JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN THEATREORGAN SOCIETY

VOLUME 13 NUMBER 3 Another breakthrough ~omWurifzer: OrbirIII ... the Hur e ecrronicJYrnthe.rizer combinedwith a 1pinerorgan.

Wurlitzer has taken a giant step in space-age technology to bring you a unique instrument ... an easy-to-play electronic synthesizer combined with a full-featured spinet organ.

WURLilzEll has the way Wurlitzer, DeKalb, Illinois 60115

. : ...... -.:... •• f' .... . AD NO. 71-406. This advertisement will appear in Music Trades, April & July; Theatre Organ, June; International Musician, Sept.; This Week in Chicago; June 26; Musical Electronics, May/ June, 1971. THE COVER PHOTO

Wurlitzer Publix #1, Opus No. 2164, origin­ ally installed in the Paramount Theatre, Oakland, California, is now playing in the Journol of the American Theatre Organ Society Melody Inn, Los Altos, California. Story on

Volume 13, No . 3 page 18.

June, 1971 In This Issue ATOS National Membership is $8 .00 per cal ­ endar year , which includes a subscription to FEATURES THEATRE ORGAN , the official publication of the American Theatre Organ Society . Single 4 The Last in the Old Line State .. Ray Brubacher copies: $1 .25 . Make check or money order 6 The Circus Is Coming .... Stu Green payable to ATOS, and mail to P. 0 . Box 90, 9 Save That Silent Sound ... Esther Higgins New Haven, Connect icut 06501 . 10 "Tell It Like It Is" ...... John Muri 14 Virgil Fox at the Dickinson Kimball . Ray Brubacher ALL MATERIAL FOR PUBLICATION 15 Robert Morton Installed in Reynolds, Ga. Home 15 New Talent Debuts in Potomac Valley EXCEPT ADVERTISING SHOULD BE 16 Hoosier Progress Report SENT TO ATOS PUBLICATIONS 18 Pizza Beside a Waterfall P. 0 . BOX 2329, LIVONIA, MICHIGAN 48150 19 Kay McAbee Plays Toledo Farewell 19 "Little Mother" Concert Boosts Hall Fund ADVERTISING ADDRESS: Dick Schrum, Box 20 Dick Loderhose Hosts Hall Fund Concert . .. Elmer Fubb 7 422 , Bitter Lake Station , Seattle , Wash. 98133. 22 The Biography of Francis J. Cronin ...... J. Paul Chavanne 25 Woman's Place in the Theatre .... Avelyn Kerr ATOS National Officers 29 Carol and the Beast Sti I Iman Rice, President 29 Buddy Nolan Honored 30 Rummaging the Ritx ...... John Clark McCall, Jr. Lee Erwin, Vice President Mary Bowles , Secretary-Treasurer Eleanor Weaver, Executive Secretary TECHNICAL

ATOS National Board of Directors 31 Synthetics in Pipe Organs Allen Miller Gaylord Carter Mary Bowles W . " Tiny" James Lee Erwin DEPARTMENTS Allen W . Rossiter Allen Miller 8 Letters to the Editor 26 For the Records 35 Closing Chord Richard Simonton Ron Willfong 11 Vox Pops 33 Hollywood Cavalcade 35 Chapter News Albert T. Mason , Past President 21 Snippets from England 34 Nuggets from the Golden Days 39 Classified Ads

ATOS Honorary Members 1959-Jesse Crawford HALL OF FAME 1960-Farny Wurlitzer Jesse Crawford PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE 1961-Mel Doner Eddie Dunstedter 1962-Leonard MacClain Reginald Foort 1963-Eddie Dunstedter Leonard MacClain It gives me great pleasure to announce that National ATOS has qualified under 1964-Reginald Foort Don Miller Section 501 ( c) ( 3) of the Internal Revenue Code and is exempt from Federal 1965-Dan Barton Henry Murtagh Income Tax. We are now~an educational organization. This will help the individual 1966-W . " Tiny" James Ray Shelley 1967-Erwin A . Young, Jr . Arsene Siegal chapters to also qualify for this status and is a most important step in our future 1968-Richard C. Simonton Firmin Swinnen if we are to have a theatre organ museum. Does anyone wish to donate a theatre? 1969-Judd Walton 1970-Lee Erwin 1970-Bill Lamb The annual Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Friday, July 9, 1971 at 1 p. m. Either the chapter chairman or a chapter representative should be at this EDITORIAL STAFF meeting. Let us have every chapter represented. Editor - George Thompson Our publication, THEATRE ORGAN, is owned and operated by the members Associate Editors - Ray Brubacher of ATOS. News of chapter activities is an important section of this magazine and Lloyd Klos if none appears, it is because none was submitted for printing. We do not have the Peg Nielsen staff to rewrite newsletters. All news and articles must be received by the tenth Editor-Emeritus - W> "Stu" Green of the month preceding each i~sue. Publisher - Al Mason Let us continue to support the Ben Hall Memorial Fund and send contributions Art Director - Don Lockwood to Box 1331, Passaic, N. J. 07055. Advertising Manager - Dick Schrum Circulation Manager - Vi Thompson Theatre organ has made great strides in the past year. Let us continue to pull together and create even more respect for our form of music. THEATRE ORGAN (title registered U. S. Patent See you in Seattle. Office} is published bi-monthly by the American Theatre Organ Society, Inc., a non-profit organiza­ tion, Stillman H. Rice, President. All rights reserved . Entire contents copyrighted 1970 by ATOS, Inc., Office of publication is P.O. Box 2329, Livonia, Michigan 48150. Printed by Detroit Master-Craft, Livonia, Michigan 48150.

POSTMASTER: Second Class postage paid at Livonia, Michigan. IF UNDELIVERABLE, send form 3579 to ATOS Circulation Department, Box 1314, Salinas, H. Rice, President California 93901.

3 theatre organ The Last in the Old Line State

The restoration of Frederick, Maryland's Tivoli Wurlitzer

Story and photos by Ray Brubacher

T ANDING most impressive on Pat­ theatre organ in any theatre rn the who undertook responsibility for every S rick Street, the main thoroughfare state of Maryland. pneumatic in the organ and did a most through Frederick, Maryland, the town At a spring 1970 meeting of the magnificent job on this part of the of Barbara Fritchie fame, is the Tivoli chapter , chairman George Johnson project. Doug acted as kind of an in­ Theatre, originally opened as Crandall's asked this writer to assume the responsi­ formal project director seeing that pro­ Theatre during Christmas week of bility for having the organ fully re­ jects were being guided in the right 1926. For a town the size of Frederick, stored. This meant that a crew of peo­ direction. All pneumatics from all this edifice is truly an outstanding land­ ple dedicated to the project would have chests and console were removed, all mark because of its size and capability to be found and that these people would pipework was placed in storage and of providing top quality entertainment have to be sincere in their intentions of then a thorough cleaning of each cham­ being equipped with a full stage house regular attendance at work sessions. ber was accomplished without fear of and a two manual eight rank Wurlitzer Contact was made with Dick Kline who damaging pipes. To correct the swell organ in the orchestra pit. During the cleared the project through Mr. Wein­ shade problem, the entire framework years of live entertainment the theatre berg and an initial meeting was set up and shade mechanisms from the solo saw many famous acts including the re­ in early summer on a Saturday morn­ chamber was moved to the main and nowned Bolshoi Ballet on its stage. Dur­ ing to be attended by those interested vice versa. Without the woodworking ing the last decade or so its use has in assisting with the work. At the meet­ and carpentry experience of members been confined to motion pictures . The ing a crew of men and boys (it can be Bob Lane, Julian Wild, John Doyle, theatre is narrow and long with a deep stated that the boys became men on this Lou Spittel , Doug Greene , Lem Keller, balcony and seating capacity of twelve job) were secured and an inspection of Charlie Affelder and Stump Miller I am hundred. the organ was made. Bottom boards not so sure that the organ would be When in 1960 the Potomac Valley were lowered on all chests, the console back together today . Chapter of ATOS was formed , one of and relay were inspected and it was Meanwhile, other members of the its members , Mr. Richard F. Kline, Jr .. decided that there could be no patch­ crew including Dick Myers, Dave Whit­ a resident of Frederick. was instru­ work , everything would have to be more , Walter Weigel, our youngest mental in obtaining the use of the Tivoli completely releathered. I was fortunate member, Billy Saalbach, who at twelve, Theatre from owner Dan Weinberg for in having in one member of my crew must know quite a bit about the innards meetings . At that time, the Wurlitzer a person already experienced in re­ of a Wurlitzer , Gordon Young, Bill and was being occasionally brought to the leathering his own 2/ 10 Wurlitzer H Dick Taylor who gave up valuable time public notice by Kline whose office was model, fifteen year old Doug Miller considering they had brought a suitcase close to the theatre and allowed him to frequently play the organ to early after­ noon theatre goers . Maintenance on the instrument was sporadic. Further­ more , the installation of the organ being in two chambers, one on each side of the stage was hampered accoustically by the fact that the swell shades opened to the screen rather than into the house proper. Through the years the chapter Doug Miller removes made use of the organ and some at­ console pneumotics. tempts at renovation were carried out but by the end of 1969 it was evident that if the organ was to be saved , a major restoration project was in the offing. A lack of interest in the organ prompted its owner to think seriously of its disposal and then the general cry of alarm was sounded prompted by the fact that this Wurlitzer was the last

;une, 1977 4 of Wurlitzer pneumatics from Califor­ nia to releather for their own instru­ ment , Dick Kline and yours truly took on tasks of cleaning pipework, re­ leathering pipe stoppers, repainting the console and a hundred million other menial tasks essential to improving a sick Wurlitzer. By October all of the parts had been put back, there were no excess com­ ponents to speak of and breaths were Console of the 2/ 8 held as the blower switch was thrown Wurlitzer in the Tivoli for the first time. While all of this was Theatre, Frederick, going on the front office too had been Maryland. busy. Mr. Weinberg decided to re­ open the newly restored organ with a gala one week performance of the now well shown classic film "Wings" and booked Lee Erwin as organist for the week . In this day it takes a courageous management to book in a silent film in the only movie house in town for one week. The renovation of the organ was complete except for one thing, some­ thing which all too often goes unnoticed Wurlitzers he had ever heard but it is Following are the technical facts and overlooked by those whose concept also a sobering thought to realize that needed to complete the story of the of a restoration is to get it playing and this was one of the last Wurlitzers he Tivoli Wurlitzer. The organ is referred that is the end. The one thing which would ever hear. to as a model 190 with the following makes the organ is regulation , voicing Since the opening, plans have been ranks of pipes: and good tuning. Dick Kline brought made for more film programs and it is Tibia Clausa 73 pipes in Chris Feiereisen whose ear and interesting to note the support that the Bourdon Flute 97 pipes knowledge of correcting the wayward­ first film received from the teen agers. Diaphone - Diap. 85 pipes ness of reeds and flues is not to be Lee played a special engagement for Violin 73 pipes questioned and for two days Chris the local high schools in Frederick Clarinet 61 pipes worked both major and minor miracles county and received such enthusiastic Vox Humana 61 pipes in getting the Wurlitzer to not just support from this end that more presen­ Kinura 61 pipes speak but to sing. tations with school participation are Trumpet 73 pipes Lee Erwin and the Tivoli Wurlitzer being planned. A feature story on the The trumpet is available at the four were a perfect match and his accom­ organ is being written for MARY­ foot pitch on the solo second touch . paniment of the film proved to be flaw­ LAND magazine , one of the state's There are five pistons for each manual. less. His enthusiasm for the sound of official journals. The organ is now The accompaniment pistons control the the organ was a welcome relief to all regularly maintained by ci;ew members pedal stops. There are two expression who had worked so very hard to so that this instrument can truly re­ shoes and six toe pistons for effects. achieve the splendid results which were main in top condition and if it has to The console is located in a platform in heard. We were indeed fortunate in be last in the old line state , the state the center of the orchestra pit. Paint having with us Ben Hall who made the can be proud of the organ and of those scheme is brilliant red with yellow and trip down to hear and later proclaim who worked so hard to restore it to its black striping with large music lyres on the organ one of the very finest small present condition. each side of the keyboards. D

ON THE TOP-Dave Whitmore and Doug Miller. AND ON THE STAGE - L. to r. Charlie Affelder, ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE - Walter Weigel and Dick Kline, Bill Taylor, Dick Taylor and Doug Billy Seelbach. Greene.

5 theatre organ The age-old show form still has appeal for "children of all ages" and the music now comes from an organ.

The lure of the circus has cast its spell and a youthful audience lines up to by Stu Green absorb the wonders under the big top. Already the popcorn-and-jungle smells have surrounded them while the sideshow barker's spiel invites them to see "Torcho - the fire eater with asbestos lungs"! It isn't often that an ex-silent film or­ ganist can find a niche for himself by fraternal organization, chamber of com­ applying the skills learned cueing merce or other group of business or movies to a surviving art form. But civic associates. In such cases the or­ that's what Hollywood organist Harry ganization's membership becomes the J. Jenkins has done ; he's the whole show's ticket seller. "band" for a sma11 circus, accompany­ Obviously such a streamlined show ing the acts on a beat Hammond organ. can't afford the oldtime circus band. "It's quite similiar to cueing silent For that matter neither can Ringling movies , with a couple of exceptions," Brothers Barnum and Bailey whose says Harry. "The acts are not silent - "band" now numbers three full-time and unlike scenes captured on film they musicians , a cornetist-Ieader ( indestruc­ keep changing. Keeps me from getting tible Merle Evans) , a Hammond organ­ bored just keeping up with the changes ist and a drummer. Up to 26 sidemen from show to show." are picked up locally, if they are avail­ Time was when a circus sported a able. In a pinch the staff trio plays the large and glamorous uniformed band. entire circus accompaniment. In this But here was Harry Jen kins, Colonel, case the one indispensible instrument in AAF, retired, doing the entire musical the group is the organ. The "greatest accompaniment on an electric organ. show on earth" has had a Hammond How this situation evolved calls for some backtracking. was inevitable that the latter would see Years ago "circus day" meant a fan­ opportunity beckoning from the areas tastic parade down main street, replete now bypassed by the big show. There­ with horse-drawn wild animal wagons , for it is not strange that numbers of platoons of clowns, gorgeous ladies circus men ( and women) have assem­ astride elephants, the circus band play­ bled what might be called "spinoff" cir­ ing from its special wagon and spotted cuses, one-ring shows which offer a Win Danielson in the parade lineup so as not to couple good share of the entertainment value acoustically with the raucous steam of the big top's three rings - and in a calliope which usually closed the stately real tent. These shows may consist of procession. perhaps a dozen acts formerly seen in Alas, "progress" has made the parade the big top or new ones hopeful of that a memory and even the largest circus goal. In the latter case the "one ringer' ' has foregone the great 3-ring canvas provides a training ground for circus tent in favor of the easier sport arena, artists. convention hall or amphitheatre. And The small circus travels in usually piped through its PA system ever since the "greatest show on earth" doesn't unglamorous trucks with trailers while the instrument first made its appear­ get around to all the one day stands at performers follow in cars or light trucks ance. For many years this Hammond the many towns it once thrilled. A long towing house trailers. The location was played by the late Win Danielson,* run in New York's Madison Square sought is one with population density, who often carried the ball for solo Garden is more profitable - and much often a shopping center parking lot. stretches. easier. And as often as he can arrange it, the All of this riles the tradition-minded circus advance man guarantees a por­ circus buff as well as the showman who tion of the audience by promoting spon­ recalls "the old days" under canvas. It sorship of the performance by a local * See The BOMBARD£, December 1964

;une, 1971 6 copation on the music. Came the final chord and organist Jenkins got a big hand from the happy crowd. The mood had been set and the show started. During the afternoon Harry supplied music to highlight a trampoline act, a troupe of educated dogs, a cowgirl with a well-trained horse, a quartet of per­ forming chimpanzees, a clown slapstick sequence, a pretty girl performing on a swinging rope, a quartet of fuzzy trained ponies, an amazing juggler, Bimbo the teenage elephant, and an unruly gorilla named Jargo, starring clown-roustabout-elephant handler Harry Jenkins Jr. inside the monkey Harry joins the circus' youngest performer, Suzette Mosley practices her slack rope ballet suit. Bimbo (17), for a stroll around the grounds. number between shows as Harry passes. When Veteran clown Nolley Tate is also the trainer of she isn't performing in the main ring, Suzette Throughout the performance Harry the show's performing dogs. He came to the USA whiles away her time either getting sawed in Jenkins Sr. was "right on" with the from Holland in 1915 and has been clowning half during the sideshow or selling popcorn at ever-changing musical demands, often ever since. the refreshment stand, but in unglamorous shirt taking unobtrusive cues directly from Today's sma11 circus may have a and jeans. the performers. Most of the acts re­ total payroll smaller than the number flecked bandsman's jacket with a built­ quired fast music and the closing "chas­ of musicians in the old time circus in bow tie and a jaunty peaked cap. He ers" were invariably speedy. We began band. So, naturally, the budget-minded looked much younger than his 60-odd to acquire an appreciation of the mere small circus operators were attracted to years. It was almost showtime and one physical stamina required to maintain the one-musician aspects of the easily could feel the anticipation rising. Drift ­ the pace. transported electronic organ for a ver­ ing in from the sideshow area was a satile music source. Our story deals portion of the barker's drone - "he with one practitioner of the mini-circus crawls on his belly like a reptile . . . " music art. Then came the signal to start and Like Win Danielson, Harry Jenkins Colonel Harry broke into the overture, hails from the theatre organ era in New a potpourri of circus memory teasers - England. And he's a comparative new­ "Billboard March ," "Entry of the Glad­ "I figure I 'walk' about 10 miles dur­ comer to circus work. It all started iators," "Memphis Belle," "Co medians' ing a performance just from the pedal­ when he was called on to replace his Galop" plus a sprinkling of Sousa. ing," said organist Harry as the after­ predecessor with the Dewayne Broth­ The Hammond thundered forth noon crowd filed out of the tent and ers Circus, a one-ring tent show playing brightly through the battery of speakers the peanut and crackerjack vendors re­ west coast engagements. on the trailer and also from massive turned from the bleachers to load up We caught the show during a per­ auxiliary cabinets spaced at ground for the next performance. Harry showed formance backed by an Elks Club chap­ level just outside the ring. A clown no outward sign of fatigue but he was ter in a small California town named walked among the shallow bleachers soaking wet from perspiration. Saugus. There was the smell of popcorn and encouraged the kids in the audience shows and cotton candy in the air as we ap­ to clap hands in rhythm with the music. During the break between Harry took us around for a closeup of proached the main tent. On our right Some of the accompanying parents set doings behind the scenes. We met the a sideshow was doing a brisk pre-per­ aside popcorn long enough to join in, youthful clowns, a baby chimpanzee, a formance business and the barker was even when the beat got out of sync and man and wife team of august clowns, making with the traditional spiel - superimposed a grotesque, uneven syn- "Hurry, hurry, hurry - You'll see this gorgeous girl sawed in half, right before your unbelieving eyes ... " Just inside the main tent we found the "music trailer" - a fenced platform containing a CV Hammond console and an array of spe,aker cabinets grouped around it (but no Leslie). On the bench was Harry Jenkins, sorting cards with tiny notation. Crowds of children and parents were filling the bleachers sur­ rounding the single ring. There was excitement in the air. Harry greeted us with a "hi, there" and waved a dogearned cornet part from the band arrangement of a "galop" at us. It was crowded with notes of brief duration. LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON - The mighty Jargo ig­ REAL MONKEY BUSINESS - A baby Chimp greets "This is the sort of thing they throw nores his pretty trainer to lunge at Harry. Inside organist Harry with a smack on the kisser. The at me just before a show to sightread" the monkey suit is Harry Jr. who does a King Dewayne Bros. Circus starts tour in April which Kong act to climax the show. The lad's only will see it back in its North Hollywood head­ beefed Harry, as he practiced on a complaint is that "It's mighty hot inside the quarters late in October. Harry rarely gets home silent manual. He was wearing a gold- heavy ape suit". during the tour.

7 theatre organ Bimbo the elephant, a bevy of pretty Special programs are only kept on girl performers in revealing costumes • the air if sufficient numbers of listeners and the man responsible for it all - take the time and effort to send just a Mr. Ted Dewayne. Mr. Dewayne is a .~. little card now and then, informing the giant of a man and he's involved in all aspects of circus work, from driving station they enjoy the programs. The tent pegs ( they now use discarded auto ~ managements are not mind readers , and axles) to putting the horses and ele­ t,4! ••••••• ~ many of them could care less about our phant through their paces in the ring. hobby, and so must have these little 5 ¢ We once caught him selling tickets to cards or letters. What a cheap price to the sideshow. He is always on hand to ~ ~ see that the show keeps moving. He is TTT---;rTTT pay for so much wonderful listening! enthusiastic about Harry Jenkins' "im­ personation" of a brass band and finds Letters to the Edit or concerning all Other stations in the N .F. area air the electric organ a very suitable in­ aspects of the theatre organ hobb y are strument for circus work. encouraged . Send them to the editor T.O. recorded programs - WHLD-FM concerned. Unless it's stated clearly Niagara Falls, N.Y., CHSC-FM St. on the letter "not for publication," the Catherines, Ontario, on a regular week­ "Harry wore out one organ and we editors feel free to reproduce it, in ly basis, sometimes intermixed with had to buy him another not long ago," whole or part. said the rough-hewn circus veteran who Address : P. 0 . Box 2329 electronic organ, BUT, only one station, is also the boss. Livonia, Michigan 48150 WBEN-FM, airs "Pipe Organ Memo­ ries" 6:30 - 7:00 PM, Monday thru Dear Editor: We learned that small circuses are Friday - a total of 2½ hours per week, at a prime time, and reaches ma­ usually family affairs. Dad may be the Theatre Organ, Feb. '71 issue, finally business manager while mom trains arrived yesterday, late but well worth jor numbers of listeners - parts of dogs and daughter performs on the high the seemingly long wait. Perrhaps my Ontario, all of Western N.Y., parts of wire. And we've already mentioned the absentmindedness , a definite sign of old Central N.Y. and Pennsylvania - a multiple duties of Harry Jenkins Jr. age, re prompt payment of dues was the very large coverage. Now he's learning "fire eating" and bal­ cause. ancing on the high wire. Two clowns also trained the dogs and the rope ballet Credit for this excellent program and girl sold refreshments at her dad's pop­ I don't recall ever having written corn stand. T.O. magazine Editor either to praise or its longevity of about 5 years, is due to criticize in the many years of member­ Les Arries, General Manager and Ed­ ship, but one particular feature in this Ward Tucholka, FM Program Director Circus folks are a breed apart. While issue deserves much praise (not that (the latter a Honorary Member of N.F. the pay may not be the greatest , there others do not also) - the Lloyd E. are other compensations , all intertwined Klos "Uticans Are Tuned In ," praising Chapter). For the record, each day of with the lure of "show biz.'' But to Don Robinson's WZOW-FM program the 3 weeks prior to each monthly con­ mold the diverse acts into a cohesive "Organ Loft.'' Don , along with the sta­ cert at the Riviera Theatre, announce­ show, music is an important catalyst. tion management, have certainly given ments are made on this program. in No one could be better equipped to much effort to fostering Theatre Organ lengthly detail as a public service, and supply the special brand of music re­ in their area, and for so very many con­ quired than a former theatre organist tinuous years. This indeed must be a probably, or I might say possibly, this - and Harry Jenkins has been through record. may be the reason why almost every the cueing routine before. In fact , more concert is a "Standing Room Only" than 40 years before. D Certainly there must be other areas event. Of course, if the artist were not in this very large country of ours be­ of the highest calibre this SRO would sides Utica, and of course our own Niagara Frontier, that have similar pro­ not occur , but, we of the N.F. Chapter grams and perhaps should receive the are fortunate in having the very bes";: public thanks they deserve. available.

DON THOMPSON JOHN MURI Europe's leading Concert Organist Theatre Organ Concerts rapidly becoming America's busiest entertainer at the Theatre Organ 1735 BOSTON BOULEVARD DETROIT, MICHIGAN 48206 933½ N. Ardmore Ave. Hollywood, Cal. 90029 (213) 660-4232 (313) 868-3322

june, 1971 8 A card to your local newspapers , some digging and found that the picture when they publicize your T.O . affairs , was of Mr. Haines at the N orshore. The IRVIN AND ERWIN will be very much appreciated as has enclosed picture proves this: you can been by our Buffalo Evening News , tell from the coffer on the side of the AT ATLANTA FOX Courier Express and Tonawanda News , proscenium arch , as well as the console just to name a few. It's such a little decorations. It was one of few white­ ATOS members who attended the thing to do. and-gold Wurlitzers we had here. This "Fabulous Fifteenth" Convention in I had not meant this to be such a photo is a super enlargement from the New York City last summer will re­ lengthl y epistle , but I do wish to try Chicago Architectural Photographing and impr ess the memb ership - take Compan y collection of the N orshore. member Robbie Irvin as the young the time to drop a card to your local organist Lee Erwin introduced during stations and newsp apers if they are co­ his program at the United Palace. operatin g, and if they are not ,, continue to write and perhaps they will. On Thursday night , May 6, it was Musically yours , Robbie 's turn to introduce Lee as his LAURA THOMAS guest at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta. * * * Robbie is now the house organist at The Editor: the Fox; Lee was there to play a spe­ An Open Letter to all chapters and cial performance of the silent film, members , ATOS: "Wings. " This Jetter should have been written two years ago, but since it is never too Both Robbie and Lee played a short late to try to make amends , I want to group of organ solos, "music of the publicly thank Lyn Larsen for the sig­ twenties" and "music of the seventies," nal honor accorded me on his album and then the two hour and seventeen GET HAPPY , Essential Record #ERS minute first Academy Award film 1007. It is not every day that an artist The reason I am making an issue is began. receives a dedication from another art­ that if we ever get the Chicago going ist, especially on a record , and this again , someone is going to ask us why distinction has overwhelmed me to the we stripped the console and moved it The audience loved every minute of point I find it difficult to express my to the other side. In a document such as the entire performance; so much so that appreciation and thanks without be­ THEATRE ORGAN, I believe facts the ABC management plans to schedule coming maudlin. are important , and when error is made , at least four such shows a year. The Lyn Larsen's artistry has won inter­ it should be corrected. Alabama Theatre in Birmingham and national fame , and the pleasure he Again , thanks for your efforts in the Tennessee in Knoxville will be in­ gives the listener , whether in concert putting forth a top notch magazine; cluded on future silent film schedules. or on record , is a result obviously of keep up the good work. Hop e to see his intense love of the theatre organ. you this summer. Meanwhile, Robbie Irvin can be Most assuredly , he is not riding on Best regards , coat-tails in playing my arrangement of heard in a special solo organ presenta­ JOSEPH Duc1BELLA the Fantasie-lmpromptu , but is, rather , tion every weekend at the Fabulous expressing respect for a colleague. * * * Atlanta Fox. D We have not been without our share of back-biting in the field of theatre Dear Editor: organ, so I am more than grateful - Other than leaking gas and cobras on *************************** yes, proud - to call your attention to the prowl , one of the very few things ~ ~ this unique honor from Lyn. In these that can make me nervous is a (cough) i LET OUR ~ ~ * days of faint hopes and frequent doubts, ... "creative" ... printer. One such is i ADVERTISERS KNOW ~ his is an act to restore faith in the responsible for the omission of proper ~ * qualities of the professional musician . professional credits on the jacket of my i YOU SAW THEIR AD t Very sincerely yours , new PROJECT 3 record album. I hope i IN THEATRE ORGAN t ;ASHLEY MILLER you feel you can print this so at least ~ * some of the organ world will know the i * * * * identities of those without whose many *************************** Dear George: talents and great team spirit the record­ Re: The enclosed picture. The ing would have been impossible. r-:;~~~~~~~-i Chauncey Haines article and picture on The organ engineer crew consisted of page 15 caused somewhat of a stir here Bob Walker (head) , Jim Leaffe, Geoff I MEMBERSHIP ROSTER ! amongst the factualists. The picture Paterson, Mel Robinson and Clem I NOW AVAILABLE I identifies Mr. Haines at the console of Young. The recording engineer was the the Chicago Theatre . The problem is one and only Bert Whyte and the pro­ that the Chicago Theatre always had a ducer, Enoch Light. Thank you very s~~IC!:~~to~ostpaidI plain console (much like the one in much indeed for considering this re­ your cover picture) and the main con­ quest. As for the foregoing men, they ATOS ROSTER I sole has most always been on the left are what theatre folk call TOP BA­ P. 0. Box 90 ~ side as you face the stage ( this is un­ NANA. Amen! .. New Haven, Conn. 06501 f usual for Chicago). Therefore, I did BILLY NALLE ~~-J

9 theatre organ be too limp-wristed and patronizing. Among the less annoying mannerisms are the effusions of soloists who spend "Tell It Like It Is" time telling the audience how wonder­ ful the organ is, how wonderful we are, and how he ( or she) hopes to be able by John Muri to come back real soon - for a fee, of course . Especially annoying are those Once in a while I wish that those music is really exciting , but don 't do it who let you know in one way or an­ who write reviews of organ concerts often. Then the noise will be thrilling other that here at last the organ has and organ records would tell us more to everybody. found its true mate or master, thereby about what really happened and what's insulting the program committee and specially right and wrong about the new Lots of us play wrong notes more everyone else who has ever played the records. There has been quiet complaint than we like, but most of the time the organ. Such bad manners are harder to about the mediocrity of some records , errors aren 't worth getting excited take than the taciturn or clammy de­ about. The greatest of players make and the kindness of some concert re­ portment of the soloist who walks on, views has not matched the word-of­ mistakes in public. Some have a greater rarely smiles , and seems to be doing a mouth reviews one hears. It's pretty gift for accuracy than others , and they job just to get it over with. should be praised for it. However, when clear that occasionally a theatre organ All of us need to be on guard against concert unfortunately is a bomb. It 's a soloist plays a popular tune wrong because he doesn't know the tune (and talking too much when we have been also pretty clear that a 33 1/2 rpm rec­ there is a fair amount of this kind of engaged to play the organ. Over-long ord that sounds better when played at and unnecessary explanations of the 45 rpm has something wrong with its thing making the rounds) he ought to be told about it. Wrong harmonies and histories of composers and their works execution. A friend recently played one belong in the classroom, not the con­ for me that was a musical and emo­ bad or dawdling improvisations need attention. The latter are particularly cert stage . Explanations of how an or­ tional drag at 33 ½ but which perked gan works and what the different stops up nicely at 45 rpm. troublesome when an organist is play­ ing for a long movie during which he sound like are uncalled for in places Sure, we need to be kind to each has not been able to muster up musical where theatre organ concerts and shows other , but we ought not to have to con­ inspiration and finds himself unable to have been given for years. In short , the ceal important truths that might help think of anything appropriate to play. concert circuit requires - and will prob­ an artist do better if he were informed. I heard one fellow play a Laurel and ably demand - that players come up Write the bad news to him in a note , if Hardy comedy using church-style im­ regularly with fresh , new material. you like, but don't give people all over provisational chord-sequences over and None of us should expect to inflict our the country a false impression. The old over , with never the shade of a melody theme songs and "request favorites" saying that you shouldn't say anything appearing to relieve the monotony. It upon audiences forever. D if you can't say anything good applies seemed he was frozen at the console, only if you aren't hurting somebody while the screen action definitely called else in the process. Some of us who play for lively , sparkling tunes . The trouble programs needs a little jacking up once in that case was that there had not been in a while. any preparation for the performance. BINDERS The player should have made out a cue­ Take , for instance , the soloists who sheet and been ready for what we called TO have been playing the same music over a zippy performance in the twenties. and over. We have at least four players PROTECT on the national concert circuit who are Bad registrations ought to get their getting reputations for giving the same raps too , but sometimes they result YOUR show repeatedly. One city has decided from a player's unfamiliarity with the not to hire one of them again unless organ. There is no forgiving of pro­ ISSUES he changes his routine. Another one tracted use of muddy-sounding com­ played three programs in one region binations , in which chords are played OF and used the same music at each per­ on sixteen-foot registers. Such elephant­ formance, teeing off several people who ine noise-making should be discouraged attended more than one of the concerts early in life. I would rather make a THEA TRE ORGAN in the expectation of hearing varied mistake on the side of over-brilliance This durable casebound cover will bind offerings. than on thickness of tone. one full year's issues of THEATRE ORGAN. Imprinted in gold on black, the binder Then there are the players who play Maybe we ought to say something becomes a permanent reference volume that protects issues from damage and too loud. One of them has a reputation about stage appearance and deportment. keeps them in perfect order. for having two registrations: loud and Some of us are going in for flashy out­ Magazines are held securely in place and louder. It might be of interest to those fits and for clothing-changes at the can be inserted in only a few seconds. fellows to learn that the hearing of half-way point. It's a good idea for A special pocket will enable you to easily women is more sensitive than that of more than one reason. Usually those label and identify the year of any volume. men and that the ladies can be made players are extroverts, and there is a • 3.50 (including postage) painfully uncomfortable with sound­ possibility that some of them may be Make check or money order levels that men do not find particularly tempted to overdo the flashiness to a payable to: annoying. Anyway, big noises are im­ point displeasing to some of the audi­ ATOS BINDER pressive for a short time only , and large ences. I think we ought to be sensitive P. 0. Box 90 blocks of stops played in chord hand­ to audience acceptance of far-out styles New Haven, Conn. 06501 fuls is no way to show off the beauty in clothing and the mannerisms that of an organ. Open her up when the sometimes go along with them. One can june, 1971 10 this tape!" Who says church is dull these days? * * * Paul H. Forster, Central New York's top sing-along organist of the '20s and '30s, has retired again. We say "again" because it has happened before. But each time music beckoned and Paul couldn't resist. Nearly 15 years ago Paul and wife Arline moved from the rigors of Syracuse, N. Y. weather to the balmy climate of St. Petersburg, Flor­ ida, fully intending to just enjoy re­ tirement. But the Church by the Sea needed an organist and Paul volun­

Readers are encouraged to submit inter­ teered. He's been Minister of Music DICK ELLSASSER- Alive and well and living in esting sidelights on the organ hobby (ex­ there ever since. Now he has announced southern California. - Stufoto clusive of chapter news items), material another retirement. He just might make they believe will be of ge.neral interest it this time - unless another irresistible The voice on the long distance phone about local organ activities and installa­ console rears its lovely stoprail. was insistent: " ... but I heard that he's tions and the people who work at the completely paralyzed, mind a blank, hobby. We know "there's VOX POPS in * * them there chapters" and it only requires * just a vegetable, in some midwestern a Sc postcard to get it to VOX POPS When word got around that he was institution - can't play, can't even feed Editor, Box 5013 Bendix Station, North about to retire, veteran theatre organ­ himself. Is it true?" The frequency of Hollywood, Calif. 91605. ist Don Baker was quick to react with such inquiries has made them much a reminiscent paraphrase, "Reports of more than a nuisance to concert organ­ my leisurely ambitions have been greatly ist Richard Ellsasser. "How can I line There's never a dull moment when exaggerated." A musical events calen­ up concerts if people think I'm a basket Stockton (Calif.) cathedral organist dar had listed a Glendale (Calif.) ap­ case?" asks Dick. The tale is rooted in Fred Tulan is on the scene. The hip pearance as Don's final concert. Not so, fact; following an auto crash nearly wind merchant, known for way-out says Don, who actually plans to expand three years ago, it was thought that addenda to liturgical music, recently both his pipe and electronic organ serious injuries had ended Dick's con­ returned from a symphony tour in time activities in the near future. cert career. For a short time he was to add his digital and pedal bit ( at the paralyzed. But no more. Today Dick huge Cathedral organ) to an interfaith Elsasser is back in the pink, willing ecumenical service. He arrived at the and able to turn out the finished per­ church to find it peopled by a Cath­ formances of organ classics that made olic bishop, a rabbi, several ministers, him famous. We reassured the very nuns and a black "Soul Music" choir. concerned man on the telephone, then Fred left the console for a moment to made an appointment to take a current aid a TV cameraman, unaware he'd photo showing Dick at practice. "Hope left the Sforzando button ( full organ) this'll help get the basket off my back," "on." Fate's fickle finger materialized quipped Elsasser. in the form of an apparently religious * * stray cat - which jumped to the organ * New ATOS member, Mrs. Mabel bench and then to the great manual, Maguire of Doylestown, Pa. informs where it stretched out to rest, unmoved us that a few months ago she tossed by the din generated by circa two into the ash can some mementos of octaves of full organ blasting forth. her two-year career as a theatre organ­ Fred froze - transfixed. The camera­ ist, thereby precluding any lengthy man was stupefied. The cacaphony was biography. However, she does remem­ enormous. DON BAKER - "Retire - Hell!" ber one facet of her training at the - Stufoto Then the cat saw Fred bearing down Eastman School of Music in Rochester. on the console and jumped to the ped­ Jimmie Paulin, Jr., one of the stars "One of our class assignments was to als - only to wedge a paw between two of last year's ATOS Convention in New originate our own song slides by adding pedals. The din was now thunderously York, presented a concert for the Roch­ lyrics to old tunes and a popular song low pitched, except for the cat's wails. ester Theatre Organ Society on January of the day." She is tremendously proud In a moment Fred had released the cat, 19 in the Auditorium Theatre. The 600 of her nephew, Karl Cole, who has but the sforzando was stuck in "on" attendees were treated to a wide range played some fine concerts for Syracuse position and the organ roared with all of good music, and the program was audiences and elsewhere. She anticipates its ranks in action throughout the serv­ dedicated to the late Ben Hall, whose a bright career for him. ice. Unable to provide quiet music for death prevented his appearance in Lilac * * * the offertory, Fred switched on the City in December. Jimmie disclosed The Minneapolis Star in its variety trems and beat out "Kitten on the that he has resigned his post at the New section recently ran an excellent feature Keys." The TV producer shook his York United Palace (ex-Loew's 175th on the city's State Theatre by staffer head and was heard to mutter, "Man, Theatre), and plans to make the theatre Barbara Flanagan. Illustrated with 11 do we have a lot of editing to do on organ concert circuit. excellent photos, the story was re-

11 theatre organ searched by A TOSer Steve Adams. On 11. Started writing songs at 14 and February 5 the theatre observed its 50th has registered over 300 compositions birthday, and a description of the open­ with ASCAP in the ensuing 58 years. ing show mentioned that Arthur Depew was at the organ. Leonard Leigh played 12. Started a recording career at 72. noon organ concerts daily during open­ His second recording, "Liquid Soul" ing week. Eddie Dunstedter didn't take also played on a Hammond organ, will over until the mighty Wurlitzer was in­ be listed in next issue's RECORD stalled in 1925. "If you didn't like REVIEWS. dancers, there was William W. Nelson, conducting the State Symphony Or­ chestra. And Eddie Dunstedter-always Eddie. You got lots of entertainment for 50c in those days." * * * Richard Simonton is walking a foot CAROL JONES - Rachmaninoff couldn't make it. off the ground since learning that he is one of the trustees of the late Harold closed with a rousing "Prelude in G Lloyd's estate, especially because the Minor" by Rachmaninoff. "Too bad comedian willed funds and land for a Rachmaninoff couldn't make it," quipped film museum. The idea of such a 1nu­ Purvis, "Carol was great." seum has long been close to Simonton's * * * heart, and with Dick among the trustees Organist Eddie Hanson, enjoying a we can trust the Lloyd museum will be equipped with a theatre organ. renewed popularity since the recent re­ lease of his first recording, got a fine * * * writeup in the Sunday VIEW magazine Those conventioneers attending the of the Appleton (Wisconsin) Post­ Fabulous Fifteenth last summer, who Cresent. Revelations about the 72-year­ Eddy Hanson circa 1934. At 72 he's doing fine. passed the Brooklyn Fox enroute to old ex-Chicago theatre organist in­ The seeds for Billy Nalle's invitation festivities at the Brooklyn Paramount cluded some of his career "firsts" and to play the kick-off concert for the 1971 (L.I.U.) will be interested to know that candid opinions. ATOS convention were planted back in the wreckers started destruction early 1. While cueing a silent movie in 1967 during the Regional Convention this year, according to a lengthy N. Y. 1916 Eddie (16) learned composer in New York when Billy was offered a Times article. The marquee's final mes­ Carrie Jacobs Bond was in the theatre cab ride back to his hotel following a sage was "Farewell to the Fox, October and ignored what was on the screen to night concert. Billy didn't know then 31, 1928 to November 4, 1970. Bill play everything he knew by Mrs. Bond that the New York Chapter had ob­ Gage at the Mighty Wurlitzer." An of­ on the upright. She complimented him tained permission to play the Radio fice building of six stories is scheduled on his "concert." City Music Hall 4/ 58 Wurli after hours to replace the theatre building, part of 2. He traveled as a saxophone soloist but he sensed some kind of conspiracy urban renewal for an area which has with Sousa's Band but wasn't favorably when the cab pulled up to the RCMH been going downhill for some time. The impressed by John Philip, describing the stage door and disgorged its passengers. organ is safe. leader as "a snob, a stuffed shirt." Billy was spirited inside and in a few * * * 3. He quit his job as a Chicago thea­ moments found himself astride a How­ "Old Town Music Hall" in El Se­ tre organist as soon as "talkies" ap­ ard seat and facing four manuals and gundo, Calif. operated by Bills Field & peared, and resumed his long-lasting several rows of stop keys. There was Goff man, has added an imposing list of career as a radio organist just as Bala­ nothing to do but play and there must silent film events to its roster of con­ ban & Katz theatres fired 28 organists. have been some Seattlers among the certs by top artists (Tom Hazleton on 4. He claims to be the first Chicago listeners to Billy's off-the-cuff concert. the May 15 weekend). Locating a reli­ broadcasting organist, starting in 1923 Apparently Billy's rising affirmative re­ able source of good film prints, the over station WDAP (now WGN). ceived another plus charge from his boys have scheduled such classics as 5. He was first to introduce the 1970 New York L.I.U. convention con­ Fritz Lang's "Metropolis," F. W. Mur­ cert and now he's set to tackle the Seat­ nau's "Sunrise" with Janet Gaynor, "Amos 'n Andy" radio program with "The Perfect Song," also in 1923. tle Paramount's 4/ 20 Wurli for 1971 King Vidor's "The Big Parade" and conventioneers on July 10th. John Barrymore starring in "Dr. Jekyll 6. During World War I he stood in and Mr. Hyde." Bill Field usually does line for "shots" at Great Lakes Naval * * * the honors at the 4/ 26 Wurlitzer. Training Center with future stars Spen­ cer Tracy, Pat O'Brien and Jack Benny. Saturday matinee goers at the South * * * 7. Collects records of J. S. Bach's Pasadena Rialto theatre enjoyed an un­ In April the "Old Town Music Hall" music, a favorite with Eddy. scheduled half-hour Wurlitzer concert presented a concert by youthful Carol 8. Endured three marriages. recently, but the audience never knew Jones. Carol, whose star continues to 9. Witnessed Bing Crosby's debut the organist was George Wright. About rise with each concert, included selec­ with the "Rhythm Boys." noon George needed his electric drill tions by three members of her Monday 10. Considers the high point of his for an art-craft project. He drove over night audience plus a classic by a com­ career the day he sat in with the Paul to the theatre in his paint-spattered poser who wasn't there. The winsome Whiteman orchestra for a concert play­ work clothes to get it and found the gal played a tune each by Richard Pur­ ing of "Rhapsody in Blue," with Eddy manager pacing the fioor. The projec­ vis, Bill Thomson and Stu Green, and performing the difficult piano part. tionist had phoned in: he'd be late - ;une, 1971 12 very late. George volunteered to play publication to eventual oblivion and seems that organ enthusiasts' ire should the organ to fill the void because an sold his collection of recordings (some be directed to the Oklahoma City Coun­ audience had already started to gather. choice Crawford), data and photos, all cil for allowing the prize Kilgen to George wasn't dressed for any sort of neatly assembled in scrapbook form. decay. Thanks for the geography les­ presentation, even if there'd been any­ Now, ever increasing organ items re­ son, Gary. one available to turn on the lights, so he ceived from Al's base of operations, * * played with just the console lights un­ Minneapolis, indicate that he's with us * til the tardy projectionist arrived. He to stay. Anyone want to buy some The sharp eye of MARQUEE editor thanked the sprinkling of matinee goers slightly used toy trains? Brother Andrew Corsini caught a boo­ from the dark pit and even got a round boo among our April VOX POPS when of applause. Then the movie started. * * * we referred to the Buffalo N. Y. Seneca Next day, enroute to the same art­ theatre as a Rapp & Rapp house when craft project, and wearing the same Organist Mildred Alexander finally it was really designed by W. T. Spann. work clothes, George was buttonholed had enough: "Caint yewall evah git And Bro. Andy informs us that the by a man he vaguely recalled having tard a' runnin' pictyewrs of ma laigs???'' photo of Chauncey Haines at a ginger­ seen entering the theatre on the pre­ (Mildred hails from 'Nawth Car'lanah' bread console in the same issue should vious day. and the brogue is her trademark). For have been identified as the Chicago "Ain't you the guy who played the several years nearly all items about Norshore, not Jesse's Chicago theatre Millie and her activities were illustrated organ at the Rialto before the show?" console which remains undecorated in these pages with photos of her well­ "Yes." with frippery to this day. We're mor­ turned underpinnings racing among or­ "Say - you sounded pretty good - tified! gan pedals. The first one came about almost as good as George Wright, I go due to her advocacy of gal organists * * * to all his concerts. playing pedals with shoes on - prefer­ George thanked the unknowing ad­ In California the "Pizza Palace with ably in high heels, as Millie does. "Ah mirer. Pipes" success story continues with two hayv a fayace, too, yewall. Maybe ah additions in the mill. Bill Breuer, with * * * ain't pretty - but ah ain't ugly, y'hear?" two such eateries already operating, is Finally the worm has turned and he working on a third ("my last" he says) Dick Villemin kept the secret about turned out to be the VOX POPS editor. his orders well; . rebuild the style 260 in a San Jose shopping center. It's of So all concerned will recognize the little special interest to enthusiasts because Wurlitzer into a 30-rank organ in your southern belle without referring to her Porterville (Calif.) workshop for instal­ the instrument is the 3/26 WurliMorton ankles, here's a photo showing her face on which the late Buddy Cole created lation in a private museum of musical taken while she was practicing for the instruments and antique horseless car­ some unforgettable recordings. The or­ theatre organ concerts she's being gan was badly treated during its un­ riages, to be located probably in Glen­ booked for with ever increasing fre­ dale and mum's the word. Those were fortunate journey to the east coast, with quency ( e.g. the Rochester Theatre Or­ much water damage, but Bill is giving the wishes of the customer, Jack Neth­ gan Society). The console controls Bill ercutt, and it wasn't until Jack leaked it tender loving care to make possible Barker's 11-rank Wurli home installa­ once again the haunting "Buddy Cole the story that word got around among tion in San Diego. Southern Calif. fans. The 30-ranker is sound." Tl's rumored that John Seng fr near completion but it doesn't hold being considered for the job. Nearer much promise for enthusiasts. The word completion is a pizza parlor in San "private" was underlined. Raphael being readied by John Wallace. It will be equipped with a 3/ 14 Morton * * * and opens this month. Alden Miller has been bitten by the * * * theatre organ bug again. We say "again" because Al has been in and out of the In Glenshaw, Pa., Bob Yates was hobby several times over the past few deep in puzzlement. Above the stop­ years, leaving whenever his other hobby, keys of the 2/ 7 Marr & Colton he is toy trains, gets the upper hand. We are restoring is a second row of stopkeys owes him a lot; back in the early '50s offering proper combinations for 40 ap­ deeply concerned with Al's involvement plications to silent movies. The tabs with theatre orgqns because the hobby are engraved with such exotic nomen­ before the birth of ATOS and its publi­ clature as Quietude, Jealousy, Anger. cations Al initiated a T.O. newsletter Gruesome, Happiness, Suspense, Agi­ which he circulated among the fans he MILLIE ALEXANDER - 'Legs ain't everything.' tation, Funeral, Riot - and three kinds knew. That many of these same fans of Love; Mother, Romantic and Pas­ which Al's "Cinema Theatre Organ Reader Gary Tuck calls our attention sion. Wiring had been removed so no Digest" (one of its names; he changed to a very bad goof in the February clue remained as to how the voices and them frequently) reached became the VOX POP which relocated not only pitches were once combined to help founders of ATOS indicates the in­ organist Ken Wright but the entire create the moods indicated. M & C ap­ fiuence of Al's efforts in those early WKY-TV station from Oklahoma City parently made very few of these "mood days when individual organ enthusiasts to Kansas City. Our apologies to Ken synthesizers." Only two others have discovered that there were others who and WKY-TV for the unauthorized come to our attention and we never shared their concern for their favorite transplant and to the Kansas City Mu­ saw a combination action breakdown. musical instrument. But after publish­ nicipal Council which we accused of Any reader with this knowledge who ing his sheet for several years, Al felt neglecting the historic 3/ 14 Kilgen or­ wants to share it with Bob may write the stronger pull of toy trains, willed his gan in its municipal auditorium. It to him in care of VOX POPS.

13 theatre organ A number of readers have asked what has become of the series of silent movie "hurries" which appeared in these pages VirgilFox At The Dickinson Kimball over the past few years, but ever less frequently. We have acquired an im­ posing collection of suitable material II but a technical problem has put at least .. a startling potpourri of sonic a temporary damper on the series. The II problem is in finding someone with a entertainment music typewriter to transfer the tunes from manuscript to "camera ready." A reliable music typist is the only bot­ by Ray Brubacher tleneck. Anyone with a solution is encouraged to contact Grand Staff Rec­ The John Dickinson High School and beautiful sound whether it be a great ords, Box 343, Pacoima, Calif. 9133 I. its large Kimball theatre organ located baroque instrument or a great theatre in Wilmington , Delaware have already pipe organ. His free usage of tremu­ * * * been written up in the April and June lants gave greater depth and feeling to News from the Old Dominion (Vir­ 1970 issues of THEATRE ORGAN. some of the chorales and in one of the ginia to you), indicates that the Poto­ To say that this installation now ap­ encore pieces the Symphonia in D mac Valley Chapter is not resting. proaching twenty eight ranks is one of major , the instrument sounded forth Woody Wise has been made acting the finest in the country is a gross un­ with the magnificence of a great French chairman of arrangements for the 17th derstatement , the sound , the installa­ cathedral organ. ATOS convention in 1972. Richmond tion and the surroundings make it a Works of a lighter nature included - there is a city with a soul! Three stellar attraction for all fortunate the Ives Variations on America. For Wurlitzers in working order - includ­ enough to be able to attend the many this gem, Fox dug into the trap and ing the Byrd Theatre and the Mosque. programs which have been and will be percussion department and came up And those fabulous instruments 1n presented on it. Jimmy Boyce's Alexandria roller rink Saturday, March 27th , 1971, will, I and in the Virginia Theatre. am sure, go down in organ history as * * * being a five star day in the lives of all Organist Doc Bebko made his peren­ who worked so very hard to make this nial pilgrimage to New York City on a organ what it is. The John Dickinson recent holiday and of course, made Theatre Organ Society had secured straightaway for the Music Hall, scene Virgil Fox in what I am sure must be of his sojourn as a theatre organist. a rare procedure; a concert of classical "The show was the greatest and finest and semi-classical music on a theatre of all the 36 years I've been going organ given by perhaps the greatest there ," said Doc. "Stage show was over­ concert virtuoso in the world . whelming in its elegance. Organ and By 7:30 p.m. when the doors to the orchestra were used profusely. What an spacious fifteen hundred seat auditor­ experience - worth the price of ad­ ium were opened almost a thousand mission alone!" ticket holders , were in line waiting to gain their seats. By concert time there * * * Virgil Fox In Pompano Beach, Florida, former were only a few spaces empty on the with a startling potpourri of sonic en­ silent film organist Jan Krupa felt a far sides of the hall. Formally attired usherettes guided patrons to their re­ tertainment which probably would have twinge of nostalgia when he heard served seats and this writer for one can pleased Ives no end. Variations on mentioned the Wheeling (West Va .) speak for the advantages of passing the 'Adeste Fidelis' were followed with five Capitol theatre. Krupa had played there waiting time away while observing, call encores ending with - you guessed it in 1929. Further inquiry indicated that it girl watching if you will, these lovely - the rip roaring Perpetuum Mobile the Capitol's Marr & Colton organ had efficient beauties performing their duties of Middelschulte , and the great Kim­ been "rescued from a fate too horrible with enthusiasm which reflects on the ball never even sighed, it was WHERE to mention," but information was spirit of the entire operation at Dickin­ THE ACTION WAS. sketchy. Considering what's happening son. to venerable theatres these days the Any school board contemplating re­ At 8: 12 JDTOS chairman Bob Dil­ "fate" isn't difficult to fathom, but Jan. quests for a theatre organ in one of worth came on stage to announce fu­ who has a soft spot in his heart for their schools should journey to John ture programs and then introduced Dr. "the glamorous theatre organ era" is Dickinson High and see for themselves Fox who after his expected and eagerly hurting for details of that rescue . "It what can be done with proper guidance a waited opening remarks proceeded to was a fine M & C," he recalls. and esprit' de corps'. What was, I am take the console down into the pit and certain, thought of by many of the * * * arise again playing 'Hail Hail the local taxpayers as a needless expendi­ Ashley Miller took a breather from Gang's All Here' to the delight of ture of public funds has proven to be his soap opera duties (Search For To­ everyone present. a great educational venture as well as morrow, CBS-TV) to have a fun session Fox is now well known for his in­ a profitable one for the school and at the former Brooklyn Paramount dependent views on performing the provides a means of furthering cultural (now the Long Island University) Wur­ great masters and in five pieces by Bach values in the area. Congratulations and litzer to play for the basketball game proved conclusively that the works of best wishes to Dickinson High, the between Long Island University and St. the great father Bach can be played on organ crew, and to the splendid Kim­ Bonaventure University on February JO. any instrument capable of producing ball pipe organ. D

;une, 1971 14 mahogany, stands in the Mills' large Robert Morton Installed lounge, but it was necessary to build an addition onto their home to house In Reynolds, Ga. Home the "works"-that is to say, the 5-horse They call them "silent" movies now power blower motor, the pipes of metal but there was nothing silent about the or wood, and all the tricky things that great, baroque palaces in which they create the special effects. were shown to the faithful movie-goers A little tricky himself, Jim Mills of the 1920's . framed up a handsome set of fake gilt They were filled to their vast domed pipes-the kind people usually associate ceilings with the sound of music from with church organs-at one end of the giant pipe organs, and the artists who organ room and often, as he plays , he performed upon them were almost as notes that visitors gaze intently at the famous as the personalities whose shad­ pipes! ows flickered across the silver screen. The musician "at the console of the Jim was district representative for Flint EMC at Warner Robins, Ga. for mighty Wurlitzer-or Kimball-or Mor­ J. 0 . Mills at his Robert Morton. ton" was a personage of awesome 17 years before moving to Reynolds, power. It was he who brought tears For a few years more the great or­ and it was there that he first became trembling into the eyes of his audience gans boomed on in the enormous movie interested in the restoration of old or­ with "Just A-Wearyin' for You" while houses , but the picture industry could gans. A natural musician, he started America's Sweetheart, Mary Pickford, now produce its own dialogue and its with a small electronic instrument. pantomimed her lonely vigil for her own built-in musical effects. The day Then, as his enthusiasm grew, he gath­ absent lover. of the theatre organ and the great vir­ ered together and assembled his first He brought the actual sound of the tuosos had passed. old theatre organ in 1963, working on hooves of The Sheik's Arabian steed it until it was almost finished, and sold But there are those who remember. it to another organ buff. Since then thundering down the crimson-carpeted Ah , yes, they remember it well. aisle. "Reveille" sounded and a rookie there has been the long labor of love Charlie Chaplin bounded from his bunk J. 0. Mills of Reynolds , Ga. is one on the Morton which had been installed -the "telephone rang" for Wallace Reid for whom the fascination of the enor­ in the Albany Theatre in 1926. Luckily -a donkey "brayed" at Chester Conklin mous music mechanisms has never vital parts for the organ were still avail­ or a bird "twittered" at Bessie Love­ worn off. In Reynolds , where be has able and all that was required was more and it was all the doing of that musical been General Manager of the Flint time than a busy executive could spare magician at the organ. He was indis­ Electric Membership Corporation for and plenty of know-how. pensable for that post-World War One two years, he has rebuilt and installed The Mills' are both natives of Mont­ national entertainment-a Night at the in his home a Robert Morton Theatre gomery County , Ga ., and Mildred Mor­ Movies. Organ which he purchased out of the ris Mills shares and encourages her And then, overnight, the motion pic­ old Albany Theatre in Albany, Ga. husband's avocation. She has a flair for tures TALKED! The ivory and gilt console, built of decoration and has fitted out the organ room with many interesting accessories. A restored player piano and an oldtime dulcimer which Jim made, add distinc­ New TalentDebuts in PotomacValley tive notes. Two daughters and four grandchil­ It is always a pleasure to see mem­ Lin promises to be one of the future dren share the Mills' enjoyment of the bers of the younger ~et taking a great artists in demand for theatre organ organ, especially when old silent movie interest in the preservation of the thea­ concerts. Already his technique is far reels are shown and Jim or a visiting tre organ and its music. The Potomac advanced and his playing shows a defin­ organist livens them up with interpret­ Valley Chapter has been indeed for­ ite style and polish with a touch of a ive "licks." tunate in having several youngsters in great theatre organist , his teacher. His the twelve to twenty bracket that have program was well balanced and he The Mills' belong to ATOS , our contributed their services to the cause. adapted himself readily to the resources organization that has no intention of Without their interest and assistance of the Tivoli Wurlitzer. His almost im­ letting this art die. many of our ar~a installations would mediate rapport with the instrument For those, and there are many, who not be in as fine a condition as they was largely due to the instrument being come to see his organ, Jim Mills sits now are. in top condition, making an unfamiliar down at his three manual console and organ respond to young hands and demonstrates how the instrument can good solid talent. Lin's style, while not At the Potomac Valley Chapter's faithfully demonstrate the percussions most recent meeting held Saturday, flamboyant , is nevertheless musical and as well as other sounds of an orchestra. March 20th at the Tivoli Theatre , Fred­ he gets the point across at all times and erick , Maryland , on the newly restored does not venture into foreign territory The listener, particularly if he be 2/ 8 model 190 Wurlitzer , the guest with regards to attempting to play gray-haired, finds himself remembering artist was sixteen year old Lin Lunde pieces too technically involved for his tunes he though he had forgotten. of Richmond , Va. A junior in high modest experience, a lesson many of And Jim, sitting there at the beautiful school, Lin has studied piano for two our recitalists could take heart in. All organ that he has rescued from the years and organ for four with Eddie in all, a well presented, well played scrap heap, lets his fingers wander Weaver and substitutes for Weaver program and the chapter looks forward through a modern song with a nostal­ regularly at the 4/ 17 Wurlitzer in the to his return in the not too distant gic theme-"Those Were the Days, My Byrd Theatre in Richmond. future. RAY BRUBACHER Friend ... " D

15 theatre organ Hoosier Progress Report

About 20 minutes from Chicago's Loop is Whiting, Indiana, and in that town is a most unique theatre, the Hoosier Auditorium. It has not one, but two theatre organ under its roof, and someday they'll both be one. Much has been written in these pages about Bob Montgomery and his ambi­ tious project. Those who attended the 'LAST OF THE RED HOT MAMAS!' - The 4 / 28 Uptown Theatre console on display at center stage, an ATOS convention in Chicago recall imposing sight which evokes applause from audiences who have come to hear concerts played on its Eddie Weaver's performance on a three furure Echo division . manual organ which spoke from the balcony . That 11-ranker (now 13) wa "The Hoosier Theatre was selected left (about two-thirds complete), Solo only the Echo division of what is to be. for this installation for several reasons. (and reeds) in the center, and Founda­ It was possible to purchase the building tion on the right. All percussions are It is slow and painstaking work be­ and thus make a permanent installation . being installed in the original organ cause Bob has so many irons in the fire The theatre is just the right size and chambers to the right and left of the (such as helping maintain the Chicago has perfect acoustics for pipe organ. proscenium and in duplicate - stereo! Stadium 6/ 62 Barton), but he's grad­ Last, but not least, it is centrally located "The Echo organ, now used for con­ ually getting the Chicago Uptown thea­ just 5 minutes from the Chicago Sky­ certs regularly, is up to 13 ranks and tre 4/ 28 Wurlitzer in shape and installed. way, 20 minutes from the Chicago plays from a 3-manual movable console In addition to weekend movies to Loop and near three major express­ in front of the stage. All the original help pay the bills, Bob has run an al­ ways; in Whiting, Ind. on 119th St. Uptown organ has been retained and most continuous concert series starring just off Indianapolis Blvd. Come on we've added many additional rare ·and artists of the highest calibre. These in­ over for a visit. You will be welcome. beautiful theatre ranks at the price of clude John Muri, Tony Tahlman and some de-unification of the console stop­ Don Baker. All concerts were presented "The work on installation is well rails. The organ is now about two-thirds on the 3/ 13 future Echo organ. Eddie along. The big Wurli is being enclosed releathered and a good start has been Weaver is due for an encore perform­ on the former tage in three specially­ made on the relay wiring, ductwork, ance and Bob i considering Mildred built chambers. Main chamber on the and winding. Alexander, presumably to break the solid lineup of males who have occu­ pied the concert spotlight so far. Bob Montgomery has had the Up­ town Wurli stashed for several years "GOOD SHOW, AL." and we have wondered what cooks with Hoosier theatre man­ it. So we asked Bob for a report. Hi ager Frank Horan­ reply follows. godz congratulates Al Melgard at close of "There is always a busy buzzing at telecast. The 3 / 13 offered no problems the new Hoosier Auditorium Theatre. for the veteran or­ If it isn't the crowd for the weekend ganist whose good movies or the monthly pipe organ con­ fortune it has been to certs, it's the buzz of a saw or a drill play the 6/62 Barton working to accomplish one of the most in the Chicago Sta­ dium for over 40 unique theatre pipe organ installations years. in the world. This is one of the few times a theatre organ has been moved from one theatre back into another; the 'last of the Red Hot Mamas,' the Chi­ cago Uptown Theatre's 4/ 28 Wurlitzer.

;une, 1971 16 BRITISHORGANIST BUILDS HOMEAROUND A 'WURLI' At 32, Len Rawle has played the organ professionally on BBC radio and British TV, for stage shows and ice extravaganzas, for dance bands, troop shows, church services, electronic organ demonstrations and pipe organ concerts. Thousands of people have enjoyed Rawle's playing of the organ via records and TV. He and his wife spent two years design­ ing and building their Hertfordshire, Eng­ land home around the Mighty Wurlitzer organ that once serenaded audiences in London's famous Empire Theatre. The installation is their pride and joy. To soundproof the house, they built brick walls sixteen inches thick, plus an eleven­ inch-thick concrete roof, laying over 60,000 bricks. "You can stand one foot from the outer wall of the house and hear nothing from the twenty-ton giant," Rawle says. To house the organ pipework and relay, a specially heated chamber, 450 square feet by 18 feet high, lies behind the con­ sole. A 15 horsepower blower housed in another anteroom furnishes the organ air supply. A record company often uses the organ to make recordings, the BBC has utilized it for music programs and several movie com­ panies have employed it for sound effects.

"One of our most memorable mo­ the kindness shown and opportunities wonderful crew from NBC-TV for a ments was during the ATOS convention given to us through public support to beautiful Easter program. It was video­ held in Chicago , when the beautiful red help us preserve this theatre pipe organ taped in color and broadcast on Easter and gold console, even though she in a theatre. We have been busy with Sunday morning. The show was pro­ couldn't be played, got a standing ova­ many shows to acquire the finances duced by Mr. John Yoder , NBC Public tion - just for her stunning appearance. needed to attain that goal. With con­ Relations Manager , and pla yed by our It's things like this that make all the tinued public support through attend­ dear friend , Al Melgard . work and hours invested worthwhile. ance at events. we'll make- it. "We have had good broadcast cover­ age through several NBC news specials "All concerned are very grateful for "We were privileged to be host to a which featured various artists . These were produced by Mr. Bill Warrick of NBC news . "One of the most interesting and en­ joyable programs that we have appeared on is Chicago's 'Jack Eigen Show' on NBC radio. The conversation of the guests , Jack's own comments and the enthusiasm he has for the theatre , the ON THE AIRI - TV pipe organ and people in general, is a camera zeroes in on most stimulating experienc e. Our con­ Al Melgard at the currently-used 3/13 cert artists who have appeared at the console during Easter Hoosier agree that being a guest on telecast. Jack Eigen 's show is an occasion not soon to be forgotten . "These are just a few of the many happenings at the Hoosier. It 's quite a busy place. We all look forward to the first sounds from the Uptown organ as do so many of our friends. It has been a long but worthwhile project , but when it's whole again , representing all the glory of the mighty theatre pipe organ , the Uptown Wurlitzer will have a home for all time - and in a theatre." D

17 theatre organ pizza• ... besidea waterfall

The Oakland Paramount Publix #l at the Melody Inn in Los Altos

NE DAY, about 18 years ago, a Bill Watts at waterfall console of Opus #2164. His career at theatre organ little girl came home from school consoles pre-dates #2164 by several years. O - Robert H. Churchill photo broken hearted and crying because the other kids called her a liar. During the delivered in the United States and the Repairs were made by local organ kindergarten "sharing" time, it seems, last large Wurlitzer delivered to the enthusiasts who had playing privileges she told of her trips to the Paramount West Coast. on the organ. Since no theatre funds Theatre, Oakland, attending an ATOS It is doubtful that any theatre ever were available the repairs were not as jam session and describing the organ. held a Grand Opening at a more in­ complete as could be desired, but at Her classmates didn't believe that appropriate time as the country was least the organ was in playing condi­ there was, "any such thing" as a theatre suffering from the worst economic tion and intact except for the piano. pipe organ. Today this same little girl depression of all time. Some concerts were given on the or­ could prove to her erstwhile classmates The 3500 seat Paramount was open­ gan in the early 1950's. Radio com­ that there is such. ed with a deluxe presentation policy, mercials played by June Melendy were The Paramount Wurlitzer left North needless to say, under these circum­ recorded and ATOS Northern Cali­ Tonawanda on July 28, 1931 desig­ stances, it was open only a few months. fornia Chapter held meetings at the nated as Opus 2164. It was a standard As the economic situation improved theatre on several occasions. Tiny Publix #1 in a modernistic console the theatre re-opened with a straight James served as house organist during decor to match the Theatre ( Console picture policy . The organ was used this period and was called upon to described in T.O. Summer 1966 Vol. only on special occasions . play New Years' Midnite Shows, Sneak VIII No. 2, page 27. For specifications As the years rolled by, a leaky roof Previews, and other special programs. of organ see Vol. XI No. 6, page 24.) caused considerable water damage to One commercial recording featuring the main chamber , warping chests, and the artistry of Koria Pandit was made This was the last Publix #1 organ ruining the piano. on this instrument in the late 1950's .

Audience at Melody Inn enjoys the "schmaltz" music of Bill Watts and 'ORGAN CHAMBERS UNDER GLASS.' Shutters are set high to enhance pizzas, A wonderful combination. sound egress. - Robert H. Churchill photo - Robert H. Churchill photo

;une, 1971 18 Pipework from ex-Oakland Paramount Wurlitzer now at Melody Inn in Tuners are better looking these days or is this a publicity shot. Los Altos.

The Paramount management dispos­ Except for minor change the instru­ thusiast who has taken on the task of ed of the organ in 1960, the buyer ment is laid out exactly as it was in­ making this mighty Wurlitzer available planned to install it in a club. With stalled in the Paramount. A magnificent for public enjoyment. this in mind it was rebuilt and placed instrument to begin with, great care in storage. The club plan fell through. has been taken to retain its glory in His policy of good music under the The instrument remained in storage un­ the Melody Inn. capable fingers of veteran movie or­ til 1968 at which time it was purchased Chambers and decor were executed ganist Bill Watts, coupled with a com­ by Edward Restivo. to capture the magic of a bygone era plete pizza house menu, and pleasing and achieve the most tonally balanced decor makes the Melody Inn a "must" The Melody Inn, Los Altos, Calif., and grandiose installation of the theatre for any organ buff. was designed with the organ installa­ pipe organ possible. The only tonal The setting is different but the mighty tion a primary consideration. Installa­ change in the organ has been the ad­ Paramount Wurlitzer lives on at the dition of an English Post Horn. tion began in May 1969. Installation Melody Inn. time for an organ this size is normally The organ is finally being allowed to six months. It was installed in three do what it was built for-entertainment The doubters who think there is months by Bill and Jan Hunter, Steve of the public. Steve Restivo of the "no such thing" are in for a delightful Restivo and Roy Dawson. Melody Inn is a long time organ en- surprise. D

pie nodded approval, knowing that they Kay McAbeePlays would hear one of his now famous arrangements. They applauded as he "LittleMother" Concert played the "whirl-wind" second chorus Toledo Farewell of "Tea for Two" with the "Stranger in Farewell theatre organ concerts usu­ Paradise" countermelody. BoostsHall Fund ally turn into sentimental sob-sessions After the concert was over many which put everybody in a blue mood. people swarmed around the console to The New York Chapter featured a But the Farewell Concert played by have Kay autograph his new album concert on the beloved "Little Mother," Kay McAbee at the 3/ 11 Marr & Col­ "The Fun Sounds of Kay McAbee," style 150 Wurlitzer 2/ 5, at the home of ton in Toledo's State Theatre was not and to talk to him about theatre organs the late Ben M. Hall, March l 4. like that at all. ' and organists. He was greeted as if he About 125 people attended the open Kay's music has a magnetic quality were a returning native. console event which netted $446 for that draws the audience away from Kay's playing was spectacular; so the Ben Hall Memorial Fund which is other thoughts and envelops them in was the organ. It sounded more like a devoted to the preservation of his Wur­ whatever mood he wishes to create. His 20 rank organ. But now, the organ litzer and vast collection of memori­ audience simply forgot that it was a must be removed from the theatre for bilia. farewell show. a number of reasons. Highlighted at the console were Lee Kay had added many new tunes to Richard Shindell, who owns and Erwin and Jeff Barker, who gave rem­ his repertoire such as "By the Time I maintains the organ, wants to find a iniscent performances to a mostly Get to Phoenix" and "Those Were the better home for it - one where it can standing audience. Days," but audiences still prefer to hear be heard publicly, to help keep the his older arrangements. "Dizzy Fingers" tradition of theatre organs alive m The Wurlitzer was disassembled and and "Land of the Pharaohs" are among Toledo. placed in storage during the following them. As he announced each tune peo- He's got the right idea. □ week. D 19 theatre organ ., ____~-,------

ASHLEY TACKLES THE BIG BEAST - 21 of its PRE-PROGRAM POOP - Dick Loderhose provides some info on his instrument. Watching is Hank 42 ranks comprise Jesse Crawford's former Para­ Holzberger who owns the 3 / 21 Wonder Morton from Loew's Fairmont in the Bronx. mount studio broadcast organ. Dick Loderhose Hosts Hall Fund Concert by Elmer Fubb row's "Troubador" piping cheerful tunes At the close of the first concert, the A TOSer Richard C. Loderhose shared from the far corner of the Loderhose group exited to band organ music and the shock of Ben Hall's murder with backlot. passed the waiting 2: 30 p.m. group. enthusiasts everywhere. When the pur­ A TOSers were handling the gate, ex­ Ashley played his concert four times in chase of Ben's treasures by ATOS be­ tracting a $2.00 ticket from each at­ all and Dick estimates that nearly 300 came a possibility, Dick saw a chance tendee. When the seats were full Dick heard the concert. "There were a few to help the committee raise the money welcomed the crowd and turned the deadheads but most who got in we.re needed to make the purchase. show over to Ashley Miller. Ashley paying customers," says Dick. With a 4/ 42 Wurlitzer in his espe­ played a program of mainly pops and He was impressed by the Connecti­ cially built Jamaica (New York) music standards on the 4/ 42, and he was vis­ cut Valley Chapter's excursion from room, the answer seemed simple. ibly shaken when he spoke about Ben New Haven. In this group were ATOS "I'll have a concert" exclaimed Dick, Hall. national president, Stillman Rice and "and charge admission." "Ashley Miller did a nice job" said Mrs. Rice. Then he remembered his 40' x 26' Dick, "but then he always does. I was "It was a good show and the bread it music room could seat only about 80 proud of the Wurlitzer - not one generated put a smile on chairman Lee comfortably - on rented folding chairs. cipher." Erwin's face," said Dick. D "I'll have two concerts - maybe three - or even four. And I'll ask for dona­ tions." Dick's offer was accepted by the New York chapter members on the commit­ tee and Dick wondered how Ashley Miller would react to the idea of play­ ing the same concert perhaps four times in an afternoon. Ashley swal­ INTERMISSION MU­ SIC-The 'Tr oubador' lowed hard and said okay. Then the provided between­ date was set for April 18, and Dick shows entertainment started making arrangements for an on the "south 40" of added attraction. the Loderhose acre. "Wonder if I can get Joshua Sparrow to bring his band organ over for inter­ mission?" thought Dick. April 18 was a bright spring day and when guests arrived for the first session set for 1 :00 p.m. there was Mr. Spar- ju ne, 1971 20 TONY BERNARDSMITH l ~nippttsfrom ~nglanb

Big event of 1971 for the British or­ ist, delighting audiences daily at Lon­ gan fans is the return of the old maestro don's Odeon, Leicester-square on the himself - Reginald Foort. It should all 5/ 16 Compton we call the "Duchess." be over by the time you read these Having abandoned the Highlands and words but at the time of writing we are joined the sophisticated Sassenachs, he on the eve of all the high jinks. has also abandoned the kilt for public Another English institution, the performances. Royal Albert Hall, is celebrating its cen­ Bobby, though, had been known to tenary and it's there that Reg heads the don his native costume occasionally bill with the famous Marcel Dupre and until last year. other big names in the concert field. Then at a concert at the Regal, Ed­ But the famous 4/ 14 Wurlitzer of the monton, whose fine Christie 4/ 15 was Granada, Tooting (lovely place name made famous on discs by Sidney Torch, for the home of a gutsy little box of he said that his kilt was making its last pipes) sees him teamed with almost appearance. "It is too old, and its owner is too John Slingerland at the console of his 3/ 5 anybody who is anybody in the theatre residence organ. After ten years, he's still not field. broke to renew it," he said jokingly. finished it. Brighton ( with its unique Dome dual­ A pity we shall be losing this touch The one on the end of the block is purpose instrument), Southampton, of colour. Still, Bobby himself will still something special, though. You might Manchester ( now almost the capital of be around and he's quite a character. not credit it, but there's a fiv~ (soon to T.O. land) and various other big cities As a lad he was apprenticed at Don­ be six) rank theatre organ in the roof. • feature live recitals and Reg has a caster Locomotive Works, the North Tonawanda of the railway world. He John Slingerland, one of the dedi­ broadcasting schedule so tight it re­ cated band of Dutch buffs who keep minds us what all the fuss is about. still gives lectures about steam trains and the like but he's been a pro organist interest alive in the Low Countries, has The reason his name is the tops for built it all himself and, in his hands, it so many is quite simple. Despite his since 1926 and was still employed by one theatre circuit until September, sounds just dandy. early successes at the New Gallery, 1970, giving him one of the longest Three of the ranks came out of the London, and the Regal, Marble Arch, old Capitol theatre, Rotterdam, and he became truly famous when he was runs in the business. He was resident at Edmonton after two from a church and there's a new appointed the first resident theatre or­ Sidney Torch and recalls that he was tibia rank awaiting installation. ganist for the BBC. And, as anybody able to combine this job with his train­ John told me he had so far been 10 can tell you, way back in those days spotting hobby. "There was many a or 15 years on the job of building the before TV, the BBC were providing a mad dash to Wood Green Station in my organ. radio service which was heard by every­ two-door Standard Nine to watch the "When I was a little boy I heard the body, everywhere. Silver Jubilee (a crack express) belting organ at the Passage Theatre, Schiedam, And it was then, with Reg Dixon north from King's Cross on its four­ and I thought I must have such a bashing away merrily at the Tower, hour one stop run to Newcastle." thing," he said. Blackpool, and the Messers. Porter­ Alas, the steam-trains are all gone There has only been one bit of fak­ Brown, New, Stone, and others being and so, now, are all the organists in kilts. ing. The pedal is electronic, since 32' plugged on theatre marquees hither and pipes just would not go in the tiny loft. yon that the legend grew that you need­ Even the console, standing in an in­ ed something more than musical ability credibly small ( about nine feet by 11 to be a cinema organist ( we used to call feet) bedroom, is home made and the them that in those days). You must, in stop tabs are currently labelled with short, arrange for your parents to have marker tape. In time, they will be en­ christened you Reginald. graved. Swell shutters are in the ceiling All of which is by way of explanation and the sound, surprisingly, is not over­ of the fuss caused by the return to his powering. homeland of Florida's illustrious immi­ I asked John whether the neighbours grant. did not complain on occasion. A charm­ * * * ing smile and a shrug of the shoulders. Scotland's many peculiarities ( apart "They have six children," he said. from being part of the British Isles "They make so much noise they do not without ever really seeming to belong) hear it." include the kilt as an item of dress for STACCATO SNIPPETS - Veteran men. accompanist of silent films Florence de Among the pedal-pushing wearers of Bobby Pagan at the Regal, Edmonton, Christie. Jong recently played a truly top date - The kilt has made its last appearance. what seems to us normal Englishmen at Buckingham Palace, home of the little better than a skirt held together by * * * British Royal Family. Queen Elizabeth, a diaper pin have been Gerald Shaw Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht is a pleasant though, has no Wurlitzer installed so and Bobby Pagan. village in South Holland - near to the long-time resident of the New Gal­ Gerald, of course, is now the last Rotterdam. And Tarwestraat is a nice lery had to make do with a piano J.s surviving full-time British theatre organ- street of middleclass Dutch homes. (Continued on page 30)

21 theatre organ never have thought "musician" as they looked at Cronin. His round face, THE BIOGRAPHY OF piercing eyes, medium height, and stocky frame would more likely have suggested "lawyer," "banker," or "exe­ FRANCIS J CRONIN cutive." To describe the Cronin musical style by J. Paul Chavanne in words is difficult. It was based on sincere musicianship, and completely devoid of phony razzle-dazzle. He was "Unique," "unusual," "one of a Mr. O'Brien, was a regular Capitol neither a typical theatre organist nor a kind" are words that describe not only patron, and that at the end of a per­ typical concert organist. He fell some­ Francis Joseph Cronin as man and formance, he invariably made his way where between the two. Although he musician, but also many of the instru­ down to the orchestra pit to tell Cronin had much admiration .for Jesse Craw­ ments he played and many of the posi­ and Fine how much he had "enjoyed ford, Cronin refused to become another tions he held. the film." What he meant, of course, of the countless Crawford imitators. No This master of the console was born was that he had been impressed by their one before or since has ever sounded in Cambridge, Mass. on July 22, 1894. musical accompaniment. exactly like "Francis J." Long before He began piano study at the age of the expression entered the language, eight, was playing the organ at four­ Cronin was "doing his own thing," and teen, and teaching music at seventeen. his own thing was beautiful. Cronin attended Rindge Technical The glissando was not a typical part School in Cambridge, but it was evi­ of the Cronin idiom. His pop style dent that music was to be his consum­ usually consisted of a single note mel­ ing passion. The major influence in ody against an accompaniment that Cronin's musical development came sometimes verged on the pianistic. Yet from a blind church organist named this does not mean that he sounded like Francis O'Brien. a fugitive from a roller rink. He pro­ For a time, Cronin served as a duced exquisite music. church organist at St. John the Evange­ His registration was clean, original, list's in Swampscott, Mass. Then the and tasteful; his technic incredible. He world of the theatre beckoned, and made occasional use of chimes and young Frank found his first job as or­ chrysoglott, but was not addicted to the ganist for silent films at the Kimball of toy counter. He was a pipe organist Boston's Globe Theatre, (now known as playing pipes. the Center). In the same neighborhood, Francis J. Cronin Cronin thought orchestrally as he he also had engagements at the Wur­ brought in the various ranks of his in­ litzer of the Washington St. Olympia, Cronin was certainly a featured or­ strument. In fact, he had an unfulfilled (Pilgrim); and at the Austin of the ganist at the Capitol. His name ap­ ambition to conduct a symphony or­ Park, (State). For a time he also played peared in all advertising matter and in chestra. His orchestral orientation the Moller of the Central Sq. Theatre lobby displays. Yet, Henry Kalis and served him well during his years at the in his native Cambridge. Capitol pianist Walter Jacobson both Capitol. Kalis remembers how well report that Cronin was ill at ease in a In December of 1922, Cronin began Cronin's organ augmented the orchestra spotlight. He hated to play spotlight his last and most memorable theatrical during overtures. Fine said it was re­ solos, although he had more genuine engagement when he opened the new markable to hear the way in which talent than many of his contemporaries Capitol Theatre in the Allston district Cronin's perfect pitch enabled him to who thought they belonged in the spot­ take over so smoothly from the or­ of Boston. Although several miles from light. the downtown area, the Capitol was chestra while playing for films. anything but an ordinary neighborhood Theodore N. Marier, the noted or­ The facet of the· Cronin talent most movie house. This large and attractive ganist and choral director, tells of often mentioned by those who knew theatre was the pride of the Gordon visiting the Capitol as a youth and of him was his gift for improvisation. Also chain. It originally operated on a re­ paying more attention to Cronin than memorable was the rich Cronin sense served seat policy and attracted a loyal to the action on the screen. Marier too of humor which colored so much of audience from a forty mile radius. was impressed by Cronin's modest and what he played. retiring nature. At matinee performances, Cronin The first Mrs. Francis J. Cronin, cued the films without assistance at his Cronin actually enjoyed playing in (Rose Kelly), died after a few years of self-designed 4/ 3 5 Skinner advertised the dark. He usually cued films with­ marriage, leaving him with one daugh­ as the largest theatre organ in New out turning on even a console light. He ter, Edith. relied on his memory and his improvi­ England. At night he alternated with A regular Capitol patron was a young sational skill to provide suitable ac­ a pit orchestra conducted by Hy Fine. church organist named Catherine Cur­ companiment. When Fine moved on to become even­ tin. Impressed with Cronin's artistry, tually New England Regional Musical The Cronin personality tended to be she finally found the courage to intro­ Director for Publix, Henry Kalis took shy, introverted, and reserved. Get­ duce herself to him, and to ask him if over as Capitol conductor. ting to know him was not easy, but he would accept her as a pupil. Cronin's Fine states: "I learned more from beneath his outer shell was a lovable elaborate system of defenses proved in­ Frank Cronin than from any other person. effective when confronted with Miss person in the music business." Fine Those who play the game of occupa­ Curtin's charm. Although he had little also recalls that Cronin's blind teacher, tional type casting would probably enthusiasm for teaching, he agreed to june, 1971 22 give the lady lessons on the Capitol in­ it was a highly special Wurli for a ing to go on . She said: 'I spent five strument every Saturday morning. Les­ highly special organist. dollars last night to go and hear - -, sons began in 1923. Four years later , The method of broadcasting organ (some prominent soprano), and it was teacher and pupil became man and music at WNAC was also out of the terrible! What a waste of money! She wife. ordinary. The console was isolated in reached for a Bb and she missed it just The marriage was happy and fruitful. a soundproof room of its own, and the like that! Any woman who calls her­ Frank and Catherine had five children: organist could hear his instrument only self a soprano ought to be able to sing Catherine , Francis Jr., George , Patricia , through a monitor speaker. This sup­ a high Bb !' Then they went on the air, and Rosemary. Edith, who barely re­ posedly improved the quality of trans­ singing some old revival song . She membered her own mother , was now mission since the organist heard exactly reached for the top one and muffed it part of a closely-knit family. what was going out over the air. completely. With blood in her eye, after the show was over, she came in When the Capitol management de­ Strange as it may seem, Cronin's to Frank yelling: 'You transposed that! cided to discontinue live music , Kalis most fondly remembered program was That's not the key we rehearsed it in!' reports that the patrons circulated a one that went on at 6:30 a.m. It was He grinned and said: 'After alJ, it was petition begging that orchestra and or­ called "Sunrise Melodies," and Cronin only an A!'" ganist be retained. However, it was to announced it himself in his slow and Cronin's improvisational talent was no avail. The orchestra was first to go. dignified manner. The opening theme properly displayed at WNAC. Often, Kalis eventually became conductor at was a rousing pop tune called "Here the "Noonday Musicale" consisted of Boston's Metropolitan. Then Cronin Comes the Sun." After a few intro­ fifteen minutes of extemporaneous im­ finished his nine year Capitol engage­ ductory words, Cronin then played a provisation. It was also typically Cron­ ment around Labor Day of 1931. hymn , and was thoroughly ecumenical inian ·'to end a show like the Owens­ When it became known that Cronin in his choice of sacred tunes. Over­ Wheeler "Spotlight Revue" with a was at liberty, Boston radio station tures, operatic selections, popular clas­ montage which quoted strains of every WNAC immediately signed him as sics, Broadway scores, novelties, and tune sung or played on the program. studio organist. The more one thinks pop tunes rounded out the show which Much as a symphonic composer of it, the more it seems that radio was originally lasted an hour. He also gave achieves his recapitulation, Cronin in­ the perfect medium for Cronin. He was frequent time checks, and once said in terwove those tunes into a blazing now liberated from the glare of the self-disparagement that people listened climax. to him only to get the correct time. spotlight and the gaze of the public . WNAC once presented many drama­ Another fringe benefit of radio work "The Noonday Musicale," "The Yan­ tic programs. Here, Cronin drew on was that Cronin, whose only vice con­ kee House Party," and many other his silent film experience to improvise sisted of smoking long, black cigars , programs also featured Cronin as solo­ mood music and bridges. ist. It would be sadly remiss, however , could now puff while he played . This In the fall of 1968, the brilliant Al was sometimes rough on announcers not to mention Cronin the accompanist. Few musicians are equally proficient as Bollington performed at Stoneham who had to do programs with Cronin Town Hall on the WNAC Wurli. When amid billowing clouds of smoke. both soloists and accompanists, and Cronin was part of this select company. Hollington presented his tour de force Cronin's audience , although unseen , of playing while wearing his airman's He gave sensitive accompaniment to was now bigger than ever. Organ pro­ boots, some of us recalled that Cronin , grams which originated at WNAC were violinist Bobby Norris, saxophonist An­ drew Jacobson, baritone Walter Kidder, out of sheer necessity , had once done regularly heard regionally over the something similar on that very organ. and vocal teams such as Alice O'Leary Yankee Network and often nationally On a snowy winter 's morning , Frank and Adrian O'Brien or Ruth Owens and over the Mutual Network. burst into the console room seconds George Wheeler. Conin's work with the before "Sunrise Melodies" time, and Linus Travers , former Vice President large choral group known as the Metro­ was forced to tear into "Here Comes of the Yankee Network states that politan Singers was also admirable . member stations of that web were free the Sun" while wearing hat , overcoat , to carry or reject shows which origin­ The late Hugh Wilcox , a pupil and and galoshes . ated at WNAC . It was a tribute to close associ ate of Cronin 's, cited Around 1940 , John Shepard III , the Cronin's greatness that all affiliated sta­ Frank 's work with coloratura soprano owner of WNAC , became interested in tions were happy to carry his program s. Clothilde Zappala as something trul y Maj. Edwin H . Anderson's revolution­ impressive . Those coloratura arias were ary means of broadcasting called Fre­ The instrument at WNAC had been difficult enough to accomp any even in installed about a year before Cronin's quency Modulation . After Armstrong their original keys . But there were set up an FM transmitter for WNAC , advent. (Cronin , incidentally , had play­ times when Miss Zappala required that ed as guest organist the night the instru­ Cronin became one of the first artists they be transposed into tonalities which ment was inaugurated.) It was a Wur­ anywhere to be heard on FM. Not only would have made most accompanists was Armstrong greatly impressed by litzer made up of parts of two organs turn in their union cards. To Cronin , that had once stood in the Empire and Cronin's work , but he was also con­ such transpositions were a welcome Windsor Theatres in Brooklyn , N. Y. vinced that the pipe organ , with its challenge. Cronin added both pipes and acces­ wide dynamic range and infinite variety sories before taking over his duties. Announcer Nelson Churchill recalled of tone colors , was the perfect instru­ This instrument is now in the Town a time when the Cronin facility in ment to demonstrate the superiority of Hall Auditorium in Stoneham, Mass. , transposition was used to put down a FM. and is substantially as Cronin left it. less talented soprano: Although the 2/ 14 Wurli served Wurli stock models went to three "We had a mixed quartet that sang WNAC well for ten years, Armstrong, manuals at eleven ranks. In Stoneham , hymns in the morning. The soprano Cronin, and Shepard now began think­ we find fourteen ranks on two manuals. was a nervous, talkative little girl who ing of an instrument with greater re­ The ten general pistons and seven coup­ thought she knew all the answers. One sources. Finally , Cronin was given the lers on the Stoneham instrument show morning, we had rehearsed the show go-ahead to design a new organ for evidence of the Cronin touch. In all, they were about to do and were wait- WNAC to be built by Aeolian-Skinner.

23 theatre organ In June of 1941, Cronin proudly in­ The tragic coincidence was that the music for a program Frank had done augurated his 4/ 36 Aeolian-Skinner. It death of this great radio organist came with B. A. Rolfe in which Rolfe des­ was divided into three chambers and at just about the same time as the dis­ cribed a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral housed in a specially built studio three appearance of most live radio music. in Paris. The second was a spectacular stories high. The studio had both live In December of 1948, this writer asked free style outpouring which featured a and dead ends and was designed with Gus Fischer, the late Secretary of the little Wagnerian motif which Frank FM in mind. The organ contained Boston Musicians' Association, if any­ used to play to let his beloved Catherine 2626 pipes and 100 miles of wiring. It one had been signed to succeed Cronin know he was thinking of her. was the largest organ ever designed for as organist at WNAC. The sad reply Following the taped concert, Richard radio use. Like Cronin himself, the in­ was that no one had been signed and Roberts, the organist of Christ Church, strument defied classification. that no one would be. Cronin's passing gave us a demonstration of the instru­ One searched in vain for a draw provided WN AC with the ideal pretext ment. After this, the console was knob labelled "Tibia." A gedeckt rank for the termination of organ music. thrown open to all comers. of 97 pipes unified at 16-8-4-2 was the With characteristic modesty, Cronin The WNAC Aeolian - Skinner, never bothered to set an·y of his musical nearest thing to a tibia that could be (#1025), saw little use until 1955 when found. In addition, the organ included ideas on paper. Mrs. Cronin has re­ it was relocated without changes in two diapasons, ten flutes, eight strings, cently succeeded in making available Christ Episcopal Church, Needham, four brass reeds, seven color reeds, copies of both the "Cathedral" and the Mass. Even the percussion remained in three independent mutations, and a "Tone Poem." Interested parties should the instrument. (Shades of Robert physharmonica of 61 reeds. contact: Hope-Jones at Birkenhead!) Mrs. Francis J. Cronin Most of the instrument was on six It was indeed gratifying to discover 124 Pilgrim Road inch wind pressure, and some on ten. how many busy and important people Braintree, Mass. 02184. There was a complete toy counter, and were only too glad to take time out percussion which included a Deagan from their activities to reminisce about A kindly fate allowed us to hear and Vibra-Harp and a large Chinese gong. Cronin and to tell how much they loved play the second WNAC instrument al­ There were eight pistons on each man­ and admired him. most as Cronin had left it. We found ual, eight toe studs, twelve general pis­ one rank already changed and the trem­ tons, and 31 couplers. ulants slowed down to make the instru­ POSTSCRIPT One morning in October of 1946, ment more churchly. At this writing, Cronin complained of chest pains upon Erle Renwick, Chairman of the East­ other alterations have been made. arising. Mrs. Cronin begged him to ern Mass. Chapter, was the catalyst What of the 4/ 35 E. M. Skinner send in a substitute, but after a few whose inquiry about Cronin in the which Cronin designed for the Allston minutes, Cronin said he felt better and chapter newsletter of June, 1969 set Capitol? After the demolition of the drove off. Frank's early morning trip your reporter going on his labor of Capitol, the organ was acquired by from Newton Center to Boston was love. Brandeis University in Waltham, Mass. where it lay in storage for years. De­ usually performed in helter-skelter Although Cronin seems to have made spite original good intentions, it became fashion. Since he generally travelled no commercial recordings, his widow beyond urban speed limits, Cronin had evident that the anticipated installation has in her possession air check record­ at Brandeis would never take place. It learned where to keep an eye out for ings of his programs. From these, Erle police. The town of Brookline, for was fitting that EMCATOS member J. Renwick and Clayton Stone made ex­ example, always seemed to be especially cellent tapes. Arthur Goggin should come to the res­ well patrolled. That day, Frank passed cue of this instrument in distress. Art through Brookline, the chest pains re­ The Cronin euphoria reached its peak studied organ with Cronin and has re­ turned with greater intensity. He Monday, October 13, 1969 with an eve­ mained close to the Cronin family. The looked for a policeman, but now that ning of special tribute held at Christ happy announcement recently came he wanted one, none was around. Episcopal Church in Needham. Ga­ that Art had obtained the Capitol organ Somehow, he managed to continue driv­ thered there were Mrs. Cronin, all the for St. Mary's Church in West Quincy, ing until he was directly in front of the Cronin children, Frank's two brothers, Mass. where he is organist. Kenmore Sq. studios of WNAC. There, former WNAC announcer Nelson Unlike his couqterpart at Christ he found a policeman who drove him Churchill and Mrs. Churchill, Charles Church in Needham, Art proposes to to St. Elizabeth's Hospital in Brighton. French who had served as engineer at keep this fine orchestral organ in its His condition was diagnosed as a heart WNAC, chapter members and guests. original state. seizure. The playing of the tapes brought us to Mrs. Cronin, a deeply religious per­ Cronin's doctors allowed him to re­ an agonizing moment of truth. Would son, feels that Frank is still with her sume his console duties two months Francis J. Cronin now turn out to be in spirit. We of the Eastern Mass. later. However, he was never to drive an idol of our younger days whose Chapter can say the same. To us it an automobile again. Mrs. Cronin and pedestal would crumble as we listened seems as if he has never gone away, as the older son, Francis Jr., provided to him through more mature ears? On if tomorrow morning we could once transportation. the contrary, we became convinced again awaken to the Sunrise Melodies In November of 1948, a second heart more than ever that the man was a of "your organist and announcer, attack came while Cronin was at home. genius. We noticed in his playing Francis J. Cronin." D Once again he was rushed to St. Eliza­ qualities that had previously eluded us. beth's Hospital. This time, all efforts For instance, we discovered that Frank The Organ Literature Foundation to save him failed. The unforgettable transposed to unusual keys not only to has just issued a new addenda list - Francis J. Cronin passed from this life accommodate others, but also to impart #66 It is available free of charge to November 14, 1948. His Requiem a special sonority to his solo work. Es­ any readers of Theatre Organ. Send a was sung at the Sacred Heart Church pecially impressive were two improvisa­ self-addressed stamped envelope to Or­ in Newton, and the organist was ATOS tions called "The Cathedral" and "Tone gan Literature Foundation, Braintree, member Leo G. Brehm. Poem." The first of these was mood Mass. 02184. june, 1971 24 WOMEN'S LIB ... 1928 some of our really talented girl organ­ up 75% of the theatre audiences today, ists from borrowing one of brother's and when they decide that it is about suits, even if said brother does have to time to call a halt on the kind of hands Woman'sPlace stay in bed? Or, better yet, rent a the theatrical firms are dealing out to tuxedo, then hie herself hither to some women, we shall win. In the Theatre amusement company and put in her little old application for an organ job? The club is not intended for any I'll bet my stopped diapason, tremolo Bolshevist propaganda, but simply to by Avelyn Kerr promote the welfare of the women mu­ Milwaukee Organist and all, that they will win the concrete egg crate! sician and raise the standard of music in the theatre. This subject has inter­ The following Item appeared In Jacobs l\fagazlne, Here's another "bright" idea of mine. ested me for a long time, because I March 1928, and was submitted by Lloyd E. Klos: There are a lot of good, high-grade myself experienced some of the effects orchestra men at present out of work Every day, some girl or woman mu­ of the local situation, but fortunately in Milwaukee; men who have studied was able to rise above it. Organizing sician comes to me with the serious music all their lives and are artists in question: "Tell me, Miss Kerr, how can women isn't the easiest thing on earth, their profession; men who have been either, as for instance: I tried to better I get a theatre position in Milwaukee? cast aside for the younger jazz musi­ conditions here by organizing a few The managers simply will not hire a cians - you know the kind of orches­ woman musician." The situation is fast girl trios and orchestras, thinking that tras I mean; each man for himself. Now, with radio and newspaper connections, getting to be a critical one - not only so long as these men cannot find work I easily could get work for them. I in Milwaukee, but throughout the coun­ at their own profession, why not turn found one partly organized girls' or­ try. Not long ago, I took this matter martyrs to the cause, and instead of chestra with some pretty good talent, but up with the Musicians' Union, but it putting records and rolls on music boxes with little experience and less show­ did not go over so very big. I was told or other mechanical players, hire out as manship. However, it was good material that, although the Union did not intend ushers or doormen in the theatres - with which to work and a rehearsal was to show partiality to the men musicians, you know that is said to be the first called. if a theatre manager objected to a step towards becoming a manager. woman player, the Union could do Thus, our next generation of managers On the very next morning, one of the nothing. Maybe not, but I would like will be able to appreciate music and members came to me and insisted that to see conditions reversed, and the the standard of theatre music in Mil­ she should be made the leader, as it theatres refuse to hire any musicians waukee consequently will be raised. was her orchestra. At noon, another except women, then see how quickly the Great men have died for a lesser cause one put in her appearance, saying that Union would act! than this. I tell you that we musicians she had a girls' orchestra of her own which was all ready to work, but that The standard of organ work is excep­ must stick together (bring the soap she must be the leader of it. By night, tionally low in Milwaukee, due to the box, please). How can it be expected every girl in the orchestra had been to fact that so few of the theatre owners that all these schools will continue to me with a different proposition from know anything at all about music, and operate or the music profession live each, so I gave it up as a bad job. care less. The positions seem to be and advance, if there are no positions Everyone continually asks why it is given to the lowest men bidders, whe­ for our students? Already, I have added that I am so interested in the orchestra ther or not they ever saw a pipe organ a Special Course on "How to Operate musician. The answer is simple; that before. I know of a case in which a Victrolas and Player Organs." Posi­ without a knowledge of orchestral in­ man was hired as a relief player where tions guaranteed. Six people were strumentation, it is impossible to mas­ I happened to hold the first position. He killed in the first rush. ter the pipe organ; but when one has came into the pit to relieve me, and the But to quit the kidding and come passed a certain stage of instruction on first thing which he said was, "Show down to cold, solid facts: "There is a that instrument, then the study and me what to do with this thing!" I movement afoot in Milwaukee to knowledge of orchestra work will pro­ pushed a couple of the set-up pistons, grapple with this problem of the woman vide the greatest advanced training and tried to explain which ones he could musician, and I am happy to state that there is. I have heard a so-called or­ use without doing any material damage. I have been instrumental in forming a ganist play "Asleep in the Deep" on He deliberately parked both feet right women's club for such a purpose. In the piccolo stop, and flatter himself that across the pedal board and then said: unity, there always is strength, and he was putting it over. The longer one "Ye Gods! What's that?" I answered: when this club unites with the Federa­ is in educational work, the more it is "It's the little birdies calling me home." tion of Women's Clubs and they send realized what a lot there is to learn. He probably would be still standing their ultimatum to the theatre managers there if someone hadn't thought to pull to "remove the ban from women musi­ I have interviewed not a few man­ the switch. cians or we stop our patronage," some­ agers regarding this woman question. thing is going to happen. Women make One of them told me (hold your I have noticed of late a lot of new­ breath) that he didn't think women comers working in on relief jobs - were strong enough to pump an organ! pretty boys (you know what I mean) GET JHE GUYS Another said that women always were with rosy cheeks and permanent waves arousing agitation among the men em­ and, Oh heavens, girls, papa spank! TO VOCALIZE ployees, and still another claimed that And that gives me a bright idea; per­ WITH"SING-ALONG SONG SLIDES"!! the men musicians were so rough, he did haps I should have put that word not like to have women associated with Send for National's FREE Catalog "bright" in quotation marks. Usually them. There was any amount of such when I get a bright idea, I also get a of all-time hit songs-for as low as 50¢ a tune. Projectors too. flimsy reasons given by these managers headache. But anyway, I believe I have for not engaging women musicians, but solved the problem of the girl organist. N4TIDNALSONG SLIDE SEIVICI INC. there wasn't a logical reason expressed In this day of bobbed-haired women and effeminate men, what is to hinder 42 I. Utb St. NewYork, N.T. 10036 (Continued on page 27)

25 theatre organ distilled down to the least common sole elevator "That's Entertainment" denominator of public taste. Not so this which gets a nearly "normal" rendition disc; Billy dreamed up the program to until that highly embellished final appeal to hip organ fans-ATOS con­ chorus. Another fine old warhorse, ventioneers. So he loaded it with tunes "Jalousie," gets a new coat of brass­ and styles designed to catch the ears hued paint and some growly pedal of the cognoscenti; tunes he enjoys figures. There's a glowering foreboding playing and played the way he feels of impending doom in "Somewhere" them. The result is one of the most ( from "West Side Story"), the most remarkable recordings ( even without dramatic moments on the record. A the 4-channel effects) to be released in close second in that area is "Bess You recent years, to this reviewers way of is My Woman" which benefits from thinking. In fact it's difficult to classify fresh harmonic treatment and an in­ because there is nothing to compare it teresting pedal part. "Who" sounds just with-but we'll try. as current as when Billy first recorded As Nalle fans know so well, Billy's the arrangement in 1957. Another technique at the console is flawless, so N alle repeat is "The Man Who Got we'll discuss arrangements. Again Away," a study in building slowly and Manufadurers, distributors or individuals there are such a variety we'd have to with ever mounting intensity toward sponsoring or merchandising theatre pipe a musical peak. Sheer brilliance! organ records are encouraged to send stretch this space a few pages. Arrange­ review pressings to THEATRE ORGAN ments are tailored to project the tune. The jacket is a folder with photos SOUTHWEST, Box 5013, Bendix Station, Again, Billy's taste is impeccable. He of Billy and well-written notes which No. Hollywood, Calif. 91605. Be sure is obviously having the most fun when deal with each selection. High in the to include purchasing information, if he's doing what used to be called a congratulatory lineup are the members applicable. "ride," or variation, on a rhythm tune. of New York Chapter of ATOS who and this, in turn shows off Billy's nursed the venerable Wurli into pro­ BIG, BOLD & BILLY. Billy Nalle mighty creative ability. Sometimes his during such great sounds, especially the playing the New York L.I.U. 4/26 insidious and complex rhythm "riffs" lush Solo voices. Its a fine recording Wurlitzer, Project 3 total sound have the shock effects of similar mo­ organ and the natural acoustics of the stereo, No. PR5 053SO, available ments in Stravinsky's "Rite of Spring." gym help. This one is a "must." A few moments later, he's up to his at record dealers. To be released * * * soon on 4 channel stereo tape and elbows in a bucket of schmaltz to the THE RADIO CITY MUSIC standard 2-channel stereo tape. delight of purely theatre organ aficion­ ados. The music presented, however, HALL ORGAN, Ashley Miller at This platter is the result of that ex­ is not simply theatre organ music but the 4/ 58 Wurlitzer, Columbia CL perimental tape made during Billy a sampling of what might have develop­ 945 (simulated stereo although N alle's dress rehearsal for his 1970 ed if the instrument's lifeline hadn't not so indicated on jacket), special ATOS convention concert played on been pinched off by "talkies" 40 years limited reissue available at $5.50 the Long Island University Wurlitzer. ago. In a sense, Billy N alle is carrying postpaid from Miko Music Co., The idea was to see how pipes would on one ambition of the late Buddy 66 Demarest Avenue, Closter, come through on a new 4-channel Cole whose record producers always New Jersey 07642. stereo recording system. Both Billy and insisted on a strong melody line and Just wondering how a soundtrack the system proved to be so fabulous no tampering with it. Buddy longed to could improve so much just lying in that the selections are being released cut at least one set of tunes during Columbia's vaults for 15 years makes both on the multi-channel tape system which he could digress from the tried this reviewer ask himself whether his and standard stereo disc. This review and true "sure seller" format and delve music appreciation capability hasn't refers to the disc version. into unexplored areas of popular music grown in that period. It's the same set where melodies could be warped to ac­ Billy N alle's first recording, his 19 57 of grooves which we praised for their commodate complex harmonic and RCA jazz album played on the Times excellence the first time around. But rhythmic developments. On many of Square Paramount 4/ 36 Wurli, was it's ever so much better in 1971 ! This his new disc selections Billy does just both a pioneer effort and outstanding. set of selections was recorded when that, taking unprecedented liberties N alle recordings since have been in­ Ashley Miller was one of the resident with familiar tunes ( e.g. "Lullabye of frequent but each has had more interest organists at RCMH, before the instru­ Broadway", "Fascinatin' Rhythm" and value than its predecessor. Yet Billy will ment fell into such a poor mechanical "Can't Take My Eyes Off of You"). have a rough time topping this one. condition that only full combinations With its release Billy makes a successful Improvisation plays a strong role in could be used and the importation of bid to join the sparsely-populated ranks all the tunes but nowhere more bril­ a trio of experts from California of great pop pipe organists. It's under­ liantly than in "When Johnny Comes (Messrs. Kibbee, Pope and Simonton) statement to describe it as a gasser. Marching Home" which is our favorite was required to get it back into top The concept of this disc, as Billy of the eleven selections. Billy gives it shape. Therefore, Mr. Miller was able apparently saw it, differs markedly from a thorough exposure in just about every to use solo stops and the Tuba, Musette that of the great bulk of organ records style it can be fitted into, a much more and other reeds are heard to good effect. released by the majors in recent years: comprehensive treatment than Morton The engineer paid attention to record­ the content and style of most are dic­ Gould's. To keep interest in high gear ing the smaller combinations and deli­ tated by the need for wide public ac­ Billy's "fills" ( between phrase licks) cate reeds as well as the "mighty organ" ceptance-sales. With sales departments during rhythm tunes especially are sounds. Stereo simulation is effective. and PR men having the last word the never repeated. It's a new frill each One side is devoted to pop standards content of too many organ discs was time. His opener is that well-worn con- such as "The Continental", "Once in june, 1971 26 Love with Amy", "My Darling", "Ser­ A factor in favor of a Don Thomp­ the smooth, liquid style of Bill Coffman, enade" ( Student Prince), "The Picco­ son concert or recording is Don's who sometimes adds an aura of Jesse li no", "Yesterdays" and "Stranger in enormous repertoire and his skill in Crawford lilt and phrasing without do­ Paradise." All of these are provided selecting from it ear-catching material ing a direct imitation. There are 18 with lush settings, sometimes with con­ which is usually off the well worn titles on the biscuit, some dating from ventional harmony, sometimes with path. This talent is represented here by the '20's and generally covering much more of the exotic. All the way "Butterfl,ies in the Rain", "Boat Ride of the musical ground to the present, through the selections are ear pleasers. Around Manhattan" and "Phantom which in represented by the now over­ Side 2 consists entirely of light clas­ Brigade." True he also includes such familiar "Raindrops" but with a novel sics of the "encore" variety such as warmovers as "Night and Day", "Body difference; Bill mixes in the oldie Fibich's "Poe me" ( remember it as and Soul" and "What Kind of Fool "Rain" for a simultaneous playing, an "Moonlight Madonna"), "Flight of the am I?" but the novelty tunes between interesting trick which comes off well. Bumblebee," and Dvorak's "Slavonic remove any onus. Arrangements are Many of the tunes are presented in Dance No. JO". On rehearing these novel throughout and the organ re­ medley form, especially music from the tracks, one is impressed by how much cords exceptionally well (remember its '30's such as "Learn to Croon," "Please,. they have influenced the younger gen­ installed among acres of cycles and "Does Your Heart Beat For Me?," "So eration of organists. For example, we motorbikes). Joe Koons has assembled Tired" and "Somebody Else is Taking need wonder no longer where organist a well-balanced instrument from a My Place." These offer some of the Lyn Larsen got his energetic concep­ heterogenous collection of parts and greatest entertainment value on the re­ tion of Edward German's "Satyr pipework. A piano not quite in tune cord. Bill plays them at an easy clip, Dance," nor where he got the godawf ul with pipework is noticeable on some never strives for effect and phrases idea of inserting "I'm Always Chasing tunes but not bothersome. them nicely. In fact the relaxed style is Rainbows" into Chopin's "Fantasy Im­ If we have any reservations concern­ part of the charm of Bill's playing here. promptu" ( a "sacrilege" we've bugged ing the performances, it's in Don's tend­ The music is extremely listenable. The Lyn about for years). It seems Ashley ency to pick up speed ( especially during organ is rich in reeds and the pipework Miller is the original instigator, and if rhythmic selections), an occasional lack is well balanced. The choice of music is both he and Lyn think the mixture is in of attention to detail ( e.g. the bridge of novel, with one exception - the circa good taste we are outnumbered and will "Body and Soul") and now and then 132nd grooving of "Somewhere My beef no more. altering melody lines, perhaps uncon­ Love." Other tunes are "Back in Your In the next THEATRE ORGAN, sciously. None of these items mar the Own Backyard" (Our favorite), "You're we'll review another Ashley Miller finish deeply and they are outweighed Nobody" etc. "Tulips from Amsterdam," Columbia stereo reissue, "The Famous by Don's enthusiasm, musical drive and "You Can't Be True" and "Wonderful Radio City Music Hall Organ" (CS arranging ability. Other tunes are a Wonderful Copenhagen." Recording is 8230) which is just as attractive as the rousing "Fine and Dandy," "Tempta­ good and jacket notes provide some disc discussed above. Prospective pur­ tion Rag," a six-tune collection of Ethel info on the "Old Town" effort and the chasers can save a dollar by ordering Merman starrers and a sometimes fre­ artist. The jacket features a fine color both for $10.00 postpaid. These two netic "That's A-Plenty." photo of the style 285 console before collectors items are worth that and Jacket notes provide interesting mate­ the very visible percussions, traps and much more. rial on the artist, the organ, the music, Diaphone pipes. It's a good show. * * * and a photo of well-beavered Don. A DATE WITH DON, Don * * * Thompson playing the Page-Welte­ WOMAN'SPLACE Wurlitzer in the Joe Koons SOUNDS FROM OLD TOWN Motorcycle Shop, Long Beach, MUSIC HALL, Bill Coffman at (Continued from page 25) the 4/26 Wurlitzer. NCR 12-964, Calif. In stereo, No. CR-CR0ll. by any one of them; in fact, each one Available only by mail from Con­ stereo. Available by mail from Old Town Music Hall, 140 Rich­ admitted that usually women made cert Recording, Box 531, Lyn­ more thorough musicians than the men. wood, Calif. 90262. $4.50 post­ mond St., El Segundo, Calif. 90245 at $5.25 postpaid. Of course, there are some women who paid. use the profession merely as a means Regular readers are familiar with the of getting into the bright lights, though history of this project dating from the the percentage is very small; the major­ time the instrument was installed in a ity of them are deeply in earnest about woodcarver shop. Bill Coffman and Bill adopting the profession as a means of Field have done a masterful job of en­ livelihood. larging their basic style 235 Wurlitzer As for the appearance of a woman to justify the rare style 285 Wurlitzer when playing an organ, I don't know of console (from the gone L.A. Para­ a prettier or more engaging picture than mount). It's now a 4/26, with nicely a well-dressed woman doing an organ integrated additions. This first recording solo in spotlight, and the managers shows it off to good advantage. All of (who are supposed to be showmen) the tonal percussions, traps and toy­ seem to be slipping up on an attraction. counter are unenclosed and dominate Women organists should start a matri­ the stage when used during such tunes monial campaign with these managers as "You Brought a New Kind of Love and then see who's the boss. Dear to Me," "You too - You, too," "Span­ readers, don't you think that this mat­ PRE-HIRSUTE VERSION - Don Thompson looks ish Eyes" and "Small World" ( which ter is worth arguing? Please let me like this beneath the current scruffy facial rides on percussions alone). Other tunes hear from other musicians on the sub­ adornment. - Stufoto have no percussions at all but feature ject.

27 theatre organ Save That Silent Sound!

The Erl King All11r ■ Ex tract ~1111,,t 1nkl ■ 1 !I~'.:i3m:g~

by Esther Higgins

Across this wide country there are sampling of the music written for the for the opening to a drama. All this countless pieces of old theatre music, silents. This could be put in a volume we converted to the organ. When not yellow and crumbling in trunks and and placed where organists and organ using this mattrial, we improvised. boxes stored in dark corners of attics, buffs could have access to this music. Then when the big theatres put garages, second-hand stores and for­ Otherwise it will be lost in the shuffle. orchestras in the pit, the conductors gotten places. Others have been scat­ This music and its composers should wrote incidental music for the scenes tered to the four winds. have permanent recognition in a per­ they were unable to interpret from their Much has been written about the manent home. Perhaps other organists orchestral repertoire. Would you be- magnificent old theatre organs and will find their own favorite numbers 1ieve that in scoring "The Cabinet of about the crews of men and women and help us with this collection. Dr. Caligari" shown at the Capitol who dream, work and are dedicated to Theatre in New York in 1921, Erno the restoration of these golden voiced On the spur of the moment, I Rapee went to the music of Schonberg, instruments. But little if anything has started looking around in the many Debussy, Stravinsky, Prokofieff and been done to save the music of the boxes in our attic and found hundreds Richard Strauss for the thematic ma­ silents. This was brought to my atten­ of numbers written for the silents. terial? Who can forget those big sym­ tion by our National Secretary, Mary Some long forgotten and others were phony orchestras and the sound of the Bowles. Never to hesitate following an melodies written indelibly on my mind. brass and tympani? When this music idea, Mary contacted our National The longer I worked on these boxes of was printed, we organists bought the President, Stillman Rice, who expressed music, the more I realized what a tre­ piano parts and followed the violin great interest in the idea of collecting mendous job I had undertaken - like solo as best we could. These numbers and preserving the sounds of the silents. counting the leaves on a tree. Where were adaptable as the organ could imi­ He stated that to the best of his did it all start? Who wrote this stupen­ tate all orchestral instruments and knowledge no organized attempt had dous form of music? Just a few phrases percussions. been made to compile a list of the old and you will recognize that sound. Let's skip over "The Burning of Rome." I have gone through boxes and boxes authentic theatre music composed for of galops, agitatos, misteriosos, hurries, the accompaniment of silent films. So "William Tell Overture," "Poet and Peasant" and "Hearts and Flowers" dramatic tensions, chases, battle music, a COMMITTEE TO SAVE THAT Indian war dances until I can see the played on the tinny pianos of the early SILENT SOUND! has been formed: Indians right before my eyes. Many nickelodeons. Now we are playing real Chairman - Mary Bowles; Members - times, little boys on the front row theatre organ music. How did it all Lowell Ayars, Gaylord Carter, Alice would yell with glee, "There's going to come about? All that we early theatre Davies, Lee Erwin, Esther Higgins, be a fight!" His friend would ask, "How organists had to play was popular sheet Dennis James, Lloyd Klos, John Muri do you know?" The answer came back music, piano standards, organ volun­ and Dorothy Whitcomb. with authority, "I can tell by the taries and overture bits. Even Beetho­ music!" What we are endeavoring to do is ven was played. I remember the open­ to index and collect a comprehensive ing C minor chords of the "Pathetique" (Continued on page 29) june, 1971 28 , ..

1 rection and set up the registration for !·f!..,l ;;_1 ..,-~~- ..~ .. , 1 , . I r '· . , . ·.' " his entire program on the combination BuddyNolan Honored ~ pistons . While there are fifty of these, "·1J.'/'( r', ·.. -~•'\/' ·. 1 plus some added special ones , this ap­ Carol·,'l'L1' .. . ' ..I ~.1.1 I· ' ~ l.11..:• ' / '... \ .. I ,, proach can lead to a certain lack of ForLong Service , /'.'.. '"· ..r.. '/ ti· .-~.-.' I 1 ' 11 ' ,J ' I ' ' l . '-' 1 flexibility. Comments by artists concern­ 1 1i1 1 / • : ing the console layout , while hardly Fort Wayne organist Buddy Nolan And l._,ll./1,11,:'J6t/ .. worthy of an X-rating , have occasion­ was presented a plaque honoring his 24 il . j\ .. I I • ally been impolite and derogatory in years at the Embassy Theatre there in their references to the antecedents of a special intermission ceremony Feb­ ·-~,, .• 1·· , -..1--•. I ,,~I\.-~ .-~· l•\f _··r./ l;fa'._1~..·- ,, i/j ' 1: the unknown designer who did them in. ruary 27. The honor came during The ., 1: Buddy's regular organ spot between •• 'I .11·, \ One who was not cowed by this ar­ ll rangement , however , was lovely Carol features. · . ;IH 'll i 1: Jones , who played for the Club in Fred Thacker, divisional manager for Beast March. On arriving to rehearse , her Cinecon Theatres (a New York-based immediate reaction was , "I like it!" It chain which bought out former owners , Nothing pleases Stentor , the evil, gap­ makes it easy to get the stereo effects I Alliance Theatres) presented the plaque toothed plaster god who rules the want. I think ·.~ll consoles should be ar­ and told the audience of several hun­ Mayan landscape on the side of the ranged like this!" dred that the theatre staff was pleased to honor Nolan for his years at the Detroit Theater Organ Club console , While it is not unknown for the fem­ large 4/ 15 Page console. more than the sight of an artist ap­ inine gender to be undaunted by what proaching his kingdom for the first makes strong men weep , this constitutes Nolan came to Fort Wayne in 1947. time. Reveling in the thought that the a direct challenge to those much more He soon landed a spot at the Embassy artist may not know that among Wur­ experienced artists who have voiced ob­ as feature organist. When Alliance litzer consoles this one stands unique in jections, however slight. It may well be bought the house several years later, its arrangement of stop tablets , Stentor that this is the wave of the future they demanded Nolan's full time at the gleefully awaits his confusion and dis­ speaking , and you'd better fall in line. console. "It was five shows a day , may. All right, men? Come to think of it, seven days a week," Nolan remembers. Rather than being grouped solely by what's so great about the Egyptian In 1952 Nolan moved to California pitch , the 280 tablets are arranged first hieroglyphics purporting to reveal , on but returned annually for several week~ into groups by chambers , and then by other consoles , the location of the ranks to keep up maintenance and play the pitch within groups. Thus , the perspir­ the tablets control? You can hardly see instrument. In 1962 Buddy returned to ing organist must accustom himself to them , much less decipher them. Fort Wayne and began intermissions at finding ( or not finding , if he's in too As for Stentor, one look at Carol the theatre regularly. much of a hurry) stops of all pitches and he rolled over on his back with all For the past several years , Nolan has scattered throughout the tabs for every four paws in the air and waited to be done weekend intermissions as well as manual. This has caused more than one patted on the tummy, just like every­ popular "Theatre Organ at Midnight" visitor to bow slightly in Stentor's di- body else at the DTOC. □ shows on the Page. D

(Continued from page 28) Literally hundreds of numbers were Lee Erwin has done a fine job in Some of the composers who wrote composed by him. When he was not writing original scores to the recently this music for the silents were: William composing, he was arranging for Jessie revived films. The music is beautiful Axt , composer of "The Crusaders ' Deppen, Felix Arndt and other Fox and refreshing in new sounds and pat­ March" ; and Erno Rapee who wrote writers. terns. The rich harmonies and new "The March of the Iron Horse." These Many of David Wark Griffith's films themes add so much to the films. The two men collaborated on many inci­ had their own scores that followed the writing of the love theme, "My Best dental pieces, one noteworthy number film and came with the reels. He was Girl" came across so well that, on the was "Indian Orgy." Hugo Reisenfeld the first to bring original scores to the first hearing it was already established wrote "The Covered Wagon March" silents as well as include the name of as the romantic theme. This movie and James Bradford composed "The the man who was responsible for the music, both new and old will be wel­ Marching Song of the Foreign Legion" musical score in the list of film credits. comed especially by the new generation for "Beau Geste." I particularly remem­ One such original score was for "Broken of organists that are showing such ber some of the musical themes used Blossoms" composed by Gottschalk. interest in the silents. in "The Four Horsemen" - the cute The late Ben Hall had a copy of this Well , this is our first step in the French theme , "Chichi" by Hauens­ score in his fabulous collection. Dennis project of making a permanent collec­ child, "In the Ruins" used in the James was very fortunate to have se­ tion of the silent movie music and bombed-out cellar scenes by Leo Kemp­ cured a British recording of the original giving recognition to the composers. inski and "Julio of the Argentino," a musical score written by Chaplin him­ Far from being finished, we are just at new tango that introduced Rudolf Val­ self for his World War I comedy, the beginning of the job. In the words entino to the world. Names of com­ "Shoulder Arms." Chaplin wrote music of Steve Allen, "This could be the start posers I most frequently came across for many of his pictures as can be ob­ of something big!" What can our read­ are: Axt and Rapee , Mendoza , Savino, served in "The Countess of Hong ers add to make this project a reality? Langey, Borch, Baron , Bergee, Luz , Kong." I have not included the many Mrs. Mary A. Bowles, Chairman Sanders , Norton, Valez, Huerter, Simon , composers who helped us through many Rt. 2, Hopewell Rd. Pasternach, Friml and Minot. Then spe­ episodes, such as Herbert , Cadman , Lost Lake , Marlton, N. J. 08053 cial mention should be made of J. S. Nevin, McDowell, Kreistler, Greig and Phone: 609 - 983-1535 Zamecnik of the Fox Publishing Co. · Tschaikowsky, etc. □ 29 theatre organ RUMMAGING THE RITZ

by John Clark McCall, Jr.

It is highly probable that all ATOS members have experienced a "personal The Valdosta curiosity" about certain theatres and Ritz the exciting possibility that some still possess the mighty instrument we have sought to preserve. Occasionally, such is the project for satisfying a worrisome curiosity. This was the case in a small exodus I took over the Holidays ... to an extent, at least. I found my first floor dressing rooms, but no promise of a console. Several SNIPPETS A certain air about the Spanish­ old and draped audio horns had given (Continued from page 21) Moorish architecture of the RITZ a brief illusion and there was a vintage Theatre in Valdosta, Georgia had in­ Cable piano pushed to one side of the she cued the flicker . .. The Standaart trigued me for years but I always ad­ back walls. mired only its facade, never taking the 2/ 7 out of the Passage Theatre , The time to explore further. As I mounted the second floor of Hague, Holland will not now go to a dressing rooms I spotted a small door public hall but has been sold privately When I :finally decided to look into on which was scribbled, "CAUTION : and will be installed as a residence job the case on a cold and windy day in Do Not Enter." The padlock was . .. The 3/ 8 Wurlitzer of the Granada, December 1970, I had lost all but a merely hanging on the latch and with­ Woolwich , London - a famous broad­ fragmented mental picture of the house. out the least bit of hesitation, I entered! casting instrument - is due for re­ The scene for my return found the The room on the other side was totally moval . . . Also on the move is the in darkness. My hand explored the RITZ still standing, its front completely Compton 3/ 13 of the Astoria, Finsbury stuccoed wall until I located a switch. unchanged from the opening day in the Park , which is going to a civic centre late twenties. Even the sign that spelied With the aid of a ceiling light, I found at Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire (for­ out "R-1-T-Z" was intact and of the myself to be in the middle of a myriad wonderful movie palace variety. It was of unfolded popcorn boxes, old seats , merly noted only for ducks). This or­ early and the theatre was yet to open and posters . . . the new tenants where gan has one distinguishing feature - an for the cleaning crew I was counting on clearly pipes once stood. The decor­ astoundingly ugly console. "It is," says to gain admittance into the theatre by. ative grilles were intact behind the Richard Pawlyn, who has been com­ In those waiting hours, I took a hasty drapery and a long wooden fixture re­ missioned to do the rebuild , "the (it was very cold) survey of the exterior mained where the expression shutters lousiest looking one I have ever seen." of the building. When I proceeded to were once installed. Surely, I was dis­ . . . The Compton 3/ 10 ( and Melo­ the side, the sight of a fly loft and stage appointed but at the same time happy tone) formerly in the Tower Theatre, to know that in Valdosta , Georgia, a doors brought much promise of a long West Bromwich, was re-opened in Mar­ buried installation to mind. Morton , Wurlitzer, or some other make organ once played in the house. ston Green Hospital, Birmingham, in April. It is the second of three instru­ As I entered the auditorium, being a A call to the manager's wife proved theatre buff, I was a little saddened. ments saved by the Cinema Organ my assumption to be correct. Mrs. The nineteen fifties had evidently taken Society to be playable. Fittingly , So­ Allan Richardson said that the RITZ ciety president Hubert Selby was open­ their toll. Southern pseudo-ante-bellum did have an organ at one time but that ing recitalist ... One theatre circuit in gates down each side of the house walls, a former manager, Mr. Martin (I did and an extravaganza of acoustical cloth Britain has stopped maintaining its re­ not ascertain whether he was of the over what I hoped were the organ Martin family company which currently maining organs. All bar two, that is. griIIes met my eye. But I was relieved manages the house), had disposed of One is used regularly for recording by the expanses of plaster work and the instrument some time back. She did work and the other is aired weekly by gold-leaf, griffons, and a bas-relief not know its whereabouts. the BBC who pay for the maintenence, where a huge chandelier must have anyway. This seems a mite short­ hung some years before; a gaping ceil­ Perhaps some of the members of our sighted. Or have the circuit manage­ ing hole marked the spot. I could im­ club could furnish hints or pertinent mediately see that the orchestra pit was history on this "case" and if not, start ment gotten wise to the fact that vol­ no more, but the graceful curved out­ a new tracer of his own doing. He unteers would do the job for free, if line was visible between the joints of could be pleasantly surprised as I in a asked? Seriously, though, this bit of cement to cement. Lights back-stage historical realm or possibly within the cheese-paring is ill-timed in view of the exposed the curtain travellers through limits of an exciting "pipe dream" growing strength of the theatre organ the smaII perforations in the screen as come true. □ movement in this country. D june, 1971 30 leather when they collapse. When Per­ flex is used , a 1/ 6" thick piece of felt TECHNICAL should be used as a bumper to keep the two wood pieces from "clapping." This new material requires a special adhesive , PVC-E , manufactured by National Casein of New Jersey , P. 0. SyntheticsinPipe Organs Box 151, Riverton , N. J. 08077 , and is also available from National Casein plants in Chicago , Illinois , and Tyler , Texas; or from warehouses in Atlanta, by Allen R. Miller Georgia; Portland , Oregon; Los. An­ geles, California ; and High Point , North Carolina. PVC-E is a Casein glue derived as a For many years , it has been the tough enough to withstand the blows of by-product of milk. Casein glues have dream of organbuilders to find syn­ striking tree limbs and rough terrain. been used in furniture production and thetic materials to replace animal skins After considerable research and ex­ plywood laminating since they were long used for pneumatics. It is possible perimentation, Austin decided this ma­ introduced for constructing the wood for a well constructed pipe org an to terial was superior to leather in all fuselages of WW I aircraft. The PVC-E last upwards of fifty years with regular ways , although it would require new formulation was developed for per­ maintenance, and centuries with peri­ manufacturing and application tech­ manently bonding embossed wood-grain odic replacement of perish able parts . niques. vinyl covering to plywood paneling and The most perishable material in a The material , called Perflex , is a very cabinets. pipe organ is pneumatic leather , typi­ thin ( .002") , yet strong and absolutely Tests performed on Perflex, rubber cally the flesh part of lambskin. While airtight material. It is more flexible than cloth and leather to wood bonds com­ this skin, or leather , is very thin ( .005" the thinnest leather available , and will paring PVC-E to hot hide glue uncon­ to .030") and flexible , it begins to de­ withstand millions of cycles of folding ditionally show PVC-E bonds to be teriorate the moment the anim al dies. and flexing without showing signs of from 4 to 11 times stronger than those wear. Perflex will stretch over 200 % obtained with hot glue . Perflex to wood Tanning processes treat the leather to before breaking and can be stretched or to Perflex bonds are stronger than reduce its decomposition , but in time , 150 % without any permanent change the materials themselves . even under ideal conditions , the leather in shape. Tensile strength is over 5,000 loses its strength to the point where it Working With Perflex-E and PVC-E P.S.I. The properties of Perflex show breaks . no change in a temperature range of Perflex-E requires certain techniques Pneumatic skins used to last 40 years - 100 degrees F. to + 200 degrees F. which are different than those used with leather. To begin with , Perflex is so or more , but in recent years , that life Except for discoloration in certain thin and flexible it is initi ally a bit more has reduced to 10 years or less in pol­ cases , strong concentrations of chem­ difficult to handle than stiffer coverings. luted areas . This change is due to two icals found in polluted air , even in the factors . presence of heat, do not affect Perflex. First , the level of atmo spheric pol­ In similar tests, leather rots within lutants has increased to the point where minutes . sulfur fume s eventually form dilute sul­ Continued exposure to direct sunlight furic acid in the air , which work s on ( ultra-violet rays) will weaken Perflex everythin g around us. Sulfuric acid (50 % after 6 months , typically). rots leather ver y quickl y. Samples of Perflex were placed out­ Second , the tanning proce ss has doors , out of direct sunlight , but ex­ changed , and leather toda y is not as posed to weathering , in Ohio , Arizon a, resistant to polluted atmospheres . and Florida , and the material showed no significant change after a year . While many past synthetics were found to have limitations , modern Ideal for use on square and hinged chemistry held the promise of an even­ folding pneumatics and pouches up to tual solution. Austin Organs, Inc . began 4" span on pressures up to 20'' wind , to research synthetics eleven years ago , and even higher pressured on smaller and by 1964 had found some materials pneumatics , Perflex will actually in­ which were flexible enough , and would crease the speed and efficiency of a withstand extremes of temperature , cor­ pneumatic system. Its properties make rosive chemicals and solvents. The one it equally desirable for use in low and problem was that these materials were high pressure organs and player or re­ producing piano actions. hard to glue, if not downright impos­ Perflex is very thin, flexible and semi-transparent. sible. Perflex requires some different tech­ About the same time , very thin , tough niques in application, but is basically Perflex is best cut with a paper cutter films of Polyurethane were being devel­ similar in use to leather or rubberized or sharp scissors. When doing several oped for the Army , for dropping food cloth . pneumatics of the same size, fold the and "water bags" into the jungle from Wurlitzer combination pneumatics , material into several layers and trim a moving aircraft. These films were for instance , rely upon the cushion of the edges with a paper cutter. This will

31 theatre organ result in a packet or pad of proper size proper distance below the surface of pieces which will be slightly stuck to­ the pouch board will form a perfect gether at the edges and can be peeled pouch and hold it until the Perflex is off as needed. cooled.

Using a heat gun to form pouches . Simple device is used to achieve uniform depth of pouches .

An ideal and portable source of heat Application of Perflex is similar to leather or is an old blower type hair drier or an rubber cloth. Note glue container has plastic top industrial heat gun. As long as the form with hole for brush to reduce formation of skin is cooler than the melting point of Per­ on top of glue. flex ( about 400 degrees F.) the Perflex will not stick to the form. Perflex may be made up in convenient packets The process is not critical. A heat by cutting several layers in paper cutter. lamp placed a few feet away , a 100 Procedures given here are general, watt light bulb 4'' to 6" away, a warm Since Perflex is transparent, it is and may have to be varied to fit various radiator, or ideally, a warming oven preferable to glue the excess over onto specific types of actions. will supply sufficient heat. the top and bottom of folding pneu­ Perflex has been used exclusively by It is advisable to work on six actions matics rather than trimming to gain a Austin Organs , Inc. since January at a time , only partially covering them maximum of bond area. However , the 1970, and Aeolian-Skinner has recently in two or three stages so that the glue excess may be trimmed in the usual adopted it as superior to Poly-Nylon doesn 't begin to dry before the heat is manner. materials. applied. PVC-E adhesive is water-based and Remember that the glue dries fast on looks like marshmallow fluff. It has a a warm surface , and allow the baked mild odor which is pleasant and harm­ actions to cool before applying glue. less. Pot life is long if stirred occa­ sionally. The skin which forms on the Perflex is lapped over and glued to top should be stirred in, or removed if itself in the usual manner, although this necessary. To thin, stir or add fresh sealed joint will take longer to dry. glue, not water. Round Pouch type pneumatics pre­ sent a special problem. Since Perflex PVC-E spreads and works like me­ may not be permanently stretched or dium consistency hot glue with a fast worked like leather, only pouches with setup at room temperature. Assembly a total motion of about ¼ the pouch time can be lengthened by chilling the diameter may be formed by hand dur­ glue or shortened by warming. If the ing application. Pouches may be ther­ wood is warm, the glue will set up very fast. moformed, however, and either made up in advance using a mold, or easily Application can be by brush or small molded in place. paint roller. It is best to roll the Perflex To mold pouches, the entire pouch on to avoid trapping air bubbles. Slight board may be covered with PVC-E, finger pressure or rubbing to squeeze using a paint roller. The Perflex is then out air bubbles is all that is needed to applied flat in one piece. (If pouches set the material. The Perflex can be are on close spacing, the time saved moved or slid as necessary until the outweighs the material wasted.) A glue sets up. rubber roller such as a photographic The secret of the permanent PVC-E squeegee will quickly roll out the air bond is in the curing or drying process. bubbles. PVC-E is a thermo-setting glue. Before After curing the glue, the pouches the glue dries ( while it is still white), are formed by heating the Perflex to the action is "baked" at 120 to 150 about 300-400 degrees F. At the form­ degrees F. for about 15 minutes (until ing temperature, the Perflex becomes dry). After cooling, the glue is unaf­ water-clear and glossy. A simple form­ fected by further changes in tempera­ ing tool made by suspending a round Austin Universal chest pneumatic covered in ture or humidity. disc of the pouch valve diameter the Perflex. june, 1971 32 In the theatre organ world, Perflex . . . Paso Robles , California has lured has been used in New York City, in the Colleen Moore into building a new ex Rainbow Room Wurlitzer console, home there . . . Director King Vidor and in some parts of Ben Hall's "Little has a ranch up that-a-way . Mother." It is being used in the 4/ 26 * * * Old Town Music Hall in El Segundo , FOURTEEN-YEAR-OLD Darryl F. California ; Bill Brown's 5/ 35 Wurlitzer Zanuck was reject ed by film director in Phoenix, and several other private Frank Llo yd when casting the 1916 installations. production of "Oli ver T wist." Zanu ck rem emb ered Lloyd. Two decad es later The 3/ 15 Wurlitzer in Windham Re­ Z anuck hired Llo yd to create som e of gional Technical School in Willimantic , the 20th Century-Fox classics. Conn. , and The Central Ohio Theatre * * * Organ Society , ATOS 3/ 16 Wurlitzer Directed by MOST gracious young film fellow have been recovered entirely with Per­ Lyle W. Nash we've met in some time was John Bar­ flex. rymore, Jr. "Yes," he said , "I'd be NOSTALGIA , that happy method of happy to do more work now that my living in the past (when it was cheaper) personal problems are less rugged . Oh , is sweeping the nation. ATOS members yes. My mother would be happy to can take much credit for giving the hear from fans and friends. " Young biggest push to this vogue. Because the John looked thin , gaunt and tired even theatrical pipe organ artistry of hun­ under his long hair and beard . He re­ dreds of men and women never died , minded me of his father when he played silent films are enjoying an extensive in "Sveng ali'' for Warner Bros . in 1931. renaissance . And 98 % of this film re­ He has the most expressive eyes of any vival has been generated by ATOS ac­ player I've met in years . tivity. For nearly 20 years ATOS fans have known that happiness can be * * * found wherever a theatre pipe organ DOLORES COSTELLO (th e mother plays. Now the nation 1s learning this of John Barrymor e, Jr.) may be reached fact. at 1030 D eLuz Road, Fallbrook , Cali­ * * * fornia 92028. Wurlitzer type primary done in Perflex. SILENT FILM ST AR Aile en Pringl e * * * still receives fan mail at her N ew York CLOSEUPS - When Lillian Gish City addr ess - 300 E. 57th St. Sh e I have recently seen and heard a was honored with a long overdue Oscar remembers her fans with autographs, large Knabe-Ampico reproducing piano sometim es a pictur e and a note of this spring the entire audience of 3,500 done in Perflex, and the expression , thanks. That 's the trad emark of a gra­ rose and thundered its approval. She speed of action, and repetition was the cious lady. was the most gracious personality at the finest I have encountered in these in­ * * * Oscar event . . . I hope the Academy struments . does the same thing next year for "SHOW PEOPLE " is a 1928 MGM silent film starring Marion Davies and Gloria Swanson . . . The 1926 Pa the Cycle-life tests are being run on Per­ William Haines. Gaylord Carter played feature "The Bells," with Lionel Barry­ flex applied to actions which operate a happy score for this film when the more, is still circulating in silent film under full load on 12" wind at seven Richard Simonton family hosted a group circles and pleasing viewers . . . A cycles per second ( about Tremolo for a recent screening. Contrary to what famed Hollywood columnist says Errol rate). The test actions have passed 40 unlearned critics contended , Davies Flynn's conduct during his heyday million operations without signs of was a good comic. The picture played sounds like that of a Boy Scout com­ wear or fatigue . During this test, several well and would be a laugh riot for the pared with the crude vulgarities dis­ action springs have worn out ( metal ATOS convention m Seattle. played by film men of today ... In fatigue) as have many sets of silver * * * 19 31 theatre owners hotly declared: contact wires which actuated the mag­ IN 1934 RKO Path e proclaimed " . . . color films chase people away nets. None of these components have Pola Negri "the world's greatest living from the box office they 'll never been known to wear to this extent even actress." catch on." in organs 60 years old. * * * * * * REEL SHORTS-Betty Bronson has MUSICAL stars of the early sound Perflex holds promise for a new lease a mother role in "Evel Knievel" due era, Bernice Claire and Alexander Gray on life for the instruments we work so soon with George Hamilton . . . Ron­ are reported living in the San Diego hard to save, and can be purchased by ald Colman "s daughter, Juliet , 25, is area. Can any reader shar e information the yard from Austin Organs, Inc., P.O. writing her father's biography . . . Lon about them? Box 365, Hartford, Conn. 06101. Chaney , Jr., now 65, is battling cancer * * * PVC-E is sold by the quart or gallon while writing his autobiography ... Vir­ CONTRIBUTIONS, comments and and is available only through National tually no cinema world people turned questions are welcomed to P. 0. Box Casein. D out for the last rites of Edmund Lowe 113, Pasadena, California 91102.

33 theatre organ Nov. 1926 (J) JAMES D. BARN­ prove: 7/ 25 HENRY LE BEL at the NUGGETS ARD opened the new Royal Theatre. Pantages . . . 12/ 25 EDDIE CLIF­ from the staging presentations and songologues. FORD , Blue Mouse; RANALDO BAG­ GOTT, Neptune ... 3/ 26 FRANK Nov. 1926 (J) ERNEST RUSSELL GOLDEN D.A.-Y-S LEON & WARREN WRIGHT, Coli­ is now organist at the Liberty Theatre seum; REX PARROTT at the Leath­ and is featured in concert as well as in erby-Smith in the Madrona Gardens accompanying the prologues. DONO­ Theatre; HARRY COLWELL, Blue VAN MOORE and REN ALDO BAG­ Mouse ... 4/ 26 KATHERINE BEAZ­ GOTT are his associates. LEY, Grey Goose; BERTHOLD LIND­ Nov. 1926 (J) PAUL COWAN is GREN & FLORENCE HARRIS, teaching, and also doing a lot of broad­ Strand; MARCEL BIENNE, Ridge­ casting over Seattle stations. mont; MARY RANDALL, Capitol ... Nov. 1926 (J) PAUL ENGELL, 5/ 26 WILHELM COHN, Palace Hip­ formerly of Seattle, and later an organ­ podrome; REX PARROTT recently ist in Centralia, is now teaching piano. closed the Mission Theatre; HAROLD KNOX, Paramount; EDNA HARK­ Nov. 1926 (J) The Embassy Thea­ ENS on vacation from the Colonial; tre in Seattle opened its doors on Sep­ ADELINE KIRKMANN at the Roy­ Prospected by Lloyd E. Klos tember 17. The 2-manual Kimball is craft Robert Morton ... 7 / 26 MARY beautiful. Organists are HAROLD RANDALL at Capitol's Kimball ... With Seattle's being the host to WINDUS and LEW WELLS, Jr. 8/ 26 WILLIAM DA VIS, Ham rick's MARCEL BIENNE plays during rest ATOS's 13th annual convention, Jason Egyptian ... 11/26 "BUS" McCLEL­ periods and WEST BROWN the three and I salute that city with items from LAN, Egyptian; LUCILLE BOSSERT, days off. its halcyon days. References were Ridgemont ... 1/27 HAROLD WIN­ Diapason (D), Jacobs (J), and Melody Nov. 1926 (]) The Fifth Avenue DUS, Pantages; MARK DOLLIVER, ( M ) magazines. Theatre opened on September 24 with Embassy; ETHEL DUNN relief organ­ Aug. 1925 (D) The Bennett Organ OLIVER WALLACE as guest organ­ ist at Wintergarden; ARTHUR BIGGS, Co. of Rock Island, Ill., is building a ist. Woodland; DONOVAN MOORE, 3-manual organ for the State Theatre . Jan. 1927 (J) EVID OLIVER and Neptune . . . 3/27 LAURA VAN Dec. 1925 (M) The Heilig Theatre is CA THERINE CERINI are presiding WINKLE ( now Mrs. Frank Heffer­ nan) at Pantages; JACK O'DALE at installing a 2-manual Kimball to re­ over the Wurlitzer in the Montlake Wintergarden Wurli; ERNEST RUS­ place a small Robert Morton. Theatre, Seattle's newest suburban house. SELL at United Artists (ex-Liberty) Dec. 1925 (M) Seattle's old Hippo­ Wurli.; HARRY REED, formerly at Sep. 1927 (J) WILLIAM DAVIS is drome is being replaced by a new Fifth Ave., now at Egyptian; RE­ playing his marvelous Kimball at the 3,000-seat theatre, financially support­ NALDO BAGGOT, assoc. organist ed by Cecil B. DeMille and other film Arabian Theatre. at Fifth Ave.; SAM WINELAND left notables. A large organ will be installed. Sep. 1927 (J) MELVIN T. OGDEN Coliseum for Liberty in Portland, Ore.; Mar. 1926 (M) Warner Brothers' and BETTY SHIFTON are sharing ROBERT V. (Bobby) HARRINGTON Egyptian Theatre opened on Christmas organists' duties at the Fifth A venue opened the RM in the new Olympic; Day. The 1500-seat house has a large Theatre. GRANT BROWN at new Venetian; Robert Morton. Sep. 1927 (J) "SANDY" BALCOM GRACE TAYLOR BROWN, Society; Mar. 1926 (M) ERNEST RUS­ is installing a $27,000 Kimball in the EDNA HARKINS, Gray Goose; SELL, OLIVER WALLACE, ROBERT new Orpheum Theatre. WEST BROWN, Paramount; LU­ BURNS and BERNARD BURNS are Sep. 1927 (J) MARK DOLLIVER, CILLE BOSSERT, Ridgemont; WIL­ playing at the Liberty Theatre. LEW WELLS and MARCEL BIENNE LIAM DA VIS, Arabian; "BUS" Mc­ Apr. 1926 (M) LAURA VAN are alternating at the Embassy Thea­ CLELLAN left the Egyptian for Aber­ WINKLE is playing the 2116 Robert tre's Kimball. deen, Wash .... 9/27 EDNA HARK­ Morton in Seattle's Pantages Theatre. Dec. 1927 (J) Theatre organists in INS, Gray Goose; WALTER REYN­ May 1926 (M) OLIVER WALL­ Seattle have organized a club similar OLDS at the United Artists, and teach­ ACE, organist at the Liberty Theatre, to those of New York, Los Angeles and ing theatre organ; JACK O'DALE, is a real comedian. Each Sunday noon, San Francisco. JACK O'DALE is pre­ Wintergarden; EDNA WARD at the he gives a song contest and concert, sident; HARRY REED, vice president; Madison's Robert Morton; "BUS" Mc­ and his antics keep the audience in an HARRY COLWELL, secretary; CLELLAND, Blue Mouse; WEST uproar. MARK DOLLIVER, treasurer; and BROWN, Columbia; J. D. BARNARD May 1926 (M) WILLIAM DAVIS ERNEST RUSSELL, Sergeant-at-arms. at Paramount's Kimball . . . 12/ 27 opened the new Kimball in the Wood­ Various theatres will be used for meet­ HAROLD WINDUS opened the Or­ land Theatre. ings, the first at the Paramount and pheum's Wurli.; MARK DOLLIVER, May 1926 (M) WALTER G. REY­ the next at the Embassy. Pantages; EDDIE CLIFFORD both NOLDS, organist in the Columbia The­ organist and MC at the Embassy's Dec. 1927 (J) BARNEY BARNES atre, is head of the organ department Kimball; LEW WELLS, Cheerio's Kim­ is swinging among the Fifth A venue, of Howe College of Music. ball; ARLINGTON LAITY, Liberty; Liberty and United Arists theatres. Nov. 1926 (J) HENRI LE BEL spent REGGIE WA TIS, Lakeside; EYED 3 weeks at the Egyptian where he Mar. 1928 (J) EDDIE CLIFFORD OLIVER, Uptown. is accompanying pictures and playing staged the most elaborate presentations That should do it until we see you concerts at the Embassy Theatre. ever seen in a Seattle theatre. His suc­ all in Seattle. So long, sourdoughs! cess can be judged by the long lines GOLD DUST: Seattle organists which awaited each performance. were a real busy group as the following LLOYD & JASON

;une, 1971 34 graph her. Her morale was boosted con­ siderably when her 1932 console photo appeared on the October 1968 THEA­

35 theatre organ would not be unnerved by a jammed lift. Maybe it's because Bill Rieger and LITTLEDID HE KNOW his crew spent many nights in the -Gaylord Carter dur­ chambers making the organ sound bet­ ing rehearsal at the ter than it has in recent years. Firebi rd console of the 4 / 20 Wurlitzer in Whatever the reason, the "Harold Chicago's Oriental Lloyd Festival" provided an evening's Theatre. The lift, in entertainment which Lloyd fans and 'down' position, stayed Carter fans are not likely to forget. that way for the first ten minutes of his For our April 18 Social , three organ­ March 28 CATOE ists, Andy Antonczyk, Jim Gruber , and concert . Ted Da y shared the spotlight at Chi­ - Bill Lamb photo cago 's Lincoln Village Theatre . The organ , a Baldwin electronic , has been used on weekends during intermissions "The Perfect Song " brought thunderous and , reportedly , is very popular with applause from the patrons, but while it sounds good , the audience when the particular model being used simply does console finally come not fill the theatre adequately. into view. Despite thi s fact , the management seems very encouraged. They have planned an organ concert with Gaylord more work and more pipes to replace Carter and they have considered build­ the ones taken by "Midnight Organ ing chambers to someday house a pipe Supply" a few years ago, but the crew organ. The theatre is a new neighbor­ has already done a lot of work to put hood house. the organ back in good shape. CATOE In many way s it's flattering that the hopes to have a public concert there work CATOE has done is being rec­ in the near future. ognized and that other groups have "The Harold Lloyd Festival," our been sparked into action by our con­ March concert , was held at the Oriental tagious enthusiasm. Theatre on March 30, just a few days after the death of the famous comedian. DAIRYLAND At the console of the 4/ 20 Wurlitzer, appropriately enough, was Gaylord Car­ The Dairyland Theatre Organ So­ ter, who had been a longtime friend of ciet y was hosted on March 28 on the Lloyd. five manual Wurlitzer at Racine , Wis­ Perfect Song" and as he came up with consin. The artist was Paul Wesley , The evening began rather dramati­ the Firebird console, seemingly calm member of the Land O'Lakes Chapter , cally. As Gaylord started playing his and collected, the audience applauded and current organist at the Holiday opener, "The Perfect Song ," he hit the thunderously. Inn Central's Rome Room in Minne­ "up" button on the lift but nothing apolis. His program consisted of ex­ happened. Undaunted, he pushed the tremely varied contrasts ranging from The rest of his selections included button again and played a second the light classics to 'Hair', during such widely varied things as "The chorus ... Still nothing! which he used the organ to its greatest Chase," "Theme from Love Story," degree of :flexibility. He was one of the and Lehar's "Gold and Silver Waltz. " The audience , seemingly puzzled and very few organists to use all four ex­ After the sing-along he exclaimed that disappointed because they were not al­ pression pedals on an individual basis. lowed the privilege of viewing the art­ it was the best one he ever played. ist, applauded politely as he :finished. That famous Chicago Singing Audience Following the concert was a chapter At that moment CATOE board mem­ was at it again. business meeting at which theatre or­ ber Bill Benedict rushed on stage and gan concerts in the Milwaukee area said, "We've got a problem ... the The highlight of the evening, though , theatres were discussed . A June visit lift." The audience applauded and was Carter's scoring of the two Harold to hear the Barton in Madison, with laughed now that the mystery was over. Lloyd films, "Sailor Made Man" and the afternoon with Jim Benzmiller on As he explained that the lift had worked "Never Weaken. " Each note of his ac­ the Moeller Fantastique , in Stevens fine that afternoon , Gaylord raced companiment displayed his great talent Point, and our next social on the first through the "catacombs " in the base­ for comic timing and his familiarity new Theatre Pipe Organ (Wicks) in ment and out onto the stage. He chatted with the film and its stars. It's no won­ forty years designed by Judd Walton with the now-jovial audience and as­ der that Lloyd , one of the greatest and installed in the residence of mem­ sured them that the "swarm of work­ masters of comic timing , thought so ber Harvey Kuhlman, Menomonee men" in the pit would have the lift highly of Gaylord. Falls , Wis was disclosed to the mem­ going shortly. Then he decided to go bers. back to the console and "get on with On this night the organ and organist New officers and directors were the show." were in rare form. Maybe it was Car­ elected for the coming year with Or­ As he finished his medley called "The ter's way of paying tribute to Harold ganist, David Olson, being elected from Age of Aquarius," the lift started up. Lloyd. Maybe it was due to the fact the floor as a director. As if on cue, he started playing "The that Carter is a true showman who FRED HERMES

;une, 1971 36 DELAWARE VALLEY tended speed. That big old motor is a The TOSDV held an organ "crawl" real monster , and it took some pretty Sunday, March 28th , meeting at four remarkable amateur rigging efforts to local homes which have theatre organs get it off the blower and up the base­ - Jim Carter, Cinnaminson, N. J.; Low­ ment stairs. How come the need for ell Ayars , Bridgeton , N.J .; Charles new fans? And why change the motor Hoffner , Vineland , N . J. and Robert speed? For the answers to these ques­ tions watch for the full saga of the Figlio , Elmer, N. J. The club members Wiltern blower in a future issue of were divided into four groups alpha­ THEATRE ORGAN. betically , and each group stayed one half hour at a home and then moved In last month's Chapter News we on to the next. It worked very well , mentioned the almost-serious water with the members who cared to , having damage to the big Kimball caused by a chance to try playing the different ( a) a sprinkler system broken by the Exterior of Knight Auditorium, Babson College. February 9 earthquake, and ( b) a leak installations. The tour lasted from 1 : 30 - Arthur Fraits photo p.m. until 5: 30 p.m., and then several in the roof over the solo chamber. That leak was quickly repaired , but since ATOS members met at 7:00 p.m . at The crescendo will be adjustable Tall Pines Restaurant in Wenonah, then a new leak in the opposite side of through the use of a programmer panel. the roof over the main chamber al­ N. J. for a delicious smorgasbord din­ Blowers, relays , switch stacks , and ner. It was a very successful meeting lowed substantial damage to the relay. setter boards will be under the stage. and very well attended at all four Theatre organs sure do attract water! Each chamber will have its own five homes . It gave the members a great Thanks to the never-say-die efforts of horsepower three-phase blower which opportunity to hear these four beauti­ the maintenance crew the organ was will feed straight up to the chamber. ful installations. playing again in time for the next The complete releathering has been The installations are as follows: Jim scheduled concert , and permanent re­ done, chests are in place on their sup­ Carter - 3/ 19 Wurlitzer, Lowell Ayars pairs will have been completed before ports, and swell shades are installed. - 2/ 8 Wurlitzer, Charles Hoffner - this goes to press. 3/ 19 Marr-Colton, and Robert Figlio Chambers are fully accessible through Following the lamented passing of - 2/ 3 Kil gen ( Cabinet) and a Fr. full-sized doors which open from stair screen star Harold Lloyd , the Los An­ Smith Tracker ( circa 1681 ) . landings. geles Chapter volunteered to take ov~r RuTH McALoNAN The once battered panelled console the maintenance of the organ located rn now gleams in a hand-rubbed "grand the former Lloyd home. This offer has EASTERN MASS. piano" ebony lacquer finish. The natur­ been accepted by the Harold Lloyd al finish has been retained on the wood The long job of restoring and install­ Trust Foundation. The organ is a 2/ 33 ing our Wurli Style 235 Special con­ surfaces within the horseshoe. Tabs for Aeolian with automatic player. When the five additional ranks have been in­ tinues with no loss of enthusiasm. This first inspected the organ was unplayable stalled and all gaps in the double bolster 3/ 13 organ which once stood in due to bad blower bearings, but these have been filled. Additional pneumatics, Loew's State, Boston has a new home have been replaced and Chairman Neal setter boards , and combination action at the Knight Auditorium of Babson Kissel reports that the organ is basically have been made. The original lead tub­ College in Wellesley , Mass . in good condition and a fine sounding ing has given way to flexible Tygon . Knight is built in concert hall style instrument. Specially manufactured Wurli - style with a rear balcony and side balconies , On April 29 the Chapter's regular switches are included in the brand new and its acoustical properties are excel­ Spring business meeting was held at the electrical system of the console. lent. The architect provided two catty­ Elks Building Auditorium. Since there Major parts such as the stop rails , cornered chambers which open on to was little in the way of business to be the second touch board, swell shoes , the stage. As originally set up , these discussed , plans were made to follow a crescendo, pedal board, and toe studs chambers could have accomodated an brief formal meeting with a social hour are now separable for servicing due to instrument of about six ranks . The and open console jam session on the a plug-in jack system. presently enlarged chambers will hold big 4/ 58 Robert Morton . The turn-out All manual keys have been recovered the thirteen ranks and percussion of of approximately 90 was disappointing, with genuine ivory and ebony . All our organ plus five selected ranks to but otherwise the evening was a big sharps and most naturals have been be added. success. In addition to the jam session replaced on the pedal board. The con­ Two new shutter openings have been and socializing , Bruce Skovmand sole will be placed on a custom-made made on to each side balcony, and all showed his color slides of the magnifi­ roll-around elevator dolly. four openings are now covered with cent Harold Lloyd home and estate to We hope that the original 13 ranks beige fiber glass drapes. a most appreciative audience, and re­ will be installed in time for a dedicatory There will be one expression shoe freshments were provided through the concert in the fall of 1971. for each chamber plus a third shoe for efforts of Vice-Chairman ( and unofficial J. PAUL CHAVANNE a possible future chamber. Toggles will party chairman) Chick Lander. allow the solo shoe to become the On Sunday morning , May 2, the master swell. LOS ANGELES Chapter presented Greg Rister, one of The original 25-contact crescendo During the month of March the Los Southern California's most talented pedal has been replaced by a 75-contact Angeles Chapter completed the rebuild­ young organists , in concert at the Wil­ Wurli crescendo obtained from a scrap­ ing of the Wiltern Theatre Kimball's 25 tern 's 4/ 37 Kimball. Despite his youth, ped console. All wooden slider parts horsepower blower , marking _the ~ul­ Greg was no stranger to the Wilter~, have been supplanted by replica parts mination of four years of d1scuss1on having made his concert debut there m made from phenol-mica material which and planning. A new set of impeller 1967 at the age of 14. He played an is immune to the dampness which fans was purchased, and the motor was excellent and thoroughly professional plagues most Wurli slider crescendos. rebuilt to operate at its originally in- concert, with material ranging from

37 theatre organ Bach to the Beatles, interspersed with Wurlitzer in the Encore Theatre ( Bur­ network radio 10 New York and San a tasteful choice of "pops" selections, lingame) sang as never before. The Francisco. and featuring several of his own tran- first half of the Roseveare caper was criptions of orchestral works. played in a "swing band'' style-but BILL EXNER jazzy! After an intermission, Jim came back and gave us what we had really been waiting for, what he does to NIAGARA FRONTIER perfection-his Jesse Crawford re-crea­ Miss Mildred Alexander graced the tions. 3/ 11 Riviera Wurli on March 17. Her December saw us all at Rudy's receptive, full-house audience was Supper Club in Vallejo for our annual treated to such selections as "Valencia," trek to hear DAVE QUINLAN, who "Jeanine, I Dream of Lilac Time," and incidently played at the very first Chap­ a medley of St. Paddy's Day tunes. At ter concert meeting (in 1957). The tin the end of the program. Miss Alexander trumpet in the Wurlitzer had been re­ was presented with a bouquet of red placed with a "starchier" Robert-Mor­ roses. ton trumpet ( a little Post Horn). Dave played everyone's favorite tune in that Don Thompson conquered the Riv­ Ray Frazier at Grant Union High School Kilgen iera and its capacity crowd on April 20 danceable style which brings overflow console. when he made a complete success of crowds to Rudy's on weekends. His - Rice photo his concert. His repertoire included a "Sweet Georgia Brown" was the great­ The March meeting was held at Ken musical tour of the world, which con­ est jazz this side of New Orleans. And, Pruitt's and Steve Restivo's attractive tained some Arabic selections, and as usual, someone insisted, and Dave Melody Inn in Los Altos ( about thirty "Poet and Peasant Overture." Don ac­ played it as only he can: "Los Altos miles from San Francisco). companied his very first silent movie Train." The artist, Bill Watts, was introduced with great skill. Hi was a superb per­ by program chairman Warren Lubich. formance. Mr. Watts is an accomplished artist On May 5, over 50 people gathered who began playing pipe organs in at the Riviera for a membership jam theatres about 1920. When he was session. This event inaugurated our 16' only ten, he accompanied comedies diaphones (wooden). So now we have and newsreels at the Victoria Theatre a mighty I 2 ranks!! Some of those who in Los Angeles while the regular organ­ played that night were Frank Olsen, ist was taking his 9 p.m. break. He Roy Simon, and Eileen Poole. was later the feature artist in other Los Randy Piazza, Chapter Chairman and Angeles theatres such as the Empire, Program Chairman, has announced Stan, Rampart, Hollway. and Garden. that the Riviera's monthly organ con­ In 1930 he closed the last silent movie certs are booked until the end of 1971; house in Los Angeles, the California and some artists are already arranged Theatre at 8th and Main Streets. Bill for 1972. gave a really fine program of popular SHIRLEY COLE and semi-classics. His accompaniment Dave Quinlan at the 2 manual console, original to an early Mack Sennett comedy truly equipment at Ye Olde Pizza Joynt, Hayward, made the film come alive with its arch­ NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Calif. Console is now property of ATOS member Warren Blankenship, Pacific Grove, Calif. villain, valiant hero, helpless heroine, 1970 was clo ed out with two fine - Charles Ruiz photo racing automobile, and a steam loco­ meetings! JIM ROSEVEARE came out motive which was powered to devilish of retirement to do his first public con­ The new year saw a new group of speeds on a mad mission to decapitate cert in years ( well a FEW years any­ officers take over the Chapter. Etta the young lovely tied to the tracks. As way, Jim is only 28). With the Nevins as Treasurer and Lorraine Cagle Steve Restivo says., "Bill Watts is tremulants adjusted to Jim's taste, the as Secretary took over the duties which great!" had been so ably performed by Marian We are Jooking forward to hearing Schmidt. Warren Lubich as Vice Chair­ Everett Nourse at the Chadbourne man and Dewey Cagle as Chairman Wurlitzer (yes. that's "Myrtle" of the gave former Chairman Bob Schmalz re- first ATOE National Convention). 1ief from a job-well-done. Our sincere Sierra Chapter will be there with us thanks to Marian and Bob for their this time. Everett Nourse was staff or­ devotion to the Chapter. ganist of the famous S.F. Fox 4/36 February saw us back at the Avenue Wurlitzer. Theatre in San Francisco to hear Ray So - we wish to thank the Taylor Frazier in his first pipe appearance in boys, Bill and Dick, for the fine work several years. Ray is such a busy teach­ they have done on their own Wurlitzer er and composer that it took some in the Encore and to Ward Stoopes, the coaxing to get this former New York theatre manager. Another thanks to Roxy organist back on the theatre pipe Claire Elgin and Ken Eaton at the organ route. It was well worth the Avenue Theatre, and their able crew. effort, for he played something fot To Bea and Tony Arietta at Rudy's everyone in his smooth style. Especi­ Supper Club, we always appreciate the Jim Roseveare whose rendition of tunes in the Crawford style always pleases listeners. ally enjoyable were the radio themes, warm welcome, and a special apprecia­ - Portland ATOS photo which Ray recalled from his days on tion to Bud Kurz for the fine work on

;une, 1971 38 the organ. And thanks so much to m1ss10n, two selections were played in Steve Restivo and young Greg Pringle which each artist improvised in his and all the others at the Melody Inn. musical idiom, upon the same melody. Our Chapter is fortunate to have such The final selection was a joint impro­ CLASSIFIED as you in our area, keeping those or­ visation. The players received a stand­ gans playing for us to enjoy. ing ovation from the capacity audience. Puring the last few months our This experimental concert proved to ADS members have enjoyed the Monday be both a stunning musical accomplish­ night concerts at the Cap'ns Galley in ment and the most successful Denver Classified ads are carried at 20 cents Redwood City, where Bill Breuer has organ concert in many seasons. per word, per insertion. No charge for presented Tom Hazleton, Lyn Larsen DOROTHY RETALLACK first ten words for members. ( in photo below), Jonas Nordwall and Bill Thompson on the 4/ 18 Wurlitzer. OREGON WANTED-Glockenspiel and large scale Many of us heard Koria Pandit at the Harold Lloyd and Gaylord Carter! xylophone to install on a 4/78 Schantz. Melody Inn one of the three days he The perfect combination to dedicate Loud tone. Contact Dennis James, 605 S. held forth on the 4/ 20. Another rare Fess, #10, Bloomington, Indiana 47401. the restored Benson High School Kim­ treat was the Johnny Seng appearance ball Organ on Sunday, March 28 in WANTED - All Wurlitzer: Oboe horn, at the Avenue Theatre under Clair Portland, the culmination of months of brass trumpet, brass sax, post horn, and Elgin's sponsorship. Things are happen­ work by the local chapter of ATOS and top 3 octaves of standard large scale ing in Northern California! tibia. Mike Foley, Box 66, Buckland Sta­ Benson High School Dads' Club. Tt tion, Manchester, Connecticut, 06040. had been many a long year since the 203-646-4666. Benson auditorium had echoed with the roar of a fully operative theatre WANTED - Wurlitzer Pipes 1O" Tibia, organ played by an artist who knew Tibia 2' Trebles, Style D Trumpet Trebles. Jack Bethards, 472 Tehama, San Fran­ how to wring every last tremolo out cisco, Calif. 94103 (415) 362-4997. Call of it! early A.M. Gaylord opened the program with a concert which included old silent movie FOR SALE-Hammond Novachord, com­ favorites such as "The Chase", then a plete, with service manual. Not operating. sing-a-long got us all in the mood for Make offer. R. L. Oberholtzer, 2729 Gar­ field Ave., Camden, N.J. 08105. Phone the two feature films "Sailor Made 609-963-3798. Man" and "Never Weaken" with Har­ old Lloyd. The program was thoroughly FOR SALE-Wurlitzer Theatre Organ, 6 enjoyed by all, and we are looking for­ ranks, pipe work like brand new. Bells ward to our next concert and jam on and Chimes, new pouches. New leather -Terry Fenninger photo on reservoirs. Two new keyboards. Com­ this fine instrument. plete organ in excellent condition. $2500. Recently opened to the public is a RACHEL ZENK Tom Walton, 1015 Uster St., Mobile, Ala., 2/ 4 ( soon to become 2/ 6) Robert­ 36608, Phone: 205-342-9463. Morton in Waltz Pizza Parlor in Tracy PUGET SOUND (75 miles east of SF) with Dave Peters FOR SALE - Wurlitzer 2M7R style E. The chapter met Sunday, March Robert Castle, 12350 E. 48...thAve., Den­ at the console. This is one sweet instal­ 28th at the Homestead Restaurant. ver, Colorado, 80239. lation, thanks to Bill Oliver (who form­ After an exceptionally fine feast we erly owned the little gem). Walt Nagel, moved to the Granada Organ Loft FOR SALE-3 manual 9 rank Barton the owner, has plans to enlarge the Theatre Pipe Organ with complete per­ Club, West Seattle, for a joint meeting building as the organ grows. (Isn't that cussion; 2 toy counters, 2 xylophones, with Granada members. glockenspiel, crystaglott, bass drum unit, a cute name: Waltz instead of Walt's)! Dick Schrum, ATOS convention chimes. 4 rebuilt regulators. 3 phase 5 The little organ came out of the Nep­ chairman gave the two groups the low­ hp blower with new 5 hp motor. 70% tune Theatre in Alameda, California. restored. $5,600 or best offer. Robert down on the up and coming "Sweet Roppolo 2930 Laporte, Melrose Park, Ill. And-another one to look forward Sixteen convention." Granada's Prez 60164. to-the 3/ 11 Robert-Morton now be­ Fred DeWitt said a few words concern­ ing installed in a restaurant in San ing the Granada Theatre and its organ. FOR SALE-Allen Organ, Theatre Delux Rafael by Dino Santizos. This one Everyone was invited to try their Model, French Walnut finish, 4 speaker came out of the Fox Theatre in Bur­ cabinets. Selling due to death of owner. hand at the 4/ 31 Wurlitzer. Special Contact R. C. Schrader, 807 Pennbrook lingame, California. surprise guest was Koria Pandit who Ave., Lansdale, Pa., 19446. DEWEY CAGLE AND BILL REED played twice during the fun-fest. Koria will be a featured artist at the conven­ FOR SALE - Theatre Organ Rodgers tion this July. 33-E. Perfect condition. Save $4,400. ROCKY MOUNTAIN Write R. G. Otto, 618 Eberwhite Blvd., A pancake breakfast ( open to the Ann Arbor, Mich. 48103. Described as the first of its kinds, a public) at Haller Lake Improvement concert for classical pipe organ and Club was held Sunday, April 18th. Or­ FOR SALE-Wurlitzer Vox $150, Flute/ electronic theatre organ was presented gan music was provided by our pros bour. $150 plus offsets $80.00, Also misc. parts (console, trems, regulators, photo­ by the Denver, Colorado, Chapter, Am­ and semi-pros. One out of town'er pro player parts, etc.) Jack Bethards, 472 erican Guild of Organists, on April 30, was heard though, Jonas Nordwall, Tehama, San Francisco, Calif. 94103 1971, at Phipps Auditorium in Denver. from Portland. Jonas had just given an (415) 362-4997. Call early A.M. Charles Eve of Denver played the excellent concert the night before, on classical portion of the program, the the fine 3/9 Marr and Colton, in the FOR SALE-Wicks' ORGAN BUILDING FOR AMATEURS. 287 Pages. $10.00 popular portion being played by Billy La Veile McLaughlin residence. postpaid. Organ Literature Foundation, Nalle of New York. Following inter- EDDIE ZOLLMAN, JR. Braintree, Mass. 02184.

39 theatre organ BILL'S RODGERS

This is Bill Thomson.

This is Bill's new Rodgers.

Bill bought a Rodgers Custom 340. He plays it in his home.

Play, Bill, play.

Hear Bill play his new Rodgers Custom 340. Buy his new record, "Moonlight Sonata", just released by Lift Music (P.O. Box 663, West Covina, CA 91790). Then, buy a new Rodgers Custom 340 for your very own.

ORGAN COMPANY 1300 N. E. 25th Avenue, Hillsboro, Oregon 97123