r-- ATOS SPRING1959 ABCmvEsI LIB1-U_ ealre organ JOURNAL ASSOCIATION OF THEATRE ORGAN ENTHUSIASTS

r I 1 I I j

I

Gordon Kibbee and "Myrtle", see page 5:

The Wurlitzer that made hi-Ii! • Latest theatre organ recordin s George Wright at Fresno / Annual Meeti g of A . T.O.E. LISTEN! ORGANISTS· AT WORK!

You'llwant to hearthe resultsof the

newstereo pipe organ recording that

OmegaDisk and Omega Tape have in

currentproduction. Included among those

beingrecorded in Hollywoodare pipe

organrecordings by: REGINALDFOORT

BILLTHOMPSON, GORDON KIBBEE and

in productionin Paris:PIERRE COCHEREAU recordingin the Cathedralof NotreDame

the entireorgan works o _f CesarFranck.

VolumeI to be releasedMarch 1, 1959.

omega DISK STERECPI IONIC and omegalape

6906 Santa Monica Boulevard, Hollywood 38, California r-ATOs SPRING 1959/VOLUME 1./NUMBER 1 fAIICIDVEs/ IJBRAR7 theatre organ

JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF THEATRE ORGAN ENTHUSIASTS

I

• THE EDITOR NOTES ... A.T.O.E. NEWS Annual Meeting 5 ATOE JOURNAL GOES WEST Introducing your new directors 14 With the close of Volume II, of The as the other tedious chores which attend FAMOUSORGANS TIBIA, A.T.O.E. ended a trial period of this job, it became clear that the distance The story of the three years. Under the spirited and able should be shortened to its absolute mini­ Rich Vaughn direction of Dr. Mel Doner, assisted by mum. And, because the move West was organ 8 Roy Gorish, our journal made its appear­ much the easiest and, too, seemed to offer GEORGEWRIGHT ance. There was much to talk about, many a stronger permanent position, it was Fresno Concert 12 pictures to show, and enthusiasm shone decided to •Go West'. through everything. Due to the tenuous And, it is only fitting that we acknowl­ DEPARTMENTS line of communications, among other edge our indebtedness to C. G. McProud The Editor Notes 3 things, it became increasingly difficult and his staff at Radio Magazines, Inc., The President's to publish the material so far from its for helping to get us •on the air' in our Column 4 editorial office. Various schemes were first venture. We are especially grateful to, Record Reviews 7 considered, but none seemed to offset. the besides •Mac' himself, Janet Durgin, Pro­ Chapter Activities 13 difficult problem. That our magazine was duction Manager, and to Edgar (Ed) Letters to the beautifully printed gave us a great deal of Newman, Circulation Director. And to all Editor 15 pride. The fact that errors crept into print those whose names appear~ in the pages was, at times, embarrassing and not of The TIBIA ... as well as those behind readily explained. Because we were filled the scenes whose identities were not dis­ with good intentions, our •goofs' were closed ... we bestow our sincere apprecia­ overlooked or excused. For these, as well tion and gratitude. EDITOR...... Ralph M. Bell, M.D. Associate Editor . . . . Robert C. Jacobus ------EditorialAssistant...... Betty Jo Bell Art Direction ...... William Steward LOOKING AHEAD Cover Illustration . . Salvador Vergara, Jr. Typography by . Photon Typographers, Inc., Board action at the annual meeting did news of the chapters and other infor­ Plate Making...... Gregory and Falk mation of common interest. It is planned Uthography . . . Cardinal Lithograph Co., much to clear up some problems, pre­ San Francisco sented others. Under the articles which to substantially broaden the coverage and formalize A.T.O.E. we are required to type of article. It is contemplated that the STAFFFOR A.T .O.E. entire membership roster can be made PRESIDENT...... Judd Walton publish a journal. The obvious reasons Vice President ...... W. 'Tiny' James are to unify thinking and provide a means available through THEATRE ORGAN Secretary-Treasurer...... Paul Pease· of expression; also we need to disseminate pages. THEATREORGAN is a quarterly publication ------devoted to the interests of theatre organ en­ thusiasts, and to pubtishing of official notes ' WHY A NEW MAGAZINE? and proceedings of the American Association of Theatre Organ Enthusiasts. All communi­ When the Board of Directors took the is your magazine, more so than ever, and cations and material should be sent to THEATRE ORGAN, P.O.· Box 167, Vallejo, action necessary to move the publication we'd love to have your opinions. We des­ California . Inquiries and all materials intended to San Francisco, it was not known just perately need them! Your letters greatly for A.T.O.E. should be directed to the above what legal steps were involved, The name, influence our thinking and are gratefully address and will be correctly routed to the TIBIA belongs to Radio Magazines, Inc., appreciated. proper office. since it was copyrighted in their name, In the issues to come, you will see and THEATREORGAN !title registered U.S. and all that went into that magazine is read about theatre organ installations, Patent Office) is published by th~. American part of what we gave up. Since it seemed stoplists, organists, technical articles, Association of Theatre Organ Enthusiasts, home installations, and special features. President George D. Walton, Texas Street, more important to get out a magazine on Vallejo, California. All rights reserved. Entire schedule than to retain a name, it was Chapter news and events will be contin­ contents. copyright 1959 by A. T.O. E., decided to look forward and not at what ued or stepped up, and a much shorter Incorporated. • we had left. The outcome of all this is in production schedffle is anticipated. You may judge this by the fact that until after Vallejo, California. All rights reserved. En­ your hands, now, in the THEATRE tire contents copyright 1959 by A. T .O.E., ORGAN, new from cover to cover. Con­ the meeting at the end of October, nothing Incorporated. tinuity of thought is its identification with was done in the way of action on this issue A.T.O.E. Some departments will be -it has been written, produced, and all POSTMASTER:If undeliverable send Form 3547 to THEATRE ORGAN, P.O. Box 167, dropped, others added . . . most will be business details handled since that date! Vallejo, California. changed somewhat. These are the out­ If your favorite subject isn't covered, let come of suggestions from readers and us know, or write us an article on it. Application to mail at second class postage action of the Board of Directors. But this WHAT WE DO DEPENDS ON YOU! rates is pending at Vallejo, California. 3 I THE COLUMN

ny doubt as to the solidity and genuineness of enthusiasm of our A.T.O.E . ' A members would most certainly have been expelled from the mind of the doubting Thomas had he attended the Annual Meeting held on October 25, in Vallejo, California. To be entirely truthful, even your President was pleasantly surprised with the spontaneous demonstration of appreciation which was so very evident at the concerts and at the banquet. (Who could help but appreciate such delectable prime rib?) Our Annual Meeting accomplished -at least one major purpose. It oriented all of enthusiasm for the Theater Organ into a common purpose - full steam ahead for A.T.O.E. and its official journal. During the discussion on the course of action to be taken regarding The TIBIA, it was extremely satisfactory to note the high level of intelligence evident in the questions that were asked by members. The vote to proceed on our own with our Official Journal was unanimous - and was based on thorough consideration of all of the factors involved. Now that we are on our own with the magazine, our fir~t big objective must be to do everything possible to build a membership of real enthusiasts to support our action. During the dual-year of membership, 1957-58 (for which period only one year's dues was levied and only four issues of The TIBIA appeared), we had enrolled 479 members, of which 153 are Charter Members. The Board of Ditec­ tors is confident that we can meet our budget with 600 members in 1959, with finances to spare. This would insure adequate financing for the magazine and allow for some organization expense as well. The excellent condition of our treasury, as reported by Paul Pease elsewhere in these pages, can thus be main­ tained. Dick Simonton is to be commended highly for his wisdom and effort, which have resulted in our present sound financial position. While it is not our intent to enroll new members for bigness alone, it must be our intent to, search out every enthusiast we can find and to sign him up as a member. Thus our purposes will be accomplished and the enthusiast will have a medium through which to share his love for the Theater Organ. Our second big objective must be to organize new Chapters throughout the country. At the present time, we have four Chapters, with three member-groups in the process of being chartered. It takes but ten A.T.O.E. members to form a Chapter, and full information can be obtained by writing to our new head­ quarters mailing address.* Through the medium of Chapters, we can gather to­ DUES NOTICE: If you have not already done so, please send gether and share the good times possible no other way. Chapter news in our your four-dollar check to A. T.O.E. magazine can make good reading for all enthusiasts. Your Board of Directors, at National Headquarters , P. 0. therefore, calls upon you, the members, to seize the initiative and organize as an Box 167, Vallejo, California. This official A.T.O.E. Chapter in your area. The benefits will be yours to be sure! We, who are your officers, serve without compensation other than the satis­ includes your subscription to four issues of THEATRE ORGAN. faction of sharing a delightful hobby. If our efforts are enjoyed by Theater Organ enthusiasts everywhere, we consider ourselves well paid. To insure A.T.O.E.'s continued success and our enjoyment , we earnestly solicit your individual efforts HOW TO JOIN A. T.O.E . ... If to accomplish these objectives. you have friends who are in­ terested in our activities, have FINANCIAL REPORT them write to A. T.O.E. Head­ Financial report for the period October I, 1957 through quarters for further information September 30, 1958, A.T.O .E. Fiscal Year. or simply mail in their checks as INCOME above. One need not be an Memberships, Back Issues of The TIBIA, Misc . 380.37 organist to enjoy organ music. If 380.37 Cash on Hand, October 1,1957 . 2441.55 he is interested, he is welcome. $2821.92 EXPENDITURES Office Supplies & Postage . . .. 31.00 California Franchise Tax . . . . . 15.00 TIBIA Artwork and Printing . . 1208.50 *A.T.O.E. P.O. Box 167 Vallejo, California $1254.50 Cash on Hand, September 30, 1958 1567.42 2821.92 Respectfully Submitt~d, Paul Pease, Secretary-Treasurer . 4 Tiny Jomes, Doric Records star, opened afternoon program. He is shown here at the console of Fox Oakland Wurlitzer, 3-14.

Gordon Kibbee, featured .at the evening concert, at Myrtle- 2-9. Wurlitzer.

Dove Quinlan, organist for the 615 Club at Benicia, California, at Wurlitzer, 2-6.

The annual A.T.O.E. meeting proves to be a rare treat for all those who attended

"The 1958 Annual Meeting of the theater organ still hides in the civilized ing and we enjoyed hearing him. Members of The American Association of world, it is undoubtedly being tracked The second half-hour was devoted to Theater Organ Enthusiasts will be held down right now by someone in that group the music of Everett Nourse, organist for on SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25, 1958 who gathered at the Barn. the Fox Theater, San Francisco. Everett, starting at 3:00 P.M., in the Joe Chad­ Promptly at three o'clock, Dick Simon­ too, took us on a musical tour. We paused bourne Barn, Fairfield, California." Thus ton called the meeting to order and ex­ momentarily as he literally went around began the announcement that went out to tended the official greetings to all who the world. Among his favorite treatments every member of A.T.O.E. It was, of had gathered and to those who could not is the group of Spanish dances, and he course, not possible for everyone to make it, as well. He spoke warmly and gave these some foot-tingling rhythms attend, but those who were fortunate was received in like manner. From there that had his entire audience with him. enough to be there were treated to a pro­ on, the meeting was told in music. Everett added another scene to the al­ gram that made it very difficult to return W. 'Tiny' James started things off with ready exciting afternoon. When his to normal. In fact, the trials and tribula­ a stirring but slightly shortened half-hour. portion of the program ended, many tions of everyday living simply vanished He had previously indicated that he would glanced at their watches, not believing from our lives for that day. vacate the seat at 3:30 and with theater that thirty minutes could have passed so Arrivals at the Barn began about one organist precision stopped on the dot. The quickly. hour before the meeting. Greetings and members required Tiny to return for an The third organist stepped over to the warm exchanges followed throughout the encore. This performance set the mood bench and seated himself easily. This rest of the day and night. Besides the re­ for the rest of the musical portion of the young man looked at the stopboard with union of friends and the introductions of gathering. And Opus No. 909 Myrtle did great interest, and when Bill Thomson the unacquainted, there was a great ex­ her best. Never has more glorious music began mixing tibias and voxes, flutes and change of verbal want ads, will swap, and flowed in that loft than was heard on that musettes all over the place, it was ap­ where-can-I-get-it conversations. If a Saturday. Tiny, as always, enjoyed play- parent that we had heard one of the organ 5 1959 A.T.O.E. Directors present at banquet, (L to R) Kibbee, James, Bell, Simonton, Jacobus, and Walton. greats. Bill looks younger than his twenty­ When the music died down, there was Joe Chadbourne could hear the concert nine years, sounds as though his experi­ the sound of a moving audience, a crowd that his organ and The Barn made pos­ ence had been at least twice that. He that had been respectfully silent through sible- Joe was not able to be present at played with great imagination, precise two of the most delightful hours any of us the time. When the last au jus was but a technique, and with an immediate ap­ can remember. Then it became apparent diminished aroma, we returned to The preciation of what the situation called for that there wasn't a sound from that group Barn for the evening concert. in music. Coming after two different styles of listeners during the playing of two Gordon Kibbee's amazing music is of playing, Bill continued the many thrills hours of music ... not a cough, sound of a available on a few records ... far too few! of the afternoon, adding to the climactic shoe on the wood floor, no whispering, But to be within a few feet of him, and to fantasia of the concert. The end of Bill's just nothing but concentrated silent listen­ watch him as his fingers make their way program sent the audience into a mad ing! So it was little wonder that the per­ around the keys, is to add tremendous scramble in applause and simultaneous formers responded so magnanimously interest to wonderful music. Gordon gave search for words to express their feelings and sympathetically to such an appre­ us the kind of music that has as much as to each other. ciative audience. Never did four men play one has appreciation to understand. His Again, with the appearance of Dave to a more loving congregation. is an intensely correct approach, obvi­ Quinlan, the local A.T.O.E. chapter Immediately after the music, a meeting ously not imitative and not likely to be claimed an honor and Dave gave us that was called of the Board of Directors of imitated quickly. His progressions are de­ delightfully lyric and ballad style that has A.T .O.E. Several matters of routine busi­ ceptively easy to hear and understand, made him so popular with the local organ ness came to their attention and was acted very elusive to reproduce. And his wealth enthusiasts. His music is very singable, upon. But of particular interest was the of variation in treatment of familiar and one feels his personal warmth and his election of officers, the official acceptance themes leaves one with the constantly practised ability to entertain. Dave was of reports, and the resolution to continue recurring wish to hear the whole thing among his friends and his playing made publication of our journal under our own again. Gordon seldom repeats a theme each of us proud of him. Since someone name. Cancellation of the contract with with the same arrangement as before. A had to be last and bring the afternoon's Radio Magazines Incorporated was de­ high point in the program which never music to a close, Dave agreed as part of cided upon as a condition to the above. dipped below cloud level was the playing the host organization to perform that sad This was serious business and was given a of Puccini's Un Bel Di- Vedremo. It pro­ task. Dave does a beautiful job with the lot of thought prior to this meeting. We vided the dramatic change that was stir­ stop tabs, too, and it is always interesting then went our several ways, to meet at ring almost to the point of overwhelming. to watch his manipulation of these to pro­ Herb's Troe for a dinner to match our And the organ responded eagerly to those duce effects not always available from the appetites. About one hundred appeared inspired fingers . . . how could it have setter board. for this official function and here, every­ done otherwise? And when the last notes one participated with equal skill. Dick faded into the silence of the night each of Simonton turned the future of A.T.O.E. us took something of Gordon Kibbee to Judd Walton who stepped up from Vice with us . . . something that lives only in President to take over the presidency. the souls of men like Gordon Kibbee ... Dick was given a real ovation as evidence something that is revealed when those of our regard for A.T.O.E.'s first Presi­ whose love for music is big enough to dent! As a background to the dinner, we bring them together, gather for such oc­ listened to stereophonic tapes of the after­ casions as this. Whether one actually noon's concert! That was one of the remembers the music more vividly than special treats, to hear some of that music the gracious personality of Gordon is again. The tapes were made in order that questionable, but surely the combination

Bill Thomson, recording artist for Pacifica, LosAngeles, California

6 A Review of the George Wright HIFIRECORDS

It seems appropriate to present a sum­ R713-GENIUS OF GEORGE WRIGHT. The mary of this series of records together cover illustration of the interior of the Chicago Paradise Theater is a tip off to the sound con­ with a description of the outstanding tent of this record which is quite theatre-like in Everett Nourse, staff organist at the Fox quality of each. They are all available on several of the numbers. New combinations are monaural , and stereophonic editions are noticeable and pleasing. available starting with number R 707 "More George Wright". A special dis­ R714-HYMNS THAT LIVE. Different only in of skill, artistic interpretation, flawless the type of selections played, no one who had count of 10% is offered to A.T.O.E. ever heard George Wright would have trouble technique, and willing performance are members who wish to purchase the com­ identifying the organist. This recording is complemented by a personality whose plete set of stereophonic records, tax and notable because we have George Wright play­ ing Hymns- old favorites - new harmonies . sparkle is the jewel in its setting. One need shipping charges prepaid. Place order not attempt to describe the exceptional in direct to HIFI records. R715-GEORGE WRIGHT'S IMPRESSIONS Of ordinary language. And yet, all we can MY FAIR LADY. Distinctively different in that hope to do is to revive some reflection of these show tunes really are impressions-excel­ a thrill that is over ... to relive an experi­ lently played in good taste and very much in character with the original score and story. ence that at one moment filled the cup of Easily identified as setting a new pace for the happiness to its very brim! This, Gordon entire series. Kibbee, was a small measure of our ap­ preciation. R701 - GEORGE WRIGHT PLAYS THE R716-GEORGE WRIGHT GOES SOUTH PA­ MIGHTY WURLITZER. This first release on the And in this manner, as it does to every­ CIFIC. Here again it seems we h~ve reached a HIFI label of George Wright is most notable new high in theatre organ entertainment. Even thing, an end came to the Concert­ as setting a new high standard in t~eatre organ greater than its immediate predecessor, . _it is Meeting of The American Association of recordings . It brought t~ HIFI l~steners the lively and uninhibited, a really "happy" rendi­ Theater Organ Enthusiasts ... wish you first Wright dual recording techmque in the tion of superb numbers. number "Dancing Tambourine " . all were here. R717 - FLIGHT TO TOKYO. Was this trip R702 - GEORGE WRIGHT ENCORES. It really necessary? So it would seem for here we might logically be stated that this recording have grouped together all_.th3:t is o_riental _in features percussions as none of the records has name, played with all that 1s onental in Wurlit­ done. Every number . with !he excep~ion of zer. Unusual and outstanding for these reasons "Silvery Moon" is spiced with extensive per­ the record is a decided change in pace and cussion tone of great variety. Best known for setting. · the "bird number", "Quiet Village" and the HONORARY MEMBER 1959 exciting "Crazy Rhondo " . R718-THE ROARING TWENTIES. This is the latest HIFI release of George Wright, the R706 - MERRY CHRISTMAS. Certainly no monaural edition having just appeared on the explanation required as to why this record is shelves recently. The Stereophonic edition will outstanding. Notable is tbe sound of the com­ follow shortly. Recorded on the San Francisco bination action used as a "percussion beat" in Fox Wurlitzer , as was "Showtime" (HIFI " Little Red Monkey ". R708), and furthermore , having been recorded at the same time, it is interesting to note the R707-MORE GEORGE WRIGHT. A different tremendous difference in the sound reproduced recording technique with a resu_lting big~er by the two releases! "ROARING TWEN­ sound make this record outstanding from 1ts TIES" is so vastly superior to its predecessor as predecessors . Recorded and available in a to make a comparison almost impossible!! Stereophonic edition. While not a completely accurate reproduction of this tremendous ·organ, it is a really fine L-P R708 - GEORGE WRIGHT SHOWTIME. Re­ combining the exquisite execution of fourteen corded at the Fox Theatre Wurlitzer, S. F., an favorites of the 20's by George Wright, pressed excellent selection of showtunes marks this on high quality vinylite for which HIFI has be­ record as an outstanding production. Record­ come known. Listen for the Tibia-Sax com­ in~ difficulties make accurate _reproduction _of binations in "It Happened in Monterey", the this organ difficult, but defimtely outstanding 25n Tibia in "Then I'll Be Happy" , the 16" in the HIFI series-e xcellent on the Stereo English Horn in "Mis~issippi Mud'.', a_nd t~e version. delicate Musette and Krumet combmatlons m V "I Wanna Be Loved By You". To be able to . R71 O - GEORGE WRIGHT SOUND. A de­ hear this excellent recording is a privile~e that cidedly new so_und emerges from this recor1- no organ enthusiast should deny himself! ing, no doubt mfluenced by the ~ox _rec~rds Jesse Crawford, one of the truly great organists Twenty-eight minutes and twelve seconds of bigness of sound ._An eth~real quahty 1s heard pure enjoyment! For complete details on the in the theatre organ field , was chosen as HONOR­ at times, not previously evident. organ see Volume I, No . 2 of The TIBIA. ARY MEMBER OF A.T.O.E. FOR 1959, in accord­ ance with the bi-laws . Dick Simonton placed Mr. R712 - GEORGE WRIGHT CONN-ORGAN. Outstanding for an obvious reason, t~is record Crawford's name in nomination for this honor in is good listening for even the most avid theatre LATE FLASH - the Stereophonic edition response to President Judd Walton's first official organ fan. Non-standard tonal effects liven. t~e arrived for review just prior to press tim~ ... action . A future issue will feature the Crawford renditions of several of the numbers , and this 1s its argument enough for the most pers1stant hold-out to purchase stereo equipment!! Story in detail. Wright at his electronic best, to say the least. 7 FAMOUS 0 R G A N S ___,...------e::.- ,-...._

Paradise Theatre, Chicago, Wurlitzer, 5-21, ... and as the same console before rebuilding. (Side trim removed.) appears today.

THE RICH VAUGHN ORGAN

The Theater Organ Hobby as it is recog­ gan in New York that first attracted stops in Texas and the Pacific Northwest. but his!!!! Having started his tour deter­ time it arrived in California, the original nized today has not been established by Vaughn to the theater organ (as was the It was in the old 4000-seat Paradise The­ mined to locate a suitable four manual Exposition Wurlitzer had been removed accident, but is the result of many activi­ case with many ofus). ater in Chicago that Vaughn found the Wurlitzer, it is possible for any enthusiast and sold to another enthusiast and the ties. As a matter of fact, there are as many five manual, twenty-one rank Wurlitzer to share the feeling Vaughn had in finding, chambers had been made ready for the facets involved as there are theater organ new arrival. Finding that a newly acquired Hammond that eventually became his. All of this not a four manual, but a late model FIVE enthusiasts and to trace them all would be did not meet his requirements as a theater activity was on a bid basis, theater man­ manual (which he hadn't even realized ex­ almost impossible - certainly time-con­ isted), complete with twenty-one ranks of organ enthusiast made Vaughn want to agements saying, in effect, "Go out and A crew of five men went to work on the suming. There are, however, a few factors own an instrument with pipes, preferably look at what we have and if you are inter­ pipes and seven sets of percussions . organ the minute it was unloaded, and the that stand out as being primarily respon­ Wurlitzer. A lead from F. M. Brown, a ested in any of them give us a bid". He did console was sent to the shop of the Ger­ sible for not only bringing this most in­ Los Angeles Wurlitzer Violin collector, just that! As installed in the theater, the organ con­ man cabinet maker, Mr. Finkert. One of teresting and fascinating of hobbies to the tained the following ranks: - Open his craftsmen, following a design prepared Who. is Rich Vaughn? Surely this article resulted in the purcnase of the three man­ public's attention, but even for the exist­ The Paradise Wurlitzer proved to be in Diapason, Concert Flute, two Tibia by Vaughn, re-veneered and refinished the would not be complete without some ual Wurlitzer which was featured at the ance of A.T.O .E. itself, to say nothing of practically new condition having been Clausa, two Solo Strings, two Viol console. A new top, new bench and new mention of the man who has been largely this very magazine. 1939 San Francisco Exposition located on played for only about one year, it was D'Orchestres, Quintadena, Dulciana, side jambs were crafted, carefully follow­ responsible for the popularity of theater the man~made Treasure Island. Removed claimed, following its installation by the Tuba Horn, Tuba Mirabilis, two Vox ing the new plan, in matching split grain organ recordings today. Vaughn is a and crated by the Wurlitzer Company, the If these factors were to be listed, among Wurlitzer factory, after which it was cov­ Humana, Clarinet, Orchestral Oboe, mahogany. The manual and stop keys Charter Member of A. T.O.E. having at­ organ was trucked from San Franciso in the several that would have to be counted ered up. Its appearance seemed to make Kinura, Oboe Horn, English Horn, Brass were in perfect condition and required no tended the organization meeting held by as most important would be the Rich 1946 for installation in Vaughn's newly this story reasonably true, and although it Sax and Brass Trumpet. Included in the replacement or re-finishing. It took about Dick Simonton at his home on February Vaughn Organ-the Wurlitzer that completed residence in Los Angeles. Even could not be played since the console had percussions were two Xylophones, Glock­ thirty days to complete the console, and in 8, 1955. It was at this meeting that some "made" HJ-FI. with several additions to the original been disconnected, the more Vaughn enspiel, Chrysoglott with Vibraharp at­ the meantime, Vaughn and the five man of the tapes were first played that were eight ranks, this organ still did not fulfill looked at it the more enthusiastic he be­ tachment, Marimba, Piano and toy shelf crew had not been idle. Into the prepared soon to be released as the first of the HI­ The Rich Vaughn Organ is not just an­ the desires of this determined enthusiast, came over its possibilities. He made an and traps. rooms went the floor frames, reservoirs, Fl Theater Organ records . . . • a preview other theater organ that was purchased so he set out in earnest to locate a theater offer (well into four figures) and continued chests, duct-work, relays and blower that few had any idea would be so impor­ from a theater, dis-mantled, transported organ that would. his tour, not knowing whether or not his Now began a period of concentrated ac­ (Spencer Orgblo 15 H.P.). The organ it­ tant. Quiet and unassuming, he prefers to to, and installed in a home. These events bid would be accepted. After several more tivity. For, having purchased the organ, self is installed in two chambers, each .be known as just another theater organ to be sure are a part of this story, but only Starting in New York, Vaughn made a weeks of travel he arrived back in Los there was the exacting task of removing, 14' by 14' with 14' ceilings, located side­ enthusiast. Recently re-elected to a sec­ a small part. Actually, this theater organ nation-wide tour visiting theaters and Angeles only to be disappointed - no shipping, cleaning, rebuilding and re­ by-side, with floors just below the base­ ond term as a member of the Board of which is today more famous throughout studios in which he suspected there was word from Chicago. Finally after another installing it in the Los Angeles residence. ment floor level. The shutters open into a Directors of A.T.O.E., you can be sure the world than any other, was started on any possibility of finding the instrument month had passed with no word, he called Locating a competant organ man, sound mixing chamber that extends up that he is not about to retire from his the­ the road to fame by another organ, he was searching for. Included in his Chicago and learned that his offer had just Vaughn returned to Chicago and super­ two floors, the organ actually speaking ater organ activities ... which is indeed equally famous in it's day. For it was itinerary was the New York Paramount been accepted - the Paradise Wurlitzer, vised the removal. The organ was loaded into a 25' by 35' room through two grilles fortunate for theater organ enthusiasts hearing Jesse Crawford recordings, made Studio and several neighborhood theaters, Opus No. 1942 shipped August 27, 1928, into a thirty-five foot truck-van and into 6' by 9' long. The relays are located in a the world over! on the renowned Paramount Studio Or- four or five theaters in Chicago as well as was his- still in the theater to be sure, one half of a railroad freight car. By the separate room, adjacent to the Solo 8 9 Rich Vaughn meets George Wright

During the later part of the work, Vaughn happened to hear several organ transcriptions played on the air by a local radio station. A telephone call to KF AC revealed that the organist was George Wright, then playing at the New York Paramount Theater. Immediately placing a call to the theater, the operator connected him with Wright who had just completed his Organ Solo. The conver­ sation soon turned to the five manual project underway in California, with Vaughn tendering an invitation to the new acquaintance to come and have a look-see. About six or eight months later, in 1951, Wright did fly to the west coast and with several of his friends stopped by to see the organ which by now had been tuned, regulated and was in excellent condition . . . . and as the console is planned when rebuilt to accommodate the addition of 25 ranks! The rest is history. Having made him­ self thoroughly familiar with the tremen­ dous five manual console and its RICH VAUGHN ORGAN (Cont.) thousands of possible combinations, Wright was soon making tapes of the Chamber. Behind this is the blower room dio" which implies deadness, but a live organ. In 1955 the first George Wright ­ which also houses the action-current gen­ theater-like encl9sure. Vaughn has just Rich Vaughn Organ HI-FIRECORDS erating mechanism. Current is supplied by purchased and taken delivery of, most of were issued. Since that date, memorable a specially built motor-generator set with the Denver Auditorium Wurlitzer, a four to all theater organ enthusiasts, the a variable output of 10 to 15 volts at 100 manual organ with thirty-five ranks. The records of this series sold has numbered amps. Paradise Organ has one m_ajor short­ over two million copies! They have done coming - there are not enough accom­ more to popularize the theater organ to­ As has been the case with so many home paniment stops - soft pipes and gentle day than any other single activity. But installations, getting the three phase sounds. To be added to the organ to over­ even more important, they have served power run into the residence proved to be come this deficit will be 25 ranks as as an introduction to the gorgeous a real trial. After much negotiating with follows: - a four rank Vox Humana sounds of a fine theater organ superbly the local power company, the necessary Chorus ( 16' Vox, 8' Vox, 8' Vox Celeste, played, thus opening the entire field of connections were made to the blower 4' Vox), Krumet, Musette, FTench Horn, the theater organ to thousands of newly motor. Being unable to use lifting equip­ Horn Diapason, Open Diapason, Dul­ created enthusiasts! ment, it required 14 men to move the con­ ciana, Dulciana Celeste, 4' Metal Har­ sole into place, which was now completed monic Flute, Quintadena Celeste, Solo Many hours have been spent by Ken and ready to connect up to the junction String (II ranks), Viol D'Orchestre (II Simpson, an extraordinary organ tech­ boards in the relay room. This was care­ ranks), Viol Celeste (II ranks), Flute nician, in revoicing and refining the fully accomplished and the organ was Celeste, Gamba, Gamba Celeste, English organ to meet the demands of a per­ complete! Seventy-three days had elapsed Post Horn, Style 0 Trumpet, and Doppel fectionist. The organ, as heard on the since the installation was started. It is Flute. Additions to the pedal organ will records, is as accurate a reproduction doubtful if a more meticulous installation include 16' Quintaton (an extension of the of the actual sound heard in the room had ever been accomplished, so carefully Quintadena), 16' English Post Horn, 16' as modern recording equipment can executed was the entire operation. Clarinet, 16' Metal Diaphone, 16' Gamba make it. and 16' Trombone (an extension of the Style D Trumpet). All of these additions To the original organ has been added six­ will be from the Denver organ with the teen foot octaves of the Oboe Horn (Bas­ exception of the Krumet, Musette and soon) and Solo String (Double Solo Quintaton. The stop lay-out of the five Announcement of the formation of a String). Several additional Tibia muta­ manual console will be expanded to the new A.T.O.E. Chapter to be called the tions have-been wired in also. maximum possible to include all of the DALLAS CHAPTER has been received necessary new stop-keys to a depth of from Dennis Guill, Secretary-treasurer. All of the available space is now taken. four bolsters! Organized with 12 regular members and Which brings us up to the present. But 2 Charter Members, the Chapter's first what of the future? There is no more room For a while the organ will again be silent project will be the renovation of the available, sooooooo - -but not for long. When re-installed with Dallas Melba Theatre 235 Wurlitzer. At these additions, a wonderful new theater least two members have home installa­ OUT IT COMES!!!!!!! A new organ organ should emerge, which will place it tions, a 2/7 Wurl. and a 4.30 Morton. room 50' by 100' with a 25' ceiling is soon among the great theater organs of all The A.T.O.E. Board welcomes the new to be built . . . not a Celotex lined "stu- time! Chapterwith their best wishes for success. 10 SPECIFICATIONS OF THE RICH VAUGHN WURLITZER CHAMBER MANUALS & PITCH OF STOPS DRAWN MAIN No.of PEDAL-33-2p ACCOMP-42-13s-2p GREAT-55-3s-1 p BOMBARDE-29-3s ORCHESTRAL-33 SOL0-25 COMPASS PIPES PRES. 10 Pistons 10 Pistons 10 Pistons 10 Pistons 10 Pistons 6 Pistons Tuba Horn 16-4' 85 15• 16-8 8 16-8 -16s 16-8-4 -16s 16-8 8 Ooen Diapason 16-4' 85 10· 16-8 8 16-8 16 8 Tibia Clausa 8-4' 73 12· 8 -Sp 8-4 -8s-4s 16-8-5 1/ 3-4 -2 2/ 3-2- -8s 16-8-4 16-8-4-2 2/ 3 8-4 Solo String 8-4' 73 10· 8 16-8 16-8 8 (i:i)16-8 8 Viol D'Orchestre 8-4' 73 10· 8 8-4 8 -4 8 8-4 8 Viol Celeste 8-4' 73 10· 8 8-4 8 -4 8 8-4 8 Carinet 8' 61 10· 8 8 16-8 8 Bourdon-Flute 16-2' 97 10· *32-16-8-4 8-4 2/ 3-2 8 -4 -2 2/ 3-2-1 3/ 5 8 8-4 Quintadena 8' 61 10· 8 8 8 Dulciana 8' 61 10· 8 Vox Humana 8' 61 6. 8-4 16-8 8 823 Chrvsoalott 49 X X X X

SOLO English Horn 8' 61 15• 8 8 -Bs 8 8 8 8 Tuba Mirabilis 8-4' 73 15• 8 -Bs 8 16-8-4 -16s 8 Brass Trumpet 8' 61 10· 8 8 8 8 8 8 Tibia Clausa 16-2' 97 15• 16-8 -Sp 8-4 -Bs-4s 16-8 -4-3 1/ 5-2 2/ 3-2-1 3/ 5 16-8-4 -Bs 16,-8-4 8-4 Oboe Horn 16-8' 73 10· 16-8 8 8 8 Solo String 16-4' 73 10· 16-8 16-8 -Bs 16-8 8 @)16-8 8 Orchestral Oboe 8' 61 10· 8 8 8 Kinura 8' 61 10· 8 8 8 Brass SaxoDhone 8' 61 10· 8 8 -Bs 8 16-8 8 Vox Humana 8' 61 6. 8-4 16-8 8 8 694 Xylophone 37 X X Glockenspiel 37 -xs X X X X Bells-riet Glock X Chimes 25 -xs X

Marimba 49 X X X X HARP OUTSIDE )I X "

Master Xylophone 37 X X Piano 85 16 8 16-8 -4 8 Sleigh Bells 25 X

COUPLERS AB-GB-SB A4-S8 -G4s-S8s-S8p G16-G4-S16 -S8s-S8p G16-G8 -S8 016

Bass Drum X Kettle Drum X

Cymbal X

Brush Cymbal X X Field Drums X

Mandolin X Snare Drum X

Tambourine X Castenets X Chinese Block X Tom Tom X

Sand Block X

TREMOLO-9 Key Cheek Switches Right levers for: - Thunder Train Whistle Main Vibraharp Grand Pere. Crash Boat Whistle Solo Chrysoglott Damper Grand Reed Sforzando Fire Gong Tibia Clause (S) Grand Cymbal Crash Triangle Vox Humana 3 swell pedals Chinese Gong Vox Humana (S) l Crescendo Pedal LeftToe Pistons for : Surf - Tuba General Cancel Auto Horn Diaphone & String 3 Swell Coupler Switches Tremulants Off Klaxon p - P i zzacato Touch Tuba Mirabilis Tremulants On Gong s - Second Touch Tibia Clause 3 Swell Indicators Bird Whistle Ship's Bell

*Resultant from Bourdon 16' and l O 2/3 ' Total Pipes- 1517, Notes 344 * - Ensemble y this time many theater organ credit for making the "Wonder Morton" · B music lovers have had an oppor- an instrument worthy of the capabilities tunity to hear George Wright perform on of Mr. Wright. a theater organ. In a recent concert ap­ pearance in the Pacific Northwest, Wright The concert included 17 numbers, three of played an electronic organ, which had which were medleys. From This Moment been instal1ed in a theater for the oc­ On, Edelma, This Nearly Was Mine, casion. For his final encore, he moved to Duke Ellington Medley, When Day Is the theater organ, which had reposed Done, Vanessa, Quiet Village (with friend sadly in the pit through-out the evening. bird) and Selections from "My Fair The response to this bit of "real" organ Lady" made up the first half of the pro­ music is said to have been deafening, and gram. After a short intermission the The chambers are located under the stage, one can well imagine the difference be­ concert was re-opened with Married i Can with shutter openings across the entire tween the two instruments. Always Get, followed by Nobody Knows width of the stage. The 14 ranks include: The Trouble I've Seen, Medley of Cole Last April 21st, however, a rather unusual ~Tuba 16'-4', English Horn 16'-8', Open Porter Hits, Roller Coaster, What Is factor was introduced to the concert Diapason 16' -4', Tibia Clausa 16' -2', T~ere To Say, The Whistler And His Dog, played by Wright in Fresno at the Warner Flute 16' -2', Gamba 8' -4', Violi 8' 4', Five Songs By Rogers and Hart, Honky Brother's Theater, even more unusual Celest II 8' -4', Celeste III 8' -4', Oboe Tonk Train Blues and American Bolero. than the switch from an electronic to a Horn 8', Kinura 8', Krumet 8', Vox The Five Songs By Rogers and Hart pipe organ as occured in Seattle. The 4 Humana 8', and Clarinet 8'. The 16' featured Guy Thomas, a vocalist. He did manual 14 rank Robert Morton in the octave of the Tibia is so large that a a professional job, and was very expertly Fresno Theater is a decidedly unique double secondary is required in the chest accompanied by Wright. instrument, and is without a doubt, the to operate the pallets! loudest 14 rank organ that Morton ever This was the first chance for most of those built! In I 953 this organ was serviced To have heard the organ in 1953 and then attending to hear George Wright at the preparatory to having the instrument to have heard it as played by Wright in console of a Robert Morton. It must be broadcast as a regular feature of a local 1958 was to reveal a difference in the in­ truthfully stated that the Warner Theater radio station. The console lowers on an strument almost impossible to describe. Morton was outstanding and worthy of elevator into a circular concrete enclosure, Under the command of George Wright, the talents of the soloist. It was truly a and when at the bottom of this barrel­ the organ was breath-takingly beautiful. memorable evening of pure enjoyment. shaped well, the sound of the organ when It was obvious to the experienced listener, played was absolutely deafening. however, that more had transpired than met the ear. The organ which had before sounded loud and raucous, unrefined and coarse, even when in perfect tune was now smoothly beautiful. Responsible for the transformation was Dick Villemin of Porterville, Calif. Many hours of exacting work had been put in on the organ by Villemin, revoicing, refining and tuning. Changes were made in the Tibia tremolo hook-up so that the right adjustment in speed and depth were now possible. Other changes were completed in the mechanical parts, and finally, for the concert, the top halfofthe Tibia rank was replaced with a Wurlitzer Tibia. The results were almost unbelieveable, and Villemin must be given

Close-up of the 4 manual Robert Morton con­ sole. Note three small floodlights to illuminate Richard Villemin, the man responsible for the manuals . excellent condition of the organ. 12 CHAPTER t 0 ttc; AC~T U/ljj~~ \, • o-~· DELAWARE VALLEY CHAPTER ....--:;j The first quarterly meeting of 1958 was held ------at the "19th Street" Theater in Allentown, Pa. The organ is a 2m/6r Moller, adequate for the size of the theatre and well complemented by good acoustics. It should be mentioned that George Mac Neal helped to rescue this organ from the fate of most old theatre organs, and aided in restoring it to its present fine condi­ tion. The second meeting of the year took place at Officers of Delaware Valley Chapter welcoming new member Ashley Miller. (Left to right) George the home of Mr. Charles Dix, Leesport, Pa. MacNeal-Chairman. Dotty MacClain-Vice Chairman and Chairman of Program Committee. Mr. Dix's 3m/12r Marr and Colton, formerly Ashley Miller. Esther Sweet-Secretary-Treasurer. Jim Sweet. (Kneeling) Bill Floyd and Stanley in the Capitol Theater, Reading, Pa., is in­ stalled in a studio built in a barn behind his Warzala. Program committee Members. home. The beautiful setting in the country their guests. After giving a brief outline of the The August meeting was held at the Marina made it ideal for the picnic meeting planned history of the 3m/9r Kilgen theatre organ, he Theatre in San Francisco. The organ installed with the weather cooperating beautifully. introduced the first soloist of the day, John there is a 2m/6r (open diapason, violin, tibia Leonard MacClain entertained in an up­ Muri. Mr. Muri, a charming gentleman and an clausa, trumpet, vox humana, cremone) Robert roarious fashion with some still and com­ excellent organist, delighted his audience with Morton which has been capably kept in con­ munity sing slides (from his extensive col­ various pop selections, including Porgy and dition by Larry Vanucci in his "ofl" hours lection of silent film days fame) and gave the Bess and An American in Paris. His clever per­ from the Lost Week End night club where he typical Wurlitzer type accompaniment to two formance of the light classics was very remin­ is regularly heard at the console of the Wur­ rented silent films. iscent of the silent movie era. Muri, a student litzer. Larry introduced the organ and gave its The third meeting was divided into two of Arthur Gutow, played in many of Chicago's history and then turned it over to members to parts. The group met first at the home of Mr. and the Calumet Area's leading theatres. play. At show time the meeting was adjourned Reginald Watson, Manhasset, L.I. Mr. Wat­ The second soloist of the day was Jack to Fishermen's Wharf for luncheon. son's fine 3m/14r Wurlitzer installation is a Gustafson, popular young organist of Rol­ The final meeting of the year was held Dec. marvelous example of what c.an be done to get lareana Skating Rink in Wheaton, Ill. Jack, 28, _beingco-sponsored by the Wurlitzer Organ real "lush" theatre type Wurlitzer sound in a who specializes in Latin-American music, did Guild of Oakland. Mr. Dewey Cagle, president home despite the totally different acoustical a fine job and was received enthusiastically by of the W.0.G. and an enthusiastic member of environment. The group then moved over to all present. He has installed a six rank Wur­ the N.C.C., "MC"ed the meeting which was Merrick, L. I. to the home of Mr. Wayne litzer organ in his home and a future meeting held on the 3rd floor of the lithography estab­ Schmidt, who has managed to achieve very ·will be held there. lishment of Gregory and Falk in San Fran­ outstanding results with his 2m/8r Wurlitzer. Credit for restoring this instrument goes to cisco. Vern Gregory of this firm has combined The last meeting of the year occurred at the Mr. Tex Richter, organ artisan of the Chicago a Wurlitzer and a Smi'th organ , added a 3rd studio of Mr. Richard Loderhose, Jamaica, area. Mr. Richter has altered the sound of the manual to the Style D Wurlitzer console, and L.I., whose Paramount Studio Wurlitzer, en­ Kilgen considerably. He has replaced the at concert time had 13 ranks playing. larged by almost ten ranks, is absolutely sen­ original Clarinet with a Hope-Jones Post Horn Our host introduced the organ and invited sational. It is a 4m/30r, at last count, as it is from the Covent Garden Theatre in Chicago. members of both organizations to play. After still growing. It is in beautiful condition, the The Kilgen strings have been replaced by Kim­ intermission, Larry Vanucci, the featured installation expertly done, and sound and ball strings and there is an actual accordian artist, performed at the console . Larry demon­ acoustics of the studio are superb. Ann Leaf which is playable from the solo manual. Th~ strated his versatility by playing a wide variety was featured organist at the meeting, which organ sounds very large for a nine rank instru­ of numbers including ballads, Latin American also proved to be the dedication concert for ment. rhythms , boogie beats, and blues. the organ in its new home. Our next meeting is set to be held at the Bob Jacobus. Chairman Due to Mr. Loderhose's kind invitation to Chicago Stadium. Plans to hold a meeting at chapter members to a private concert at his the Rialto Theatre in Joliet had to be cancelled studio, many were treated to an encore of this because of the extensive water damage done to lovely organ. On this occasion, Ed Gress did the organ. the honors at the console, with many notables John Seng, Secretary of the organ world 'taking a turn' later in the afternoon. The Chapter acknowledges the wonderful hospitality accorded us by our various hosts, NORTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER and thanks each of them for the opportunity of seeing and hearing these fine instruments. Summer activities were started with a full It would be hard to top the past year's activi­ day spent in Sacramento, Calif. The morning ties, yet we are in hopes of more of the same to session was spent enjoyably at the Alhambra come in the new year. Theatr~ where we were guests of the manager, We hope this little account of our travels Mr. Richard Mears and the United California will be interpreted as an invitation to all Theatres. Judd Walton introduced the 3m/1 lr A.T.O.E. members in our area to join jus in Robert Morton and gave a demonstration of future activities. its various tonal possibilities. Members and Esther A. Sweet guests who followed at the console were Fred Secretary-Treasurer Clapp, Clyde Derby, Don Reed, Aletha Bow­ man, Warren White, Bob Vaughn, and Larry Vanucci. The morning session was finished off by a sparkling performance by the featured MIDWEST CHAPTER organist, Dave Quinlan, who regularly plays Larry Vanucci. organist at The Lost Weekend , S.F.. the 2m/6r Wurlitzer at the 615 Club in Benicia. featured at the Northern California Chapter De­ The second meeting of the Midwest Chapter After luncheon, many members accepted Clyde cember Meeting. Vern Gregory's 3-13 Wurlitzer­ Derby's invitation to hear and play his Model or A.T.O.E. was held Sunday, May 18, 1958 at Srnith . the Palace Theatre, Gary, Ind. John Shanahan, 210 Wurlitzer installed in his home in nearby Vice President, welcomed all members and Carmichael. 13 l4,{u~ I~ President Vice-Pres. YOUR Walton is a Field Representative for the Farm James is an auditor for Alameda County, Bureau, a private organization of farmers. His California, and plays the organ professionally NEW travels take him throughout the West, but throughout the Bay area. His musical back­ primarily he covers a five county area. Mar­ ground dates from school days, and includes DIRECTORS ried, he has three children, two of whom are most of the band instruments as well as the married. His interest in theater organs dates organ. He is married, and has two children, back to 1926 when he first heard one. Is one of whom is in the Marines, the other, a who they are, presently installing in his home a Style E (7 daughter, in school. Tiny is noted for his per­ rank) Wurlitzer to which he is adding 4 ranks. severance, for one thing- keeping the Oakland what they do, Builds, services and plays the organ, but not Paramount Wurlitzer playing. It has been publicly- -enjoys spending a lovely day in some "rained on" four times, and each time he has their interests, etc. musty old organ chamber. Has a large library had to releather and repair many of the chests of theatre organ records obtained by searching on both the Main and Solo chambers. It paid thru thousands of 78's in Salvation Army off- they put on a new roof this fall (not a Stores, and by trading with collectors in Eu­ drop of rain has fallen since!) Has issued one rope & U.S. LP on Doric Label, a gem.

~~ Sec'y- Treas. Editor Asst. Editor

Pease is Comptroller for the Walt Disney Bell hails from San Luis Obispo county, on Jacobus is an Electical Engineer employed at Studios in Hollywood. His father was promi­ California's Pacific coast, and is a Radiologist. a west coast navy shipyard. He is from a family nent in organ affairs in the early days, a love He has had considerable musical education, long engaged in the construction and mainte­ which has been inherited by Paul. Has an and played the theater organ in the towns nance of organs, his father having been associ­ organ installed in his Burbank home which he near his home professionally while attending ated with his uncle in the formation of the plays "when the spirit moves him". Has been school. He also holds a degree in engineering old American Photoplayer Co. This was later actively interested in the' Theater Organ for and has built a three manual electronic organ. merged with a Los Angeles Organ building many years, and has been the A.T.O.E. Secty­ Married, Ralph has two children no longer firm to become the Robert Morton Organ Co. treasurer since the group was organized in living at home. He and his wife have been Bob plays a little bit (says he doesn't play at 1955. He lives with his wife and children high interested in writing for years, and their past all) and is married. He lives with his wife and on a hillside overlooking San Fernando Valley. experience in this field is indeed fortunate for two school age boys in Vallejo. He has been Has served faithfully as Secretary-Treasurer A.T.O.E. Has just recently purchased an I I associated with Judd Walton for nearly 15 since A.T.O.E. was founded in 1955. His is the rank 2 manual Wurlitzer which he intends to years in the pursuit of the Theater organ task of filing all of the necessary forms for install in -his home in the near future. His hobby. He owns a 2 manual 8 rank Wurlitzer, tax-exemption requirements. presentations as Program Chairman at the An­ which he has plans for installing in his home nual Meeting will be long remembered! later on.

Director Director Director

Simonton is the immediate past president and Kibbee is a professional musician and is widely Wittenburg is a Los Angeles Businessman, was responsible for calling together the group known throughout the West. Married, he calls and for years was active in the foreign ·sports that became A.T.O.E. three and a half years home a lovely ranch style hillside house in car market. Married, his abode nestles in ago. He is a businessman engaged in the musi­ Encino, Calif. where he resides with his wife. Beverly Hills, Calif. and contains a fine 2 cal field (program music, radio, and TV) and For many years the organist for the radio pro­ manual 10 rank Wurlitzer. Bud was an un­ is an electrical engineer. He invented many of gram called "The Beulah Show", Gordon has satisfied electronic organ owner a few years the circuits now used in· electronic organs. made many appearances on radio and TV. back when he was introduced to the Theater Married, he resides in North Hollywood with He teaches, and plays a permanent engagement Organ. It did not take him long to decide that his wife and four children. An organ enthusiast at the Mir-A-Mar on the beach. He does movie this was for him, and presently his wife's from way back, he has two organs in his home work, one of his latest appearances being the storage room gave way to pipes, percussions, - an Aeolian-Skinner Concert organ (60 plus organ music heard in "Giant". A thorough and and organ parts. He has been an avid follower ranks) and a beautiful custom built 4 manual superb musician, Gordon is one of the truly of the theater organ hobby, and has made 37 rank Wurlitzer. He has travelled throughout great contemporary organists. At home he possible the two records released by Bill Europe and is known in musical circles plays a custom built Hammond, and owns a 3 Thomson, played on the Wittenburg Wurlitzer. throughout the world. Above all, he is a serious manual 10 rank Wurlitzer which he has plans Without a doubt, his organ has the only rhine­ and informed enthusiast. for in the near future. stone studded English Horn Stop Tablet! 14 ~ ~ Director, see story on page 8. P.O. Box 211 Fort Knox, Kentucky THE CINEMA ORGAN SOCIETY January 29, 1959 Gettysburg College American members of the C.O.S. were Gettysburg, Pa. Dear Mr. Walton: doubtless mystified on reading, in the *para­ April 30, 1958 graph relating to the Robinson Cleaver Theatre Organ Club, that "Although other f~ clubs Dr. Ralph Bell Enclosed you will find a copy of the program that Reginald Foort will play for us this were formed or reformed after the war, none 601 Tennessee Street survived for long." The explanation, of course Vallejo, California coming April 3rd. We are quite happy to have him come to play and Richmond Organ is that the indefatigable Frank Hare does not .regard the C.O.S. as a fan club. Dear Dr. Bell: Enthusiasts are realiY going all out to give him a royal welcome. The Cinema Organ Society is more than a fan club, and the relatively high dues enable it When I received a reply to a letter I sent to I like his choice of selections and he will do a little bit of serious work besides some of his to keep British members in close touch with Mel Doner, I was advised that you had taken current events, by means of monthly news­ over the job of editing the TIBIA. Congratula­ better known lighter renditions of the popular songs. letters and an illustrated journal produced six tions! Ever since I received my first copy of the times a year. TIBIA, I knew that I would be looking forward The admission price for the concert is $1.00 and tickets are going to be available in music Although a considerable proportion of to receiving each succeeding issue as I had the C.O.S. members are amateurs, subscribers first. stores from Washington to Baltimore and all over Virginia and we hope to have a good also include many professional organists, and Although I am perhaps one of the youngest persons connected with motion picture theatre theatre organ enthusiasts belonging to the crowd. management, music publishing, broadcasting, A.T.O.E., (I am 19), I feel that I have as sincere The latest news is that the organ club has its own pipe organ if it can find the space to put and organ building. This was explained by an interest in the instrument as a person who Vice-Chairman Douglas Badham in the course spent their spare time at silent-picture theatres it in. It is a large Kimball job reported to be in good condition. Fortunately I will be leaving of a Midland Radio Broadcast at which Chair­ during the 1920's. I have managed to build up man Hubert Selby was one of the featured a collection of some 100 L.P. recordings of active service at the end of February so I will be able to hear the concert. organists last Easter. theatre organs all the way from the Radio City The C.O.S. was formed at the end of 1952 Music Hall 4-59 Wurlitzer to Leon Berry's I am awaiting the arrival of a very overdue copy of the TIBIA. I am going to send in my "to cater for those interested in the organ as a little 3-12 farce in Chicago. means of entertainment, by providing oppor­ Since I have been a small child, I have had dues for membership soon but I believe the card states that we are due for four issues of tunities for the exchange of information, and an ever-growing interest in the Radio City facilities for the enjoyment of organ music." Music Hall Wurlitzer. You might be interested the TIBIA but so far I have received only three so I'm waiting. Since the beginning of 1953 it has visited al­ to know that this organ is as active today as most one hundred different theatres, concert it was the day it was installed. It is used not halls, etc., and well over sixty different profes­ only during intermissions, but also in con­ Yours truly, Raymond A. Brubacher sional organists have played for the Society. junction with the symphony orchestra. Unlike Great Britain is smaller than the State of the (4-36) Wurlitzer in the Paramount Theatre Colorado, but within that area, the C.O.S. in New York, the RCMH organ is utilized has a number of District Secretaries to look eight times or more every day. It is interesting after local members' interests. to note that while this is the largest of all A Program of Classical and Popular Organ Music at the Richmond Mosque Joint meetings with the Theatre Organ Club organs Wurlitzer built, there is only one LP are sometimes held in the more remote towns. recording on the market featuring this splendid by The policy of the Society is controlled by a instrument. (Columbia-The RCMH Organ­ Mr. Reginald Foort, F.R.C.O. committee elected at the Annual General Meet­ Ashley Miller) to be given Friday evening, April 3, 1959 at ing, which is always associated with a unit Let us hope that publications such as the organ recital. The scope of C.O.S. activities TIBIA will promote the recording of such fine 8:30 PM. at Richmond, Virginia may be judged from the fact that, in addition instruments and keep alive the interest in the to the usual officers, there is also a Press Rela­ "Mighty Wurlitzer." Signature Tune: "Keep Smiling" Reginald Foort tions Officer and a Liaison Officer. The General Overture from Orpheus in Hades Offenbach Secretary is Dennis Mathew, 19 GlanviJle Best wishes, Road, Bromley, Kent. Rodger L. Reiner Reminiscences of the Great Masters Recording Favorites-Past & Future *In "The Tibia" Vol. II No. 2. Toccata and Fugue in D Minor J.S. Bach In a Persian Market Ketelbey HERE, THERE, AND EVERYWHERE Medley of Scottish Melodies organs are in the news again. Cleveland, Ohio boasts a 'theatrical Organ' in its Lamplight Inn, INTERMISSION mentions the toy counter in typical delight of a January 25, 1959 new found friend. In Litlington, Herts, Granada Hills, California Waltz-time on the Organ England, the Gaumont cinema organ from Dust Storm Northampton, now reposes in a 'soundproof cowshed' but the doors are left open so that Judd Walton The Bells of St. Mary's Emmett 227 Texas St. the music can be appreciated by neighbors. Vallejo, California Nightmare in the Mosque More Recording Favorites Dear Sir; Parade of the Wooden Soldiers Jessel Please send me the first 2 volumes of TIBIA, IN MEMORIUM: From the Los Angeles Times and enter my subscription for the balance of Second Hungarian Rhapsody Liszt the $9.00 check enclosed. I understand this ian0s.HU. 4-J 1 will give me all issues to date. I am the owner of a Robert Morton 2M-8R organ, but it will probably be a year or so before the installation is complete. Note: Mr. Foort will announce and explain Sincerely, John F. Spradley each selection himself. 11218 Montgomery Ave. Granada Hills, Calif. Admission $1.00 15 PLAYEDON THEMIGHTY WURLITZER FOXTHEATRE, SAN FRANCISCO

he inimitable, irrepressible George Wright tears T through typical tunes of the roaring '20's on the mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ in the 6500 seat San Francisco Fox Theater. Available on rrmonaural" and 11stereo" HIFIRECORDS at -recordsshops and hifi equipment dealers everywhere

~. HIGHfl~;•t;;;atRE~OmRn~•INGS, INC. \V 7803Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood 46, California