front of so many instead of waiting for them to walk in the people, probably for the first time. door. I hope that I am doing my part, playing

After being out of print for several years, the ATOS Educators’ Guides are once again ATOS available. The guides have been completely revised and are now in two editions. The Chapter EDUCATORS’ Edition is for use by ATOS chapters; it gives chapter members step-by-step guidelines to help them prepare and present a successful theatre organ program to students in their area. GUIDES ARE The School Edition is for the use of educators as they prepare their students to attend a theatre organ program. Both guides must be used together when presenting a theatre NOW AVAILABLE organ program to students. The newly revised ATOS Educators’ Guides may be downloaded from www.atos.org or purchased from the ATOS Marketplace.

16 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 7:56 PM Page 17

2009 YOUNG THEATRE ORGANIST COMPETITION

ATOS is pleased to announce the Young selected from among the finalists based on experience for everyone, the competition Theatre Organist Competition for 2009. that performance. committee has made several important rule Prize Money—ATOS is pleased to offer Competition Open to ATOS Members changes over the past several years for this up to USD $1,500 in prize money to this and Non-Members—The competition will event. Please consult the young theatre year’s competition winners. Each finalist be open to ATOS members and non- organist competition rules and guidelines will receive an award of $500. The overall members alike. Entrants who are members for the complete rules. winner will receive an additional award of of ATOS chapters may be sponsored by their A copy of the rules and guidelines, $1,000. The 2009 overall winner will be home chapter. Entrants who are ATOS as well as the application form, may be invited to perform a live concert as part of members but not affiliated with a chapter, obtained from the competition chair, Jelani the 2010 annual convention. or who are not members of ATOS, may enter Eddington, at [email protected], or by Age Eligibility—This year’s competi- as entrants “at large.” downloading the materials from the ATOS tion will be open to persons between the Incentive to Chapters that Sponsor website, www.atos.org. All competition ages of 13 and 24 as of July 1, 2009. Competition Winners—As a special materials must be received by the chair no Three Finalists Brought to the thanks to our local chapters, any chapter later than April 1, 2009. Convention—The competition judges will that sponsors an entrant who is selected as The competition committee hopes that select up to three finalists from the entrants. a finalist will receive an honorarium of this will be a rewarding and enjoyable event Those finalists will be brought to the annual $250. Any chapter that sponsors the finalist for all who participate. Think about joining convention in the Cleveland, Ohio area, who is selected the overall winner will in on the fun for 2009! where they will perform live during the receive an additional $250 honorarium. convention. An overall winner will be In an effort to make participation in one of our flagship programs a more enjoyable

2008 AWARDS Young Theatre Organist Competition Winner Outgoing Directors Jonathan Ortloff Attention All ATOS Vernon Bickel, 2006–2008 2008 ATOS Young Organist Michael R. Cierski, 2005–2008 Scholarship Recipients Chapter Officers Carlton Smith, 2002–2008 Daniel McCollum Please visit the ATOS website, Hall of Fame Mary Ann Sheila Wootton www.atos.org/front-desk/chapters.html, Gordon Belt Nathan Avakian and verify that the information for your Jack Moelmann Mike Cierski Eric Fricke chapter is current. If there are any Organist of the Year Robert H. Lent changes needed, please e-mail Chris Gorsuch Donnie Rankin [email protected]. Glenn Tallar Honorary Member Don Phipps Ron Musselman Member of the Year Ray Clements John Furhman George Wright Memorial Fellowship Glenn Tallar Young Theatre Organist Competition Finalists Jonathan Ortloff Eric Fricke Mary Ann Sheila Wootton Gordon Belt Jack Moelmann Chris Gorsuch

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stereo

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A Lasting (Weiler Collection) BY RAY CARNOVALE Obsession My lasting obsession with theatre organs began quite acciden- on, I became enthralled with all things Wurlitzer, and especially the tally when I was in my early teens in Timmins, Ontario. My best recordings of George Wright. friend, Brian Kelly, and I were electronics buffs and aspiring That was around 1959. Fast-forwarding four and a half decades, electrical engineers. So we were into all the usual gadgetry of the I found myself in the Rainbow Room of Rockefeller Center in 2003. era. Popular Electronics was the monthly “must read,” and ham The event was the annual general meeting of the North American radios and stereos were either homebrew, or built from kits. Brian’s Broadcasters Association. We were gathered for the opening evening father was a doctor and an early enthusiast of the emergent supper, and I remarked to one of my colleagues how I just loved the stereophonic recordings, so Brian was constantly experimenting. Art Deco motif of the Rainbow Room. It turned out that he and his One day, I was admiring Brian’s latest foray into stereophonic wife often sailed to Catalina Island, and he mentioned that it had an kit-building. Two Grommes 10-watt “Little Genie” monaural ampli- Art Deco theatre. “Is that the one with the theatre organ?” I asked. fiers were feeding a pair of homemade Karlson speaker enclosures, “Yes,” he replied. each containing a 15" triaxial speaker. Brian was keen to And then began a fascinating revelation. “You know, my house demonstrate the thunderous bass for which Karlson enclosures were once had an organ in it. One day, a woman knocked on the door and notorious. “Give a listen to this,” Brian said. And he placed George said that her Uncle Richard had built the house, and it had had an Wright Encores on the turntable. organ installed in it. People would pass by in the street and hear The speakers, although fed by only 10 watts per channel, did the organ music.” full justice to the opening run of “Jalousie.” And from that moment

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Well, a lot of people have had pipe organs in their houses. But my colleague was from Los Angeles. And the name Richard…Richard, kept going through my head. Who was “Uncle Richard”? When I got back to the hotel that night, I did a Google search on Hi-Fi Records, and came across Ralph Beaudry’s article “The Wurlitzer that Made Hi-Fi.” I studied the article carefully, and made particular note of one sentence about Richard Vaughn’s search for a theatre organ: “His bid for the near mint-condition Paradise Theatre organ in Chicago was accepted, and in the late ’40s he began installing it in his home in the Baldwin Hills area of Los Angeles.” The next day at lunch I said to my colleague, “Dave, by any chance would your home be in the Baldwin Hills?” “Yes.” “Oh my God,” I replied. “You don’t realize it, but your home is a shrine to theatre organ enthusiasts.” And I went on to describe George Wright at the Vaughn Wurlitzer (Weiler Collection) how Richard Vaughn had installed the magnificent 5/21 Paradise Wurlitzer in his house, and that George Wright had made many of the still-definitive theatre organ recordings on that instrument. A year later, at the next annual general meeting of NABA, this time in Los Angeles, I presented Dave with the Banda compact disc The Mighty Wurlitzer and George Wright Encores. “These,” I said, “are the first two recordings that George Wright made in your house.” Dave thanked me, and then suggested that later that day, after the meeting had ended, we go to his house so I might see it for myself. It’s difficult to describe both the excitement and the eerie feeling I had as I walked into the living room. The living room has a cathedral ceiling. At the far end remains a plaster lattice, leading to the two vertical sound ducts extending into the basement below.

Going downstairs, I saw the projection room, and what was no doubt Ivon Ditmars at Vaughn Wurlitzer (Weiler Collection) one of the earliest examples of home theatre, with a projection window from a booth built to contain a 16mm projector. Dave showed me a room which, because of the heavy acoustical insulation on the walls, he thought was the audio control room. I indicated that this, in fact, was not the case. It was the blower room, as evidenced by the large breaker panel on the wall and the circular cutout near the ceiling which would have served to route the main duct through to the two chambers. One of the 16' by 16' chambers is now a sauna; the other is a wine cellar. Having played a variety of theatre organ installations, including a few in residences, I am amazed at how, somehow, Richard Vaughn managed to achieve the perfect combination of chamber size and living room size, coupled by the vertical sound ducts. Many residence recordings are too “up close,” and many auditorium recordings sound too distant. Back in the living room, I stood soaking in the atmosphere. This Exterior of residence (Photo by Ray Carnovale) was where my idol, George Wright, had spent so many hours in making his virtually perfect recordings. And here I was, some 45 years after I, as a teenager, had first heard his recordings. I commented how the organ console must have been on the long wall opposite the fireplace, centered between the windows. After all, one of the album covers shows George standing beside the console, and behind him, to his left, what appears to be a window drape. And then, we took a step back in time. Dave took the CD and placed it in the player. The drawer retracted, and, for what seemed an eternity, the disc began cuing. And then, once again, that famous opening run from “Jalousie” poured forth, in the very room where it had all begun. The song hadn’t ended, and the melody lingers on.

Living room, showing lattice (Photo by Ray Carnovale)

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The Chicago movie scene was domi- nated by Balaban & Katz which in 1925 merged with Famous Players-Lasky to form Paramount Pictures and Paramount-Publix Theatres. William Fox, as well as the Loew’s chain, chose not to compete in the Chicago market, hoping that Paramount wouldn’t retaliate in other lucrative markets. Wheaton wouldn’t have its first “Fox” until the 20th century, when Dave Krall jokingly referred to Paul and Linda Van Der Molen’s music room as the “Wheaton Fox.” It’s a name that stuck! Paul met David Krall in the late 1970s when both attended a George Wright concert at the Hinsdale Theatre. Paul was a novice to the theatre organ and was inter- ested in hearing and learning more. Jim Glass, owner of the organ in the Hinsdale Theatre, introduced Paul and Dave, and a friendship developed. Dave was going to visit Roy Davis in McMinnville, Tennessee and invited Paul along for the trip. Roy had organ parts that David was interested in, and Paul’s pick-up truck provided a means to bring them back to Hammond, Indiana, Dave’s home. Paul had never seen a theatre organ in a The home and was fascinated by the concept. On the way back, Dave suggested to Paul that he could have his own at his home in Wheaton. Paul figured his then-wife Jan would never allow him to replace their Wheaton electronic with an actual pipe organ, but if David could talk Jan into it Paul would give BY ROBERT WILHELM it a try. To Paul’s amazement, Dave was able to convince Jan that it would be a good idea to have a home with a pipe organ. Fox Through Dave Krall, Paul learned that the 3/19 Robert-Morton in the Fairmount Theatre (708 East Tremont Avenue, Bronx, New York), had been removed by Dick Loderhose and was in storage. Opening with vaudeville and movies on September 12, 1928, the 2,559-seat house was Loew’s biggest theater until they opened the Paradise. Designed by architect Joseph Orlando, the Fairmount was in French A growing town of 7,000 in the late 1920s, Wheaton, Illinois was Renaissance style. The auditorium was largely ignored by the great movie palace builders of the era. Located semi-atmospheric, with patches of dark 25 miles directly west of Chicago’s Loop, access to the great Chicago blue sky peeking through the latticed ceiling, but without floating clouds or movie palaces of the late 1920s required a short trip on the Chicago, twinkling stars. Dropped by the Loew’s Aurora & Elgin Railroad’s Roarin’ Elgin, a recently electrified (in the chain in the late 1950s, the theatre finally 1920s) high-speed interurban linking Wheaton with downtown closed in 1969. In the mid-1980s the house Chicago. Alternatively, the great Chicago & Northwestern Railroad was four-plexed but it couldn’t survive, and eventually it was turned into a supermarket. served Wheaton, being one of the first railroads as early as the mid- Although the instrument wasn’t com- 1920s to make the move to internal combustion (diesel and gasoline) plete, it was available, and Paul made power for their trains. arrangements to purchase it. With an organ in possession, next would be the

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construction of a music room on the rear of crème of organ talent, one year Tom interested in organ, Paul wondered if they the garage. Actually, this turned into the Hazleton, Jonas Nordwall, Clark Wilson, might be interested in alternative music removal of the existing garage and the Lyn Larsen, Donna Parker, David programs as well. He decided to give it a building of the music room, organ Wickerham, John Lauter, John Ferguson, try and sent invitations to everyone on chambers, and new garage attached to the and others appeared in a massive jam the Christmas concert list, as well as to side of the house. Access was right out the session. One of the often-remembered the Windy City Organ Club, for a non-organ kitchen door that was formerly an outside events was when Tom Hazleton prerecorded program at the house. He found that he entrance. Dave Krall was hired to install the “The Stripper” by David Rose on the immediately had enough subscribers at $65 instrument. organ’s Trousdale player system. As a jam per couple to get the Wheaton-Fox Music Some time after the opening of Pipes and session encore Tom seated himself at the Lovers Society started. Paul promised each Pizza in Milwaukee in 1976, Dave console and pretended to play. Paul had, subscriber four to six programs a year, introduced Paul to Clark Wilson. A strong however, pressed the playback button for dependent on artist schedules and fees. friendship developed between Clark and the organ’s Trousdale playback unit. After Only professional musicians perform for the Paul, with Clark becoming involved in the playing a few bars, Tom proceeded to slide society. home organ project. After much work, the off the bench where he continued with a In addition to organ and piano concerts, instrument made its debut concert for the very suggestive and sleazy strip down to the Van Der Molens have been most neighborhood, with Clark at the keyboards, the bathing suit he had worn underneath gracious to other organizations such as in July, 1981 with 11½ ranks playing. his concert attire. As the last bars and church groups, opera auxiliaries, service While Clark and Dave perhaps believe measures of the piece were ending, Tom clubs, etc. wishing to make use of the music that Kimballs are inspired by God, it took flung open the double glass doors of the room. Even a wedding was once held there. Paul a little more convincing that he would music room, ran out to the in-ground pool, Jazz trios, opera singers, string players and ultimately enjoy his Morton more than had and dove in, to the wild applause of the pianists, as well as small orchestral groups, he found a “Gee, Paul, it’s a Wurlitzer.” The audience! have performed. After the purchase of a first sounds were not instantly agreeable to By far the longest-running and perhaps Mason & Hamlin model CC grand piano, Paul or Clark. best-known events have been the Christmas dual piano events have occurred using the First to go was the Robert-Morton programs. This annual event started more two magnificent 9' pianos. There have been Trumpet (now in the Coronado Theatre in than 25 years ago with an invitation to the dance classes and private music school Rockford, Illinois), to be replaced by a 7½" neighborhood to join Clark Wilson for an programs held at the house. Most recently pressure Kimball Trumpet. An evolution evening of Christmas music. Now a five- Wheaton Fox Studio was used for a began that saw the addition of a Wurlitzer concert weekend event that draws people fundraiser which included acclaimed organ Brass Saxophone, Wurlitzer Vox Humana, from miles around Wheaton, attendees teacher John Ferguson at the Mason & and Wurlitzer Orchestral Oboe, along with bring holiday cookies for the intermission. Hamlin, organist Jelani Eddington at the a Kimball cobra-top Cor Anglais and Any delights not eaten, along with generous Steinway, and Mark Herman at the Robert- Kinura. A 15" wind-pressure Kimball cash donations raised during the event, go Morton. Trumpet soon replaced the lower-pressure to support a local children’s shelter. Clark Paul was single from 1991 until he met Trumpet to better work with the organ Wilson has presided for all but four of these Linda in 1997. After dating for one month, ensemble. By this time Paul had set his sell-out events. he asked her to marry him, and they were sights on Wurlitzer brass, and a Brass At one of the concerts it was suggested married three months later. In the late Trumpet from the Organ Grinder in that Paul consider presenting other forms of 1990s, having sold his trash and rubbish Portland made a one-way trip to Wheaton. music. Paul hired three consultants to removal companies, Paul and Linda began The 15" Kimball Trumpet would eventually sample several grand pianos that were a remodeling effort that would see the organ make its way to the Dickinson Kimball’s available in the Chicago area and make a grow from 20 to 26 ranks, not to mention a Solo chamber. The instrument would be recommendation as to the one that was best “Wonder Morton” console being added. Just further enhanced with the addition of an suited to Paul’s music room acoustics. They short of starting over, only the music room upright piano from a pizza parlor in unanimously agreed on a Steinway D that would survive the remodeling. The former Minneapolis, and a Chrysoglott which was had been signed by Van Cliburn after he organ chamber would evolve into an out- modified by Carlton Smith to include chose it for a concert. An internationally door café, complete with kitchen facilities paddles to turn it into a “Chrys-o-phone.” renowned pianist, Van Cliburn received the for catered events, and a bar. An extension The instrument would top out at 20 ranks Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2003, the to the music room would provide the before Paul decided the organ was nation’s highest civilian honor, in recog- additional area and basement required for “finished,” at least for the time being. nition of his contributions to the arts. As enhancing the pipe organ. The Wheaton Through the 1980s and early 1990s Paul the Van Der Molen organ played from a Fox Studio would grow to occupy 2/5 of the hosted many events at the house. Paul’s Z-tronics relay and Allen Miller had total area of Paul and Linda’s home. The interest and involvement in theatre organ recently developed Z-MIDI to complement Van Der Molens are Christians and are grew. In October, 1983, he joined with the relay, Allen installed serial number 3 grateful to the Lord for enabling them to fellow theatre organ lovers to form the Z-MIDI so that the Steinway could replace provide the environment to host a myriad of Windy City Organ Club. the upright piano connected to the organ events. Soon after the organ was playing, the while still being usable for solos and duets. While contemplating the possibilities Windy City Organ Club began holding Organ and piano concerts are not the for the organ’s enhancement, Dave Krall annual pig roasts at the Van Der Molen only activities enjoyed in the Van Der alerted Paul that one of the five Wonder residence. Always featuring the crème de la Molen music room. Having a group of folks Morton consoles might be available. In the

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1920s the Loew’s Theatre chain contracted chapter. The console was intended for use were added. A solo-scale Robert-Morton with the Robert-Morton Organ Co. of Van with a 10-rank Style H Wurlitzer the Tibia replaced a smaller-scale Robert- Nuys, California to design pipe organs for chapter was installing in the Middletown Morton set. This brought the organ to 26 their New York “Wonder Theatres.” Com- Paramount Theatre. Wondering if the ranks, including eleven 16' pedal exten- peting against instruments such as the New chapter might prefer a Wurlitzer console, sions. A 15-hp blower was acquired to York Paramount’s Wurlitzer and the Roxy’s Paul inquired if they would consider a trade replace the former 10-hp unit. To further Kimball, these four-manual, 23-rank organs if a suitable Wurlitzer console could be enhance the installation, Paul agreed to the sported arguably the most ornate and located. Paul was aware that Gary Hanson, digging of a basement under the chambers massive consoles to ever command a owner of the Pipe Piper Music Palace in to house the blower, reservoirs, and theatre pipe organ. Greenfield, Wisconsin, had purchased the tremolos, thus reducing noise in the pipe Only one Wonder Morton survives in its Wurlitzer console originally from Shea’s chambers. A percussion chamber and an original location—Loew’s United Palace Bailey Theatre in Buffalo, New York and alcove for storing the console were also Theatre, 175th Street and Broadway, recently removed from the Hub Roller Rink added. Manhattan, New York. The instrument in Chicago. After a few phone calls, Paul Since a traditional console lift was not originally installed in Loew’s Valencia bought Gary’s console and traded it to the possible, Paul chose a moving platform Theatre in Queens, New York is to be New York chapter for the Loew’s Kings arrangement similar to those found at Radio installed in the Balboa Theatre in San console. City Music Hall. Fred Gollnick designed a Diego. The organ from Loew’s Jersey With expanded stopkey space afforded tubular steel framework to hold the console. Theatre in Jersey City, New York is now in by a four-manual console, Paul offered Embedded within the framework are four Santa Barbara, California’s Arlington Clark the opportunity to indulge in the axles of rubber-coated rollers that act as Theatre. The Wonder Morton from Loew’s “perfect specification.” Clark’s specifi- wheels. They are interconnected with a Paradise Theatre in the Bronx has recently cation would add a Kimball French Horn, a chain drive. A direct current (DC) motor been installed in Loew’s Jersey Theatre. pair of Kimball Muted Violins, and a powers the platform in and out of its alcove. 3 The fifth Wonder Morton, from the Robert-Morton Flute Celeste to the Main The frame is covered with ⁄4" plywood and 3,600-seat Loew’s Kings Theatre, Flatbush chamber. A Major Diaphone replaced the industrial carpeting. A panel under the Avenue in Brooklyn, was the only instru- Diaphonic Diapason, and the Cor Anglais pedalboard allows access to the drive motor. ment parted out. That instrument’s console received a 16' extension. In the Solo A pair of limit switches on the platform was in storage in Middletown, New York chamber, a 16' Robert-Morton Horn interrupts motor power should there be a and belonged to the New York City ATOS Diapason and Morton Solo Vox Humana

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control failure. The gearing is such that the console platform can be pushed by hand if absolutely necessary. Wheaton Fox A programmable logic controller (PLC) controls the platform CHAMBER ANALYSIS movement. In addition to handling the sequenced startup and shutdown of the organ console, blower and chamber power, and SOLO audio systems, the PLC controls the movement of the platform 8 English Post Horn Robert-Morton based on its position and which button (Out, Picture, In, Stop) 8 Brass Trumpet Wurlitzer has been selected. As there could not be any limit switches or 16 Diaphonic Horn Robert-Morton sensors in the stage floor due to its use for non-organ programs, 16 Solo Tibia Clausa Robert-Morton 8 Brass Saxophone Wurlitzer my solution was to sense the platform position using the taut 8 Orchestral Oboe Wurlitzer console signal and power cable. Since the cable must be kept 8 Kinura Kimball taut so as not to get bound up as the platform moves, Fred 16 Gamba Robert-Morton designed a cable counterweight system to maintain constant 8 Gamba Celeste Robert-Morton tension of the console cable as the platform moved. I installed 8 Solo Vox Humana Robert-Morton positional limit switches based on the counterweight pulley’s 8 Spitz Flute Meyer position to tell when the platform was at either end of its travel 4 Spitz Flute Celeste Meyer or at an intermediate position. MAIN At the time Paul acquired it, the Loew’s Kings Wonder Morton console had been butchered by previous “caretakers.” 16 Tuba Robert-Morton The four Robert-Morton keyboards had been removed and 16 Diaphonic Diapason Robert-Morton replaced by three Wurlitzer keyboards; the decorative fence on 16 Tibia Clausa Robert-Morton top of the console had also been removed. Alterations were made 8 French Horn Kimball 8 Clarinet Robert-Morton to the stop bolsters in weird places. Fortunately, the parts and 16 Oboe Horn Robert-Morton/Wurlitzer pieces had been saved. Much of the decorative ormolu was 16 Cor Anglais Kimball broken or beyond sensible repair. Dave Krall made molds from 8 Violin Robert-Morton the old console decorations and recast all new ormolu which was 4 Violin Celeste Robert-Morton meticulously hand sanded and finished before being applied to 8 Muted Violin Kimball the console. Many Robert-Morton consoles had combination 8 Muted Violin Celeste Kimball 16 Bourdon/Flute Robert-Morton setterboards in drawers on either side of the console which 4 Flute Celeste Robert-Morton allowed the organist to set pistons while seated on the bench. To 8 Vox Humana Wurlitzer accommodate additional stopkeys, Paul had the drawers moved below the keydesk. Combination action controls were placed in TUNED PERCUSSIONS the left drawer, with organ blower and platform controls in the right drawer. Unenclosed Steinway D Piano PianoDisk player Unenclosed Xylophone Robert-Morton In keeping with Robert-Morton practice, the top cover of the Solo Glockenspiel Robert-Morton horseshoe hinges up to allow access to the stopkeys. The four Percussion Chrysoglott/Vibraglott Robert-Morton keyboards do not slide out as with many consoles, but rather Percussion Harp Robert-Morton hinge up for access to contacts, key springs, and piston wiring. Unenclosed Sleigh Bells Wurlitzer The dimmable low-voltage lighting that surrounds the top cover Unenclosed Chimes Deagan/Möller was added to highlight the ornate decorations of the console Unenclosed Effects & Percussions Wurlitzer shell. The small rows of lights within the console horseshoe are ELECTRONIC VOICES 1 actually ⁄2" copper pipe caps mounted to a copper plate and then chrome plated, courtesy of Bunn-Minnick Pipe Organs of 32 Contra Tibia Peterson Columbus, Ohio, All the light sockets are Harley-Davidson! 32 Contra Bass Peterson 8 String Bass Peterson

MISCELLANEOUS Design and specification by Clark Wilson. Mechanical installation by Fred Gollnick. Console restoration by Dave Krall and finishing by Tony D’Angelo. Console platform by Fred Gollnick and platform controls by Robert Wilhelm. Relay with MIDI record/playback and Combination Action by Z-tronics installed 1 by Robert Wilhelm. 1 ⁄4" clear acrylic shutter blades with Wurlitzer frame and action. Mason & Hamlin model CC grand piano. Blower is a 15-hp Spencer from the Tower Theatre, Upper Darby, Philadelphia. All chests and actions are Robert-Morton. Reservoirs and regulators are Robert-Morton and Wurlitzer. Pneumatic tremolos are Wurlitzer and Robert-Morton.

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GREAT English Horn (Ten C) 16 Trumpet (Ten C) 16 Tuba Profunda 16 Diaphone 16 Diaphonic Horn 16 Solo Tibia Clausa 16 Tibia Clausa (Ten C) 16 French Horn (Ten C) 16 Saxophone (Ten C) 16 Clarinet (Ten C) 16 Oboe Horn 16 Cor Anglais (Ten C) 16 Orchestral Oboe (Ten C) 16 Concert Violins II (Ten C) 16 Gambas II 16 Muted Viols II (Ten C) 16 Bourdon 16 Solo Vox Humana (Ten C) 16 Vox Humana (Ten C) 16 English Horn 8 Trumpet 8 Tuba 8 Diaphonic Diapason 8 Horn Diapason 8 Solo Tibia Clausa 8 Tibia Clausa 8 French Horn 8 Saxophone 8 Clarinet 8 STOPLIST ACCOMPANIMENT Tambourine Oboe Horn 8 English Horn 8 Castanets Cor Anglais 8 PEDAL Trumpet 8 Wood Block Orchestral Oboe 8 Contra Tibia 32 Tuba 8 Jazz Cymbal Kinura 8 Contra Bourdon 32 Diaphonic Diapason 8 Ballad Cymbal Concert Violins II 8 Tuba Profunda 16 Horn Diapason 8 Hi-Hat Cymbal Gambas II 8 Diaphone 16 Solo Tibia Clausa 8 Sleigh Bells Muted Viols II 8 Solo Tibia Clausa 16 Tibia Clausa 8 Bird 2 Concert Flutes II 8 Diaphonic Horn 16 French Horn 8 Accompaniment 4 Solo Vox Humana 8 Oboe Horn 16 Saxophone 8 Solo 8 Vox Humana 8 Bassoon 16 Clarinet 8 MIDI Spitz Flutes II 8 1 Gamba 16 Oboe Horn 8 Solo Tibia Fifth 5 ⁄3 Concert Violins II 8 ACCOMPANIMENT Octave 4 Bourdon 16 2ND TOUCH English Horn 8 Gambas II 8 Octave Horn 4 English Horn 8 Tuba 8 Muted Viols II 8 Solo Tibia Clausa 4 Trumpet 8 Diaphonic Diapason 8 Concert Flutes II 8 Tibia Clausa 4 Tuba 8 Horn Diapason 8 Solo Vox Humana 8 Concert Violins II 4 Diaphonic Diapason 8 Solo Tibia Clausa 8 Vox Humana 8 Gambas II 4 Solo Tibia Clausa 8 Tibia Clausa 8 Spitz Flutes II 8 Muted Viols II 4 Tibia Clausa 8 Clarinet 8 Octave 4 Flutes II 4 Clarinet 8 Violins II 8 Octave Horn 4 Spitz Flutes II 4 Tibia Clausas II 4 1 Gambas II 8 Tibia Clausa 4 Tibia Tenth 3 ⁄5 Piano 8 2 Flute 8 Concert Violins II 4 Solo Tibia Twelfth 2 ⁄3 Harp 8 2 Piano 16 Gambas II 4 Tibia Twelfth 2 ⁄3 Chrysoglott 4 2 Piano 8 Muted Viols II 4 Twelfth 2 ⁄3 Octave Glockenspiel String Bass 8 Flutes II 4 Solo Tibia Piccolo 2 Chimes Bass Drum Solo Vox Humana 4 Tibia Piccolo 2 Trap Select Tympani Vox Humana 4 Gambette 2 Crash Cymbal Spitz Flutes II 4 Piccolo 2 2 Solo 8 3 Snare Drum Tap Twelfth 2 ⁄3 Tibia Tierce 1 ⁄5 Great 4 3 Jazz Cymbal Piccolo 2 Tierce 1 ⁄5 Solo Pizzicato 8 Ballad Cymbal Piano 8 Fife 1 MIDI Triangle Piano 4 Piano 16 Accompaniment 8 Harp 8 Piano 8 Great 8 Harp 4 Piano 4 Great 4 Chrysoglott 8 Harp 8 Solo 8 Chrysoglott 4 Harp 4 Accompaniment Traps Vibraphone Sub Xylophone MIDI Snare Drum Roll Xylophone Snare Drum Tap Glockenspiel Tom Tom

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Chrysoglott 8 Cor Anglais 8 KNEE PANEL LEVERS KEYFRAME ROCKER Vibraphone Orchestral Oboe 8 Cymbal Roll & Crash TABLETS Great 16 Kinura 8 Ballad Roll Glockenspiel Reiterate Unison Off Concert Violins II 8 Wind Xylophone Reiterate Great 4 Gambas II 8 Siren Wood Harp Reiterate Solo 16 Muted Viols II 8 Auto Horn Master Expression Solo 8 Solo Vox Humana 8 Fire Gong Horse Hoofs MIDI Vox Humana 8 Cimbelstern Solo Tibia Clausa 4 EFFECTS BUTTONS Surf GREAT 2ND TOUCH Tibia Clausa 4 Slapstick Mirror Ball 2 English Horn 16 Solo Tibia Twelfth 2 ⁄3 Triangle 2 English Horn 8 Tibia Twelfth 2 ⁄3 Wind Chime Solo 16 Solo Tibia Piccolo 2 Bird 2 Solo 16 Tibia Piccolo 2 Slide Whistle 3 English Horn Pizzicato 16 Solo Tibia Tierce 1 ⁄5 Police Whistle Solo Pizzicato 8 Piano 8 Bass Drum Harp 8 Whoopee ORCHESTRAL Xylophone Wood Block English Horn (Ten C) 16 Glockenspiel Cow Bell Trumpet (Ten C) 16 Chrysoglott 8 School Bell Tuba Profunda 16 Chrysoglott 4 Diaphone 16 Vibraphone Solo Tibia Clausa 16 Sleigh Bells Tibia Clausa (Ten C) 16 Chimes Saxophone (Ten C) 16 Solo 16 Orchestral Oboe (Ten C) 16 Unison Off Strings IV 16 Solo 4 Solo Vox Humana (Ten C) 16 Harmonic Select Vox Humana (Ten C) 16 MIDI English Horn 8 Trumpet 8 TREMOLOS Tuba 8 Tuba Diaphonic Diapason 8 Clarinet/Diaphone Solo Tibia Clausa 8 Main Tibia Clausa 8 Main Strings Saxophone 8 Gambas/Diapason Clarinet 8 Solo As you know, heat and cold Cor Anglais 8 Trumpet expand and contract , metal Orchestral Oboe 8 Tibia Clausas and wood, That loosens Strings IV 8 Vox Humanas glue in the Woodwork of Solo Vox Humana 8 English Horn your organ and results in Vox Humana 8 Vibraphone costly repairs, It throws Solo Tibia Clausa 4 the pipes out of tune, Tibia Clausa 4 CELESTES & TRAPS ~naking more frequent tun­ Strings IV 4 Violin Celestes Off mg necessary, 2 By keep;ng you, o,·gan loft at an even tempe,·ature you can save Solo Tibia Twelfth 2 ⁄3 Gamba Celeste Off hundreds of dollars in repairs and tuning costs, Solo Tibia Piccolo 2 Flute Celeste On Tibia Piccolo 2 Traps Off Piano 8 Enclosed Traps On Harp 4 Piano Sustain On Xylophone Great Sostenuto Off Glockenspiel '"tom,tblly m,;,,t,;,, , temoccatuce of 68° F. by mean, of , thennostat. Chrysoglott 4 TOE PISTONS It pce,ents omhe,r;,g wh;ch mfght caose fice and ft saves cnccent. Orchestral 16 Whoopee Whistle Orchestral 4 Splash Cymbal The Pcomotheus Eiectdc Re,tec fs attcacH,e ;,, finfah, occop;es but Htt!e Great 16 Bird 1 years.space and the cost of opec,i;ng fs small. Recommended by all ocg,n manu. factocecs. Thousands have been sold docfog ooc

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(left) Jonas Nordwall, Patti Simon, Charlie Balogh And All That Jazz, or the “Gig”* at Gig Harbor

BY JONAS NORDWALL assembled group very thoroughly to provide On Thursday, the organ tour continued The week of August 11 saw a new the tools to do the job. Wurlitzer Manor is to the Merlyn Johnson residence pipe organ approach to theatre organ music at Wurl- very appropriate setting for this event, in Tacoma (a 3/12 augmented Robert- itzer Manor in Gig Harbor, Washington. as owners Raymond and Barbara Lavine Morton), Tacoma’s Bible Presbyterian With the inspirational leadership of Charlie operate the non-profit Blues Foundation. Church (a 3/21 Kimball), and St. Columban Balogh and Patti Simon, adult theatre organ All around their spacious living area are Parish Hall in Yelm (a 3/16 Robert-Morton) campers were taught the rudiments of artifacts relating to jazz, the Blues, and to have more coaching sessions and a great creating popular big band, small combo, associated music. time. The event concluded at the Bill Keller and other musical styles on the theatre Charlie presented ideas about rhythms, residence in Olympia, where everyone organ. improvising on both melodies and chord enjoyed his newly installed Allen TO-5. Fourteen people from around the United structures, plus ideas on creating new ATOS extends its sincerest thanks to States had the opportunity to try their sounds on a theatre organ that reflect the Raymond and Barbara Lavine for their hand(s) and feet at learning to play not only spirit of the jazz world. He had prepared a excellent and enthusiastic hosting of our the traditional styles of theatre organ detailed syllabus that had excellent group, to Tom Blackwell, president of the performance, but also a few new and explanations and examples that were easily Puget Sound Theatre Organ Society, for different approaches as well. comprehended. arranging the Seattle Paramount Theatre Patti began the camp with a “this is a Next came more than just another organ event, and to Merlyn Johnson, Fr. Terence theatre organ” segment. A smart teacher crawl or social event. The idea of visiting Wager, Don Wallin, and Bill Keller for knows that everyone has to be on the same various local installations was designed to extending their gracious hospitality. page and never takes anything for granted. show those attending how to apply the This was the first ATOS Adult Getaway She proceeded to do a quick review of the techniques on other instruments that had offering and, based on the responses of instrument’s resources and common regis- been presented during the sessions at those attending, it will not be the last. We trations, then demonstrated some common Wurlitzer Manor. On Wednesday, the group have found there is a real desire by many pitfalls that amateur organists frequently visited the Seattle Paramount Theatre to of our members to have the opportunity to make. Patti’s syllabus contained valuable play the enlarged Publix 4/21 Wurlitzer. get together with other theatre organists to information about theatre organs in general, With some introductory presentations by study new techniques and ideas with some music theory, and musical stylings. Charlie, Patti, and me, the group proceeded of the top professionals performing and To enter the world of jazz, a musician to modify what was learned in the smaller, teaching today. I had many comments about must have knowledge of chord structure, drier acoustical setting of Wurlitzer Manor how this investment of time and money was basic reading skills, and creativity. to fit the cavernous Paramount auditorium. well worth it, and they are looking forward Both Patti and Charlie worked with the to future educational events. With the

*A “gig” is a jazz musician’s term for a job. Today, even symphony musicians use this terminology.

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colors, much was learned about creating musical styles. That was a big “wow” for the arrangements within musical forms. students. We also were invited back to the Palace support of the ATOS board, I will continue This year we added another dimension d’Musique to tour Jasper and Marion to arrange practical, educational oppor- to the curriculum, which was interacting Sanfilippo’s collection of automatic musical tunities for both our youth and adults at a with other instrumentalists. So many instruments, band organs and, of course, variety of locations. It is one of the most chapters are using their instruments in their spectacular theatre organ. “Wow” important programs that ATOS can offer its conjunction with instrumental groups that doesn’t cover it! Later that afternoon, members who play—helping to perpetuate we felt this is an important area to cover. we were guests of the Berghaus Organ quality theatre organ performance and Helping us accomplish this was Lee Company, which gave a great demonstration enjoyment. We hope to see you next year! Maloney, the institutional director of of pipe voicing and organbuilding tech- Steinway Chicago, who also represents the niques. Following the Berghaus experience, Allen Organ Company. He invited us to use again the JATOE folks graciously hosted A Week of Wows his facility for two evening events. The first the gang at the Joliet Rialto Square Theatre evening we used Allen theatre organs with for a delicious dinner and opportunity to The 2008 ATOS Summer piano and several Roland keyboards. The play the theatre’s 4/26 instrument. Youth Camp task was to have every student become an Friday morning saw us at the Tivoli BY JONAS NORDWALL instrumental division of a stage band. Two Theatre in Downers Grove. We were treated Our 2008 ATOS Summer Youth Camp people were the trumpet section, two the to an impromptu mini concert by David was great week of wows. All the participants trombones, two the saxes, etc., and someone Rhodes, Dean Rosko, and Glenn Tallar, amazed us with their enthusiasm and played the theatre organ to complement this who regularly play this organ, followed by playing skills. Over a dozen students instrumentation. Besides being a good the opportunity for everyone to give the returned from last year’s camp, and it was theatre organist, Donnie Rankin is an Wurlitzer a whirl. impressive to see and hear how their excellent percussionist. His friend and Early afternoon was our visit to Jeff playing had improved over the past year. fellow camp student, Glenn Tallar, brought Weiler’s shop in downtown Chicago. Once Our first two daily sessions were at Paul his acoustic drum set to the store, where again, Jeff held everyone’s attention during and Linda Van Der Molen’s Wheaton Fox Donnie provided a solid rhythm bed for the an action-packed session on theatre organ Studio 4/26 Robert-Morton. Donna, Jelani, ensemble. history, followed by a hands-on demon- and I worked with the students on contem- Using “Frankie and Johnny” (a 12-bar stration for everyone about the different porary musicianship, registration, and Blues structure), we created music on the leathers used by organbuilders, a quick tour presentation. At one point we asked them spot, improvising and experiencing what of a Wurlitzer chest awaiting restoration, to create a program based on age group most solo organists never do—making and a variety of theatre organ pipes. demographics. To our surprise, many music with others. Everyone quickly The finale was dinner and a playing thought that the 60-year-old population discovered that the “the sainted” Tibias and opportunity at Jim and Sherri Krughoff’s grew up with Big Band and earlier musical Voxes don’t always work in combination home and their 4/26 Wurlitzer from the styles. They were quickly informed that the with other instruments. That was something original 7th Street Phoenix Organ Stop Baby Boomer generation knows Elvis, the that George Wright, Buddy Cole, Billy Pizza. In addition, Jim gave a great tour Everly Brothers, Tijuana Brass, the Beatles, Nalle, and many other successful organists of his collection of automatic musical the Rolling Stones, the Carpenters, Three who had played with ensembles knew. instruments, which was a great concluding Dog Night, disco, etc., more than older Besides learning about blending tone

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“wow” to an intense week of organs, Tuesday and Wednesday we went to to Jeff Weiler’s shop. There we got a instruction, and music. the Steinway and Allen dealership, where fascinating lesson on theatre organ his- Many thanks to Paul and Linda Van we formed a small “band” on all the tory, and saw some organs that were in the Der Molen, Jasper and Marion Sanfilippo, different keyboards, with each one process of being restored. We even got to JATOE, CATOE, Lee Maloney and representing a different instrument or touch the actual handwriting of Robert Steinway Chicago, Berghaus Organ Com- instrument group. More instruction was Hope-Jones and Jesse Crawford! I loved pany, Jeff Weiler, and Jim and Sherrie provided, this time in three smaller Mr. Weiler’s shop; I was so sad when we Krughoff for making the week a “wow” groups; we got to try out a great GW4. finally had to leave. Our final stop was the week. Short films of famous organists were also Krughoff residence, which was like a Also, thanks to everyone who donated shown, which was very entertaining. mini-Sanfilippo. Inside were many band funds to this year’s Youth Summer Camp. On Thursday we went to the Sanfilippo organs, orchestrions, various automated To echo President Ken Double’s words, house. All I can say is “Wow!” Between instruments (including a banjo), and “This is the most important thing that the many band organs, phonographs, and another lovely Wurlitzer. They even had a ATOS can do to keep the instrument and the 80-rank organ (as well as everything “robot band.” After a delicious dinner we the art form alive.” else), this was without doubt one of the received camp participation certificates, most astounding places I have ever been. enjoyed more console time, and finally Although I did get an opportunity to play headed back to the hotel. Letter from a the organ, the size of it was more than a Believe me—I did not want to leave. I Summer Camper little intimidating. We were also treated to think it hit me when we were in a van—all a mini-concert by our instructors. discussing Robert Hope-Jones—that wow, I am writing to say thanks to everyone After Sanfilippo we went to an organ- these are my people. It was so cool to hang who helped fund my trip to ATOS camp, building shop by the name of Berghaus. out with people my age who share my and to tell about my experiences. There we learned about the parts of a interests. I didn’t have to explain myself First stop was the Van Der Molens’ pipe, and how to do voicing. It was a at all. The instructors were perfect, and “Wheaton Fox Studio,” where most of our valuable experience, especially to get a they taught us useful things about playing instruction took place during the first look at the “non-theatre” side of the organ the theatre organ that I will never forget. three days. Lots of fun was to be had world. From Berghaus we went to the Going to this camp was a wonderful, there: getting to know everybody, and Rialto Square theatre in Joliet. This was a valuable experience that will always stay receiving instructions on how to do beautiful theatre; the organ was on a lift, with me. So again, thank you so much for everything from playing for silent films and I even got to “play the console up!” financing my trip—I couldn’t have had a to finger substitution to making a pipe On our last day, Friday, we started off better one! organ sound like a Hammond. This also at the beautiful Tivoli in Downers Grove. With gratitude, happened to be the first Robert-Morton They had a wonderful little Wurlitzer that —Kat Brightwell organ I have played. was just the right size for me—finally! And it was only a coincidence that my dress that day matched the paintings on the console. From the Tivoli we went

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A Convention Review BY ROBERT RIDGEWAY

This year marked the fifth time that the Central Indiana chapter has hosted the annual ATOS convention in Indianapolis. With economic uncertainties emerging around the world, an attendance of 200–300 would not have been unexpected, so it was with much fanfare that a total attendance of 525 was announced. Even more encouraging were numerous attendees from England, Australia, and Thailand.

The convention hotel was the Hyatt Regency, across from the Indiana state capital, in downtown Indianapolis. The Hyatt has been the site for the four previous gatherings, beginning in 1984; while the hotel is still quite satisfactory, it is begin- A social ritual took place at 4:00pm The auditorium at Manual High School ning to show wear and tear. The staff as nearly everyone came to the opening is now named for the late Carl E. Wright, a explained that the entire facility was cocktail party, giving many of us the chance former teacher of stagecraft and the man scheduled for a complete revamping toward to see and visit with old friends for the first who arranged in the 1970s for a three- the end of this year. I hope this will include time in at least a year. The room was abuzz manual Louisville Uniphone pipe organ to the elevator system, because with a hotel of with conversation, and we were afforded an be installed there. This organ was used this size, it is frustrating to have only four added treat: CIC member Cletus Goens at until the late 1980s when it was replaced elevators. the new Hammond B-3, playing in his by a much larger three-manual, 26-rank finest supper club style. The music and Wurlitzer. The console came from the United lively banter were so good that we hated to Artists Theatre in Louisville, Kentucky. Friday, July 4 see it end. Other components and pipework came from As attendees arrived, they made their One of the most eagerly anticipated many sources. way to the registration desk, picked up their events for this year’s convention was the In the past three years the auditorium packets, and meandered up to the record installation of a rebuilt Wurlitzer pipe organ has been renovated. The acoustical tile that room to look over the many new offerings. in the Hilbert Circle Theatre. For a number once covered the entire rear wall of the After hosting so many conventions, it of reasons, this project was not completed room was removed. The result is a bright, came as no surprise that details had all in time for the kick-off concert by conven- cool, inviting facility that is much more been carefully attended to by CIC-ATOS tion favorite, Simon Gledhill. Instead of acoustically distinct and lively. The organ members. Registration was effortless and walking from the hotel over to the Circle, speaks with clear authority. In less capable courteous, and the record shop was laid out we boarded busses for the short ride to hands it could be loud and strident. The so you could browse and buy with ease. Emmerich Manual High School. initial convention performer was Simon

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Gledhill, who may occasionally play loudly whether in live concert or on recordings in gave him a standing ovation. This opening but always musically. order to broaden their musical vocabulary. convention program by Simon Gledhill set a Simon began the Jimmy Van Heusen hit Simon displayed a softer side of the high standard for artistry that was “Come Fly with Me,” and the enthusiastic Wurlitzer by playing the Nocturne from appreciated by all. audience assuredly took him at his word. Lyric Pieces, Op. 54, No. 4 by Edvard Grieg. Simon remarked that he was excited to not Indiana has given the world two first-rate only be playing for us but thrilled to be the composers. Honoring the first of these two Saturday, July 5 opening concert. He said that for the rest of men, Simon played a medley of some of the After a good night’s rest, most of us the convention he could relax and enjoy most beautiful tunes by Hoagy Carmichael, arose, sought out sustenance either in the hearing the other performers, knowing that consisting of “My Resistance is Low,” “Two hotel or at nearby eateries, and then availed many would be changing their programs Sleepy People,” “One Morning in May,” ourselves of some fascinating presentations. after hearing him play so many favorites. and “Up a Lazy River.” The first one was hosted by Scott Smith, a The music of Richard Whiting certainly The year 2008 marks the 100th birthday professional organ technician, organist, and fills that description, and Simon next gave of one of the finest musicians from England, historian. He talked about the careers of us a medley of some of his best compo- Sidney Torch (1908–1990), who was not two well-known Midwestern theatre sitions. Simon then treated us to the exotic only a first-rate theatre organist but also a organists, Don Miller and John Muri. Scott tune by Eden Arbez, “Nature Boy,” in composer of delightful light orchestral offered anecdotes interspersed with sound which he incorporated themes from the music. In the early 1940s, Torch gave up clips. For those old enough to have known Valse in C# Minor, Op. 64, No. 2 by Chopin. playing the theatre organ and spent the last and/or heard these gentlemen, it was a No theatre organ concert would be complete of his life as a conductor. Torch was closely pleasant trip down memory lane. Others without some Gershwin, so just before the associated with the popular BBC radio show who may not have been familiar with either intermission, Simon favored the audience Friday Night is Music Night, which started musician became aware of these vibrant with a medley of hits from the musical film, in 1953 and continues to be broadcast to talents and the contributions they made. Shall We Dance. this day. The work of Sidney Torch has The next presentation/forum was with The second half opened with a snappy influenced organists on both sides of the Ken Double and Ray Compton. Ray has “Let’s Break the Good News,” originally pond. The clever offering that Simon played over 30 years of experience in the recorded by the group known as The Organ, was “All Strings and Fancy Free” by Sidney promotion of sports teams and events. He the Dance Band, and Me, with Billy Torch. The audience was now ready for the was as amusing as a Catskill comic when he Thorburn’s dance band and Robinson work of that other great Indiana native, Cole told story after story about his efforts to fill Cleaver at the EMI Studio Compton organ. Porter, and Simon rewarded us with a seats and entertain audiences. Ray has It is not enough for organists to listen to medley from Kiss Me, Kate! The ATOS kindly offered to share his promotional other organists; they also have to listen to convention crowd was so in love with Simon skills with ATOS as the organization moves orchestras, dance bands, and combos, and his superlative music-making that they to increase its membership. Good questions

Simon Gledhill at Manual High School 3/26 Wurlitzer (Photo by Robert Ridgeway) Ray Compton, public relations promoter, with Cletus Goens entertaining Ken Double (Photo by on the new Hammond B-3 Allan France) for the opening day cocktail party in the Hyatt Regency (Photo by Allan France)

Seminar presenter Scott Smith explaining the significance of two long-time Detroit theatre organists, Don Miller and John Muri (Photo by Allan France)

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were asked, and the audience thoroughly that this was also the theme song of the late and female statues used as soffit brackets enjoyed Ray’s responses, especially when John Seng. Sidney Torch’s centenary was proved to be unique. The theatre opened he repeatedly addressed Mr. Double as honored with a delightful novelty number, with R. Wellington Welch at Wurlitzer Opus “Kenny.” This endearment stemmed from “What Goes Up.” There were two surprises 493, a 3/11 Style 235 that remained in the the many years the two worked together in in the program—the first was that so much theatre until the 1970s. Over the years, the various sports venues. music could be created with a small instru- Indiana Theatre has had a series of owners. After lunch we headed to the Hedback ment with limited combination action. This In 2007, the present owner, the KAE Community Theatre with its compact- should be a lesson to anyone who has Corporation, entered into an agreement with consoled organ. The two-manual, 11-rank labored under the incorrect assumption that the CIC-ATOS to return a Wurlitzer to the hybrid instrument was originally installed to make music you need an instrument of Indiana Theatre. Like the Circle Theatre, it as a 2/5 Page in a Fort Wayne mansion staggering resources. Scott worked up a was the intention to have this organ in and around 1925. It was later installed in an- sweat as he put the Hedback organ through operating for this convention, but circum- other residence in northern Indiana before its paces, but he was rewarded with a stances prevented this from happening. being acquired by the late Mr. and Mrs. favorable audience response. The second Work continues on Wurlitzer Opus 1871, Philip R. Hedback. The Hedbacks donated surprise—and a big one—was the addition which will soon be playing for the delight this theatre to a local musical-comedy of a stage band, the Pride of Indianapolis of Terre Haute audiences. When it became group, Footlight Musicals, and the organ is Jazz Ensemble. Scott and the stage band clear the Wurlitzer would not be ready for played by CIC-ATOS members for half- played well together, and many attendees the convention, an alternate plan had to be hour concerts preceding each performance. commented on what a treat it was to hear utilized. Walt Strony came to the rescue Installed in 1976 by the late Tom Ferree, this musical combination. Because the with the introduction of a new Allen organ the organ was redesigned and enlarged Hedback Theatre is so small, the entire bearing his name. by John Ferguson and the late Larry program had to be repeated for two different Walt has performed at more conventions MacPherson. Most of it has been rebuilt by groups in the afternoon. This would have of the American Theatre Organ Society than Carlton Smith, funded by grants from the been an effort for even a simple program. any other artist. The console was on center Indianapolis Foundation, Lily Endowment, The Indiana Theatre opened January 28, stage, and speakers were placed in the main Inc., CIC-ATOS member contributions, and 1922. John Eberson designed the theatre to and solo chambers and also behind a scrim. the ATOS Endowment Fund. evoke the southern Spanish province of A digital instrument (indeed, any instru- Scott Foppiano, the 2007 ATOS Organist Andalusia. Theatre aficionados have seen ment) requires a lot of voicing and tweaking of the Year, began his program with a many John Eberson designs, but this one to suit the acoustics of the room in which it rousing “Beyond the Blue Horizon” which held a few surprises. There were familiar is placed. Walter worked for several days, was featured by Jeanette McDonald in the ceiling and floor treatments used in other ably assisted by Dwight Beecham, to ready 1930 film Monte Carlo. Many will recall Eberson creations, but the horizontal male the new instrument for its public debut.

Scott Foppiano at the console of the organ in the Hedback Theatre (Photo by Robert Ridgeway) Walt Strony at Indiana Hedback Theatre Theatre in Terre Haute concert with Scott (Photo by Allan France) Foppiano and the Pride of Indianapolis Jazz Ensemble on stage (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

Indiana Theatre marquee (Photo by Allan France)

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Working around the schedule of an oper- transferred, which made for a very late entire convention. The influence of Jelani ating theatre, this becomes a complicated night. Eddington’s instruction was apparent endeavor. The end result, in the opinion of throughout Donnie’s concert. His approach many of the attendees who own digital to his music is much different than last organs, was that the Allen had many Sunday, July 6 summer. Donnie continued his program features and a huge potential that wasn’t The Hyatt Regency Ballroom was the with a variety of selections including “The entirely evident in this presentation. For location of the annual board meeting. It was Varsity Drag,” a medley from The Music those who have enjoyed Walter’s programs encouraging that about half of the Man, and then “A Broken Rosary.” A over the years, it was apparent that he was convention attendees were present for this spirited “Puttin’ On the Ritz” was next stressed from the rigors of set-up and important presentation. The officers’ reports played but the ending, to my ear, was voicing. This was reflected in his perform- were given, and numerous members somewhat abrupt. Donnie finished his ance, which was frustrating. responded with specific questions. The concert with “All the Things You Are” and The program included a number of well- board has enacted a policy that will go into “Slaughter on Tenth Avenue.” The audi- known selections from the Strony reper- effect in 2010, prohibiting the use of video ence gave Donnie a positive round of toire, including “Summertime,” “Donkey cameras and audio recorders at concerts. applause, after which he played “Roller Serenade,” “Stranger in Paradise,” This elicited a lively discussion. We Coaster” as an encore. Then we got up to “Tonight,” “The Stripper,” “Shenandoah” adjourned for lunch, after which we stretch our legs before the cameo concerts and medleys from both South Pacific and boarded busses for a short ride back to by the three finalists in the Young Organist Showboat. The crowd appreciated his Manual High School. The afternoon was Competition, Eric Fricke, Mary Ann efforts, and I heard many attendees devoted to hearing young artists at the 3/26 Wootton, and Jonathan Ortloff. comment that they were eager to hear Wurlitzer. I’d like to express my wholehearted Walter and his signature digital organ after The first performance was a full concert thanks to the organ technicians. Carlton the myriad voicing details were solved. by Donnie Rankin, 2007 ATOS Young Smith and his assistant Justin Nimmo made The conventioneers got in the busses to Organist Competition winner. Donnie began sure that these instruments were in return to the hotel. The busses were quite his program with the King Kong March excellent tune and operation, thus lessening comfortable and clean, and the drivers and and then contrasted that with a Lyn performers’ stress levels. It must be noted, bus captains handled the logistics with Larsen arrangement of the old standard however, that there were some combination great ease. The only mishap, in which no “Louise.” This was followed by a Michele system memory problems with the Manual one was injured, occurred when one of the LeGrand composition that we do not often High School organ which contributed to busses carrying handicapped attendees had hear, “What Are You Doing the Rest of some delays and challenges for the compe- a tire blow out. Passengers had to be Your Life?” This piece was marred by a tition performers. This was not a failing on cipher, one of the very few during the the part of any individual. The Trousdale

Donnie Rankin, the 2007 overall young organist winner, after his concert on the 3/26 Wurlitzer at Manual High School (Photo by Allan France) The youngest contestant in the ATOS Young Organist Competition, Mary Ann Wootton, from Great Britain, maintained her regal composure following her well-received performance at Manual High School (Photo by Allan France)

Conventioneers waiting to The two red-haired young organist get into Manual High competitors, Jonathan Ortloff and School Auditorium (Photo Eric Fricke following their by Allan France) performances at Manual High School (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

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combination system is very dependable, but and rhythms into a finale that brought the turn of events. Even so, I felt that his choice the method by which digital files are loaded audience to approving applause. of opening selection, the well-known and saved is outdated cassette tape. The next finalist was also the youngest. novelty tune “Roller Coaster,” played as a Depending upon the size of the organ, the Mary Ann Wootton, 13, is a student at pedal solo, and the unconventional playing process of changing combinations requires Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester, technique should have been reconsid- anywhere from one to five minutes. Say United Kingdom, where she is studying ered. Eric was impressive in his audacity, what you will about electronic combination classical piano. Her opening piece was but sorely lacking in execution. His last actions, electro-pneumatic systems are “The Washington Post March” by John three selections were played in a much nearly bulletproof. Apparently, a rare glitch Philip Sousa. She, too, experienced erratic more conventional and satisfying manner, surfaced with the digital memory system and altered combinations but worked her beginning with two delightful 1910 while new combinations were being way through. Mary Ann chose as her next compositions by Fritz Kreisler, “Caprice uploaded. This technical gremlin created piece “Fools Rush In” as arranged by Bill Viennois,” and “Tambourin Chinois.” challenges for each contestant. Irwin. The dynamics were unusual but Eric’s final offering was the traditional The first performer was Jonathan Ortloff, satisfying. Her final offering was a medley “Londonderry Air.” a senior at the Eastman School of Music in from The Wizard of Oz, and here she The judges for the competition this Rochester, New York. Jonathan began his displayed a greater confidence. The audi- year were Mark Renwick, Jim Riggs, and program with an inventive interpretation ence gave full approval to her efforts, and Walter Strony. They reviewed their notes, of “The Trolley Song” from Meet Me in undoubtedly we shall be seeing and hearing and in a few minutes came back with the St. Louis. He slowed the pace with a more from her. determination that Jonathan Ortloff was the haunting “Charade,” a tune that is rarely The last of the three contestants was 15- competition winner. The convention audi- heard in recent times but is captivating year-old Eric Fricke, second-place winner ence appeared pleased with the afternoon when played well. The aforementioned in last year’s competition. Eric was faced program. combination action gremlins appeared as with the most daunting combination action The Warren Performing Arts Center Jonathan gave us “Tip Toe Through the issues of the three performers. Even before auditorium, seating nearly 1,200 on the Tulips.” It forced him to do some rapid he began, the pistons were not what he main floor and balcony, was built in 1983 hand registering when assorted erroneous selected. While the tape was repeatedly to serve the cultural interests of the school percussions burst forth. He kept his cool reloaded in an effort to correct the problem, and the east side of Indianapolis. Former and made it through the piece. The final Eric was forced to assume the role of a Paramount Music Palace manager Bob selection was Jonathan's own arrangement stand-up comedian. He extemporaneously MacNeur convinced the local authorities to of the finale from The Firebird suite by Igor recounted humorous family stories while include pipe organ chambers in the design Stravinsky. This was very ambitious, espe- waiting for his opportunity to perform. for the auditorium. In the early 1990s, the cially with registrational uncertainties, but When the time came, he was understand- Central Indiana chapter was delighted to Jonathan very skillfully wove the themes ably somewhat shaken by this unexpected acquire the former Indiana Theatre 3/17

Panoramic image of the interior of the Anderson Paramount Theatre from the top of the balcony (Photo by John Leeming)

Richard Hills at the The Anderson Ken Double at the console of the console following his Paramount Theatre 3/12 Page organ in the Warren Center concert (Photo by Robert Paramount Theatre (Photo by (Photo by Allan France) Ridgeway) Robert Ridgeway)

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Barton for installation at this facility. The of the team that rebuilt the historic Style F charming Quentin Maclean composition, organ has been enlarged with the addition Wurlitzer at the New Gallery Theatre in “Babbling.” Another composer of English of a Barton Orchestral Oboe. The entire Regent Street, London. light music was the Edward German. We project, under the capable direction of Richard opened his concert with the heard his “Satyr Dance.” Richard remarked Carlton Smith, assisted by hard-working 1953 Doris Day hit “The Deadwood Stage” that he first heard it on an old Ashley Miller chapter volunteers and outside profes- from the musical Calamity Jane. He then recording made at Radio City Music Hall. sionals, has been funded by CIC-ATOS made the transition into the old favorite, Through assiduous sleuthing, a copy of the member donations, profits from the 1990 “Serenade in Blue,” by Harry Warren. Next sheet music was obtained from Mr. Miller, ATOS convention, and grants from the up were six songs whose first letter in the via David Shepherd and Simon Gledhill. ATOS Endowment Fund, the Indianapolis title spells out BARTON—“(The) Best The last work of the program, and Foundation, and the Lily Endowment, Inc. Things in Life are Free,” “As Time Goes certainly the most demanding, was the Richard Hills became interested in the By,” “Remember Me,” “Try a Little overture to La Forza del Destino by theatre organ at the age of seven. In 1990 at Tenderness,” “On the Sunny Side of the Giuseppe Verdi. The audience was on their age 10, he began studying with John Norris, Street,” and ending with “New Sun in the feet. Finally Richard, with an impish grin, one of the leading teachers in the UK. In Sky.” No Richard Hills program is complete sat down and launched into the most jaw- 1993 he won the London chapter’s Young without examples of his wry sense of dropping version of “The Twelfth Street Organist of the Year competition, and two musical humor. Today was no exception, Rag” that I have ever heard. years later he was judged overall winner of and Richard nearly outdid himself when he the ATOS Young Organist Competition in performed Boots and Saddle—a Cowboy Detroit. Having won an organ scholarship Fantasy, arranged by English theatre Monday, July 7 to King’s School, Rochester in 1994, organist Ronald Hanmer. Richard even Opening on August 20, 1929, the Richard studied classical organ with donned a genuine Stetson hat, to the great Paramount Theatre in Anderson was William Whitehead and regularly played amusement of the audience. designed by noted architects John Eberson the organ in Rochester Cathedral. This led When he returned for the second half, and Alvin Strauss. It is one of only 12 to an organ scholarship at Exeter College, Richard (minus the Stetson) entertained us remaining Eberson atmospheric theatres. Oxford, a BA in music from Oxford with a lively but relatively unknown samba Slated for the wrecking ball in 1989, a University, and subsequent organ scholar- entitled “Tampico.” Quentin Maclean group of citizens rallied together to form the ships at Portsmouth Cathedral and (1896–1962) was one of the most respected Paramount Heritage Foundation. Their Westminster Abbey. Richard is also a theatre organists in England. Early on, fundraising efforts were successful, and the Fellow of the Royal College of Organists. In Maclean studied with Max Reger, among theatre reopened in August, 1989. By 1996, addition to his regular musical duties at others. He moved to Canada in 1939 and this lavish theatre had been redecorated St. Mary’s Bourne Street, London, Richard continued making music in theatres and on and refurbished by Conrad Schmidt is in great demand as a recitalist and as part the CBC. Richard favored us with a Studios. The original 3/7 Page theatre organ

Mark Herman and Anthony Snitker at the console of the 4/16 Page organ in the Embassy Theatre, Fort Wayne (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

Clark Wilson at the console of the 4/16 Page organ in the Embassy Theatre in Fort Wayne Dyne Pfeffenberger at the piano (Photo by Robert Ridgeway) after the Embassy Theatre concert (Photo by Allan France)

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was extensively water damaged, but it has maintained by a dedicated group that keeps credentials by playing with orchestras and been brought back to like-new condition by the organ in top shape. dance bands, as well as in supper clubs Carlton Smith Pipe Organ Restorations. It Mark Herman was born in Fort Wayne. while in college, obtaining three degrees in has been enlarged with five additional Page He showed musical talent at an early age; the process. After he moved to Fort Wayne, ranks. he began piano lessons when he was seven he was involved with many of the Buddy Ken Double began his concert with and classical organ lessons when he was 12. Nolan shows at the Embassy. Dyne is the “Everything’s Coming up Roses.” He Mark was exposed to the Page organ of the official archivist for the theatre and has just echoed our sentiments with his rendition of Embassy Theatre while in the fourth grade completed a large-format book on its “I Love Being Here with You.” He could not during a program sponsored by the history. He recently retired as the Chair of pass up an opportunity to honor his long- American Guild of Organists. He took an the Department of Accounting and Finance time sports affiliation with a lively “Take immediate interest, and in 2001 began at Indiana University-Purdue University, Me Out to the Ballgame.” The big barn- studying with one of the finest theatre organ Fort Wayne. He is now free to go back to his burner was the 1882 Johann Strauss, Jr. teachers in the country, John Ferguson. first love, which is to play superb piano “Voices of Spring,” which utilized all the Progressing rapidly, Mark played a cameo music. resources of the gorgeous Page organ. A performance in 2003 at the ATOS Mark brought the console up playing a lush “Love is a Many-Splendored Thing” convention in Oakland, California. The lively version of “Cherokee.” For several followed by a sprightly “Coquette” rounded following year Mark won the ATOS Young years, Mark has composed music for the out a fine program. After lunch, we were off Theatre Organist Competition. He has just organ and piano. He proceeded to play the to Fort Wayne and another excellent Page completed his second year at DePaul first of two of his own compositions in the theatre organ still in its original location. University in Chicago, majoring in theatre form of a light tango he calls “Carefree.” He The Embassy Theatre was designed by management. Even with the demands of displayed the lush side of the Page with the team of Strauss and Eberson. This school, he still gives concerts throughout “The Boy Next Door.” Anthony Snitker Spanish Revival structure opened as the the United States. sang three songs accompanied by Mark at Emboyd Theatre on May 14, 1928. The Anthony Snitker is a BFA student in the organ: “On the Street Where You Live,” theatre was closed in 1972 and barely Musical Theatre at Columbia College in “I’ll Build a Stairway to Paradise,” and an escaped demolition, thanks to the untiring Chicago, and he has only recently been emotional “Cry Me a River.” The audience efforts of the late Robert Goldstine, local exposed to the theatre organ. An accom- was clearly impressed. Mark then played real estate mogul, talented pianist/organist, plished singer and dancer, this show would his original tune concerning high school and ATOS Hall of Fame member. Were it be his first performance accompanied by travails, “Making It to Class on Time.” not for his philanthropy and loving theatre organ. The next guest performer was introduced dedication, the Embassy would not exist Dyne Pfeffenberger began piano lessons during a George Gershwin medley. Mark today. The Page organ has been in almost at the age of six in his hometown of began with “Shall We Dance,” and as he constant use. This exciting instrument is Celina, Ohio. He established his musical began “Embraceable You,” the orchestra

Trio Con Brio at the North United Methodist Church: Jonas Nordwall, Donna Parker, and Martin Ellis (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

Jim Riggs at the 4/76 Kimball in North United conclusion of his Methodist Church (Photo by Allan Warren Center (Photo by France) concert Robert Ridgeway)

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elevator rose with Dyne Pfeffenberger at the moved down on the bench. The selection several years he was a reed voicer and tonal concert grand piano. The two finished the was ultimately completed with Mark finisher for the Schantz Organ Company medley with “Our Love is here to Stay” and finishing at the Page organ and Dyne at the before becoming the featured organist at “I Got Rhythm.” piano. Their four-hand antics were greatly Pipe Organ Pizza in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. During intermission, audience members appreciated by the audience. He has been a visiting lecturer on theatre had the opportunity to help Mark in Anthony Snitker returned to the stage organ and silent film accompaniment for the honoring his mentor and teacher, John for “This Nearly Was Mine” from South Indiana University organ department, and Ferguson. Mark took it upon himself to Pacific, accompanied by Mark at the piano. a popular silent film accompanist at the produce and make available a delightful The last vocal for the afternoon was a very Chautauqua Institution in New York; the CD of John’s supper club music from the jazzy rendition of “Love for Sale,” after Packard Foundation’s Stanford Theatre, 1970s. The album, Duet by One, features which Anthony received a solid round of UCLA; and the Fox Theatre for the Atlanta Ferguson’s sophisticated music-making at applause for his contributions to the show. premiere of the restored Metropolis. He has the Hammond organ and piano. For those Mark has grown up around the Page organ received both the Technician of the Year who may have missed the opportunity, the at the Embassy Theatre (and his first CD and Organist of the Year awards from the CD is available for purchase on Mark was recorded there), so he was well- ATOS—the only person to have done so, Herman’s website, www.markherman equipped to bring out two contrasting sides and his time is equally divided between productions.com. of the instrument with his last two selec- concert and technical work. Mark began the second half of the tions, “When Your Lover Has Gone,” and Clark opened his program with only one program with “Funiculi, Funicula,” and to then the knuckle-busting “Dizzy Fingers.” selection, “Hooray for Hollywood,” before answer the question that has probably The last offering brought the audience to its beginning his accompaniment to the silent puzzled listeners since it was written in feet. Mark played an encore of “Zing! Went film, The Winning of Barbara Worth. Many 1880 by Italian composer Luigi Denza, the the Strings of My Heart,” which segued into had never seen this film, and the 35mm title refers to the incline railways that go up the “Embassy Theme,” written by the late print was in excellent condition. There is the sides of Mount Vesuvius. Buddy Nolan. nothing quite like seeing a pristine silent Dyne Pfeffenberger returned for a solo We were taken by bus a few blocks away film on the big screen in a magnificent piano performance of one of the great to the Masonic Hall for a delicious meal theatre, accompanied on a thrilling theatre standards, “As Time Goes By.” Now it was prepared by the lodge members. It afforded organ by a performer who knows how to do time for a novel musical and athletic us the opportunity to relax and reflect upon it well. Clark transported us back to a less presentation—Dyne began playing “I Love the two great shows we had heard that day frantic time, and the audience was a Piano,” and he was soon joined on the and to anticipate the final event back at the captivated. We hated to see the evening bench by Mark for a four-hand inter- Embassy Theatre, a classic silent film. come to an end. The bus ride home gave us pretation. Mark began playing the bass part Clark Wilson began his musical training the chance to exchange comments about the before he jumped up to the treble as Dyne at the age of nine in his native Ohio. For events of the day and to doze off.

Indiana Roof Ballroom set up for the annual banquet (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

Bill Tandy entertaining the crowd during the banquet in the Indiana Roof Ballroom (Photo by Allan France)

Don Phipps at the podium acknowledging his Hall of Fame award presented at the banquet. From left to right: Bob Evans, Alan Miller, Ken Double, Phipps, Don Near, and Tyler Morkin (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

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winner of the Young Organist Competition and dedicated it to Donna. This was the Tuesday, July 8 in 1984, is organist and assistant director next selection performed by the Trio. North United Methodist Church was of music at North United Methodist Church, Both Tom Hazleton and Donna Parker completed in 1931, and a four-manual, 41- and he serves as Senior Staff Organist/ studied with Richard Purvis. The Trio rank Kimball was installed. Additions to Pianist and Staff Arranger for the played a seldom-heard movement from the instrument were made in 1965, 1972, Indianapolis Children’s Choir and Youth Purvis’ Sierra Suite called “Abandoned and 1986, and another renovation of the Chorale. He has appeared as organ soloist Hacienda.” “An American in Paris,” in instrument was completed by Reynolds and with the Indianapolis Symphony and another arrangement by Martin Ellis, was Associates in 2003, bringing the organ to Carmel Symphony Orchestras, and has the blockbuster selection of the day. Donna its 76 ranks. This concert was co-sponsored many published pieces for choir and and Jonas joked that they had to wait for by the church and CIC-ATOS. The Allen instrumentalists with Hal Leonard and Martin to grow up before they were able to Organ Company was invaluable in arrang- Colla Voce. achieve this musical tour de force. The Trio ing for a suitable digital organ to be The Trio began their concert with a Con Brio returned to perform the theme provided for this performance. rousing interpretation of the theme from from The Simpsons as an encore. The Trio Con Brio explores new musical Raiders of the Lost Ark. Next came two conventioneers got back on the busses for possibilities with a unique approach, using pieces by George Gershwin. “Rialto the ride back to the hotel. Then off to the three organs to perform transcriptions and Ripples” was his first published work, and Warren Center once again. other musical works from all time periods. “Our Love is Here to Stay” was his last. The Jim Riggs has been a long-time favorite Originally founded by lifelong friends trio played themes from Harry Potter in an of theatre organ audiences. He is a Jonas Nordwall, Donna Parker, and Tom arrangement by Martin Ellis. Each of the dedicated partisan of lush, orchestral Hazleton, Martin Ellis became the third members then played a solo: Donna played music, drawing his inspiration from 1930s member of the group with Tom’s untimely “Avenue C” at the Allen organ; Martin musicals and dance bands and recreating passing in 2006. Jonas serves as organist played “On a Spring Note” by Sidney that enveloping sound using the many and music director of First United Torch, demonstrating the resources of the resources of the theatre pipe organ. With Methodist Church in Portland, Oregon, a large Kimball; and Jonas played “Blessed numerous CDs to his credit, he has position held since 1971. He is also organ- Assurance” using the Allen organ. The Trio appeared in concert at most of the major ist for the Portland Symphony Orchestra regrouped to perform “Mean Green Mother theatre organ venues. Jim has served as and concertizes worldwide. Donna enjoys from Outer Space” and the theme from house organist for various premier locations an active concert and teaching schedule, Tales from the Crypt. The novelty tune next in California, such as the Paramount and she serves on the ATOS board of was “Monkey Doodle Do” from the film Theatre in Oakland, the Stanford in Palo directors. Both artists have enjoyed the Coconuts. Some years ago Donna met Alto, and the Bay Theatre in Seal Beach. honor of being named Organist of the Year CIC-ATOS member Matt Dickerson, who Recently Jim has embarked on creating by the ATOS. Martin, the first overall composed a piece of music he called “Jig” organ and piano duets using a reproducing

Front drive and entrance to the Greenacres Art Center in Cincinnati, the former home of Julius Fleischman of the yeast and gin manufacturing company. Our afterglow tour of this restored mansion included a dinner and the Jack Moelmann playing the 2/24 opportunity to hear the 2/24 Æolian pipe Æolian organ in the Greenacres organ rebuilt by Ron Wehmeier (Photo by Art Center for our afterglow Jack Moelmann) group (Photo by Allan France)

Jelani Eddington at the console of the Ron Wehmeier Wurlitzer in Cincinnati (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

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grand piano playing Ampico rolls while Jim The Indiana Roof Ballroom was for many the bowl made it to our table, it was nearly fills in on the Wurlitzer. Catch them on years the place to go for proms, receptions, full of cash. The amount collected was not YouTube! Jim was named Organist of the and banquets. While the Indiana Theatre announced, but it will certainly help the Year by ATOS in 1990 and has served as a fell into disrepair, the Indiana Roof kept Cedar Rapids Area Theatre Organ Society board member of the organization. going. However, in the 1960s “the Roof,” as with its restoration efforts. Thank you to Although the Warren auditorium has a it has always been fondly called, began to everyone who contributed to bringing back fine Barton organ, it has no Ampico show signs of age and decay. Fortunately for the two splendid instruments in Cedar reproducing piano. For Jim Riggs’ concert, the city, it was taken over by the Simon Rapids. an electronic piano was connected to the Property Group, owners of the adjacent The entertainment for the evening was house sound system. The volume of the Embassy Suites hotel, and beautifully provided by Bill Tandy on multiple piano was too loud, but the musical results restored. This landmark continues to be synthesizers. Bill is proficient on piano, were magical. Jim opened his program with enjoyed by patrons who gather under the bass guitar, and saxophone, but most of us “Paramount on Parade,” a song he has twinkling stars in the Spanish courtyard. enjoy his talents in recreating the big band played perhaps more times than he would This splendid setting was the site for the music of the 1920s and ’30s. Bill was in top care to think about as organist at the banquet and was an easy stroll out the door form and provided some terrific music while Art Deco treasure in Oakland. This was of the Hyatt. The conventioneers, now we ate and danced. followed by a catchy version of “Lulu’s dressed to the nines, made their way up in Back in Town.” Justin Nimmo ably assisted the elevator and gathered in the bar area with the piano “roll” functions for the first adjacent to the enormous dance floor upon Wednesday, July 9 duet, “I Want to be Happy” from Vincent which banquet tables had been set. A Those who signed up for the afterglow Youmans’ 1925 show, No, No Nanette. Jim projected presentation showed the extent of got up very early and boarded six busses for took us on a nostalgic journey with such the flood devastation in Cedar Rapids. One the two-plus-hour ride to Cincinnati, Ohio. gems as “When It’s Sleepytime Down can scarcely imagine the scope of the Because of the total size of our group, it was South,” “Am I Blue?,” “Dance of the Blue damage until you see it in a 10-foot-wide necessary to divide us up throughout the Danube,” “Home in Pasadena,” “Singin’ in image. day. We would be reunited for the late the Rain,” “I Concentrate on You,” “June ATOS board member Michael Fellenzer afternoon dinner cruise on the Ohio River. Night,” “It Happened in Monterey,” announced that the theatre organs in Cedar The first stop for my group was the “Moonlight on the River,” and “Hello, Rapids are in dire need of financial Greenacres Art Center, formerly called Bluebird.” Jim wrapped up his program assistance after the flood. Michael donned a Winding Creek Farm and originally the with a medley of tunes from the musical bright sequined vest, picked up a huge estate of Julius Fleischmann, Jr. of the yeast Forty-second Street. Nearly everyone agreed plastic salad bowl, and made the rounds and gin company fame. Æolian Company that it was a magnificent way to spend an like a deacon with a collection plate. installed a 2/24 pipe organ, Opus 1579, in afternoon. Attendees dug into their wallets, and when 1925. Upon the death of Dorrett Kruse

Front view of the Basilica of the Assumption, Covington (Photo by Allan France)

New chambers under construction in one end of the ballroom of Cincinnati Music Hall for the former Albee Wurlitzer (Photo by Robert Ridgeway) Wicks organ in the Basilica of the Assumption, Covington (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

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Fleischmann in 1994, the entire estate was was stopped. We soon discovered the site of The organ installation (and the pianos in the purchased and completely restored as a massive accident. We made it into the city music room) reflects fastidious attention to Greenacres Foundation, a cultural arts without incident, but the delay to north- detail. center, by local Cincinnati philanthropist bound traffic amounted to several hours. Jelani Eddington is certainly no stranger (and neighbor) Mrs. Louise Nippert. The Unfortunately, in a completely unrelated to ATOS. He serves on the board of foundation hired Ron Wehmeier to rework incident to the one mentioned above, one of directors and concertizes extensively. Jelani the original organ and to add a Steinway the busses carrying ATOS conventioneers began piano studies at an early age and, Duo-Art reproducing piano to the instru- was struck in the rear by a truck. No after hearing the Wurlitzer in the former ment. Ron completed the project in August, injuries resulted, but there was a significant Paramount Music Palace, he began to take 2007, and this was the first visit for many of delay while the police reports were filed. As classical organ lessons and ultimately us. a consequence, two groups arrived at received theatre organ instruction from The Greenacres Foundation has a Greenacres at once. Because Greenacres is John Ferguson. This study paid off, and complete catering kitchen to accommodate a green facility, no paper or plastic plates Jelani won the ATOS Young Organist gatherings and prides itself on being can be used. Unfortunately, they only had a Competition at the age of 13, the youngest environmentally sensitive, i.e., “green.” A limited amount of china and silver. Both person to do so. In 2001 ATOS gave Jelani fine buffet was served to our group using the groups showing up at the same time created the Organist of the Year award when he was family china and silver. We got to eat, hear a problem due to lack of dishes. Some got 27, the youngest recipient of this honor. He the organ, tour the house, and, had it not seated immediately. Then the staff hur- has made dozens of recordings and has begun to rain, visit the grounds surrounding riedly washed the dishes so the remainder played concerts around the world. the mansion. We got back on our busses and could eat. Because of the lost time due to Because of the way the busses had to headed off for a tour of Cincinnati’s Music the traffic accidents, everyone arrived much be split up, our group was first to visit Hall. The Ballroom of the Music Hall is later than planned, pushing lunch much Greenacres but the last to visit the being renovated for the installation of the closer to the dinner cruise. Wehmeier residence. This concert was the former Albee Theatre Wurlitzer, Style 260 The group I was with finished up our third Jelani had performed that day. He was Special, Opus 1680, which was for many tour of Music Hall and headed to Price Hill still in great spirits, but undoubtedly he had years installed in Emery Auditorium. The and the Ron Wehmeier residence. Ron more energy earlier in the day. Never- rebuild and installation was contracted to began his pipe organ business in 1965 out theless, his opening selection was a rousing Ron Wehmeier, funded by a grant from of the carriage house on what had been the “Put on a Happy Face,” played with an anonymous local donor. Work on the family homestead since the 1870s. As Ron’s considerable gusto. “Yesterday” followed; building and the organ is ongoing. The business expanded, he was able to acquire naturally, it was much more relaxed. Jelani completion date was not announced. a large Wurlitzer and construct a music has been identified in recent years with the As our bus was heading southbound room, with a shop located below for the pipe music of Leroy Anderson, and he played an down I-71, we noted that northbound traffic organ and reproducing piano businesses. evocative piece called “Bugler’s Holiday”

Richardn;....,1,,,,._.,,..J Rogersn .....- ...... ro- providing...... , ..... ,,;,..J;...., __ an...., ATOS board of directors at the impromptu calliope serenade, banquet (Photo by Allan France) entertaining listeners for miles around (Rogers Collection)

Looking across the rear deck of The Belle of Cincinnati as we cruised up the Ohio River (Photo by Robert Ridgeway)

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as his next offering. Nearly everyone has ably demonstrated by the resident organist, watch the shoreline on both sides of the been exposed to the music of Andrew Lloyd Robert Schaffer. In a stone space as vast as river. A few miles further up-river, we Webber, and Jelani then played a medley this, you can more fully appreciate the turned around and headed back to the B&B from his best-known work, The Phantom of sound as it rolls around. dock. We disembarked and found our the Opera. The group I was with expressed As we emerged from the church, we respective busses for the ride back to hearty approval. discovered how the time delays had accu- Indianapolis. It had been a long day of Revisiting the Leroy Anderson oeuvre, mulated for the other groups. We waited in adventure, misadventure, and music. Jelani introduced Donnie Rankin who the church parking lot for the busses to join Those involved with this convention would assist in the presentation of the us. When the last bus finally arrived, its deserve sincere thanks for extending their next two selections. Donnie added just occupants were unable to see the Basilica special “Hoosier Hospitality.” Unquestion- the right amount of rhythmic touch to or hear the organ. We drove from Covington ably, a lot of hard work and planning went the “Sandpaper Ballet” and “Horse and to Newport through the huge opening in the into the event, and the registration totals Buggy.” The closing selection was a levee to where we would meet the excursion and smiling attendees attest to the success delightful old war horse by Von Suppe, boat. B&B Riverboats have operated in the of this collective effort. “The Light Cavalry Overture.” This was a Cincinnati area for many years. The vessel staple of the theatre organist’s repertoire has a paddle wheel on the rear that is from the early years. Jelani allowed us to turned by fluid drive units powered by the experience the full visceral impact of diesel engines. The actual driving motion, horses, soldiers, and battle. At the end however, is delivered from screw propellers everyone let out a sigh of exhaustion. The underneath. It is the impression of being on crowd and Jelani were still up for one more, an old riverboat that keeps people coming and the encore was the Harold Arlen tune back again and again. “Get Happy,” introduced by Ruth Etting in We were served a buffet meal on the The Nine-Fifteen Revue in 1930. middle deck, looking out the windows as we We headed down the hill and across the dined. After eating, we could go outside and Ohio River to Northern Kentucky and the stroll the various levels, if we so chose. The Basilica of the Assumption in Covington. boat came equipped with an air-powered This enormous church was inspired by (no steam on this vessel) modern calliope Notre Dame in Paris, but on a reduced made by Miner Manufacturing Company, scale. We were ushered in and, because the and quite a number of our group found their rain clouds from earlier in the day had way to the rear deck where they tried their passed, the stained glass windows were hand. We were blessed with several hours ablaze in color. The Wicks pipe organ was of sunlight, which gave us the chance to

Former ATOS president Fr. Gus Franklin and current ATOS board member Don Near waiting to board a bus for Robert Ridgeway a concert (Photo by Allan France) in the hotel lobby (Photo by Allan France)

Tyler Morkin, ATOS board youth representative (Photo by Allan France) Tim Needler, convention chairman, receiving congratulations from ATOS board and Central Indiana chapter member Michael Fellenzer for coordinating the fifth successful convention in Indianapolis (Photo by Allan France)

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Reflections on Jack Moelmann & Friends

at Radio City Music Hall BY ALLEN MILLER

Radio City Music Hall has been home to Russell Holmes also took to the giant since the day [he] met them.” When things some of the most spectacular entertainment consoles, along with Fr. Gus Franklin, and didn’t go exactly as planned or perhaps ever produced. From the greatest head- a crowd estimated at nearly 1,000 enjoyed desired, Jack poked fun at himself, and the liners like Elton John, Frank Sinatra, the big Wurlitzer in solo performance for the audience loved the informality. The people Liberace, Barry Manilow, and others, to first time in many years. clearly wanted to be there and enjoyed great events such as the Tony Awards, the It was certainly an historic and monu- every minute. And a plethora of minutes now-popular Excellence in Sports Perform- mental occasion, and friends not only there were. The program lasted over 2½ ance Yearly Awards (ESPY Awards), and the played, they came from all over the country hours, plus an ample intermission with time annual Christmas Spectacular, the Music and beyond. It was also a very musical and to refresh, buy a beverage or Jack’s wares— Hall provides entertainment and events as entertaining evening. Veterans Walt Strony, cassettes, wire recordings, and tee shirts— part of its standard bill of fare. Lew Williams, and Russell Holmes handled or just socialize with the “who’s who” and Imagine what officials at Cablevision, the Music Hall Wurlitzer’s idiosyncrasies enjoy the Art Deco surroundings. owners of the famed theatre, are now asking and dead notes with an extreme degree of While duets were promised with two themselves: How did a guy nobody knows professionalism; they also gave us a decent organists at the consoles, for the most part, generate more publicity for a single event romp through the instrument’s resources (at one or the other sat there doing nothing, the than any other in the history of Radio City least the ones it still has to offer). duets being the passing of the baton from Music Hall? And who would have ever The evening belonged to Jack Moelmann, 51st Street to 50th Street on one piece or figured that event would have been an organ and he offered no pretense. He was simply another in a medley. Granted, playing duets concert? himself, there to have a good time, realize a a full city block apart is tricky and may CBS, CNN, Fox, and The New York dream, and share it with lots of friends, have required cell phones with long dis- Times, as well as hundreds of newspapers “some of whom [he] liked better than tance (or international) calls to coordinate and radio and television news outlets across others, but all of whom [he] had known matters. I almost expected an appearance the country, now know the name Jack Moelmann, as well as some “new” pipe organ terms. Jack’s concert at the Radio City Mighty Wurlitzer pipe organ drew amazing media attention. And to that end, our former ATOS president and “Mr. Everything Else” focused a stronger national spotlight on the instrument we love than any other event in our history. Jack’s real dream was to bring the public eye to the theatre organ, and where else to do that but at the Nation’s Showplace, and on the theatre organ perhaps most heard by the average John Q. Public. While the news story angle focused on “Military Retiree Spends Life Savings to Play Famous Organ,” the fact of the matter is, on that glorious Saturday night, August 9, in New York City, Jack did what smart performers do—he shared the stage and the console with some of the best talent in our business. Walt Strony, Lew Williams and (Photos courtesy of Allen Miller and Allan France)

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of Russell Holmes mid-stage, at grand bers, the percussion chamber overhead, its Profunda partner) often dropped out on piano, for the finale, but that probably was and it was the Music Hall organ on the same note on both ranks, leaving the yet another $90,000, as would have been a “headphones” perhaps with a few steroids organist with a hole in the melody. Russell five-minute appearance of the Rockettes thrown in. simply jumped octaves to find a note that kicking to canned music. Much has been said about the organ over existed. Lew and Walter seemed luckier in Many of us had choice seats right up the past years. It was still full of dead notes, avoiding the gaps. What got by the best front and center, only feet away from the causing obvious gaps in some of the music, were the traditional full organ combinations stage lip. I have no idea why the people who especially when the organist was trying to we are so used to hearing at the Music Hall, run these venues think the best seats for an solo a voice (or cluster of voices, such as with and without 2' Tibias, Strings, organ concert are those at the edge of the full Tibias, or Tubas). Many times, the Solo Glockenspiel, and Xylophone. The latter stage, but they do. It would even have been 4' Tibia or mutations simply dropped out of two seemed to have fewer dead notes than too close if the Rockettes had performed. the melody. Most people probably didn’t some of the pipe ranks. (Next time, Jack.) I was between the cham- notice. The sonorous Tuba Mirabilis (and Jack proclaimed that the organ has lots of red stops and that the tabs were very pretty. Try as I might, I never heard most of the traditionally expected reeds— Trumpets, Post Horn, and the subtleties of Clarinets, Saxophones, Oboes and Kinuras. Jack’s signature “Rubber Duckie” had no The Best Event Ever! quackers. The Bishops have done much to quiet “Bob Ralston took our concert venue up the organ, with extraneous wind noise three levels (good, better, best!) with his nearly gone. Tuning was tolerable, and recent concert visit to The Kirk of Dunedin tremulants seemed to work in the tradi- (Jan. 18–19, 2008). Mr. Ralston made our tional Music Hall fashion. Lew William’s theatre organ “the Duchess" sing like she Toccata, Symphony V (Widor) came through was new. Both concerts were entirely sold with extremely “French” tuning at times. I out. People even bought tickets in seats would guess that there were fewer dead that are behind archways, and we never notes than last year, but for this listener, it sell those tickets. Bob's mastery and was still like a ride on a street full of showmanship with the organ and piano potholes. captured our crowds. Add to this his The massed strings and Voxes were as energy, tremendous humor and personal luscious as I can remember ever hearing connection. It was the best event ever! We them, and there were some moments in could have easily sold out a third show” Walt’s, Lew’s, and Russell’s medleys where —Rev. Jerry Rittenhouse, senior pastor The Kirk of Dunedin, Dunedin, Florida soft combinations were showcased and were as delicious and sweet as Junior’s desserts. For the first time in years, the organ is again amplified. I have mixed reactions to that. It certainly isn’t subtle, especially the Xylophone and Glockenspiel Mirabilis, BOB RALSTON nearly as loud as the rest of what is playable at this point. I was unable to detect sound 17027 Tennyson Place | Granada Hills, CA 91344-1225 All fees are negotiable, from the other chambers as coming from 818-366-3637 phone | 818-363-3258 fax allowing your chapter to speakers; the effect might have been www.BobRalston.com | [email protected] make a handsome profit.

44 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:01 PM Page 45

Fr. Gus Franklin Lew Williams Russell Holmes Walt Strony

different further back in the house. It was was at the console. We can look back in our those dreams come true. Seemingly the difficult to guess how much direct sound history and know of some special events. entire world was reminded of that by media was hampered by the two suspended large Those George Wright midnight concerts at attention we in pipe organ land can only screen TV displays right in front of the the Fox, the premier of the new home for dream about! It was a great event, indeed. lower proscenium chamber openings. The Jesse Crawford’s Paramount Wurlitzer in Thanks, Jack; you made it happen. TV screens were cleverly decorated with Wichita, Tom Hazelton proving the Chicago Thanks to all in TOSI who participated and ruffled curtains, but the array of five huge Stadium Barton was a great pipe organ, and helped pull it off. Thanks especially to speaker clusters was nothing sort of ugly, a on and on. But none of that ever generated Nelson Page, who finally caught the blight on Roxy’s sunburst. I can see the a 3½ minute segment on the CBS Evening attention of the Associated Press with the need for amplification when playing to a full News, or several column inches in The New “spends life savings” angle. house of exiting and entering patrons, but York Times. Now, where do we get $200,000 for the during a concert, I would rather hear the Jack Moelmann most certainly proved encore with the Rockettes? organ au naturale. you are never too old to dream and to have Remembering New York American Theatre Organ Society’s Sunday morning musicales, especially those with John Seng, Lyn Larsen, and Tom Hazleton, it is difficult to make comparisons between sounds over a period of decades. Those solo organists had no advantage of a settable combination action and multiple memory levels. I certainly do remember some rare soft moments back then, with solos on the Bassett Horn (Clarinet) and other choice goodies that just happen to be standard Wurlitzer ranks with fancy Kimball names. Certainly in the past, the organ had a pronounced rush of wind noise, and it was obvious when the amplification was turned on just prior to the show. Yet I do not recall enjoying the organ quite as much as I did that August, 2008 night, in spite of the missing notes. If the technicians keep fixing what doesn’t work, the results should be rewarding. It was Jack Moelmann’s evening, a feather in Theatre Organ Society Interna- tional’s cap, and a great publicity event for theatre organ in general. ATOS was prominently mentioned at least three times as well, all good for promoting theatre organ in general. Jack was marveling to me about the wide range of publicity that had caught on, and news cameras were in evidence, both outside and during the first half of the performance, especially when the Colonel

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FLOODS DAMAGE HISTORIC CEDAR

Several years ago, I wrote an article for some 8½ feet of water covered the stage, THEATRE ORGAN about historic pipe organ console, and auditorium. The lift and organs in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, called “Wind console were completely submerged for at on the Prairie.” If I were writing that article least a week, and in the sub-basement, the today, I would probably have to call it organ’s blower was under at least 30 feet of “Water on the Prairie,” or perhaps “What water. Fortunately, the organ chambers Prairie?” During the month of June, were not breached by the water, or the devastating floods struck this Midwestern tragedy would have been far worse. At this city, wreaking havoc on some of its most writing, the pipes, percussions, and important musical treasures. windchests, as well as the original Wurlitzer The Red Cedar River runs through the relay, appear to have been spared. The heart of Cedar Rapids. Much of the city’s blower was not reachable until one full history is tied to industry lining the river, month after the floodwaters receded. It is and downtown Cedar Rapids is bisected by featured. We are fortunate that one of those damaged, but the shaft of the motor still this body of water. In the middle of the river historical instruments was spared. turns. The most serious loss is the console in the heart of the city, Mays Island has In 1930, the city was proud to acquire a itself, which was destroyed. While it was stood for hundreds of years. A prominent new municipal organ, a four-manual found essentially intact after the waters landmark, Mays Island is home to the city’s instrument built by the Skinner Organ receded, the waters had weakened wood municipal government, making Cedar Company and installed in Veteran’s and joints, and it literally fell apart as Rapids one of just a few cities whose seat Memorial Coliseum on Mays Island. If that workers attempted to remove it from the of government is located on an island. Also important instrument were still installed in theatre. This is particularly tragic as this on the island are the courthouse and that arena, its console would have been was an unusual Wurlitzer console, with Veteran’s Memorial Coliseum, home of a completely destroyed during this flood. unique decorative details, controlling an famous stained glass window designed by Fortunately, it was spared this fate. In 1952, unusual instrument. Classified by Wurlitzer artist Grant Wood. At the height of the the instrument was moved to Sinclair as a model Balaban 1A, the Paramount’s flood, Mays Island was completely invis- Auditorium, on the campus of Coe College, organ (Opus 1907) is the only extant ible, with only the tall buildings standing some 10 blocks above the high water line. instrument of this model still in essentially above the water to show where it once was. As a result, it suffered no damage during original condition still in its original home. Cedar Rapids knew a flood was coming, the flood. Only seven Balaban 1As were built by and her citizens prepared accordingly. Unfortunately, Cedar Rapids’ two Wurlitzer, and this one has resided in the Volunteers turned out in a monumental original theatre organs did not fare as well. Paramount Theatre since opening night in sand-bagging effort. What no one could The beautiful Paramount Theatre, built 1928. have anticipated, however, was the in 1928, stands at the corner of Third Like the theatre itself, the Wurlitzer magnitude of the flood of 2008. The water Avenue and Second Street in the heart of organ is owned by the City of Cedar Rapids. rose, up and up, and up, and when it downtown. Built in the grand style, this It has been carefully maintained by, and at peaked, it had completely inundated Mays 2,000-seat movie palace was completely the expense of, the Cedar Rapids Area Island, downtown Cedar Rapids, and many restored to its former glory just a few years Theatre Organ Society (CRATOS) since that residential neighborhoods near the river. ago to the tune of 7.8 million dollars. Its group was formed in 1969. CRATOS Hundreds, if not thousands, of homes and Hall of Mirrors, modeled after the great volunteers are working hard now to restore businesses were damaged or destroyed. Palais de Versailles in France, ushered this organ to its former glory, but many Countless people were left homeless, and generations of movie-goers toward the questions remain about the structural the government of Cedar Rapids and many opulent auditorium, where the sound of the integrity of the building, possible insurance of its downtown and neighborhood busi- 3/11 Mighty Wurlitzer beckoned. All of this coverage, and funding. The generous nesses were compromised. Amid the glory came to an ignominious end during support of friends of the theatre organ will devastation, overshadowed by the tragedies the first week of June, when the river be needed to allow this special Wurlitzer of people left homeless and historic crested its banks and inundated downtown organ to sing again. Obviously, the console buildings damaged, two significant cultural Cedar Rapids. A wall of water rushed will need to be completely restored or icons were also devastated by the raging through the Paramount Theatre building replaced. waters. These are architectural treasures— and into the auditorium. The heavy Meanwhile, at nearby Theatre Cedar two historical theatres dating back to Wurlitzer console, raised on its lift to stage Rapids (originally the RKO Iowa Theatre), 1928—and musical treasures—the pipe level in anticipation of the flood, was tossed Cedar Rapids’ other historic theatre organ organs which they house. onto its back and onto the stage. The stage suffered a similar fate. Theatre Cedar Those who attended the 1998 regional extension, built of heavy reinforced panels Rapids is home to the celebrated convention of the American Theatre Organ and extending over the orchestra pit, was “Rhinestone” Barton (Opus 510), so named Society may recall that three organs were knocked into complete disarray. In the end, because of its spectacularly decorated

Above: The courthouse in downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa, surrounded by water (Photos by David C. Kelzenberg)

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R RAPIDS THEATRE ORGANS BY DAVID C. KELZENBERG

console. This is another unique instrument, console and other work needed to bring the Many of these same people have spoken out the largest of several Bartons which were Rhinestone Barton back to life. in support of restoring the organs, which actually built by the Wangerin Company of Cedar Rapids was not the only eastern they consider the “voice” of these theatres, Milwaukee and, like its Wurlitzer neighbor, Iowa community to suffer damage to providing much needed moral, if not an original installation from the year 1928. important pipe organs as a result of this financial, support. And it is the firm goal of As far as is known, this is the only organ epochal flood. In nearby Iowa City, the Iowa CRATOS and CRBI working together to do ever delivered with a console covered in River left its banks, flooding the University whatever it takes to bring these unique black velvet, brilliant rhinestones, and of Iowa’s Voxman Music Building and historical instruments back to their former sparkling glitter. This organ was theatre severely damaging two large studio pipe glory. organ historian and rebuilder David organs and three practice instruments It will take time for these transfor- Junchen’s favorite Barton, and anyone who built by Schlicker, Holtkamp, Casavant, mations to take place. And, it will take has heard or played it in its original home in Brombaugh, and Taylor & Boody. The the generous financial support of many of Cedar Rapids can understand why. school’s large Casavant organ, installed in our friends in the theatre organ commu- The news from Theatre Cedar Rapids is an elevated position in Clapp Recital Hall, nity and the music world. At the recent somewhat brighter annual convention of than that from the the American Theatre Paramount. At First Organ Society in Avenue and Third Indianapolis, many Street, TCR is a bit people contributed to further from the river, the cause of these two and there was no organs. But this is only wall of water crash- the beginning. An on- ing into the building. line fundraising appeal But creep in it did, is underway. and although the How can you help? console had also If you would like to been raised to stage support the ongoing level in anticipation restoration and upkeep of the flooding, the of the Cedar Rapids water rose to about theatre organs, please the level of the Solo consider making a (top) manual, where contribution to the it remained for cause. You can do so several days. The at www.cr-atos.com, console damage was where you may make disastrous. This in- an online contribution strument's blower and and view many photos relay are, fortu- and news stories on nately, located at the flood damage to chamber level, so only the console and its remained high and dry, although the hall the organs. You may also purchase a copy of Barton four-post lift were damaged by the itself was inundated. The other organs will Back in the Black, Scott Foppiano’s floodwaters. all be removed for repair and rebuilding spectacular CD recorded on the Rhinestone The Barton organ is owned and main- while teaching takes place in local Barton, proceeds from which will support tained by a small non-profit corporation, churches. The University tentatively plans the organ fund. Or, you can send a check Cedar Rapids Barton, Incorporated (CRBI). to re-open the music complex in the fall of (made payable to CRATOS) to CRATOS, The organ was not insured, and funds for its 2009. P.O. Box 611, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, 52406, restoration will need to come from generous With all of the personal tragedies the USA. You can designate your donation for donors and grants. Already a grant has been people of Cedar Rapids and Eastern Iowa the Wurlitzer, the Barton, or both. The provided by the National Endowment for have suffered as a consequence of this people of Cedar Rapids thank you for your the Humanities, which has been used for devastating flood, the restoration of these support and encouragement during these the removal of the Barton console from the two historic theatre organs may seem an difficult times. theatre and into safe storage where the insignificant goal. Yet the people have damage is being assessed. However, demonstrated a strong will to restore their significant funds are still needed to support beloved theatres, which they consider the restoration or replacement of the organ’s important cultural landmarks for their city.

Above: The Paramount Theatre’s Wurlitzer console as it appeared after the floodwaters receded

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How Many of Our Readers Have Had a “Lost Weekend”?

dividing wall that supported the two pipe much of the organ to gain proper egress. chambers. Aside from Sam and Ernie, the EMSIII began caring for the organ in 1958 owners, there was another regular named and conducted releathering tasks with Larry Heddy, the unofficial cocktail waitress. She on many Saturday afternoons. was a dear soul who resembled a half-starved Just what was so special about Vannucci’s sparrow whose water and seed dishes were music, and why did George Wright consider attached to the Chrysoglott bearers at the Larry the greatest jazz and Blues organist he end of the bar. Often her little stalks would had ever enjoyed? Not unlike George, the become tangled in her gown-less evening musical expression resulted from the natural strap, thereby affording unsuspecting gifts from the gene pool and the exposure to patrons a tray full of free drinks. live musical forms and expressions from The 10-rank jewel was installed in two a very early age. Larry began playing the 10' by 10' chambers, with the shutters accordion at an early age, followed by piano sitting directly on the floor. The ensemble studies. It is interesting to note two other poured forth evenly throughout the room, brilliant organists began their musical and the robust “taunk” of metal Diaphone studies with the accordion: Jonas Nordwall helped in shaking the drinks. The Solo was and Simon Gledhill. All three possessed on the house left side of the room, and it exceptionally fine and effortless techniques, BY EDWARD MILLINGTON STOUT III contained the Vox, Orchestral Oboe, Tibia thereby freeing them to concentrate on Clausa, English Horn, and Tuba Horn. All musical expression. One of Larry’s first gigs of the percussions were located in the Solo, was playing the Style D Wurlitzer organ The following reflections are about Larry with the exception of the Chrysoglott, which in San Francisco’s Avenue Theatre for Vannucci, a true San Francisco original and supported Heddy’s landing platform. The his graduation celebration from grammar a musician’s musician in the truest meaning Main chamber spoke through a Mello-tone school. Also present was another treasure in of the phrase. grill material above a fireplace. A smoke- the theatre organ world, Larry’s classmate, “That Don’t Sound Like No Awgan muted painting of Ray Milland was centered Alex Santos, now in his 91st year. Alex had Larree, that sounds like an orchestraw,” so above the mantle, reminding the gimlet- a long career working in San Francisco stated Sam, an Edward G. Robinson eyed patrons to forget their families and theatres and was the official doorman and lookalike, who with his Cherokee Indian homes. greeter at the same Avenue Theatre during partner “Ernie” were the owners of the Larry Vannucci began playing at the Lost its long second run as a silent photoplay famed Lost Weekend cocktail lounge. The Weekend in 1954 on a Hammond and a revival house. Lost Weekend was named after the award- piano. Although he already had a long Further academic studies were not for winning photoplay starring Ray Milland, association with playing theatre organs, it the impassioned young musician who began and the fit was perfect as many dedicated was not until the George-Wright-led revival moving up the ladder by playing piano in music lovers lost their weekends within the in interest that Larry was able to convince local houses of sweet repose, whereby he rumbling confines of what appeared to be an the then-owner, George Barns, to make the could vastly improve his rhythmical abilities innocent neighborhood bar. What set the considerable investment in acquiring and in accompanying the spasmodic gymnastics forties-styled building, with its huge slanted installing the Wurlitzer. Ron Downer, a from above. During the thirties and forties, glass-brick façade, in a class of its own was pioneering organ buff, assisted in the search Larry played both the accordion and piano Larry Vannucci holding court at the two- for the perfect organ for the Weekend. in many of San Francisco’s dance bands. manual console of the ORIGINAL Style 216 Veteran pipe organ man, Paul Schoenstein, This valued era afforded him the opportunity Wurlitzer organ from Oakland’s Fox Senator made the original installation, and the organ to polish his gift for arranging and spon- Theatre. was inserted into the chambers without any taneous jazz playing. Larry understood Larry’s two-manual throne sat on a restoration efforts. Later, a most talented the art of accompanying because he, platform behind the graceful arched bar, organman, Richard Stenger, repositioned like George Wright, was truly a keyboard which ran from the front of the lounge to the

48 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:01 PM Page 49

vocalist. He knew how to sing a song in the Larry after his gig at the Fairmont Hotel shared by close friends, and examples of most tasteful and sensitive fashion. His right where he appeared with Rosie Clooney. Larry’s piano and organ playing filled the hand WAS Ella Fitzgerald or Frank Sinatra, Buddy, like George Wright and Gordon theatre’s expansive auditorium while slides of and his left hand was the combo. He never let Kibbee, marveled at Vannucci’s limpid style, the gifted artist were projected on the the singing line down or tried to upstage the where clarity of line was never upstaged in a immense white picture sheet. melodic line. You could always feel a little vain attempt to catapult one’s self into a state That brings up one last question about the Puccini pulling at your heart as Larry coaxed of narcissism. Because the arrangements recorded legacy of this sensitive musician. a ballad from the vibrant whistles he loved so were created one millisecond before the relay Larry froze and became wooden when being well. One of the most abused musical terms, machine received its command, no one was confronted by professional recording engi- when associated with the theatre organ, is quite sure where the 12-minute version of the neers, who often feel they are the ones with jazz. So often the listener is assaulted by a full “Saint Louis Blues” was heading. How the artistic gifts. The two or three recordings organ rampage masquerading as a “big refreshing it was to hear the melody line made on alleged “pure virgin vinyl” gave the band.” That was not the Vannucci approach. played on the Clarinet or the 16' Tuba impression he was in a full body cast. No, He favored playing jazz or the Blues from an combined with the Fifteenth off the sizzling Larry had to be in a smoky old room with instrumental point of view, often utilizing VDO. As a little sideline, genial Bob broken glass and cigarette ashes beneath the individual solo voices in their most pure and Power hosted George Wright and Gordon pedal keys before he loosened up and felt at fluid form. Vannucci seemed to remove the Kibbee every year to celebrate Larry’s home. What true artist could make musical keyboard and all machinery while coupling birthday. George always nicknamed Vannucci love to the instrument with some idiot his musical soul with the music. Unlike those “Marge.” engineer shouting, “‘Wagon Wheels,’ take who feel they should be paid piecemeal by Larry left the Lost Weekend in 1965 23…roll ’em” ? It is with good fortune Larry’s the note, Larry loved playing the organ and to play a most successful engagement at real playing does exist on informal recordings would often spend the early hours in one of San Rafael Joes, a popular Marin County made during early morning jam sessions in the Bay Area’s dusty old pleasure domes to “scarfatoria.” He completed his 60-year most of the Bay Area’s great theatres. Some the delight of his dedicated fan club. career playing the beautiful Wurlitzer organ were made on questionable and inexpensive In some ways the Lost Weekend was a in David Packard’s magnificently restored equipment where the wire recorder became classroom, with Professor Vannucci sharing Stanford Theatre in downtown Palo Alto. tangled in the seat arm, but the playing is his insight and special approach in con- There Larry captivated the respectful patrons clear and beyond what most listeners have necting with the composer’s intent. Often you with his insightful solos and astounding ever had the privilege of hearing. Larry’s would see 18-year-old Tom Hazleton hiding accompaniments beneath the live stage close friend, Dave Schutt, and some old by the Chrysoglott along with many other vocals by Nancy Gilliland. Following Larry’s organ man have a most worthy collection of distinguished California organists, all being death in 1993, David Packard, assisted by Ed Vannucci’s artistry, and they are intending held spellbound by the inseparable bond Stout, presented an interesting retrospective to share Larry as he carried us on on his between Larry and the 10-rank treasure. On of Larry’s life and musical career in the “Diaphonic Wing of Song.” occasion Buddy Cole would dash out to hear Stanford Theatre. Delightful tales were

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QUALITY ~ RELIABILITY ~ AUTHENTICITY ROB RICHARDS TOURING ORGAN

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 49 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:01 PM Page 50

REVIEWS

Cameron Carpenter perform, if you are alive Eighteen Chorales, Horowitz: Variations on CAMERON and have ears and eyes, and you are open to a theme from Bizet’s Carmen, and experiencing something all new, you will be Carpenter: “Homage to Klaus Kinski” CARPENTER astounded at what you see and hear. (world premiere recording). Revolutionary Although, I do not personally think that Like Kinski’s performances, Cameron the Marshall and Ogletree instrument sounds projects explosive theatrical intensity and Cameron Carpenter’s new Telarc® re- anything like a pipe organ, I was immensely temperament in the collection of perform- lease, Revolutionary, is just exactly what the entertained and even mesmerized by every ances on this album, but like many new title implies: it is revolutionary, and single selection on this album. The familiar things, the more you expose yourself to this extraordinary. This CD release includes a classic selections have been adapted by unique recording, the more layers of bonus DVD that will leave you breathless. If Mr. Carpenter to suit his totally original Carpenter’s artistic dimension will become you have previously seen Cameron perform, style. There is nothing that is not unique illuminated to you. Revolutionary is one you will be reminded of his unparalleled about this 21st century performance artist. classical album that’s grandiose, glittering, and even athletic technique. After his per- This particular Marshall and Ogletree and truly theatrical. It is available in tradi- formance at the 2007 ATOS convention, machine is also an original and, at times for tional CD format or SACD. Both formats Dr. John Weaver, who has been the head of me at least, difficult if not impossible to include the bonus DVD. It can be ordered the organ department at both the Julliard appreciate as even being an organ. In spite directly from the label at www.telarc.com for School of Music in New York and the Curtis of that fact, however, Revolutionary is a $15.99 plus $2.00 shipping and handling. School of Music in Philadelphia, stated, breakthrough collection of both audio and “There never has been anyone with Cameron visual theatre and, most importantly, it’s —Andy Antonczyk Carpenter’s technical ability in the organ totally captivating and a lot of fun. Because world—if there were, we would have known it is so radically different and ground- about it.” His comment itself was so breaking, one has to listen RON RHODE and observe with unbiased eyes and ears fully open to Home new possibilities. Cameron, I always know when I get a new Ron himself, states in the album Rhode release that the album will be booklet that, “The organ is original in concept, it will have a collection musical dynamite, but its of clever songs that I’m not used to hearing REVOLUTIONARY fuse must be lit.” Without all the time, the instrument will sound great, CAMERONCARPENTER a doubt, Carpenter takes and, most of all, the recording will be good plenty of chances, and solid fun. Well, Ron really topped himself he shows no fear in doing with this new release entitled Home. The so. His heroes are guys 3/23 theatre organ ha been installed in Ron like Nureyev, Liberace, and his partner’s home for over a decade. David Bowie, and Karl They recently moved on to a new home Lagerfeld—the people who and, due to space restrictions, it became are their message, not necessary to downsize and sell this special their medium. instrument. This recording was made before The selections included the instrument was dismantled and relo- are Chopin: Étude, Op. cated from their home. At its core was 10, No. 12 in C Minor, Wurlitzer (Opus 2131), a Balaban 2 “The Revolutionary,” originally installed in the Mattapan Square Bach: “Evolutionary,” Oriental Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts Toccata and Fugue in in 1930. It had the only Chinese Art Deco D Minor, BWV 565 console that was ever built by Wurlitzer. (world premiere record- It can be seen on page 213 in David ing), “Solitude,” Demessieux: Octaves, from Junchen’s book, The Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: Six Etudes, Op. 5, Liszt: Mephisto Waltz revolutionary that the ATOS convention An Illustrated History, published recently by No. 1 (“The Dance in the Village Inn”), concert reviewer, Robert Ridgeway, ap- the American Theatre Organ Society. Carpenter: “Love Song No. 1” (2008) (world proached Dr. Weaver and asked him to After the organ was removed from the premiere recording), Dupré: Prelude and confirm that he actually made that state- theatre in Boston, and before it was in the Fugue in B Major, Op. 7, No. 1, Chopin: ment. Although Cameron at times plays with Rhode/Tanner home, the organ was installed Étude in C Major, Op. 10, No. 1, Bach: lightning speed, the music is always in New Lenox, Illinois in the Hochmuth/ Chorale Prelude on “Nun komm, der heiden accurate, and his phrasing elicits a casual Stankey residence. Ron Rhode became Heiland,” BWV 659, from the Great quality. Whether or not you have seen familiar with the instrument when it was at

50 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:01 PM Page 51

Compact discs, cassettes, videos, books, and music to be reviewed should be sent to the Editor, Jeff Weiler, 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616. Items must be received three months prior to the issue date in which the review will appear.

to Two,” “See You in C-U- perform at the Detroit Senate Theatre on the B-A,” “Old Cape Cod,” former Fisher Theatre 4/34 Wurlitzer. He “Whispering,” “On a was asked to give a concert there when he Little Dream Ranch,” was 15 years old. When John Seng died, he “Mabelle” (duet with left all his music and organs to Tony Steinway-Æolian), “Young Thomas. It has been said that John Seng at Heart,” “Doo-Wacka- remarked several times to others that Tony Do”(Hochmuth/Stankey Thomas was one of the few musicians who environment), “Nobles of intimidated him. the Mystic Shrine” (duet The sound as captured on this CD is a with Steinway-Æolian), remarkable achievement; to fully capture “Night and Day,” “True the jazz sound nuances of this organ for this Love,” “Hello, Dolly” and disc, Scott May extended his services as “Home.” Of course, every audio consultant and Robert Ridgeway’s song is played perfectly in Magneticlab was responsible for the actual Ron’s inimitable style and recording. The sound jumps right off the seasoned with his innovative registrations. disc in a way you have not heard in a long that location and sported 22 ranks. When This disc was recorded by Chris Gorsuch, time on organ recordings. Ron acquired the instrument, a 10" Tibia and the sound is clean and very up front. Tony Thomas is a nationally known artist Clausa replaced the Lieblich Flute, a Style The final surprise of this CD is the creative currently based in Memphis. Although Tony D Trumpet replaced the Tuba Mirabilis, and hand-drawn booklet and tray illustrations by earned his degree in music in organ a Kinura was added, making it 23 ranks. Rob Lacher and Ron Tanner. I truly enjoyed performance under Gerhard Krapf at the Sadly, this organ has recently been sep- everything about this album, and the University of Iowa, he is best known as a arated from its console. Fortunately, the carefully designed and artful packaging was jazz artist. His love for theatre organ came one-of-a-kind console was re-purchased by a welcomed and appreciated bonus. The CD early in his life at age eight when he first Terry Hochmuth who generously donated it is available for $20 at www.ronrhode.com, heard George Wright’s memorable record- in memory of Dan Stankey to be installed in or by calling 480-695-8568. ings. Tony is the five-time winner of the the Phipps Center for the Performing Arts —Andy Antonczyk NARAS Premiere Player Award for in Hudson, Wisconsin. The elegant ivory keyboards and was inducted into that and gold Art Deco Chinese console now organization’s Premiere Player Hall of controls the Phipps instrument, Wurlitzer Opus 1404, originally from the Capitol TONY Theatre in St. Paul, Minnesota, and later THOMAS installed in KSTP television studios in 1957 where it was recorded by the dazzling Something organist, Leonard Leigh. The Wurlitzer was finally moved to the Phipps Center in 1983. Different… The collection of songs on this album is Something both familiar and not-so-familiar, with a few surprises. The first surprise on this disc is Wonderful that Ron has included three duets that were Few theatre organ buffs would made with the organ and a Steinway-Æolian ever dispute that Johnny Seng was DuoArt roll player. I’m sure you’ll agree one of the all-time greats for having with me that they are sensational. Another the talent to accurately present the surprise is that Ron also includes a tune theatre organ as a jazz instru- that was recorded when the instrument was ment. In Something Different… installed in the Hochmuth/Stankey home so Something Wonderful!, Tony that the listener can make an acoustical Thomas plays jazz theatre organ comparison of the added ranks and different on a large-scale installation of environments. a Rodgers 360 theatre organ Who but Ron Rhode could ever come that was voiced and initially up with a track list like this? “Cosi Cosa,” set up by John Seng. In fact, “Be Like the Kettle and Sing,” “Cinderella, Tony even uses many of Stay in My Arms,” “I Won’t Dance” (duet John’s original pistons on with Steinway-Æolian), “Un bel di” from this CD. Tony Thomas is still Madame Butterfly, “My Cutie’s Due at Two the youngest person ever to

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REVIEWS

Fame. Tony’s theatre organ style bears a That Summer,” and “Sweet Lorraine,” the George Shearing classic is great jazz remarkable resemblance to that of John really showcases how Tony Thomas can and great theatre organ. Tony has Seng. This recording is a genuine classic. blend various theatre organ styles with assimilated jazz stylings from all of the From the very first notes of “The Best is wonderful big band accents. greats and added a few of his own; I just Yet to Come,” you’ll know that this is the Tony plays Irving Berlin’s “Always” in love the way he does it! real deal. It’s smoky, gritty, and all pure a beautiful and danceable mode much like If you love sophisticated theatre organ jazz. If you could somehow combine the you would have heard in the days of big and jazz, you’ll play this CD over and over. stylings of Seng, Wright, and Hazleton, you band jazz clubs. “Shiny Stockings” starts It is a rare gem and has about as much would get Tony’s arrangement of “The Boy out hazy and tinkling, and ends with a big music that you can fit on a CD, over 79 Next Door.” The CD continues with band encore. Tony’s arrangement of “This minutes. It, for sure, is the best recording George and Ira Gershwin’s “Nice Work If Nearly Was Mine” is really unusual; but showing what a Rodgers 360 can do in the You Can Get It.” Here the reeds are again, like Seng, he expertly blends hands of a fine musician like Tony cutting, the contrasting flutes are smooth theatre organ stylings with powerful jazz Thomas. It is one of a very few authentic and willowy, and the rhythm is sensuous. accents. The beginning of “Dream a Little theatre organ jazz recordings ever made. It Next is the sensitive and Seng-like “Body Dream of Me” reminds me of the is Something Different…Something Wonder- and Soul.” Tony’s arrangement in “What is wonderful theatre organ jazz style of Pearl ful! and it’s available at www.polocafe.com This Thing Called Love?” will for sure get White, but as the song progresses we hear for $20, which includes sales tax, you tapping your toes to an incredible the more contemporary jazz styles of shipping, and handling. sounding “night clubby” string bass. In a Wright and Hazleton seamlessly blended —Andy Antonczyk quieter mode is “You Stepped Out of a right in. The powerful chords, intricate Dream,” with a glorious vibe solo. “Li’l rhythms, and harmonies Mr. Thomas uses Darlin’” is loaded with jazzy organ power in “Out of Nowhere” demonstrate amazing chords and riffs that just flow. The Lionel musical knowledge and talent that you Hampton vibes are just great in “Stompin’ don’t hear much of these days. I had to at the Savoy.” The Nat King Cole medley listen to this song over and over again to of “It’s Only a Paper Moon,” “That Sunday, fully appreciate it. Like the previous track,

Organ Historical Society— SHOPPING FOR RECORDINGS Box 26811, Richmond, Virginia 23261, Allen Organ Company— Mark Herman Productions LLC— 804-353-9226, fax 804-353-9266, P.O. Box 36, Macungie, Pennsylvania P.O. Box 5059, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46895, [email protected], www.organsociety.org 18062-0338, 610-966-2202, www.markhermanproductions.com Organ Stop Pizza—480-813-5700 x200, www.allenorgan.com/www/store/maincds.html JATOE–Joliet Area Theatre Organ www.organstoppizza.com Steven Ball— Enthusiasts—P.O. Box 212, Joliet, Illinois 60434, Donna Parker Productions, Inc.—P.O. Box 734-846-3627, www.stevenball.com 708-562-8538, [email protected] 6103, Aloha, Oregon 97007, 503-642-7009 Banda (George Wright recordings)— JAV Recordings— Pipe Organ Presentations— 720-733-2905, fax 720-733-2137, 888-572-2242, www.greatorgancds.com 760-324-0470, [email protected], [email protected], JBL Productions— www.pipeorganpresentations.com http://theatreorgans.com/cds/banda.html Coming 8933 Wagon Road, Agoura, California 91301, Bob Ralston—SPOTOMA, 17027 Tennyson soon: www.georgewrightmusic.com www.organhouse.com/jbl_productions.htm Place, Granada Hills, California 91344-1225, 818- 366-3637, www.bobralston.com Ed. Benoit—30110 West Latham Street, Buckeye, Stan Kann—2952 Federer Place, St. Louis, Arizona 85326, 623-327-1437, [email protected] Missouri 63116, www.stankann.com Rob Richards—www.robrichards.com Canterbury Records—626-792-7184 Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust— Jim Riggs Recordings—25A Crescent Drive Central Indiana Chapter–ATOS— http://theatreorgans.com/lancast/lanc1.htm #185, Pleasant Hill, California 94523 1431 North Audubon Road, Indianapolis, Indiana Michael’s Music Service—4146 Sheridan Drive, Rosa Rio—1847 Wolf Laurel Drive, Sun City 46219, www.cicatos.org Charlotte, North Carolina 28205, 704-567-1066, Center, Florida 33573, 813-633-0902 Cinema Organ Society— www.michaelsmusicservice.com Paul Roberts, Cardinal Productions— www.cinema-organs.org.uk P.O. Box 22035, Beachwood, Ohio 44122, Midnight Productions, Inc.— http://theatreorgans.com/cds/roberts/ Dickinson Theatre Organ Society— 800-788-1100, [email protected], 302-995-2603, www.dtoskimball.org www.theatreorgan.com Roxy Productions— 480-695-8568, [email protected] Ken Double—281-798-6205 MSS Studios—www.organ.co.uk T-V Recording—408-248-6927, [email protected] www.KenDoubleEntertainment.com Musical Contrasts—[email protected], R. Jelani Eddington Organ Recordings— www.lynlarsen.com Walter Strony—www.waltstrony.com P.O. Box 44092, Racine, Wisconsin NOR-CAL Theatre Organ Society— Wichita Theatre Organ— 53404-7002, www.rjeproductions.com P.O. Box 625, Berkeley, California 94701-0625, 316-655-8177, [email protected], 510-644-2707, www.theatreorgans.com/norcal/ www.nyparamountwurlitzer.org

52 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:01 PM Page 53

ATOS Memberships Make Great Gifts! Jim Merry, Executive Secretary, P.O. Box 5327, Fullerton, California 92838, [email protected] www.atos.org

SUSAN COLE KEYBOARD PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS THE 11 TH ANNUAL VILLAGES “Pop” Organ Concert Series —Tommy Johnson ATOS & Hal Vincent— Friday, January 16, 2009 —Choy Lozada— Membership Friday, February 13, 2009 for booking information: —Jelani Eddington— DONNA PARKER Brochures Friday, March 13, 2009 PRODUCTIONS, —Ken Double— INCORPORATED Friday, April 3, 2009 Post Office Box 6103 Now Available Aloha, Oregon 97007 Jim Merry Church on the Square, The Villages, FL P.O. Box 5327, Fullerton, CA 92838 (1.5 hours north of Orlando) [email protected] For more information contact Susan Cole. 714-773-4354, Fax 714-773-4829 Donna Parker Donna 352-383-6975 Cell 407-252-1997 Parker Donna [email protected] [email protected] 503/642-7009009

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 53 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:01 PM Page 54

Atlanta: Page console and crew: Jack Atlanta: Open console: Paul Renard playing Binghamton: Jim Chvatal played the Wurlitzer Sandow, Rick McGee, Randy Hendry, Bob while others inspect Page console at the Syracuse New York State Fair Haag, and Larry Davis (Photo by Elbert Fields) (Photo by Elbert Fields) (Photo by Bill Metzar)

ATLANTA BINGHAMTON CENTRAL FLORIDA Atlanta, Georgia—On Sunday, August 24, Binghamton, New York—Binghamton Pinellas Park, Florida—We suspend the Atlanta chapter met at Stephenson High organist Jim Chvatal (St. John’s Catholic general membership meetings during the School, near Stone Mountain National Park. Church) was a performer at the New York State summer months since many members are out Following a short business meeting and a Fair in August. The Syracuse fairgrounds of the area. In an effort to continue the discussion of up-coming meetings and events, includes the Empire State Theatre and progress on our chapter organ, however, we Larry Davis introduced Rick McGee at the Musical Instruments Museum, which houses held work sessions in July and August. Work Page. Rick’s short program displayed the Wurlitzer Unit Orchestra Opus 1143. The was done to finish the trap assembly instal- operational portions of the Page installation. organ was installed on August 27, 1925 in lation, and preparations are underway for the This utilized a temporary two-manual B. F. Keith’s Theatre in downtown Syracuse new relay and console. Wurlitzer console to control the Main chamber. and was reinstalled at the museum in January, In August Gary Blais was appointed by the After the program, Rick turned the meeting 1967. The organ is maintained by the New chapter’s officers to complete Chaz Bender’s over to the Page organ crew boss, Jack York Theatre Pipe Organ Society. term on the board of directors. Sandow. Jack and the crew assembled on stage Here in Binghamton, chief engineer George On Sunday August 31, Rosa Rio accom- and presented a surprise to the attendees. The Melnyk and assistant chief engineer and panied the 1927 silent film Wings at the curtain parted and the Page four-manual programmer Bill Decker upgraded our Robert- Tampa Theatre to a nearly full house. Rosa console, mounted on its carpeted platform, Morton (4/24) theatre pipe organ at the Forum played with her impeccable style and aplomb. was rolled to center stage so all could inspect Theatre to include a MIDI system. During the This was the final movie in the Tampa the progress. The stoprails, manual, and late 1970s, when the organ was restored and Theatre’s Summer Classic Film Series. If you pedalboard were in place, and even a Howard installed, George and Bill both worked for missed Wings, you missed a gem. seat was in position. The console wiring is IBM. They designed and developed for our —Gary Blais underway, and rapid progress is being made. organ a pre-MIDI recording system based on Cliff Schaffer, President Chamber tours were offered, and open an IBM mainframe computer tape deck. Many 407-207-1792, [email protected] console was available. Quite a few attendees concerts were recorded using this system, took advantage of both, and some great music allowing listeners to experience the organ filled the auditorium, while members and exactly as it had been played. Unfortunately, visitors were able to see what it takes to get the condition of those 30-year-old tapes is one of these instruments assembled and made deteriorating. George and Bill hope to convert into a truly musical result. these tapes to the MIDI format, thus preserv- Meetings for the Marietta Strand Theatre ing the original concerts. Future concerts will installation are taking place. The Strand crew now be recorded in MIDI. is beginning to sort pipework, percussions, Bill Decker also is member of the Rocky chests, etc., and to map out the restoration and Mountain chapter in Denver, where he is assembly timetable. actively involved in videotaping and editing The Augusta Imperial Theatre Wurlitzer is their concerts. back in its original home, and installation —Bill Metzar, President plans are on track. 607-762-8202, [email protected] —Rick McGee Bucky Reddish, President 770-948-8424, [email protected]

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The deadline for receipt of Chapter News items by the Editor is the FIRST of the month TWO months prior to the THEATRE ORGAN publication date (that’s the first of every odd- numbered month). Please note that ATOS policy prohibits inclusion of music titles played at programs or menu items served at chapter functions. Text may be edited for space and clarity. Due to space considerations, please submit a maximum of 250 words of text. Submission as a Microsoft Word file attached to an e-mail (to [email protected]) is our first preference; second is text in an e-mail; finally, typewritten hard copy may be sent via postal mail to the Editor (address on masthead). Please submit a maximum of two photos (no less than 3 x 2 inches with resolution of at least 300 dpi), preferably sent as a .jpg file attached to an e-mail. Photos may be sent to the Editor via postal mail; they will not be returned. IMPORTANT: Please name your text file with your chapter name, and name your photos with your chapter name followed by the numerals one or two. Your text MUST include your chapter name and principal city/state of operation; your chapter correspondent’s name; and the name, telephone number, and e-mail address of your chapter’s president. A caption and appropriate credit to the photographer MUST be included with photos; please put this information at the end of your text document.

CENTRAL INDIANA CONNECTICUT VALLEY DAIRYLAND Indianapolis, Indiana—Well, it’s over! “It,” Thomaston, Connecticut—The June 14 Racine/Milwaukee, Wisconsin—In August, of course, is the 53rd ATOS annual convention meeting was held at the house of Mike and the Dairyland Theatre Organ Society held two that was held here in Indianapolis. Hearty Kathy Foley in Tolland, Connecticut. After the events. The first, on August 17, was an open congratulations and a big thank you to Central business meeting, an enjoyable program was house held in conjunction with the Racine Indiana chapter president Tim Needler for played by Mike Foley and Allen Miller on the Theatre Guild to raise awareness of the organizing the event. Many other chapter Foleys’ 3/25 Wurlitzer. The program consisted theatre’s Wurlitzer organ, as well as to let the members also put in hours of hard work and of music from shows, popular standards, and community know about DTOS and encourage deserve our thanks: Carlton Smith Pipe the 1930s. membership. Two well-known organists Organs, for keeping the organs in great shape The organ console is unusual as it retains treated audience members to the sounds of the and tune; Shawn Chase and John Seest, for the original finish applied at the Wurlitzer theatre organ—Jelani Eddington, concert keeping the busses on track; Barb Johnson, for factory in 1931. The organ also retains its artist and Racine resident; and Dean Rosko, keeping the registration table organized and original relays and pneumatic combination organist for the Milwaukee Brewers baseball running efficiently; Mike Rolfe, Bob Hudson, action; they are kept in excellent working team and associate organist at Organ Piper and their assistants, for maintaining the record order by Mike Foley, with the able help of Paul Pizza. The event was a success, and we hope shop; Jason Young and his ushers, for being Weigold. Mike is the president of Foley-Baker, it will promote better attendance at our on hand at each venue to ensure attendees had Inc., a well-known pipe organ service com- concerts. a smooth transition from the busses to their pany in the Northeast. The next week was our annual picnic at the seats; and Connie Smith, for the banquet On August 2 we met at the Guilford summer summer home of Jack Moelmann on beautiful seating. cottage of Meredith and Jon Sibley. Music was Lake Geneva. Since 1991, DTOS has been August 10 brought chapter members provided by Jon’s Faventia barrel piano and coming here to enjoy the view, hear Jack play together at the Embassy Theatre in Ft. Wayne, 1890-vintage Gem roller organ. We reviewed for us on his Hammond, have open console, Indiana. After a short business meeting, the ongoing project of rebuilding the console take boat rides to see the large estates built on Cletus Goens entertained us at the four- for the 1927 Austin organ, which was the lake by famous Chicago-area people like manual, 16-rank Grande Page; he even sang a originally installed in the Allyn Theatre in the Wrigleys, and to have a meal. Jack is a number composed by Bing Crosby. Mr. Goens Hartford, Connecticut and is now installed great host, and everyone had a good time on announced that he will be the featured at the Shelton High School, Shelton, this beautiful summer day. organist for the annual Buddy Nolan Memorial Connecticut. The present goal is to have the —Sandy Knuth Concert at the Embassy. console work completed so that concerts may Dean Rosko, President For more information on upcoming events resume in the spring of 2009. 262-886-1739, [email protected] and chapter news, please visit www.cicatos.org. Connecticut Valley Theatre Organ Society —Justin Nimmo members were well represented at the Radio Tim Needler, President City Music Hall organ concert by Jack 317-255-8056, [email protected] Moelmann on August 9. The RCMH program was an excellent opportunity to hear the legendary Wurlitzer featured in a full concert. We at CVTOS are deeply appreciative of Jack’s efforts and resources, making the most memorable program possible. —Meredith Sibley, President 860-345-2518

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Delaware: Members Jean and Eastern Massachusetts: Don Phipps Garden State: Organist Gordon Turk poses Jim Peron at their Conn 650 acknowledges the Honorary Member of with GSTOS members at the Ocean Grove (Photo by Wayne Zimmerman, Sr.) the Year Award (Photo by Sally Evans) Auditorium (Photo by Allan France)

DELAWARE VALLEY EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS EMCATOS was well represented at the Telford, Pennsylvania—On June 21, 2008, Wellesley, Massachusetts—After a long and annual convention in Indianapolis. Members we were entertained at the home of mem- restful summer, the Eastern Massachusetts Dick and Dorothy Hill, Don and Polly Phipps, bers Jean and Jim Peron in Kirkwood, chapter board of directors is ready to get to Charlie Briggs, Garrett Shanklin, Steve Pennsylvania. work. We have a very busy and fun-filled Worthington, and Sally and Bob Evans Officers, members, friends, and relatives season ahead. enjoyed the convention. Hats off to the Central had a delightful day with Jean, Jim, and their On Saturday, November 15, and Sunday, Indianapolis chapter and their hardworking son, Ken. Their Conn 650 was enjoyed by Ed November 16, Dave Wickerham and Dick convention committee. Yeagley, Glenn Hough, Wayne Zimmerman, Kroeckel will hold forth at Babson College EMCATOS has submitted a bid to host the Tom Rotunno, and Bill Gellhaus. Jim has and the Shanklin Music Hall respectively 2012 American Theatre Organ Society annual quite a collection of organs, both reed and with their Red, White, Blue, and Ragtime convention. We’re hoping to share some of our digital, as well as pianos. We had a tour of show. Brett Valiant is set to entertain at our great venues and organs with the general their United States pipe organ. Among other annual EMCATOS holiday bash on Sunday, membership. guests was Hans Herr, reed organ collector, December 14. Each year Sarah and Garrett —Bob Evans, President with a 2/7 home installation. With all these Shanklin host EMCATOS at the Shanklin 508-674-0276, [email protected] instruments, there were many terrific duets. Music Hall and sponsor the appearance Our hosts were so gracious and kind. As we of the artist. Good food, a great artist, and were leaving, they gave flowers/plants, fruits, a marvelous venue promise a wonderful vegetables, and jams from the nearby Amish afternoon. farms to Theatre Organ Society of Delaware January 11, 2009 will find Mark Herman at Valley president, Anna Bonelli Downey, and the EMCATOS 4/18 Wurlitzer at Babson Tom Rotunno. TOSDV thanks you from the College. Mark will be this year’s artist for our bottoms of our hearts for your invitation and Young Organist Concert sponsored by member for all the fun we had. Charlie Briggs. Mark played for our 50th —Anna Bonelli Downey, President birthday party and we’re looking forward to 215-723-7716, [email protected] hearing him again. Always popular Phil Kelsall will appear at Babson on Saturday, April 18, 2009 and at the Shanklin Music Hall on Sunday, April 19. Phil always fills the hall and is very popular with our audiences. We also have a full schedule of monthly meetings from September to May. Our “Guru of Socials,” Dick Handverger, skillfully books the talent for these monthly gatherings. Many of the mini-concerts performed for our meetings are truly of professional quality. For a full schedule of meeting dates and perform- ances, go to our web site, www.emcatos.com, and look under “Member Events.”

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Garden State: GSTOS members at the ATOS Hudson-Mohawk: Frank Hackert, Harry Onley, Hudson-Mohawk: Ned Spain, William Hubert, Convention in Indianapolis and Norene Grose at Radio City Music Hall Carl Hackert with Edna VanDuzee at Round (Photo by Jelani Eddington) (Photo by Patti Yafchak) Lake Auditorium (Photo by Norene Grose)

GARDEN STATE HUDSON-MOHAWK JOLIET Trenton, New Jersey—A dozen Garden Schenectady, New York—Generally, the Joliet, Illinois—We were very fortunate to State Theatre Organ Society members summer is a tranquil time for club activities. have had Steve Eaklor at our July social. participated in the annual ATOS convention However, two peripheral events captured the He is beyond comparison. I was so amazed in Indianapolis in July. The quality of the attention of Hudson-Mohawk members. at the way he operated the expression pedals already-excellent experience was enhanced by On August 9, in New York City, an event of and allowed each chamber to be heard the camaraderie among GSTOS members in near epic proportions occurred in the theatre individually. He put on a great performance attendance. We went to concerts and meetings organ world when Radio City Music Hall was for us, and we hope to hear him again soon. and always seemed to be looking for the scene of an evening featuring all theatre Over 100 were in attendance, including something to eat between sessions. Those at organ music. Organ club co-founder Harry members of the Chicago Area Theatre Organ the convention became more aware of the Onley and club members Frank Hackert, Society. Our socials are a lot of fun, and we latest news from the national organization, Norene Grose, Patti Yafchak, Donna Tallman, enjoy the use of the Rialto Theatre and its pipe which was then brought back to the local and Ed Goodmote journeyed to the Big Apple organ. What a beautiful setting for such lovely membership. We also heard amazing artists, to attend the Col. Jack Moelmann and Friends music. Most of our members bring food to some of whom we hope to invite to perform for concert featuring the theatre’s legendary share, and no one goes away hungry. Eat, us back home. Wurlitzer. For three hours the audience heard listen, and be merry. Summer at the Shore was our July theme. artists Jack Moelmann, Gus Franklin, Russell We are very busy planning Extravaganza Members gathered at the Hope-Jones/hybrid Holmes, Walt Strony and Lew Williams XIII, as it takes about a year to set things up. pipe organ installation in the Great perform at the Wurlitzer. It was a perfect The CDs for Extravaganza XII are now Auditorium of Ocean Grove, New Jersey. It is evening! available at $30 for the two discs; they are the centenary of the original organ, built by Later in August, the Round Lake Audi- very special. Robert Hope-Jones in 1908. The instrument torium was the scene of two events featuring —Barbara Petry has been expanded well beyond its humble Hudson-Mohawk members. On Sunday Jim Patak, President beginnings and is now a five-manual, 176- August 24, members William Hubert and Carl 708-562-8538 rank organ. At this concert, Gordon Turk, Hackert (ably assisted by Ned Spain) organist in residence at the Ocean Grove presented a pops concert featuring the 1885 Auditorium, featured the remaining Hope- 900-pipe Ferris tracker organ and two Jones stops in a number of selections. He also electronic Allen organs. The concert was spent time with us after the concert and joined dedicated to musical director Edna Vanduzee, in a group photo with GSTOS members. who has scheduled organ concerts at Round No summer seems complete without our Lake Auditorium for 40 years. Later that same annual picnic at Lake Hopatcong, where Bob week, William Hubert presented a wonderful and Cathy Martin welcomed everyone to their accompaniment to the silent classic, Wings, at lakefront cottage. Food and fun followed with the auditorium. keyboards, piano, and accordion providing the —Norene Grose background music for swimmers and boaters Frank Hackert, Chair by canoe, rowboat or paddleboat. The August 518-355-4523 weather was perfect, especially for sitting together, enjoying the beauty of nature and each other’s company. —Catherine Martin Michael Cipolletti, President 732-899-1588, [email protected]

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London: Dennis James at Woking London: Projectionist Alan Willmott at Woking New York: Dan Minervini at the George Wright (Photo by David Coles) (Photo by David Coles) IV at Allen Organ Studios during the Mineola organ crawl (Photo by Allan France)

LAND O’ LAKES Latest news on the Phipps Center Wurlitzer LONDON & SOUTH Minneapolis/St. Paul, Minnesota—Michael organ upgrade project: the computer-based OF ENGLAND LuBrant and Jeff Charlton opened their relay system is now installed and working. Through the generosity of Terry Hochmuth (in Woking, Surrey—We were delighted to Hastings, Minnesota home for our July 20 welcome Dennis James from the United States event; 35 chapter members and guests were in memory of Dan Stankey), they received a one of a kind, three-manual console originally on Saturday 19 July. Well known for his attendance. After a brief business meeting, dedication to the continuation of the theatrical Michael demonstrated the stops of his 2/13 from the Oriental Theatre in Mattapan, Massachusetts. Currently there are 19 ranks, traditions of organ performance, Dennis Kimball residence organ and told us about its expertly accompanied Charlie Chaplin’s The history. Mike Grandchamp, known by many plus tuned percussions. Chris Gorsuch was featured in concert on August 23, rescheduled Gold Rush. from his days as the featured organist at Converting a sports hall into a movie palace Cicero’s of Edina, then put the Kimball from this past season. This was not the first time some of us heard Chris, as he was one of isn’t easy, but with suggestions from Dennis, through its paces. Open console followed as changes to the layout, decorations, lighting, we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner. Michael then the artists who played at the 1993 Twin Cities Spree regional convention at Powderhorn and two vintage projectors, the temporary demonstrated some MIDI files featuring transformation was completed. We used a symphonic transcriptions, piano rolls and Baptist Church. His program was well received by the audience. The highlight of the genuine hand-loaded slide projector and performances by theatre and classical 16mm cine projector, all supplied by Alan organists. Thanks so much to Michael and Jeff evening was Chris’ solo piano performance which showcased another side of his superb Willmott, a specialist in film projection. for their hospitality and for hosting another A musical welcome to Hollywood was summer gathering! musicianship. —Kim Crisler accompanied by a 35mm slide sequence, with Lawrence and Phyllis Crawford were our the projector operated by Len Rawle. Then, hosts for the August 17 meeting in Arlington, Terry Kleven, President 651-489-2074, [email protected] with the evocative sound of the sprocket hole Minnesota. Forty-five members, guests, and noise that only a vintage projector can provide, neighbors filled the Crystal Homewood Studio, Alan’s thrilling accompaniment brought the home to an impressively large and exquisite film to life. collection of music boxes. The centerpiece is During the interval and following the perfor- a 3/24 Wurlitzer, the heart and soul being an mance, a large queue of audience members eight-rank instrument from the Homewood waited to talk to Dennis. They were interested Theatre in Minneapolis. Land o’ Lakes chapter in learning more about the Wurlitzer and the secretary Dave Kearn was the artist, followed art of accompanying. In spite of his continuous by open console. Background dinner music playing, Dennis took almost no break, instead was provided by Tom Neadle. Moments after talking to the many members of the audience. our guests were seated to dine, the power It was a wonderful way to further public flickered several times preceding a total interest in the theatre pipe organ. blackout. Lawrence came forward and put one The audience enjoyed the outstanding of his prized music boxes into play; the sound performance; all our efforts to provide an was full and beautiful. Despite what took atmosphere to showcase the event were well place, it was a wonderful afternoon. Thanks to worthwhile. the Crawfords for being “hosts with the most.” —David Coles Ian Ridley, President, +44 1494 674944, [email protected]

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Los Angeles: Ken Rosen at New York: Rob Kleinschmidt at North Texas: Peter Schumacher at North Texas: North Texas chapter open console the 3/15 Austin-Morton at MPAC Wurlitzer console traveling organ (Photo by Ken Brown) (Photo by Dave Lessig) Chaminade High School (Photo by Mike Tarzis/Don Peterson) (Photo by Allan France) LOS ANGELES NEW YORK CHAPTER NORTH TEXAS Los Angeles, California—Saturday, July 12, New York, New York—Thanks to the Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas—On August 17 Ken and Jenice Rosen hosted our annual Los hospitality of Steve Frank, owner of the Allen the chapter held its regularly scheduled Angeles Theatre Organ Society potluck at Organ Studios of New York in Mineola, Long meeting at the MPAC in McKinney, Texas. their Chatsworth home and studio, which Island, and to Br. Rob Lahey of Chaminade After normal business was completed, it was houses the former Hollywood Pig ’n’ Whistle High School, also in Mineola, New York, time for our featured artist, Mr. Peter restaurant pipe organ. chapter members and guests enjoyed a Schumacher, to present his program, An The afternoon began with 70 members and delightful Mineola organ crawl on Saturday, Organ Potpourri. This was Peter’s first time at friends at tables on the covered patio enjoying August 23. Two outstanding instruments were the MPAC 3/17 Wurlitzer, and was also his the buffet and conversation. Past the featured: the four-manual George Wright IV first time at a theatre organ. After a few swimming pool and beautiful garden, we Allen digital electronic organ, and the opening butterflies, Peter delivered an strolled to the music studio, where 94-year-old Chaminade High School’s 3/15 Austin-Morton excellent program that was enjoyed by all. Bob Mitchell delighted the group with stories theatre pipe organ. Peter teaches math, but his real love is playing and music from the Wurlitzer and the grand The activities got underway in the morning the organ. He has been the regular organist at piano. The previous night at Dodger Stadium as members gathered at the Allen Organ Calvary Lutheran Church in Dallas for 10 Bob, the first organist for the Dodgers baseball Studios and took their turns playing open years. Prior to that, he played at a church in team, was interviewed and played “Take Me console. Several of our professional organist Wisconsin for 25 years. He states, “I guess Out to the Ballgame” for 50,000 fans as the members in attendance provided us with a you could say that what math does for my club celebrated 50 years in Los Angeles. number of fine mini-concerts on the big Allen. mind, music—especially organ music—does The afternoon continued with open console. Following a delicious lunch at the Allen for my heart and soul.” We plan to hear more The mild weather beckoned a few members Studios, courtesy of Steve Frank, the day’s from Peter. back out to the lovely garden and patio. Past activities moved about a mile down the road The chapter also presented its newly 5:00pm, members were still in the studio to Chaminade High School. Members and completed traveling organ to members and having fun, and our host told us that midnight guests had plenty of time to play and enjoy guests. It generated considerable interest and was the cutoff! Thank you, Ken and Jenice, for Chaminade’s 3/15 Austin-Morton (enhanced was tried out by several members. an enjoyable day. with a bit of Wurlitzer and Barton), while the —Kenneth Brown Saturday, August 2, at Pasadena City organ’s curator, Br. Bob Lahey, conducted Don Peterson, President College Sexson Auditorium, we were treated chamber tours for those interested. 972-422-7757, [email protected] to a concert by the UK’s Matt Bason on the In all, it was a most enjoyable way to spend J. Ross Reed 4/23 Wurlitzer. Matt played an a summer Saturday. Thanks also to New York upbeat array of 1950s, ’60s and ’70s songs. chapter secretary, Tom Stehle, for his After the very entertaining concert, Matt and assistance in arranging this activity. his wife Jenny joined LATOS members for —Allan France refreshments. This is Matt’s first concert for John Valentino, Chairman LATOS, and we hope he will soon return to the 646-469-5049, States. [email protected] —Diana Stoney William Campbell, President 714-563-9638, [email protected]

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Orange County: Randy Bergum Orange County: Bob Andjulis Oregon: President Rob Kingdom, Pikes Peak: Brett Valliant and and Laura Greenwood enjoy open at Plummer Auditorium pictured in the Main Chamber at Tom O’Boyle at August 3 console (Photo by Ed Bridgeford) (Photo by Ed Bridgeford) Cleveland High School, contemplating Mount St. Francis concert the next task (Photo by Jerry Hertel) (Photo by Bill Kwinn) ORANGE COUNTY OREGON PIKES PEAK Fullerton, California—The Orange County Portland, Oregon—Under the leadership of Colorado Springs, Colorado—August was Theatre Organ Society enjoys a unique chapter president Robert Kingdom, during the end of our 14th summer season of relationship with the owners of the building in the summer months several members made Sacklunch Serenades, at the historic Colorado which “our” organ resides. Actually the organ many needed improvements to Portland’s Springs City Auditorium. Our next Sacklunch and building belong to the Fullerton Joint largest publicly accessible theatre organ, the Serenades will be in December, the first three Union High School District, and we are 3/25 Kimball located in the auditorium of Thursdays in the month. We will have three privileged to lovingly maintain the organ. We Portland’s Cleveland High School. Major Christmas and holiday sacklunch programs are able to take advantage of the fact that the rewinding to Marimba Harp, Chrysoglott and from noon to 1:00pm. auditorium is dark for most of the summer the Main Tibia Clausa Tremulant has been On July 31, we were treated to a special months. completed; blown Chrysoglott pneumatic program by Brett Valliant at City Auditorium, On August 16, we had a great time at our motors were repaired; the Main Tibia Clausa at our 1927 Mighty Wurlitzer 3/8. Listening to open console and potluck. It was held on the pipes have had all the stoppers repacked and and talking with Brett are always a joy. stage at Plummer Auditorium; we simply turn dead notes repaired; and Clayton and Rick On August 3, we had a program at Mount the console around and, as we eat lunch, Parks (Elsinore Theatre) donated a Kimball St. Francis Auditorium, on our chapter’s 3/20 watch whoever plays. Occasionally we invite Winker and dice box for future use and Wurlitzer and Chickering grand piano. Brett someone to play a mini-concert for us, and this assisted with tuning the Wurlitzer metal Valliant and Tom O’Boyle presented a varied year we asked member Bob Andjulis to do the Diaphone in the Solo Chamber. program, with Brett playing the organ and Tom honors. Bob did a fine job with his easy-to- Mike Bryant has refurbished the Sleigh at the piano. This was the most acclaimed listen-to style, and he didn’t even care that we Bells and Surf/Aeroplane actions, and they program that we have ever had at Mount St. ate while he played! look just like new. Mike continues work on the Francis. We are always looking for programs that will rest of the trap units that were removed for We look forward to seeing you whenever you catch the attention of people in our community refurbishing. Many of the traps and sound are in the area. Sacklunch programs are, as other than our regulars. We have just such a effects were non-functional and haven’t been always, free of charge. program coming up in April, 2009. The line heard for years. Jack Powers and Robert —Robert C. (Bob) Lillie between classical and theatre styles has been Kingdom repaired many major and some Dave Weesner, President blurring over the past few years, and we think minor wind leaks. The Main chamber wind 719-473-2010, [email protected] that is a good thing. There is a lot of great noise has been dramatically reduced. music out there to be enjoyed on our theatre Overall, the improvements and repairs are organs. Cameron Carpenter does a spectacular significant and will improve the quality of this job of presenting these styles. He performed great instrument quite a bit. The quality of the at Trinity Church for the 2007 ATOS workmanship is world class. More details convention in New York City; he recently about this organ and the improvement projects performed at the 2008 American Guild of can be seen at the OCATOS website, Organists convention; and he will perform at www.theatreorgans.com/oregon/ocatos/ocatos2 Plummer Auditorium in Fullerton on April 19, .htm. 2009. —Jerry Hertel —Ed Bridgeford, President Robert Kingdom, President 714 529-5594, [email protected]

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Puget Sound: Don Feely and his teenage River City: Lincoln AGO Pipe Organ Encounter-Advanced River City: Jeanne Sabatka and Jerry daughter Hannah at the console of the students at the Markworth residence 3/24 Kimball on July 8 Pawlak at the console of The Rose five-manual Allen (Photo by Jo Ann Evans) (Photo by Jerry Pawlak) Theatre Wurlitzer on July 20 (Photo by Joyce Markworth) PUGET SOUND RIVER CITY developed in the Xylophone; after that, the Seattle, Washington—Even the occasional Omaha, Nebraska—On July 8, the Wurlitzer sounded great and behaved downpour didn’t dampen the spirits of about Markworth residence hosted Pipe Organ beautifully. Thanks go to Bob and the RCTOS 70 Puget Sound chapter members and friends Encounter-Advanced, a workshop sponsored organ crew; they never fail to make it all who gathered recently at Bill Keller’s lovely by the Lincoln, Nebraska American Guild of happen. home in Olympia, Washington to enjoy the Organists. The audition-only workshop The annual RCTOS picnic meeting was inaugural program of his new five-manual featured talented young pianists/organists; held August 17 at the Omaha residence of Allen organ. Our artist was Don Feely, for over they ranged in age from 13 to 18 and came Frank and Jeanne Sabatka. Their home has 10 years a featured organist at the Portland from all over the United States. The University three electronic organs and a piano. After the Organ Grinder Restaurant’s 4/51 Wurlitzer. of Nebraska music department also played an short business meeting, Jeanne Sabatka pre- Don played an entertaining program to a very integral part in the workshop. The students sented a very entertaining program, including appreciative audience. His selections in- experienced many of the church organs in a sing-along and “stump the organist.” Joining cluded a wide assortment of musical styles Lincoln and made a road trip to Omaha to visit Jeanne was past-president Greg Johnson at and genres. Bill Keller’s organ sounds St. Cecilia Cathedral. In the evening, a theatre the piano. This party was great fun, and the fabulous, and Don expressed his appreciation pipe organ program at the Markworth 3/24 group of 80 enjoyed an afternoon of musical to Bill for his gift to the organ-loving Kimball was presented. Many of the students adventure and a fabulous potluck on Frank community. He has indeed created another had never experienced such sounds, and they and Jeanne’s beautiful patio. Of course, the outstanding venue for theatre organ programs. were appreciative of the program presented by party continued late in the evening with a jam The audience had a delightful surprise River City Theatre Organ Society secretary session by many of the talented chapter when Don introduced his teenage daughter Jerry Pawlak. RCTOS President Bob musicians. Hannah, a fine vocalist. Don accompanied Markworth conducted a chamber tour and RCTOS was honored to make a donation to Hannah as she sang several songs. Keep up answered questions. Refreshments were the scholarship fund associated with ATOS the great work, Hannah! served, and the students were given the Summer Youth Camp. Member Shane Krepp Open console found a number of members opportunity to play the organ. It was a attended the workshop and had nothing but trying out this one-of-a-kind instrument. Bill’s wonderful experience getting to know this praise for the program and all the instructors. warm hospitality and generosity in opening his enthusiastic group of extremely talented —Jerry Pawlak home and sharing this wonderful instrument musicians. Bob Markworth, President was appreciated by all. It was a great day! July 20 was another hot, muggy Nebraska 402-573-9071, [email protected] —Jo Ann Evans Sunday afternoon. The annual RCTOS Tom Blackwell, President meeting at the Rose Theatre in Omaha 206-784-9203, [email protected] attracted more than 105 members and guests who experienced the sounds of the 3/21 Mighty Wurlitzer. After a show of hands, it was interesting to note that more than half of the attendees were first-time visitors to the theatre or people who had never heard the Wurlitzer. After a short business meeting, president Bob Markworth introduced the artists for the afternoon’s program, Jerry Pawlak and Jeanne Sabatka. Bob Markworth had spent the morning repairing an air leak which had

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Rocky Mountain: Bruce and Kitty Spangler at St. Louis: May meeting hosts St. Louis: July meeting host Bob Ruby at his Magical Music (Photo by Bill Kwinn) Howard and Joan Pfeiffer Allen (Photo by Gary Broyles) (Photo by Ken Iborg)

ROCKY MOUNTAIN ST. LOUIS SOONER STATE CHAPTER Denver, Colorado—Pizza and pipes are a St. Louis, Missouri—There just seems to be Tulsa, Oklahoma—On July 17, 160 theatre organ tradition, but the George Wright something about a theatre pipe organ that attendees enjoyed well-known concert artist digital theatre organ at Holiday Hills has no attracts water. In the case of the chapter’s 3/17 Don Thompson for his last performance on his pipes. Somehow Spaghetti and Speakers just Wurlitzer at the City Museum, water was final concert tour. Don played a varied doesn’t sound (no pun intended) enticing. introduced as a means to extinguish the fire program based on an anniversary theme, Thus, our Pizza and Pipe-less, a two-day run, caused by errant sparks from a welder’s torch. beginning with songs from years ending in the held July 13 and 14 at the Holiday Hills As of this writing, the organ is playing again, number eight. Having performed in many Ballroom. albeit without some 16' Tibias, which dutifully countries, Don talked a little about music Our guest artist was Trent Sims from provided fuel to the flames. With remarkable from the Middle East. He played some Cincinnati, Ohio. Trent came to Denver speed, organ crew chief Al Haker obtained a compositions by Mozart, Beethoven and following his return from a concert tour in replacement offset chest and pipes which were Rimsky-Korsakov, all of whom wrote music Germany. Trent was organist at Cincinnati’s scheduled to be operational in August. that supposedly sounded Middle Eastern, even Music Palace pizza parlor up until a few years Howard and Joan Pfeiffer were our hosts for though none of them had ever been there. ago when it closed. Each performance the May meeting, with Howard manning the Before playing a piece of real Middle Eastern satisfied the promise of a fun-filled afternoon, bench. He kept everyone guessing at song music, Don pronounced the title in (we think) with audience involvement and a surprise or titles; his varied program included selections perfect Arabic. Songs composed by Rogers two sprinkled in here and there. Our punctual we all recognize but rarely hear performed. and Hart, Cole Porter, Sigmund Romberg, audience presented themselves promptly for Howard presented a wonderful concert, Vincent Youmans, and performed by Judy the pizza and pipe-less premier performance displaying his skills at the Allen 319ex. Garland, rounded out the program. Don’s package with participation at a perpetual party The annual June picnic was at our favorite selections included ebb tide sounds and pace perfectly priced at $10 per person. Fun location under a beautiful old pavilion in cuckoo sounds, illustrating the versatility of received—priceless! one of St. Louis’ historic parks. Along our organ. Our August 10 social was a members’ day at with wonderful food and fellowship, there On August 15, local members Lynda the Paramount Theatre. The program, titled had to be music. An organ for open console Ramsey and Paula Hackler, who have Magical Music, was just that—the music was performances was on hand through the performed together for many years, presented by Bob Castle at the Mighty Wurlitzer, and courtesy of member and Allen Organ dealer a delightful program of organ and piano music. Bruce and Kitty Spangler had a wonderful Jerry Roberts, owner of Midwest Music. They began by appearing on the stage dressed magic show for us. (How do they do that?) As Longtime member Bob Ruby hosted his as explorers trying to solve a great mystery— always, Bob played a beautiful program of first SLTOS meeting in July, taking the Lynda explained the mystery was what they challenging and gorgeous music, and the spotlight with his recently acquired three- were going to play! Both Lynda and Paula took Spanglers performed a very professional and manual Allen theatre organ. Once again, Chris turns on the piano and organ. mystifying set of illusions; they had more than Soer was selected as guest artist, and no Out-of-state member Bob Acker of Dallas a few tricks up their sleeves. It truly was a one complained. He continues to keep his was in Tulsa on business; we were delighted memorable and enjoyable afternoon. audience engaged with interesting selections, he dropped in to enjoy our program. For additional photos of all our events, visit arrangements, and humorous anecdotes. Chris —Barbara Purtell our website, www.RMCATOS.org. has quickly become a crowd favorite. Bill Rowland, President —Priscilla Arthur —Ken Iborg 918-355-1562 Jim Burt, President Jim Ryan, President 970-385-9490, [email protected] 314-416-0146, [email protected]

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Sooner State: Paula Hackler and Lynda Southern Jersey: Nathan Figlio entertains the Ramsey (Photo by Bill Rowland) SJTOS members on Joe Rementer's 3/20 Austin pipe organ (Photo by Fred Oltmann)

SOUTHERN JERSEY SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY VALLEY OF THE SUN Franklinville, New Jersey—Our successful York, Pennsylvania—The annual picnic of Phoenix, Arizona—Our July 13 chapter summer barbecue, on Saturday, August 16, the Susquehanna Valley chapter was held at meeting was a salad and pizza buffet at Organ was held at the home of chapter president Joe the home of Larry Fenner and Barry Howard Stop Pizza in Mesa. This type of event always Rementer. Organ music, conversation, and in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. Members and attracts many chapter members and guests. food were thoroughly enjoyed. Joe Rementer’s guests shared a sumptuous picnic banquet On this particular Sunday, we were also joined music room is an organist’s delight, with two and many desserts! by several lovely ladies from the Rosebuds organs and a piano. Larry and Barry are currently rebuilding chapter of the Red Hat Society. Featured artist Joe took advantage of the good attendance and installing Wurlitzer Opus 501 in their for the afternoon was Organ Stop Pizza staff by having a short chapter business meeting. home. The three-manual, 16-rank Style 260 organist Charlie Balogh. While he played The more important items discussed were: organ was first installed in the Lafayette some of his own favorites, much of his program • Among other venues, during its 2009 Theatre in Buffalo, New York. Special prepa- was made up of requests from the audience. convention, the Theatre Historic Society will rations were required, including 23' ceiling This provided us with a nice variety of feature the Broadway Theatre in Pitman. We pipe chambers in the basement and a 14' wonderful music. It was a fun-filled afternoon. will provide music on the 3/8 Kimball during ceiling in the music room. Direct from rave reviews following his their visit. The full story and photos of Larry and appearances in California, UK organist • The Broadway’s Kimball is in urgent need Barry’s efforts, as well as photos of the picnic, Matthew Bason was our artist at the Orpheum of a combination action to replace the defunct are available at www.opus501.com. on August 10. It was a treat to have someone unit now in the console. Discussion with the The Wurlitzer installation is a year or from “across the pond.” Referring to the theatre management is required to determine more from completion, so entertainment was summer heat in Phoenix, Matthew extended to fiscal responsibility for the project. furnished using Larry and Barry’s three- us “literally, a very warm welcome.” We were • Several of our members are involved in manual Rodgers organ. invited to sit back, relax (maybe put our feet the rehabilitation of the two organs in the —Roy Wainwright, Secretary up), and enjoy the afternoon. And a most Atlantic City Boardwalk Convention Hall. The Sam Groh, President enjoyable afternoon it was. Matthew did not Hall’s organ shop is being prepared for the 717-534-2470, [email protected] introduce most of his selections. Instead, work on the huge 7/455 Midmer-Losh. The he grouped them into familiar medleys. Bason console of the four-manual Kimball organ in has a friendly, humorous, easy-going manner. the Hall’s Ballroom has been shipped to a He is an extremely talented young man. contractor for extensive work. We are looking forward to the New Year, • Our annual Christmas party will be on which brings a new Silent Sundays series, Saturday, December 13, in the Rementers’ once again at the Orpheum Theatre. music room. —Madeline LiVolsi As the cool days of fall give way to winter’s Bill Carr, President cold weather, we wish all a Happy 623-694-1746, [email protected] Thanksgiving, a Joyful Hanukah, a Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year. —Fred Oltmann Joseph Rementer, President 856-694-1471

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IJ

Theatre Organ Programs and Performances

We strive for accuracy; however, the information Towe Auto Museum—2200 Front Street, Roaring 20’s Pizza and Pipes—6750 US Highway contained in Around the Circuit is presented Sacramento, 916-442-6802 (3/16W). Sunday 301, Ellenton, 941-723-1733 (4/41W). Sunday as submitted. ATOS is not responsible for errors concerts, 2:00pm; free with museum admission. through Thursday evenings: open 4:30pm to resulting from unreported changes to schedules, www.toweautomuseum.org 9:00pm; organ performance: 5:00pm to 9:00pm. venue, and contact information. Friday and Saturday evenings: open 4:30pm to CALIFORNIA (SOUTH) 10:00pm; organ performance: 5:00pm to Arlington Theatre—1317 State Street, Santa 10:00pm. Saturday and Sunday afternoons: ALASKA Barbara, 805-963-4408 (4/27RM). All concerts on open 12:00 noon to 2:30pm; organ perform- State Office Building—333 Willoughby Avenue, Saturdays, 11:00am. ance: 12:30pm to 2:30pm. Wednesday, Friday, Juneau, 907-465-5689 (2/8K). Organ concerts www.members.cox.net/sbtos Saturday afternoons, Sunday evenings, and Friday at 12:00 noon. www.pstos.org/instruments/ Avalon Casino Theatre—One Casino Way, alternating Mondays: Dwight Thomas. Tuesday, ak/juneau/state-bldg.htm Catalina Island, 310-510-2414 (4/16P). Friday and Thursday, Saturday evenings, Sunday afternoons, Saturday, 6:15pm, preshow concert, John Tusak. and alternating Mondays: Bill Vlasak. ARIZONA www.visitcatalina.org www.roaring20spizza.com Organ Stop Pizza—1149 East Southern Avenue, El Capitan Theatre—6838 Hollywood Boulevard, Tampa Theatre—711 Franklin Street, Tampa, 813- Mesa, 480-813-5700 (4/74W). Winter organ hours: 274-8981 (3/14W). Movie overtures: Bob Baker, Bill Sunday through Thursday, 4:30pm to 9:00pm, Los Angeles, 800-DISNEY6 (4/37W). Organ played for weekend intermissions and special showings. Brusick, Bob Courtney, Sandy Hobbis, Richard Friday and Saturday, 4:30pm to 10:00pm. Frank, and Bob Logan. www.tampatheatre.org Summer organ hours: Sunday through Thursday, House Organist: Rob Richards; Staff Organists: 5:30pm to 9:00pm, Friday and Saturday, 5:30pm John Ledwon and Ed Vodicka. www.elcapitantickets.com GEORGIA to 10:00pm. Charlie Balogh, Lew Williams. Fox Theatre—600 Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, November 30: 8:30am, Donna Parker and Fox Hanford—326 North Irwin, Hanford, 559-584- 404-881-2119 (4/42M). Larry Douglas Embury 12:30pm, Lew Willliams. www.desertwinds.info; 7823 (2/10W). Saturday, November 1, 7:30pm, plays before each show. www.foxtheatre.org www.organstoppizza.com Paul Roberts in concert. www.foxhanford.com Rylander Theatre—310 West Lamar Street, Orpheum Theatre—203 West Adams, Phoenix Nethercutt Collection—15200 Bledsoe Street, Americus, 229-931-0001 (3/11M). Call for informa- 480-460-7699 (3/30W). Silent film series; pre-show Sylmar, 818-367-2251 (4/74W). Guided tours twice tion and tickets. concerts, 2:30pm to 3:30pm. Concerts and film a day, Tuesday through Saturday, at 10:00am accompaniment by Ron Rhode. www.silent and 1:30pm. Free admission by reservation. HAWAII sundays.info. November 28: 1:30pm, Ron Rhode Organ is played at the end of each tour. Organ Palace Theatre—38 Haili, Hilo, 808-934-7010 and 7:00pm, Chris Gorsuch. November 29: Chris concerts on Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at (4/13RM). Hawaiiana show every Wednesday, Elliott. www.desertwinds.info 2:00pm and 8:00pm. Reservations required in occasional silent movies, concerts and special Phoenix College—1202 West Thomas Road, advance. www.nethercuttcollection.org events featuring the organ. Bob Alder, Tommy Phoenix, 623-639-1746 (2/12W). November 29, Old Town Music Hall—140 Richmond Street, El Stark and Dwight Beacham. www.palacehilo.org Jerry Nagano and 7:30pm, Ken Double. Segundo, 310-322-2592 (4/26W). Bill Field at the www.desertwinds.info Wurlitzer. www.otmh.org ILLINOIS Orpheum Theatre—842 South Broadway, Los Arcada Theatre—105 East Main Street, CALIFORNIA (NORTH) Angeles, 310-329-1455 (3/14W). Saturday, St. Charles, 630-845-8900 (3/16GMC). Organ Bob Hope Theatre (Former Fox California)—242 11:30am; organ is featured as part of the guided interludes Friday and Saturday nights. http:// Main Street, Stockton, 209-337-4673 (4/21RM). tour of theatre. www.laorpheum.com onestientertainment.com/arcada/arcada.htm Organ played monthly for classic and silent Beggar’s Pizza—3524 Ridge Road, Lansing, movies, special occasions, and public tours. Plummer Auditorium—201 East Chapman, Fullerton, 714-870-2813 (4/36W). November 9, 708-418-3500 (3/17BH). Tuesday and Saturday Castro Theatre—429 Castro, San Francisco, 2:00pm, Ben Hur, accompanied by Clark Wilson. 6:00pm to 9:00pm: Glenn Tallar. 415-621-6120 (4/21W). Intermissions played www.beggarspizza.com/loca_lansing.php nightly by David Hegarty, Warren Lubich. COLORADO Lincoln Theatre—103 East Main Street, Belleville, Fox Theatre—308 West Main Street, Visalia, Colorado Springs City Auditorium—221 East 618-233-0018 (3/15H). Organ plays movie 559-625-1369 (4/24W). Thirty-minute organ Kiowa Street, Colorado Springs, 719-488-9469 overtures: Friday, David Stephens; Saturday, prelude, with guest organist, to frequent classic (3/8W). Sacklunch Serenade: weekly free volunteers. November 2, 2:00pm, Lew Williams. movies. www.foxvisalia.org noontime concert each Thursday from 12:00 www.lincolntheatre-belleville.com Grand Lake Theatre—3200 Grand Avenue, noon to 1:00pm, with silent short, performed by Rialto Square Theatre—102 North Chicago Street, Oakland, 510-452-3556 (3/18W). Intermissions: local and guest artists. Joliet, 815-726-6600 (4/27H). Organ pre-shows Friday, Warren Lubich; Saturday, Kevin King. www.theatreorgans.com/PPATOS and intermissions: Jim Patak or Sam Yacono. Harmony Wynelands—9291 East Harney Lane, Holiday Hills Ballroom—2000 West 92nd Avenue, Theatre tours with Jim Patak at the console. Lodi, 209-369-4184 (3/15RM). Tasting room open Federal Heights, 303-466-3330 (4/33GW4Q). Tivoli Theatre—5021 Highland Avenue, Downers Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 11:00am to 2:00pm, November 16, Got Gospel? Grove, 630-968-0219 (3/10W). Theatre organ 5:00pm, or by appointment. Bob Hartzell, live www.RMCATOS.org interludes on Friday and Saturday, Freddy Arnish. and recorded performances. www.classiccinemas.com www.harmonywynelands.com DELAWARE Dickinson High School—1801 Milltown Road, Virginia Theatre—203 West Park Street, Johnson’s Alexander Valley Winery—8333 Wilmington, 302-995-2603 (3/66K). Concerts at Champaign, 217-356-9063 (2/8W). Organ played Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-433-2319 8:00pm unless otherwise noted. www.geocities/ prior to monthly film series, Champaign-Urbana (3/10RM). Daily, in tasting room, from 10:00am to com/dtoskimball or www.dtoskimball.org Theatre Company performances, and many 5:00pm. other live shows throughout the year. Warren Paramount Theatre—2025 Broadway, Oakland, FLORIDA York, organist. www.thevirginia.org 510-465-6400 (4/27W). Public tours on first and third Grace Baptist Church—8000 Bee Ridge Road, Saturdays at 10:00am. Movie overtures, Thursdays Sarasota, 941-922-2044 (4/32W). For concert MARYLAND at 6:30pm. www.paramounttheatre.com schedule see www.mtos.us Weinberg Center for the Arts—20 West Patrick Street, Frederick (2/8W). All shows at 8:00pm. Ray Stanford Theatre—221 University Avenue, Palo Polk Theatre—127 South Florida Avenue, Brubacher performing Friday, January 9, 2009, Alto, 650-324-3700 (3/21W). Organ played before Lakeland, 863-682-7553 (3/12RM). Movie showing The General and Friday, April 3, showing and after the 7:30pm movie by David Hegarty, overtures: Friday and Saturday, 7:15pm; Sunday, The Mark of Zorro; May 8: An Evening of Charlie Jerry Nagano, or Bill Taylor. Call ahead to verify 1:45pm. Bob Courtney, Sandy Hobbis, and Heidi Chase. the theatre is open for the evening. Lenker.

64 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:07 PM Page 65

Codes used in listing: A=Austin, B=Barton, C=Compton, The deadline for receiving Around the Circuit listings is the 10th of every odd-numbered CHR=Christie, E=Estey, GB=Griffith Beach, H=Hybrid, K=Kimball, month. Send information for inclusion to: Dave Luttinen, 4710 225th Place SW, Mountlake M=Möller, MC=Marr and Colton, P=Page RM=Robert-Morton, Terrace, Washington 98043, 206-963-3283, [email protected]. Listings may also be W=Wurlitzer. Example: (4/19W) = 4-manual, 19-rank Wurlitzer added, modified, or cancelled on the ATOS Calendar of Events web page Schedules subject to change. (www.atos.org/calendar).

MASSACHUSETTS NEW JERSEY NORTH DAKOTA Knight Auditorium—Babson College, Wellesley Broadway Theatre—43 South Broadway, Pitman, Fargo Theatre—314 North Broadway, Fargo, Avenue, Wellesley, 508-674-0276 (4/18W). 856-589-7519 (3/8K). Organ played before most 701-239-8385 (4/21W). Organ plays Friday, November 15, 2:30pm: Dave Wickerham at movies and all stage shows. Harold Ware, John Saturday, and Sunday evenings, before and organ and Dick Kroeckel at grand piano; Breslin, Nathan Figlio, Janet Norcross, Bob between performances. Short organ concerts: January 11, 2009, 2:30pm: Mark Herman with Nichols. Lance Johnson, Steve Eneboe and Tyler vocalist Anthony Snitker; April 19, 7:30pm: Phil Loew’s Jersey Theatre—54 Journal Square, Jersey Engberg. www.fargotheatre.org Kelsall. www.emcatos.com City, 973-256-5480 (4/23RM). Organ played Shanklin Music Hall—130 Sandy Pond Road, before selected movies and events on a regular OHIO Groton, 508-674-0276 (4/34W). November 16, basis. www.gstos.org/ww Collingwood Arts Center—2413 Collingwood 2:30pm: Dave Wickerham at organ and Dick Avenue, Toledo, 419-244-2787 (2/7H). Organ The Music Hall at Northlandz—Route 202 South, played monthly before classic movie showings. Kroeckel at grand piano; April 19, 2009, 2:30pm: Flemington, 908-982-4022 (5/39W). Organ played Phil Kelsall. www.emcatos.com House organists: Paul Jacyk and Dick Lee. $10 several times daily; call for exact times. Bruce admission. www.collingwoodartscenter.org Conway, Harry Ley, Bruce Williams. MICHIGAN The Historic Ohio Theatre—3114 Lagrange Street, Fox Theatre—2211 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, Newton Theatre—234 Spring Street, Newton, Toledo, 419-241-6785 (4/11H). Organ pre-show for 313-471-3200 (4/36W and 3/12M). Lobby organ 973-579-9993 (2/4E). Friday evening intermissions, movies (6:30pm to 7:00pm). John Baratta. played for 45 minutes prior to selected shows. Masonic Auditorium and Performing Arts Call theatre for dates and times. Symphony Hall—1040 Broad Street, Newark, 973- Center—3615 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, 216- Michigan Theatre—603 East Liberty, Ann Arbor, 256-5480 (3/15GB). Used for special events. 432-2370 (4/28W). Organ is currently being 734-668-8394 (3/13B). Daily Intermissions before www.gstos.org installed by WRTOS, Inc. evening films, plus silent films and special www.aasrcleveland.org/tour/aud1-ljpg.htm occasions. Dr. Henry Aldridge, Director; Dr. Steven NEW YORK Auditorium Theatre—885 East Main Street, Ohio Theatre—55 East State Street, Columbus, Ball, Staff Organist; Stephen Warner, Newton 614-469-1045 (4/34RM). Organ overtures and Bates, and Loren Greenawalt. Rochester, 585-544-6595 (4/23W). November 16, 2:30pm: Danny Ray. January 25, 2009, 2:30pm, intermissions. www.capa.com The Mole Hole—150 West Michigan Avenue, Dave Wickerham. February 15, 2:30pm, The Palace Theatre—605 Market Avenue North, Marshall, 616-781-5923 (2/6 B/K). Organ daily, Eastman Group. Canton, 330-454-9181 (3/12Kilgen). Frequent pre- Scott Smith, recorded artist. Bardavon 1869 Opera House—35 Market Street, show and intermission use; occasional concert. Public Museum of Grand Rapids Meijer Theatre— Poughkeepsie, 914-473-2072 (2/8W). Organ www.cantonpalacetheatre.org 272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, 616-459-4253 played before selected movies. Call or check Palace Theatre—Cleveland’s Playhouse Square, (3/30W). Tours by appointment, and ATOS guests the website for details. www.bardavon.org 1515 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, 216-771-1771 welcome to hear organ weekly at noon on (3/15K). Organ pre-shows for summer film series Thursdays. Story time slide program during school Empire Theatre—581 State Fair Boulevard, Syracuse, 315-451-4943 (3/11W). All concerts start and special events. year. Organ played on Sundays, 1:00pm to http://playhousesquare.brinkster.net/cinema/ 3:00pm. at 7:30pm unless stated otherwise. www.jrjunction.com/estmim Palace Theatre—617 Broadway, Lorain, 440-245- Redford Theatre—17360 Lahser Road, Detroit, 2323 (3/10W). Occasional preshow and 248-350-3028 (3/10B). Movie overtures: Friday, Forum Theatre—236 Washington Street, Bing- hamton, 607-762-8202 (4/24RM). All events are intermission use, and special events. 7:30pm; Saturday, 1:30pm and 7:30pm. Guest www.lorainpalace.org organists include: John Lauter, Newton Bates, Saturday at 7:30pm. December 13: Christmas Jennifer Candea, Dave Calendine, Brian show. www.theatreorgans.com/btoc Palace Theatre—276 West Center Street, Marion, Carmody, Gil Francis, Tony O’Brien, Emily Seward, Lafayette Theatre—Lafayette Avenue, Suffern, 740-383-2101 (3/10W). Occasional pre-show and Lance Luce, and Gus Borman. 845-369-8234 (2/11W). Saturday, 11:00am, Earle special events. www.marionpalace.org www.redfordtheatre.com Seeley. Saturday evenings and Sunday before Renaissance Theatre—138 Park Avenue, Senate Theatre—6424 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, matinee: John Baratta, Earle Seeley and Jeff Mansfield, 419-522-2726 (3/20W). Frequent use, 313-894-4100 (4/36W). Sunday, November 16, Barker. including free summer concert series. Paul Roberts. Sunday, December 2, Dave Long Island University—385 Flatbush Extension, www.culture.ohio.gov/project.asp?proj=renaissa Calendine and Johnny Kash. All concerts start Brooklyn (4/26W). Organ undergoing repairs. nce 3:00pm. Tickets $12; may be purchased at the Middletown Paramount Theatre—19 South Street, door (cash only). www.dtos.org OKLAHOMA Middletown, 845-346-4195 (3/12W). Pre-show Tulsa Technology Center—129th E Avenue (Olive) Temple Theatre—203 North Washington, music, concerts and silent films presented by the and 111th Street, Tulsa, 918-355-1562 (3/13RM). Saginaw, 989-754-7469 (3/11B). Organ played New York Chapter of ATOS and the Middletown Third Friday of each month, programs and open before selected events. Sunday, November 9, Paramount Theatre. www.nytos.org console. 3:00pm: Lance Luce. www.templetheatre.com Proctor’s Theatre—432 State Street, Schenectady, members.aol.com/SoonerStateATOS 518-346-8204 (3/18W). Noon concert series, MINNESOTA Tuesdays, unless stated otherwise. OREGON Heights Theatre—3951 Central Avenue NE, www.proctors.org Bijou Theatre—1624 NE Highway 101, Lincoln City, Columbia Heights, 763-789-4992 (4/11W). Movie 541-994-8255 (Electronic). Silent film series on overtures every Friday and Saturday. Riviera Theatre and Performing Arts Center—67 Webster Street, North Tonawanda, 716-692-2413, Wednesdays at 1:00pm. MISSOURI fax 716-692-0364 (3/18W). All concerts start at www.cinemalovers.com Fox Theatre—527 Grand Boulevard North, 7:30pm. Tickets are $10. November 5, Jerry Elsinore Theatre—170 High Street SE, Salem, 503- St. Louis, 314-534-1678 (4/36W). Tours of the Fox Nagano; December 3, Paul Roberts. 375-3574 (3/25W). Silent film programs Wed- Theatre conducted every Tuesday, Thursday and www.rivieratheatre.org nesdays at 7:00pm. Rick Parks, organist. Saturday (except holidays) at 10:30am. Tuesday www.elsinoretheatre.com tour: $5 for adults and $3 for children (12 and NORTH CAROLINA under). Thursday and Saturday tours: $8 for adults Carolina Theatre—310 South Green Street, PENNSYLVANIA and $3 for children. For parties of less than 20, no Greensboro, 336-333-2600 (3/6H-Electronic). Blackwood Estate—Blackwood Lane, Harrisville, reservations are needed. www.fabulousfox.com Organ played before and after the Carolina 724-735-2813 (3/20W-H). Private residence near Classic Film Series. www.carolinatheatre.com Pittsburgh hosts several concerts; proceeds benefit charities and scholarship recipients. www.blackwoodmusic.com

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 65 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:07 PM Page 66

IJ

Theatre Organ Programs and Performances

Keswick Theatre—Easton Road and Keswick WISCONSIN Civic Hall—North Street, Wolverhampton, West Avenue, Glenside, 610-659-1323 (3/19M). Hermes Basement Bijou—Racine, 262-639-1322 Midlands 011-44-0-1902-552121 (4/44C). Friday Musical overtures before live shows. House (5/35W). For bus tour, contact Eileen at Racine concerts 12:00 noon to 12:30pm before the tea organists: Barbara Fesmire, Michael Xavier County Convention Bureau, 262-884-6407, or dance. Steve Tovey or Cameron Lloyd. Lundy, Bernie McGorrey. Fred Hermes for appointment. Open console Concerts Saturdays at 2:00pm. www.keswicktheatre.com on weekends. http://geocities.com/comptonplus/civic_hall.ht ml Keystone Oaks High School—1000 Kelton Organ Piper Music Palace—4353 South 108th Avenue, Pittsburgh, 412-921-8558 (3/19W). All Street, Greenfield (Milwaukee), 414-529-1177 Fentham Hall—Marsh Lane, Hampton-in-Arden, concerts on Saturdays at 7:30pm. (3/27H). Organ hours: Tuesday, 5:30pm to Solihull, 011-44-0-1564-794778 (3/11C). All con- www.aol.com/wurli2/ 9:00pm; Wednesday, 5:30pm to 10:00pm with certs on Sundays at 3:00pm. Roxy Theatre—2004 Main Street, Northampton, live band; Thursday, 5:30pm to 9:00pm; Friday, www.cos-centralandwales.co.uk 610-262-7699 (2/6W). Organ is played 6:30pm 5:00pm to 9:45pm; Saturday, 12:30pm to Kilburn State Theatre—197-199 Kilburn, High to 7:00pm and intermissions. Henry Thomas. 9:45pm; Sunday, 12:30pm to 8:45pm. Ron Road, Kilburn, London (4/16W). www.atos- www.Roxytheaternorthampton.com Reseigh, Ralph Conn, and Dean Rosko. london.co.uk TENNESSEE Phipps Center for the Arts—109 Locust Street, New Victoria Centre—High Street, Howden-le- Hudson, 715-386-8409 (3/16W). Sunday, Wear, Crook, County Durham, 011-44-0-1388- Tennessee Theatre—604 South Gay Street, December 21, 2:00pm: Holiday Concert with 762467 (3/18W). Concerts on Saturdays at Knoxville, 865-684-1200 (3/16W). Organ played Ron Reseigh; Saturday, January 31, 2009, 7:00pm and Sundays at 2:30pm. before movies throughout the year and at free 2:00pm: Jelani Eddington plays the organ and www.theatreorgans.com/uk/netoa First Monday concerts, the first Monday of every the grand piano. Saturday, March 14, 7:30pm: month at 12:00 noon. Subject to cancellation Ossett Town Hall—Market Place, Ossett, Dave Wickerham; Saturday, June 6, 7:30pm: Wakefield, West Yorkshire, 011-44-0-1132-705885 due to other scheduled events. Ron Rhode. www.tennesseetheatre.com (3/13Compton/Christie). All concerts on Sundays at 2:30pm. Doors open at 2:00pm. TEXAS AUSTRALIA November 2, Matthew Bason; December 7, Capri Theatre—141 Goodwood Road, Good- Simon Gledhill. Jefferson Theatre—345 Fannin, Beaumont, 409- wood, SA, (08) 8272 1177 (4/29H). Organ used Singing Hills Golf Course 835-5483 (3/8RM). Organ played occasionally Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. —Albourne near before shows and for concerts. Brighton, 011-44-0-1273-835353 (3/19W). Con- www.jeffersontheatre.org Dendy Cinema—26 Church Street, Brighton, certs each month from October to March. All VIC, (03) 9789 1455 (3/15W). Organ before films, concerts at 3:00pm. Saturday evenings. UTAH Stockport Town Hall—On A6, Main Road thru Peery’s Egyptian Theatre—2415 Washington Karrinyup Center—Perth, WA (61) 9447-9837 Stockport, 011-44-0-1617-643979 (4/20W). Lunch- Boulevard, Ogden, 801-395-3200 (3/24W). Silent (3/21W). All concerts on Sundays at 2:00pm. time concerts at 12:00 noon, first Monday of films; entrance and exit music at some other Orpheum Theatre—380 Military Road, each month except August. programs. www.peerysegyptiantheater.com Cremorne, NSW, (02) 9908-4344 (3/15W). www.voxlancastria.org.uk/concerts VIRGINIA Saturday night, Sunday afternoon, intermissions, Theatre Organ Heritage Centre and Hope- Neil Jensen. Byrd Theatre—2908 West Carey, Richmond, Jones Museum—Alexandra Road, Peel Green, 804-353-9911 (4/17W). Overtures Saturdays, CANADA Eccles, Manchester (2/6W). Lunchtime con- 7:15pm and 9:30pm, Bob Gulledge. certs Wednesday every week, 1:00pm. Casa Loma—1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario, www.voxlancastria.org.uk/heritage 416-421-0918 (4/19W). All concerts on Monday WASHINGTON Thomas Peacocke Community College—The at 8:00pm. www.theatreorgans.com/toronto Kenyon Hall—7904 35th Avenue SW, Seattle, Grove, Rye, East Sussex, 011-44-0-1424-444058 206-937-3613 (2/10W). Saturday and Sunday, NEW ZEALAND (2/6W). All concerts on Sundays at 2:30pm. Sunday, November 16, Andrew Nix. Sunday, 2:00pm, silent film. Call to verify schedule. Hollywood Cinema—20 St. Georges Road, December 7, Chris Powell. Lincoln Theatre Center—712 South 1st Street, Mt. Avondale, Auckland (+64 9) 525-7067 (3/15 www.geocities.com/ryewurlitzer Vernon (Style D W). Organ played Friday mostly Wurlitzer). Sunday, November 30, through Tuesday before the film. 2:00pm, Dennis James (US). Victoria Hall—Victoria Road, Saltaire, Shipley, www.lincolntheater.org West Yorkshire BD18 3JS, 011-44-1274-589939 UNITED KINGDOM (3/10W). www.cosnorth.co.uk Mt. Baker Theatre—106 North Commercial, The Assembly Hall—Stoke Abbot Road, Bellingham (2/12W). Second Sunday monthly, Worthing, Sussex, 011-44-0-1903-206206 (3/23W). 2:00pm, open console. All concerts on Sundays at 3:00pm, unless Paramount Theatre—911 Pine Street, Seattle, noted otherwise. Dances Saturday, 7:15pm. 206-467-5510 (4/20W). Twelfth Annual Silent Movie Mondays at 7:00pm, with Dennis James accompanying all films. January 5, 2009, Hunchback of Notre Dame; January 12, The Magician; January 19, The Bells; January 26, Der Golem. www.theparamount.com

Have you remembered the ATOS Endowment Fund in your will or trust?

66 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:07 PM Page 67

Devoted to All THE ORGAN HISTORICAL SOCIETY Automatic Musical p.o. box 26811, richmond, va 23261 Instruments If you have an interest in JOIN THE RANKS TODAY AT We have an interest automatic mechanical music, in and collect: Join US! www.organsociety.org or 804.353.9226 Musical Boxes Automata MBSI Musical Clocks SHOP WITH MEMBERS’ DISCOUNT Orchestrions PO Box10196/ATOS IN THE AMAZING OHS CATALOG Band Organs Springfield, MO 65808 Dance Organs 417-886-8839 • [email protected] www.ohscatalog.org Reproducing Pianos Visit our website: www.mbsi.org

AMICA INTERNATIONAL (AUTOMATIC MUSICAL INSTRUMENT COLLECTORS’ ASSOCIATION) Dedicated to preserving, restoring & enjoying Mechanical Musical Instruments like Player & Reproducing Pianos, Organs, etc. A gathering place for those who enjoy music, friendship & fun! ANNUAL CONVENTION ! LOCAL CHAPTERS www.atos.org For a free issue of the AMICA Bulletin & Information Contact: Bill Chapman • #760-564-2951 [email protected] – (AMICA in subject) Articles and Features To find out more visit us at WWW.AMICA.ORG Added Regularly JOIN US AND HELP THE HOBBY GROW! Calendar of Events and Submissions Theatre Organ Locator ESTABLISHED 1963 SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA

The League of Historic American Theatres

D R E A M 2 0 2 0 THE

The 33rd Annual Conference and Theatre Tour DIAPASON

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 67 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:07 PM Page 68

For membership, publication back issues, photo availability, research and Season’s museum hours information, contact: THEATRE HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA Greetings 152 N. York St., #200, Elmhurst, IL 60126-2806 • 630/782-1800 email: [email protected] www.historictheatres.org

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MINUTES OF THE ATOS the postage for all the other copies mailed • Plummer Auditorium in Fullerton, domestically. California has also been booked for BOARD OF DIRECTORS Summer Youth Camp Update: January, 2009. TELEPHONE CONFERENCE • Jonas Nordwall indicated that plans for • Steve is beginning to hear from theatres the ATOS Summer Youth Camp are 98% because they are through with their current WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, 2008 complete. All that is need is a food vendor season and are booking for the next. He will President Double called the meeting to for the closing event. send a grid with the possible venues for the order at 8:00pm EDT. • Financial aid is needed for many stu- tour listed. Officers Present: Ken Double, President; dents. This should be administered through NEW BUSINESS Bob Evans, Secretary; Paul Van Der Molen, the national organization. • Convention Meeting Schedule will be as Treasurer; Excused: Craig Peterson, Vice • Jonas asked that the need for financial follows: President. Board Members Present: Vern aid be “pitched” at the annual membership • Informal meeting with Ray Compton, Bickel, Mike Cierski, Jelani Eddington, meeting and at the banquet. marketing expert, on Wednesday, July 2. Michael Fellenzer, Allen Miller, Don Near, • So far seven candidates have enrolled • The board should plan to meet all day Donna Parker, Doug Powers, Carlton Smith. for the camp. Jonas expects that many on Thursday, July 3. Absent: Tyler Morkin, Youth Representative. more will register and would like to cap • The board will also meet on Friday Staff Present: Jim Merry, Jeff Weiler, Dennis attendance at twenty students. morning for about 90 minutes to go through Unks, Jonas Nordwall. Adult Camp Update: the electronic binder to familiarize the board Guests Present: John DeMajo, Bucky • The ATOS adult camp will be head- with its contents. Reddish, Steve LaManna. quartered at Wurlitzer Manor in Gig Harbor, Good of the Order: President Double declared a quorum. Washington from August 11–14. • Paul Van Der Molen stated that because The minutes of the April 21 telephone • Reasonable hotel accommodations of the poor performance of the investment conference were approved. have been made for participants. market, the Endowment Fund has not grown OLD BUSINESS • Charlie Balogh is the principal instructor, appreciably. The Endowment Fund has only Indianapolis Convention Update: with Patti Simon and Jonas Nordwall $3,400 to distribute. There is a balance of • As of June 11, 2008, 476 people have assisting. $26,493.18 in what we call the Smithsonian registered for the convention. • All information is posted on the ATOS Fund that has been used to finance the • Instructions for people driving will be website and will be featured in the up- installation of the Ayars’ Wurlitzer in Macy’s in given out at the registration desk. coming THEATRE ORGAN. Philadelphia. All obligations for these funds • Afterglow tickets will be given out at the Vote on Mount Baker chapter: have been met. registration desk. • President Double called for a vote to • Paul made the following motion: • Members must attend the afterglow accept the Mount Baker chapter as the “That of the remaining $26,493.18 and any sessions for which they register. newest chapter of ATOS. The Chapter additional accumulated interest in the so- Survey Update: Charter Certificate will be awarded at the called Smithsonian Fund, $5,000 be used for • About 10% of the surveys have been convention. Michael Fellenzer moved that the previously authorized grant to the returned. This is about an average number. the ATOS board accept the Mount Baker Phipps’ project, $10,000 of Smithsonian Fund • Many of the surveys featured hand- chapter. (Carried unanimously) money be added to the $3,400 (this year’s written comments, making data entry take Reaffirmation of Awards Procurement earnings) allowed to be distributed by the much longer. Procedure: Endowment Committee for 2008 grant • Hopefully the analysis will be ready for • Bob Evans reminded the board that requests. The balance of the Smithsonian the board’s annual meeting. the chair of the awards and recognition Fund, $11,493.18, plus any additional accu- • The survey for chapter officers is almost committee is responsible for the procure- mulated interest, shall be deposited into the done and will be administered via the ment of award media. Endowment Fund to contribute to its Internet. • Don Near, Awards and Recognition ongoing growth.” (Carried unanimously) THEATRE ORGAN Mailing Update: chair, reported that the award media was • Allen Miller inquired about the status of • The U. S. Postal Service has changed the ordered and would be delivered to Endowment Fund grants. Michael Fellenzer regulations for overseas mail. All overseas Indianapolis for the convention banquet. expects to act on these grants soon. mail is now sent airmail. This change in Update on ATOS National Tour: President Double declared the meeting regulations created a large increase in • Steve LaManna reported on the status of adjourned at 9:17pm. the last overseas mailing of the journal. the national tour. /s/ Bob Evans, Secretary Jeff Weiler and Paul Van Der Molen are • The first show will be at the Riviera Please note: The meeting was conducted investigating means by which to alleviate Theatre in North Tonawanda, New York according to Robert’s Rules of Order, Jeff this sharp increase in postage. on September 11, 2008 featuring Jelani Weiler, Parliamentarian • Paul Van Der Molen illustrated the Eddington, Donna Parker, and Chris increase by saying that the cost to mail 279 Gorsuch. of the last issue overseas was $100 more than

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NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 69 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:07 PM Page 70

The Music You Remember, which aired on Boston area cable TV channels. Dan Bellomy performed for the first of his nine ATOS convention appearances at the Los Angeles Orpheum Theatre in 1987. Of those nine appearances, several were especially memorable events, including his Indianapolis appearance in 2001 at the Hedback Theatre. He played both the two-manual pipe organ along with a Hammond C-3, backed by drummer Jack Gilfoy. It was Dan at his jazzy best, despite the fact he had to play twice, and in the morning, no less. It was a spectacularly entertaining event. His final convention concert might have been his best. In July of 2007, Dan performed at the Trenton War Memorial Möller, and the organ never sounded better. Dan’s program included not only his signature jazz styling but also ballads, Broadway, and everything in between—proof that in every way he was a consummate presenter of theatre pipe organ Dan Bellomy us, challenged us, and made us think. We music at its best. can ask no more of an artist; we can only be Dan Bellomy served on the board of Ah, Dan. grateful. He smoked, he drank, he swore (!), he directors of ATOS and was very active from Our little insular world of the theatre his election in 2000 through 2006. Dan is was deliciously politically incorrect, he organ has lost a unique voice at a time when could have been a charter subscriber to survived by his wife, Tina, and his beloved uniqueness is becoming alarmingly rare. dog Ethel, both of whom were with him Town Grouch magazine, and he didn’t care Let’s hope that young musicians will listen if he pissed people off. He was indeed his when he passed away. He also leaves to his work and be inspired to think out of behind his stepchildren Kathleen “Kat” own man, and his fans loved him for it. the box and into their own hearts. Most of all (and fortunately for all of us), MacArthur of Lowell, Massachusetts and Farewell, Dan, you wonderful *#%@?$*! Timothy MacArthur and his wife Colleen of he was a REAL musician whose vision for I’ll miss you more than I can say! his chosen instrument was unique. His Waltham, Massachusetts. Donations may be Your fan forever, made in Dan’s memory to Parmenter music was like no other’s. As filtered by his —Jim Riggs incredibly deep musical sense, melody, Wayside Hospice, 266 Cochituate Road, harmony, and rhythm became one. His Wayland, Massachusetts 01778. —Ken Double arrangements were completely personal— always elegantly constructed with that ATOS is saddened by the news that one unmistakable Bellomy flair. And when he of the genre’s most distinctive musical played, the organs at which he sat seemed voices, organist Dan Bellomy, passed away to proudly declare, “THIS is what I sound on Friday, August 29, 2008, after a lengthy Earl “Mac” like today! Buckle up!” battle with cancer. He was 57 years old. McDonald, Jr. Born in Houston, Texas, his vocal Appropriately, he approached the I have the sad duty to report that on instrument itself holistically, not just as a “Southern drawl” was in complete contrast to his New England residence of many Sunday, August 17, 2008, Earl “Mac” collection of parts. Under his ministrations, McDonald, Jr. passed away. He was a the Unit Orchestra fulfilled its promise. years. Following the path of so many of his musical associates, Dan wore many hats staunch supporter of theatre organs and a Then there was his technical prowess. charter member of the ATOS and its Yikes! He seemed to play the organ while pursuing his concert career. He made his television debut at the age of 11, later predecessors. He had a very active and full effortlessly—like a natural extension of his life. He was born in Dallas, Texas to brain—as if his fingers transcended mere wrote and directed for television shows, served as musical director for The Sunday Dr. Earl D. McDonald and Lucille physicality and he was simply willing the Cunningham McDonald on February 5, music. Show, which aired on KNBC in Los Angeles, and was host for his own program, 1930. Mr. McDonald grew up in Santa All of this came together within a con- Anna, Texas, then moved to Dallas. He summate musician who continually thrilled

70 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:07 PM Page 71

attended Southern Methodist University and received a BSEE. In college, he worked 2009 at WFAA, Channel 8, and developed his first love and vocation—television. After SMU, Mac was employed by NBC, Burbank, California, and worked with early TV stars Dinah Shore and George Gobel. WurlitzerWeekend Returning to Dallas, he pursued his January 16, 17 and 18 engineering studies and worked for Texas Instruments for 45 years as one of the Five event Package $89 before January 1, 2009 pioneers of the early computers. There, he was awarded the International Historic Friday - 8:00 pm Bob Salisbury at the Wurlitzer Landmark Award as part of the team that 1927 Silent film invented the integrated-circuit wire bonder. After retirement, Mac returned to his first ´7KH.LG%URWKHUµ love, television, at KERA, PBS Channel 13, Featuring Harold Lloyd where he worked until he lost his eyesight. Orpheum Theater - 842 South Broadway, Los Angeles Other passions included theatre pipe organs, being a charter member of ATOS Saturday Morning - 8:00 am and very active in the North Texas ATOS Artist to be Determined chapter. He was the chapter president in El Capitan Theatre, 6834 Hollywood Boulevard 1974 and again in 2002–2004. He also was Saturday Afternoon - 1:30 pm a board member up until his death. He helped install several pipe organs including Chris Gorsuch his own, a 3/8 Robert-Morton that he Nethercutt Collection rescued from the Old Mill Theatre in One hour collection tour followed by one hour concert Dallas. It was for a time installed in the 15200 BlBlesdoeedes Street, Sylmar, CA Lakewood Theatre in Dallas. Mac was also Saturday Evening - 8:00 pm an active member of the Dallas Scottish Society, participating in many of the Rob Richards society’s activities. With the onset of Plummer Auditorium, 201 E Chapman Ave, Fullerton, CA blindness, Mac used the services of, and Sunday Morning - 9:00 am became a strong advocate for, Reading and Bill Campbell Radio for the Blind. He was chosen as the Paramount Skating Rink, 8041 Jackson St, Paramount, CA Texas Instruments United Way “poster boy” Sunday Afternoon - 2:00 pm in 2007, when TI chose to make a sizeable donation from their United Way collections Jelani Eddington, Chris Gorsuch, to Reading and Radio for the Blind. As Rus Peck some close friends said “We’re not bound San Gabriel Mission Playhouse, 320 S Mission, San Gabriel to see the likes of Mac again. He fully Special VIP seating for weekend passport holders only occupied his space on earth.” Mac was willing to share his knowledge Separate additional event not included in package and provide assistance to those who Sunday - 7:00 pm - RON RHODE - Old Town Music Hall, El Segundo requested it. He will be sorely missed by his Tickets for this event may be ordered with your Wurlitzer Weekend Package for $20 friends, and especially by the present and former members of the North Texas chapter. Mr. McDonald is survived by his wife, Toll Free, 1.888.LATOS.22 E-mail [email protected] Donna L. McDonald, his daughter, Grace McDonald-Bumpass, and his son-in-law, Please Order Early, some venues have limited seating Richard C. Bumpass. Web site: www.latos.org —Kenneth Brown Sponsored by Wylie, Texas Los Angeles and Orange County Theatre Organ Societies

NOVEMBER | DECEMBER 2008 71 ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:07 PM Page 72

FOR SALE ADVERTISER INDEX

FREE AUDIO-VIDEO CATALOG: CDs, AUDIO & Allen Organs ...... BC Organ Historical Society...... 67 VIDEO CASSETTES: Classical, 2-Organ, Gospel, Theatre Amica International...... 67 Parker, Donna...... 53 and Instructional. Write to: ALLEN ORGAN CO., P.O. Arndt Organ Supply Co...... 68 Party on the Pipes, St. Louis...... 29 BOX 36, Macungie, Pennsylvania 18062-0036 or Phone 610-966-2202. ++ Ball, Steven...... 53 Ralston, Bob ...... 44 Cole, Susan: Keyboard Rhode, Ron ...... 68 2/6 HYBRID PIPE ORGAN. Good condition. Installed Productions ...... 53 and playing. Buyer to remove. Minneapolis, Minnesota. Riggs, Jim...... 6 $15,000 or best offer. 612-374-2786. 50-6 Crome Organ Co...... 49 Rogers, Fr. Andrew ...... 6 Diapason...... 67 Scott Smith Pipe Organs...... 68 CLASSIFIED ads—75¢ per word for ATOS members; $1.00 Eddington, Jelani (concerts) ...... 5 Theatre Historical Society of per word for non-members. $10.00 minimum. Not Eddington, Jelani (recordings) ..68 America...... 68 counted as words: a, and, the, &. Phone numbers are counted as one word, as are hyphenated words. All Estate for Sale ...... 29 Walker Theatre Organs ...... IFC classified ads must be submitted PRE-PAID to avoid a $10.00 handling/billing charge. PRE-PAID charge of $15.00 League of Historic American Whittaker, Tony...... 68 to have a THEATRE ORGAN showing your ad sent to your Theatres ...... 67 Wilson, Clark...... 5 mailing address. Deadline for placing ads is the FIRST of Leather Supply House...... 68 each even month (February, April, June, August, October Wurlitzer Weekend ...... 71 and December). DO NOT SEND CASH. Make check or Moelmann, Jack (thank you) ...... 2 Zollman Pipe Organ Services.....53 money order payable to ATOS, in US funds ONLY, and Moelmann, Jack ...... 6 send to: Jeff Weiler, THEATRE ORGAN Editor, American Theatre Organ Society, 1845 South Michigan Avenue Musical Box Society #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616. Word counts may be International ...... 67 verified in advance by e-mailing Joanne, the Editorial Office Administrative Assistant, at [email protected].

~ UNITEDSTl!TES Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation 13.PublicationTIHe 14. lssue Date for Circulation Data Balow Theatre Organ ~ POSTJ!LSERVICE• (All Periodicals Publications Except Requester Publications) September/October 2008 (9/1/08) 1.Publication1itle Theatre Organ 15. Extent and Nature of Circulatit1n No. Copi es of Singl • hi&H Average No. Coples Each Issue Publi$hed Nvareet to 4 . IS5UeFrequency 5. Number of Issues Pub lished Annually 6. AnnualSIJbscriptionPric& During Preceding 12 Months Inc1- ud ed in. ~r du • !I Flllnr,Dabl Bi-mo nt hl y Six (6) a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run) 4,050 4,000 7. ~ !ete Mai ling Add ress of Known Office of Publicatioo (Not printer) (straet, city, oounty, state, and ZIP+"'®) Contact Person Jo se ph Owen 5 Thir d Street - Suite 7 2 4 Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on Telephone (lncludesreae'Ade) (1) PS Form 3541(Includepaiddistribution abovenomi• 3,503 3,437 San Fran c i sco, CA 94103-3200 415.543.2111 nalrate.advertiser'sproofcopies,andexchange a. Complete Malling Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publishe r (Not pnnter) copies) Same as above in #7 b. Paid Malled In-County Paid Subscriptions Staled on PS Circulation (2) Form 3541 (lnC/udQpaid distribution above nominal (ByMail rat9, ad\if:lrtiser'sproof copies, and exr;hange copies) 9. FuMNa mes and Gornplete MaUingAdd resses of Publisher, Editor, alld Managing Editor (Do not/eave blank} arni Publisher (Name and complete mailing address) Outside the Mail) Paid Distribution OJtside the Mails Includin g Safes Douglas M. Powers; 3323 Belvoi r Bl vd; Beachwood, OH 44122 (3) Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS®

Editor (Name and comp/et& mailing address) (4) Paid Distribution ?YOther Cla~es of Mail ThrOIJQh 281 286 Jeff Weiler; 1845 South Michigan Avenue; Chicago, IL 60616 the USPS (e.g. Frrst--ClassMai'®)

c. Total Paid Distribution (Sumof15b (1), (2), (3), and(4)) 3,784 3,723 Manag ing Editor (Name and complete mailing address) Jeff Weiler {see above at Editor)

d. Freeor 10. Owner (Do not leave bJsnk If the pubfieation is owned by e corporation, give tha name and addrsss of the co,poration immediat&ly fo/fowedby th& (2) :~eitF~~~:!fate In-County Copies Included names and addrasses of al/ slockho/d ars owning or holding 1 percant or moro of the total emount of stock ff not owned by a corporation , give the ~:nal names and addresses of the individual owners . If ownad by a partnership or other unincorporated lifm, give its name and sddless as W".Jlas those of each individual ownar ff/he publication is published by a nonprofit organization, give ifs nama and addr9ss) ~8~t~i:int-t------+-----0---+------0:__

Full Nam e Complete Mailinn Addre ss (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Outside Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail) American Theatre Or gan Society 5 Third Street - Suite 724 lhflMail)'""

San Francisco, CA 94103-3200

e. Total Free Of Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of15d{1), (2), (3} and (4))

f. Total Distribution (Sum of15cand 15e) ► 3,784 3,723

g. Copies not Distributed (See lnstroclions to Publishers #4 (page #3)) ► 266 277 11. Known BondhoklefS, Mortgage es, and Other Secunty Holders Owmog or h. Total {$umof15fandg) Holdin g 1 Pen::ent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or 4,050 4,000 Other Securities. If none, check box II None ► Full Name Complete MailinQ Addreh Percent Paid 100% 100% (15cdivldodby15ftitnGS 100) ► 16. Publication of Statement of Ownerstup ~ If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed 0 Publicationnotrequi(ed.

oat,

September 2, 2008

12. Taic.Status (For completion by rn:inprofit organizations authonzad to mEtlfat nonproffl rates) (Check.one) I certify that aHinformation furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or mislsading information on this The purpose, functiafl , and nonprofit status of this org anii:aUon and the exempt slatus for federal inoome tax pufpOS8S. form or who omits material or information requested on !he form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) andfor civA t!I Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months sanclions(includingcivf!penalties). 72 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:10 PM Page 73 ATOS Marketplace Prices listed INCLUDE shipping within U.S.A. THE WURLITZER PIPE ORGAN – AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY — This long-awaited complete history of the Wurlitzer theatre organ by David Junchen is an essential reference book for every theatre organ enthusiast. With 800 pages of interesting facts, photos and appendices, each volume is sequentially numbered corresponding to the Wurlitzer organ opus list. Fabulous photos, informative tables and lists of long-forgotten Wurlitzer information…an absolute must! $140.00 WURLITZER CONSOLE ART PRINTS — Whether you attach them to your workshop walls or frame them, these prints of 12 original factory photos of spectacular consoles are a must for your collection of theatre organ memorabilia. Each one is 11" wide and 14" high, printed on heavy card stock, suitable for framing. $20.00 WURLITZER FACTORY TOUR — This video is a copy of a vintage newsreel showing various portions of the Wurlitzer factory and the actual construction of Wurlitzer pipe organs. Includes visits to the pipe shop, voicing rooms, console, cable-making departments and many other sections of the North Tonawanda factory. $24.00 ATOS 50TH ANNIVERSARY BOOK — Published in hardcover and softcover editions, this 150-page book is an absolute must for all theatre organ aficionados. Text and pictures cover the first 50 years of the American Theatre Organ Society’s history. Contains many historic photos, quotes, and informative tidbits, including photos of the first meeting of the organization. Hardcover: $35.00. Softcover: $15.00. THEATRE ORGAN BINDERS — Here is the best way to store your past issues of THEATRE ORGAN (through July/August 2006). Holds up to two full years of magazines. Includes metal wires to attach your journals to the binder. Black finish with gold lettering. Pouch on spine for identification information. $14.00 DECAL — Help promote ATOS; put these decals every- where! Three-inch self-stick adhesive back with red, gold and black printing. $1.00 LAPEL PIN — Show your support of the theatre organ by wearing this American Theatre Organ Society lapel pin. Approximately one-half inch in diameter. Bronze color with embossed lettering makes for a distinctive look. $2.50 BACK ISSUES — Complete your collection of THEATRE ORGAN. Quantities are limited. $6.00

An ATOS Marketplace order form is included in most issues of THEATRE ORGAN. Orders may also be placed online at www.atos.org/marketplace. The prices listed above are postpaid for all orders shipped within the U.S.A. See the order form for additional shipping charges on items sent outside of the U.S.A. VISA and Master Card are accepted. If you have any questions, please contact Dennis Unks, ATOS Marketplace Manager, at [email protected]. ATOS NovDec 50-6 G 10/21/08 8:11 PM Page 74

32 THEATRE RANKS 49 CLASSICAL RANKS

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