MUSIC HALL Marks

2015 Summer Issue 1 MUSIC HALL Marks SPMH - Presidents Message

Whoever first said that time is 1878 Music Hall Organ. No one “flying by” sure wasn’t kidding. has seen them in this ‘new’ condi- Here we are at the end of another tion in over 100 years and they fiscal year for SPMH, and much haven’t been on public view for has been happening. I over 40 years. What a know you will enjoy treat!! Don’t miss it!! reading about the We will also an- many wonderful events nounce the election of and successful proj- SPMH officers and ects of the past year new directors who will here in our fabulous be working hard for newsletter, BUT, Music Hall. Newly ap- please make it a prior- pointed directors will ity to attend our Annual join the others in rep- Meeting on September resenting our dedi- 15th in Music Hall. It is cated members of positively the best time SPMH (I hope you are and place to get an ‘up Don Siekmann among them. If not, it to date’ report on the status of the is easy to become a member. Sim- Music Hall Revitalization and, ply use the enclosed envelope). VERY IMPORTANTLY, to be one My term as President ends as of the first who sees the ‘unveiling’ of this election, and I assure you of the historic, artistic, hand carved that the incoming board and offi- wooden panels from the original cers are “Dynamite.” I have been

Table of Contents

SPMH President’s Message ...... page 1 Carved Organ Panels Update . . . page 14 SPMH Mission Statement ...... page 2 Most Recent SPMH Project. . . . page 15 SPMH Board of Directors 2015 . . page 2 SPMH Timeline ...... page 16 Kings of Silent Comedy ...... page 3 ‘LumenoCity’ 1915 ...... page 18 Music Hall’s Photoplays...... page 6 Fun in Washington Park ...... page 21 Wurlitzer of ...... page 7 Johnathan Queen, Artist . . . page 22 SPMH Ownership Negotiations . . . page 7 Thank You, Members! ...... page 24 SPMH Going Social!...... page 9 2014 - 2015 SPMH Members . . page 25 Take a Tour, Hear the Stories . . . . page 10 Acknowledgements...... page 30 Achin’ to Tell My Story ...... page 12 MUSIC HALL Marks 2 proud to be president of SPMH for organizations committed to the re- over 5 years and to have been part vitalization of this Historic Icon, of so many new and exciting and pride in being a part of the plans, ideas and accomplish- Music Hall “experience.” ments. This “pride” of mine is re- Come, join SPMH and be- ally a pride in the SPMH board, come a part of that “Pride.” pride in our SPMH members, pride in the growth of Music Hall and its - Don Siekmann resident companies, pride in the

SPMH MISSION STATEMENT The mission of The Society for the Preservation of Music Hall is to preserve, promote, improve, and provide education about Music Hall, funding special projects in addition to Music Hall management’s opera- tional and maintenance obligations, and facilitating communications among Music Hall management, owner, and tenants, in order to perpetuate Music Hall as the premier cultural center of the Region, and as a National Historic Landmark of international significance.

SPMH BOARD of Directors 2015

President Directors Ex Officio Directors Donald C. Siekmann Lisa Allison Patty Beggs Andrew Bowen – Cincinnati Opera Immediate Past President Meredith Downton Norma Petersen Melissa Godoy Trey Devey Megan Hall – Cincinnati Symphony Vice Presidents Barbara Harshman Orchestra Joanne Grueter William Henrich Marcella Hsiung Missie Santomo Tricia Johnson Kathy Janson – Cincinnati Ballet Ken Jones Peter Koenig Ken Kreider Ed Rider Steven Sunderman Paul Muller – Cincinnati May Festival Ramon Rodriguez Recording Secretary Karen McKim Rosemary Schlachter Director Emeritus Sue Sommer Joyce Van Wye, Co-Founder Treasurer Bethany Vondran Mark Weadick Ronald Wehmeier Music Hall Liaison Scott Santangelo 3 MUSIC HALL Marks Kings of Silent Comedy

Organist Clark Wilson at the “Mighty Wurlitzer” Kings of Silent Comedy was wide as concert artist, and master the perfect title for the SPMH of adding sound to silent movies. Mighty Wurlitzer program concerts In fact he is so good, with music of May 12th. Both morning and and sound effects, that, as we evening shows were sell-outs, watched the big screen, the silent thanks to the hard work of Don films seemed to ‘talk’! Clark works Siekmann. Well, the boys, Charlie

Clark Wilson, Don Siekmann Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Laurel & Hardy, had us roar with laughter, enhanced with wonderful accom- paniment by Clark Wilson at the Mighty Wurlitzer! Clark tours world Andrew Barrow and Charlene Schwab MUSIC HALL Marks 4

Lynda and Bob Lance, Carol and Joe Martini, Pat and Hank Wordeman from long lists of com- positions of the period; music, both classical and pops, all memo- rized and fit to action on screen. Gary Kidney, Music Hall technical director and his crew trans- formed the ballroom into a movie palace. While accentuating the Pat Fry, Roger Fry many artifacts from the Albee Theater through- out the ballroom, the highlight was the crown jewel, our Mighty Wurl- itzer . With the free popcorn, movie and music, I thought I was back in the old Albee again! It was great to see so many younger folks attending the concert and I enjoyed talking Linda Siekmann, Kevin Bove, Nancy Bove, Don Siekmann 5 MUSIC HALL Marks with a young girl, her Mom, Pop and Gram. A and organ student, with aspirations of becoming a pro- fessional - - who knows, someday she may give a concert on our Wurlitzer! I al- ways enjoy giving tours of the organ, Barbara Gould, Ronna Willis, Don Siekmann, Barbara Hahn and this family was a delight! As many of you know, the Albee Wurlitzer built and installed in that grand the- atre in 1927, is very dear to me. I worked on the in- strument as a young fellow in the mid 1960s, and Ron Wehmeier with Katelyn Verbarg, student organist Next SPMH Mighty Wurlitzer Concert “Happy Holidays” December 10th at 10:30 AM & 7:00 PM.

Ticket Info: Reserved seats - $25 ($20 seniors, students, groups of 10 or more) contact: CincinnatiArts.org or (513) 621-2787 for Groups: (513) 977-4157 MUSIC HALL Marks 6 then in 2007, rebuilt the instrument instrument for many years to to factory new specifications. My come. Installation work in the Music Hall SPMH’s next Mighty Wurlitzer Ballroom was completed in 2009. I concert will be “Happy Holidays” am honored to have been associ- December 10th, with Jelani Eddington ated with this renaissance of the performing a spectacular holiday Wurlitzer in our beloved Music tradition! Hall, and hope to take care of the - Ron Wehmeier

Music Halls Photoplays The use of Music Hall as a the World, the motion camera sees venue for entertainment all, knows all, tells all; “The Funny is not a new ambition, but rather a Page Comes to Life”; “Picturesque ‘2nd Act’ after a lengthy ‘intermis- Travel Jaunt”, visiting odd corners sion’. The following excerpts taken of the earth; the great organ of from the September 5, 1915 Music Hall, played by J. Alfred Cincinnati Enquirer, indicate the Schehl; Mrs. Antoinette Wernor- importance of the program a cen- West, the distinguished May Festi- tury ago. val soloist, “Oh ,Come With Me in “Cincinnati is to be initiated a Summer Night”; The House of a into the realm of the “Advanced Thousand Candies, a mystery Photodrama” at Music Hall, ac- play; ”Heinie and Louie” in humor- cording to Manager Millton Gos- ous adventures. dorfer, who explains that it is the “The immense stage has been idea to conduct a silent drama the- converted into a huge flower gar- ater along the lines of the famed den, with fountains and electrical Strand of New York. The manage- effects of varying hues. The lobby ment is confident that the musical has been elaborately decorated program alone would suffice to at- and converted into a hall of her- tract devotees of the screen. At the aldry with rich decorations of em- same time the point is brought out broidered silk and satin banners. In that the programs are arranged the center of the lobby stands the with an eye to appealing to every statue of a church banked in flow- taste.” ers and plants. Even the exterior of The initial program, which in- Music Hall has illuminations in cluded the following selections, which the national colors have the gives an idea of the ambitious en- chief part.” terprise: (Cincinnati Enquirer September 5, 1915 Opening overture of the op- Courtesy of ProQuest Historical Newspa- eretta Beautiful Galathea; News of pers Hamilton County Public Library) 7 MUSIC HALL Marks Wurlitzer of Cincinnati The Name that Means Music to Millions Published in May 2015, this historical facts. Among these are enlightening book was written by two by well-known Cincinnati pho- Mark Palkovic, senior tographer, Philip librarian at the of the Groshong. One is of University of Cincin- SPMH board member nati’s College Conser- Ron Wehmeier, of vatory of Music. The Ronald F. Wehmeier Wurlitzer Company his- Organ Services, at the tory, from its ballroom founding in 1856 by Albee “Mighty Wurl- German immigrant itzer”. The other is a Franz Rudolph Wurl- view of Ron’s home itzer, its product/instru- music room showing ment development his Wurlitzer theatre (most notably the organ and Wurlitzer “Mighty Wurlitzer” The- harp. atre Organ) to its acquisition by The book can be purchased on the Guitar Corp. in 2006, is Amazon.com and in several local told in an entertaining way. Numer- book stores for $21.99. ous photographs complement the SPMH Wurlitzer Ownership Negotiations in Progress In April the Valley Chap- signed contracts among SPMH, ter (OVC) of the American Theatre CAA, the City of Cincinnati, OVC— Organ Society proposed the gift of the owners of the organ and the the “Mighty Wurlitzer Organ” to anonymous foundation that pro- SPMH. vided $1.4M donation to SPMH for At the May Board meeting, the rebuilding and installation of President Don Siekmann shared the organ. Issues considered were: his document, summarizing mat- • financial or other associated ters relating to the organ from early risks for SPMH as owner discussions with SPMH, CAA and • the condition of the instrument OVC through its subsequent 2009 long-term installation in the Music Hall Ball- • the ability of SPMH to maintain room. The document refers to its condition MUSIC HALL Marks 8 • the complexity of securing legal Ken Kreider reported that he has documentation of ownership been working on drafting neces- Ron Wehmeier, who rebuilt, in- sary documents dealing with the stalled and maintains the organ, gifting of the organ. Peter Koenig assured the directors that the voiced the need for a qualified ap- Mighty Wurlitzer is in excellent praiser. The following motion was shape and that made and no large ex- agreed upon: penditures are that Don Siek- anticipated for mann be given many decades. executive au- The annual up- thority to sign keep of the in- on behalf of the strument board of SPMH currently costs any agree- approximately ments regard- $7,000 per ing the change year including in ownership of insurance. the Mighty Scott Santan- Wurlitzer from gelo asserted OVC to SPMH, that CAA The Mighty Wurlitzer and that appro- stands ready to support SPMH as priate funds be made available to owner and directors voiced general pay reasonable expenses such as agreement for SPMH ownership. costs of an appraisal. Following the The following motion was made June meeting, it was determined and voted upon: The Executive that Ron Wehmeier is best quali- Committee is authorized to negoti- fied to appraise the “Mighty Wurl- ate terms for accepting the dona- itzer”. Subsequently, the appraisal tion of the Mighty Wurlitzer Organ was performed and given to the and any other contracts deemed subcommittee. A request for fund- necessary, with OVC and other ap- ing of maintenance costs for the propriate parties. A subcommittee next five years was made to the including Peter Koenig, Andrew anonymous donor organization Bowen, Tricia Johnson, Ken Krei- which funded the organ restora- der and Don was formed to begin tion/installation. The request was negotiations. It was decided that granted and Ron Wehmeier will going forward, a Mighty Wurlitzer continue to provide his services. Committee would be appointed to It is anticipated that all negoti- deal with issues and oversee pro- ations will be completed before the gramming and publicity. Annual Meeting on September At the June Board meeting 15th. 9 MUSIC HALL Marks SPMH Going Social! SPMH has collaborated with some of our current activities Cincinnati Arts Association to cre- (cleaning the Springer statue) with ate a more robust presence for historical facts about the statue it- SPMH by integrating content for self. Facebook offers many ways the current Music Hall facebook to attract a younger audience. page. The initiative is a first step in Video content is an exciting way to SPMH’s plan to present SPMH’s reach and engage key initiatives. To a younger audi- date, two videos ence for our mem- centered on The bership and Mighty Wurlitzer events. have been posted, Megan Hall showcasing this and Joanne Grueter initially ex- unique and beautiful asset. One plored developing a stand alone video tells “A Brief History” of the facebook page for SPMH, but after Wurlitzer’s past with the Albee The- meeting with our partner organiza- ater in the time of silent movies. It tion, CAA, they recognized that features SPMH’s own Ron SPMH could quickly jumpstart its Wehmeier, who provides a brief but social marketing efforts by leverag- enlightening history of the organ ing the current audience of the and all that was entailed in its in- Cincinnati Music Hall facebook stallation in Music Hall. page. The Cincinnati Music Hall It is our hope and plan to con- page has on average, 72,000 visits tinue to develop engaging and ro- per month and 20,000 followers. bust content for the site over time, Together, Megan and Joanne with focusing on our tour activity, Wurl- Max Larson, CAA’s Digital Market- itzer concerts, and relevant and in- ing Manager developed a calendar teresting facts about Music Hall of proposed social posts featuring and her history. During the revital- interesting historical facts and sur- ization period, we will have addi- prising tid bits about Music Hall tional opportunities to present past and her history, for CAA to sprinkle and present perspectives to a in its weekly promotional activity. growing audience. But don’t take Content runs the gamut, from our word for it…check out the page beautiful photos of Music Hall in all yourself and ‘like’ us on facebook! her glory, both present and past, It’s easy: sunny days in Washington Park (www.facebook.com/ cincinnatimu- and stormy clouds over the Hall. sichall). SPMH has been able to tie in - Lisa Allison MUSIC HALL Marks 10 Take a Tour, Hear the Stories “Tell me the facts and I’ll “lost” only to be rediscovered in learn… But tell me a story and it 1941 when cleaning the ceiling. will live in my heart forever.” - Na- - The 1878 Hook and Hastings tive American proverb Organ, which was located in In my short time here at Music Springer Auditorium was the sec- Hall I have become amazed at the ond largest in the world. rich culture and history this building - Acoustically plagued Lincoln holds and its great stories. I have Center envies the incredible sound met travelers from all over the US quality inside the hall, which is said, and the world, seeking a peek in- “to feel like being inside of a fine in- side this regional jewel and national strument or violin.” treasure. With ample parking, out- - Financing to build Music Hall was door entertainment and restau- from the people and for the people. rants, just beyond its doors, they Said to be the first matching grant feel compelled to stop to take a in America, even the school chil- tour of Music Hall. dren pitched in! To fully understand what When visitors recall a memo- draws visitors to this place though, rable trip, they talk about three we need to see past the grand things: what they saw, what they structure, artwork, marble and crys- did, and the people they met. So tal and look to the stories… when visitors recall, "the beautiful - The Allegory of the Arts painting river, that great meal, the friendly above the crystal chandelier was people who told us about all the

Tour Guides, Gayley Hautzenroeder, Carol Kruse and Judy Martin 11 MUSIC HALL Marks things to do in town," they also re- Improve the program’s accuracy, call the people and the stories of uniqueness and value, and lever- Music Hall. age it to create multiple tour pro- “People think that stories are grams, each highlighting a unique shaped by people. In fact it’s the aspect of the building. This will in- other way around.” - Terry Pratch- crease the ability to generate draw- ett, novelist ing power so that visitors want to The Music Hall Tour program return again and again. Toward this has the opportunity to bring the goal we have fact checked and fin- community together — and unlike ished our first “official” tour script. any other institution in Over-the- Plans are being formed for tours Rhine, its stories instill a sense of that focus on, “The Ladies’ Legacy” community pride in the knowledge about the women who helped of our shared history. It is important Music Hall come to be; “Presidents to remember the people touched and Pop”, featuring famous people by this great building and to who have visited; “We Who Built strengthen ties with schools, nurs- This”, focused on immigrants and ing homes, professional and civic freed slaves. There is much work organizations, including neighbor- to be done, and boy, are we ex- ing businesses, to offer something cited! The tour program has initi- special, something that can build ated our first open houses of the community cohesiveness. The per- building in conjunction with such sonal Music Hall stories told by events as the ‘Macy’s Fine Art tour patrons are amazing and this Sampler Weekend’ and the ‘All- interaction enhances the experi- Star Game’ week in July! We have ence. technology in place to amplify a “Stories tell us of what we al- guide’s voice to improve the patron ready knew and forgot, and remind experience! us of what we haven’t yet imag- Goal #2: To have the highest ined.” – Anne L. Watson, author quality volunteer guides with the The people who volunteer are best training. Build a volunteer de- unparalleled in their commitment, velopment program that enhances caring and value to this program. the experience of the volunteer, in- And a top-notch tour program can stilling a sense of wonder, team- only be possible with a top-notch work and pride for the life-long Tour Guide Team of volunteers. learner. Toward this goal we have Therefore, when we turn to imag- supported 10 volunteers to attend ine a vision for the Music Hall Tour leadership training in partnership Program, our goals are simple: with CincinnatiUSA, focusing on Goal #1: To create a tour pro- tourism and customer service. gram with engaging stories and en- Monthly meetings with guest hanced quality of storytelling. speakers are in store in the near MUSIC HALL Marks 12 future. In addition, we are automat- Music Hall. So whether your inter- ing the volunteer application est is personal, academic, arts en- process making it easier to be- richment, community involvement, come a Music Hall Tour Guide. And or just ‘for the fun of it’ - take us up lastly, we now have a feedback on the invitation. Come hear the loop for Tour Guides and patrons to stories going ‘round the Hall’ and improve the quality of the program let us tell you about its history, in real time. By shortening re- show you its charm and extend to sponse time to tour requests and you our hospitality! To schedule a by the acceptance of credit cards, tour or learn how you can be a both patron and volunteer satisfac- Music Hall Tour Guide, contact tion is increased. Ramona Toussaint at, musichall- We have so much more to [email protected]. share with you about the ‘happen- - Ramona Toussaint ings’ of the Tour Program here at Achin to Tell My Story

“Atop my stand, I watch and in his life, he sought temporary ‘in- stare, as people pass from here to tern’ type work in the field in cities there. My life my gifts…most un- of Pennsylvania and Kentucky, in aware.” This is a ‘hypothetical Cincinnati and St. Louis. He re- quote’ from the marble bust in the turned to Cincinnati in 1842 to take south hall entrance to Music Hall. up permanent residency, teaching Who was this Charles Aiken and music to classes of adults. In 1848 what did he do to deserve a marble Charles became the successor of portrait carved by the eminent William F. Colburn, the first music sculptor, Preston Powers of Flo- teacher in Cincinnati public rence, Italy, unveiled in Music Hall schools. From the start Charles 1884, just two years after his was determined to introduce music death? as one of the branches of study in Born in New Hampshire in the public schools and with each 1818 to parents whose ancestors passing year he devoted more of emigrated from Ireland and Scot- his efforts toward developing a uni- land, his familial tendency was to- versal vocal arts program through- ward the musical arts. However, his out the Cincinnati school system. education at Dartmouth College Beginning with advanced classes in where he earned his diploma in secondary schools, he designed a 1838, was a rather ‘liberal arts’ course of study requiring at least course of study. Realizing that two music lessons per week, for music was of singular importance thousands of young people. Note 13 MUSIC HALL Marks reading and vocalization were em- Music Readers.” Professor Aiken phasized while works of the great- devoted thirty years to diligent est composers were utilized to music training in the public educate and energize the young schools. A modest and humble singers. man who ad- Aiken’s contri- vanced the mu- butions were sical culture in well noted. The Cincinnati more office of super- than did any intendent of other individual, music of public he eschewed schools was the spotlight. created and He died Professor October 4, Aiken was for- 1882, just three mally placed in years after retir- the position. ing from his po- Noting sition. One that love of week later offi- music is not cers and teach- age depend- ers of the public ent, Charles schools met at extended his Hughes High course of in- School to plan a struction to the permanent in- primary grades Charles Aiken stallation com- in public schools. General knowl- memorating both the man and his edge of music and music instruc- great contribution to Cincinnati. tion became requirements for all The planning resulted in the com- candidates for teachers’ positions mission of the marble bust, paid for in all levels of Cincinnati public by teachers of Cincinnati and by school. At the time there was no ef- Aiken’s former students. The ficient instructional material so Pro- vestibule of Music Hall was chosen fessor Aiken, with assistance of his as a fitting place for the monument, associates in the music department as the Hall frequently resounded produced “The Young Singer’s with the youthful voices of hun- Manual” in1860. In 1866 his “High dreds of choralists trained and led School Choralist” was published. by this dedicated man, known as This book was updated in 1872 “Father of Vocal Music in Public with “The Choralist’s Companion” Schools.” and by 1875 he had to his credit, a - Kathy Janson series of music books, “Cincinnati MUSIC HALL Marks 14 Carved Organ Panels Update Since reporting in the Decem- provided the SPMH project added ber issue of MUSIC visibility and public HALL Marks when it was awareness. noted that two carvings On April 15th Kathy by the famed William Fry Janson and Ed Rider were added to the con- photographed and cata- servation project (one logued all remaining donated by the Louise parts of the carved organ Dieterle Nippert estate screen, housed at the and the other returned Museum Center. Jennifer by the Cincinnati Mu- Jensen, Registrar of the seum Center), great Museum Center signed progress has been the document officially made. The first of all transferring all compo- panels to be restored nents of the organ to was exhibited in The SPMH. The 30 frames, Cincinnati Preservation molding parts and em- Association’s 50th An- bellishments were then niversary Celebration moved to Music Hall Exhibition in the Culture where Scott Santangelo Gallery of the Museum and Gary Kidney super- Center. The well at- vised the move to stor- tended exhibit which had age. Frames identified a six month run, closed as those belonging to on April 5th. Another re- panels undergoing stored panel was a fea- restoration at Heller Con- ture in the Cincinnati servation Services, were Symphony Orchestra’s shipped to the Nashville exhibit ‘Your Self-Guided studio in May. Art Tour of Music Hall’. Restored carved panel In late June, Don This exhibit was a pro- Siekmann and Peter motion of its February 6th and 7th Koenig met with Otto Budig, Chair concert program, a highlight of of the Music Hall Revitalization which was Mussorgsky’s “Pictures Corp.; Murray Sinclaire, Jr., Chair at an Exhibition”. The panel, with a of the Cultural Facilities Task detailed information board, is cur- Force; Stephen Leeper, President rently displayed in the south side of and CEO of 3CDC (Cincinnati Cen- the balcony. Both the Museum ter City Development Corporation); Center and the Music Hall exhibits Adam Gelter, Executive VP Devel- 15 MUSIC HALL Marks opment, 3CDC; Scott Provancher, Marks donated their panel ‘Por- President of Lewis & Clark Co., pora’ to the SPMH project. This is fundraising counsel for MHRC and the first of this unique style of com- Derrick Braziel, poser panels Director of added to the Civic Projects project. for Lewis & All restored Clark Co. The panels will be purpose of the returned to meeting was to Music Hall in discuss September, SPMH’s role in they will be in- the complex stalled in Cor- workings of the bett Tower and Music Hall ren- will be a feature ovation. During of the Septem- the course of ber 15th SPMH the meeting, a Annual Meet- presentation ing. This instal- was made pro- lation will be posing permanent installation of temporary until Music Hall closes the restored panels in Corbett for renovation in May 2016. Tower. General consensus was fa- vorable to the proposal. - Kathy Janson In early July Ed and Anita

Most Recent SPMH Project: Foyer Floor

When you walk into the lobby The foyer floor, original to the of Music Hall, what do you notice? 1878 building, is covered in The statue of Ruben Springer? squares of white New Hampshire The chande- marble and liers? The por- dark red Eng- traits of Ralph lish slate. and Patricia Imagine all Corbett? Do the people you every who have look down at walked the floor of the across this lobby? Most floor on their likely not. Before and After cleaning way to the MUSIC HALL Marks 16 auditorium, starting with Rueben white marble and red slate now Springer, the benefactor who raised shine! Look down the next time you the money for the planning and come into Music Hall! construction of The beau- Music Hall. tiful Foyer is Early this available for year SPMH rental. It can funded a deep accommodate cleaning of this up to 200 surface with a guests for a grant of dinner, a wed- $15,000. Be- ding or a ginning on dance event. February 9th, The gleaming the huge proj- marble pro- ect was com- vides a perfect pleted in a open dance mere 4 days. floor. The Scioto Services space can was the pri- serve a greater mary vendor number of for guests for a stripping/wax- cocktail ing while Axis party/recep- Interiors Sys- tion. For further tems was hired information for repairs. about rental More than four contact Terry decades of Kidney, Rentals wax and dirt Manager (513) were stripped 744-3242 tkid- away, dam- ney@cincinna- aged areas Cleaning is process tiarts.org were repaired with color- matched epoxies, and - Ed Rider all was then waxed and buffed. The

Members’ Annual Meeting – September 15 Guest Speaker: Stephen Leeper, President and CEO of 3CDC Topic: Music Hall Revitalization Update 17 MUSIC HALL Marks SPMH Timeline A Walk Through History

Crossing the Central Parkway nati Historical Society, the Public Bridge connecting The WCET Library, The Cincinnati Enquirer Garage to Music Hall, one opens and the archive departments of the back entrance to a welcoming performing arts organizations con- sight. The history of Music Hall, as tributed historic photographs and a photo journal (1876—2010), de- images. Cincinnati design firm, picted on the walls of the 125 foot Catt Lyon Design, Inc. was hired to long corridor, encourages the pa- bring the ideas to life. The timeline tron to pause, view, learn interest- was presented on a series of 4’ X ing facts, stories, biographies, 8’ panels with a large mural of an before presenting tickets to enter 1877 Music Hall image positioned the main auditorium. Few venues on the east end corridor wall. offer such an opportunity, a walk Joyce Van Wye headed the com- through history in such a concise mittee which completed work in the and entertaining way. corridor: painting, track lighting and How did this Timeline creation carpeting. Funding was provided come to be? In 1995 an SPMH by a generous grant from the Nip- committee headed by VP Ashley pert Charitable Foundation. The Ford, hatched the idea for the time- Cincinnati Enquirer, on September line. Among committee members 20, 1999, reported the Ribbon Cut- were Linda Siekmann, Julien Ben- ting ceremony a celebratory event, jamin, Peggy Kahn and Carol proclaiming that “Music Hall’s blah Nagel. Envisioned were four topics entranceway from Central Parkway for exploration: finally makes a first impression be- 1. the history of the building, fitting Cincinnati’s elegant music 2. the history of the resident musi- palace. This latest addition reas- cal organizations, sures that Cincinnatians generation 3. famous artists who have played after generation, continue to pre- in Music Hall serve and update Reuben 4. Important city, national and Springer’s gift to the city. Cincinnati world events architect Samuel Hannaford’s origi- Historian Suzanne De Luca nal design is again celebrated and helped research the images while renewed.” such organizations as the Cincin- To view back issues of MUSIC HALL Marks visit: www.spmhcincinnati.org MUSIC HALL Marks 18 LumenoCity 1915 While LumenoCity has be- city’s extraordinary recovery from come a popular and well antici- the 1906 earthquake and subse- pated August event, Music Hall quent fire. New technologies were featured an ex- featured high- travaganza in lights including 1915 which cars, airplanes, produced the telephones, mo- same high level tion pictures of excitement and household as today’s appliances of thrilling illumi- every type. The nation! To put it centerpiece of lightly, audi- The Electric Show 1915 Music Hall the San Fran- ences were cisco World’s electrified!! The November 28, Fair was the 435 foot Tower of Jew- 1915 issue of the Cincinnati En- els covered with 100,000 cut glass quirer announced the festival with colorful Novagems illuminated by “’Voice Will Cross Continent to over 50 powerful electrical search- Open First Electric Show Ever Held lights at night. Cities across the in Cincinnati’ Electrical Prosperity country took the opportunity to join Week, the first electric show ever in with their own celebrations of the held in this city, will be opened at completion of the Panama Canal, Music Hall tomorrow afternoon.” the anticipation of trade opportuni- Electrical Prosperity Week ties and the dawn of a new day. (Monday November 29 to Saturday, The expositions introduced techno- December 4, 1915) was originated logical marvels to the everyday by the Society for Electrical Devel- family of moderate means. Electri- opment of New York and was ob- cal Prosperity Week was a week of served throughout the entire extraordinary spectacle. country. It was designed to place The events in Cincinnati were business in general, and the elec- opened when C. C. Moore, Presi- trical industry in particular, on a firm dent of the Panama-Pacific Interna- prosperity basis. Concurrently the tional Exposition in , World’s Fair “The Pan-Pacific Inter- telephoned W. W. Freemans, Pres- national Exposition” was held in ident of the local exhibition. Newton San Francisco. Its primary purpose M. Miller, Ohio Commissioner to was to celebrate the completion of the San Francisco Exposition, the Panama Canal but it was seen talked briefly, and Mayor Frederick as an opportunity to showcase the Spiegel replied. Seats in the center 19 MUSIC HALL Marks of Music Hall were equipped with garden, living and dining rooms, extension ‘telephones’ which al- kitchen and laundry. The ‘home’ lowed 800 people to hear every was ‘inhabited’ by a young couple word of President Moore’s greeting who demonstrated house keeping and Mr. Freeman’s response. A se- with electricity. Electric lamps, ries of motion pictures, including heaters and fans, kept the space scenes of the transmission in San bright and cozy, while an electric Francisco and the pavilion at the range, corn-popper, dish-washer, Exposition where President Moore clothes washer and iron, made spoke to Cincinnati, were enjoyed work more efficient. An electric by members of the audience. They phonograph and an electric foun- were also tain in the gar- treated to a den provided view of the a relaxing at- Pacific Ocean mosphere. and the Daily demon- sounds of its strations of crashing house wiring waves. Other were given. films showed The transcon- the first tele- tinental tele- phone made phone, and the man- wireless tele- ner of con- graph, money necting the Bursting Bomb of Jewels in Music Hall Lobby washing ma- lines to form chines, barber the transcontinental circuit. ‘Talk- shop equipment, farming machin- ing-picture’ movies were free, and ery and electrical wonders too nu- were given every afternoon and merous to mention were part of the evening. extensive show. There were All the floor space in the north cabaret performances in the café wing of Music Hall was occupied by and band concerts which included exhibitors who converted that sec- the popular song “Hello Frisco”, tion into a veritable fairyland elicit- written shortly after telephone com- ing exclamations of sheer munications had been established amazement from those who between New York and San Fran- crowded around. Electrically oper- cisco. ated musical instruments, electri- The New York publication Elec- cally propelled Christmas toys and trical Review and Western Electri- illuminated Christmas trees de- cian commented on the event in lighted everyone. A ‘Home Electric’ Cincinnati noting that the elaborate was constructed consisting of a electric show held in Music Hall, MUSIC HALL Marks 20 one of the largest buildings of its Building was outlined with 3,600 sort in this country, had over 100 white, red and green lights while a exhibitors representing all of the great star in the center represented leading manufacturers of electrical the name of the paper. equipment and appliances. Gen- The Music Hall Electric Show eral Electric, Union Gas and Elec- was open for the week from 11 tric, Western Electric, a.m. until 11 p.m. Widely popular, it Allis-Chalmers, Westinghouse, attracted 29,000 visitors, each pay- Walker Vehicle, Warner Elevator, ing the 50 cents admission charge, Otis Elevator and many others a hefty amount in those days. The were among them. An unusually success of the show and the extent beautiful piece of decorative work of public interest in it astonished was the ’Bursting Bomb of Jewels’ even the most optimistic of its pro- which was placed in the main lobby moters. Creating heavy demand for of Music Hall. It was designed by electrical goods of all kinds it re- Mr. Glossing of the General Elec- sulted in an increase in business tric Company. Made of the same 85% greater than that of 1914. The sparkling materials as the famous domestic use of electric current in ‘Tower of Jewels’ at the San Fran- and around the City had been cisco Exposition, it was the first ex- slight prior to Electrical Prosperity ample of this work seen outside of Week as natural gas was cheap the Exposition. Six spot-lights of and readily available. But the excit- different colors illuminated the ing, extensive exhibits showcasing magnificent object brilliantly and the use of current in the ‘modern’ brought out its singular and deli- home featuring appliances within cate grace splendidly. the reach of the average wage In conjunction with the show earner convinced the public that was a special illumination of Foun- electricity was not a luxury but a tain Square. There were four clus- necessity for comfort and good liv- ters of lights suspended high ing. Electrical Prosperity Week in above the square. Each cluster Music Hall 1915 truly began the consisted of a circle of eight, 18 electric era in Cincinnati. inch globes each containing a - Kathy Janson 1,000 candlepower lamp. Several (Sources:ProQuest Historical Newspapers downtown buildings participated as and Electrical Review and Western Electri- well. The seven story Times-Star cian) To learn more about MUSIC HALL, Past, Present and Future Visit the SPMH Website www.spmhcincinnati.org 21 MUSIC HALL Marks Fun in Washington Park

Then...

...and Now! MUSIC HALL Marks 22 Jonathan Queen, Artist Washington Park Cover

Washington Park painting above the horse, Bubbles Jonathan has become well- the styles of such Greats as Rem- known in the Cincinnati area as the brandt and Vermeer, his style is re- artist whose splendid work whimsi- alistic, narrative still life. Originally cally decorates the Carol Ann working with vintage toys, Carousel at Smale Riverfront Park, Jonathan shifted his process to dedicated with great celebration on one of creating his own sculpted May 16, 2015. His delightful repre- characters in plastiline clay. Photo- sentations of animal characters en- graphing landscapes at just the joying 16 of Cincinnati’s parks and right time of day to achieve the de- 16 iconic landmarks are a personal sired lighting; painting the scenes tribute to Cincinnati’s history. A na- using the photographs; placing the tive of Lexington, Ky., he began his photographed animal creations art education at Eastern Kentucky within the landscape---these are University and transferred to the the principal stages of his method. ’s College of Preliminary sketches and small Design, Architecture, Art and Plan- painted studies of each scene are ning where he earned a Bachelor among the many steps required to of Fine Arts degree. Influenced by create the final work. 23 MUSIC HALL Marks Jonathan’s favorite carousel talgia for the represented parks, painting is of Washington Park Jonathan said that “children can where a squirrel, a toad and a think ‘I want to go there. I want to Lazarus lizard are having a jam experience that park’.” And go they session. Music Hall and the band- stand are in the back- ground (paint- ing is located above the white carousel horse ‘Bub- bles’). “I’m proud that this painting brings atten- tion to Music Clay models for Washington Park jam session Hall,” he said in talking about his will as the carousel and the parks desire to give back, to be con- will be enjoyed by generations to nected with what’s happening in come. To see in great detail the Cincinnati. “I want to bring humor work and methods of the artist’s and joy to each scene.” “It’s really carousel work view the exhibit honoring to be a part of something From Studio to Carousel: the representing the beautiful parks – Whimsical World of Jonathan we have such a rich history. I’m glad to be part of some- thing bigger than me.” Not- ing that every child who vis- its the carousel comes with an adult who brings per- sonal memo- ries and a sense of nos- Mayor John Cranley and Jonathan Queen MUSIC HALL Marks 24 Queen now through September 2012, the painting is a gargantuan 6th at the Taft Museum of Art. depiction of fruit and vegetables, Smale Park is not the only lo- picked at the peak of perfection. cation where one can see The brilliant use of lighting tech- Jonathan’s art. Countless Cincin- nique and vivid color palette ener- natians view Queen’s work every gize the city scape. day as they pass the corner of Jonathan Queen exhibits pro- Central Parkway and Walnut fessionally through Miller Gallery in Street. His spectacular 48’ X 90’ Hyde Park. He lives with his wife mural “Fresh Harvest” covers the and four children in Anderson rear wall of Kroger’s corporate Township. To view his work on line headquarters. Dedicated in August (www.jonathanqueen.com)

Thank You, Members!

SPMH was founded to “pro- • Restored handrails in balcony mote ongoing financial and volun- and gallery teer support toward maintaining • Created and installed Timeline in and improving the Music Hall facili- Central Parkway entrance corridor ties, internally and externally.” • Added chandeliers in foyer It is through the efforts of generous • Refurbished Green Room contributors and members like you • Produced award-winning docu- that SPMH is able to achieve our mentary about Music Hall in collab- goals concerning this landmark oration with CET which inspires both pleasure and • Provide Music Hall tours by pride among all who treasure the SPMH volunteer guides arts. As the years progress, Music • Restored and installed Albee Hall’s needs grow. Together, we Mighty Wurlitzer can be proud of the many projects • Refinished Ballroom floors which have been completed in our • Refinished the historic Elm Street twenty-seven year history. The list entrance doors is long and to get a complete view • Cleaned Reuben Springer Statue of SPMH accomplishments see the • Cleaned the marble foyer floor web site at www.spmhcincinnati.org. • On-going restoration of wood A few of these include the follow- carved panels from the screen of ing: the famous 1878 Hook & Hastings • Installed 50-foot flagpole and organ with eventual permanent in- American flag in front of Music Hall stallation in Music Hall • Installed lighting for front of Thank you so much for your love of Music Hall and commitment to Music Hall! 25 MUSIC HALL Marks Cincinnatians, including those who dues, all donations are appreci- are setting the course for renova- ated. Encourage your friends to tion, are becoming more aware of join with all of us in preserving the vital role we play in preserving Music Hall for generations to Music Hall. As membership re- come! quires no minimum membership 2014 - 2015 SPMH Members

A Mary Bergstein Charles & Mary Abbott Eileen Berke Jim & Mary Abbott Jan Conversano Besl Judith H. & James R. Adams Bruce & Barbara Best Lisa & David Allison Todd Bezold The Alpaugh Foundation David & Elaine Billmire Carolyn B. Anderson Mr. & Mrs. Robert C. Blum, Jr. James & Marjorie Anderson Leon & Karen Boothe Theresa M. Anderson Ken Bordwell Anonymous Jennifer G. and Andrew C. Bowen Edward & Rebecca Apfel Mrs. A. S. Braude Vicky Aronoff James & Carolyn Bruckmann Thomas Ashwell Trish & Rick Bryan Mr. Donald Auberger Otto M. Budig, Jr. Mary Lou Aufmann Richard and Roberta Bull Ann J. Bunis B Nancy & William Bahlman, Jr. C Mr. & Mrs. Carroll R. Baker CAA Staff Iris G. Ball Sherry L. Caito Michael & Kimberly Baranowski Deborah W. Campbell Mr. & Mrs. Wayne K. Barfels Mrs. Mary E. Carroll George Barnard Shannon K. Carter John F. Barrett Foundation Edward & Susan Castleberry Robert A. Bauer Myra & Louis Chabut William & Kate Baumann Cincinnati Research & Beck Architecture - Donald Beck Paranormal Studies Mrs. Lillian B. Becker Cincinnati Stage Employees George & Carol Beddie Local No. 5 Mrs. Patricia Beggs Nancy R. Clagett Drs. Leslie & Carol Benet James & Esther Coffey Mrs. Thomas S. Benjamin Dr. & Mrs. John & Julie Cohen Ellen A. Berghamer Mr. & Mrs. Phillip T. Cohen MUSIC HALL Marks 26 Anthony F. Cole Carl & Terrill Freese Leland M. & Carol C. Cole Sue Friedlander John P. & Rosemary Connole Rita Fritsch Corbett Foundation Therese A. Froehle Robin Cotton & Cindi Fitton Dr. & Mrs. Harry F. Fry J. Edgar & Jane G. Cox Patricia K. Fry Mary & Timothy Coyne G D Marie Gallagher Mark Dauner Kathy & Joe Ganim Joseph J. Dehner Neil & Linda Gartner Carmon DeLeone Ms. Susanne E. Geier Sally H. Dessauer Dr. Michael & Janelle Gelfand Trey Devey S. Bradley Gillaugh Jay & Jackie DeWitt Gary L. Gilmer Dr. Karen Dinsmore Mary & Jack Gimpel Paul Dirkes D.D.S Ralph Ginocchio Mrs. Rupert A. Doan David N. Ginsburg Wayne & Mary Jo Doebling Renate & Jerry Glenn Jean Z. Donaldson Melissa Godoy Mr. & Mrs. Charles E. Downton III Clifford J. Goosmann & Andrea Wilson Marjorie W. Drackett Martha A. Gramss Mr. & Mrs. David W. Dressler Steven & Sue Grendel Sandra & Richard Drewes William E. Griess Suzanne & Rick Dunbar Philip Groshong Richard B. Dusterberg Bob Groszer & Donna Wirth Kathy Grote E Joanne Grueter David Eager Marilynn R. Guertler Harold & Linda Eberenz Janet & Joel Ebersole H - I Ann Ellison Mr. & Mrs. Richard Haberstroh Mr. Charles N. Ellman Priscilla G. Haffner Summers & Jeannette Hagerman F Barbara & Jack Hahn Jim & Jan Ferguson Dr. Kelly Hale Mr. & Mrs. John W. Fischer lll Megan Hall Kay & Barry Fittes Mercedes M. Hance Mrs. Charles Fleischmann Tom & Jan Hardy Constance S. Flodder John Harig Doris A. Fluck Dr. & Mrs. Morton Harshman Ashley & Bobbie Ford Emma D. Hartkemeier Ms. Rochelle Fradkin Dr. Robert & Suzanne Hasl Tom & Peggy Frank Lenore Hatfield 27 MUSIC HALL Marks Michael & Judy Hayes Carol & Scott Kosarko Anne P. Heldman Kenneth P. and Emily Kreider Mr. & Mrs. John Heldman Michael & Leslie Kreines Thomas & Dawn Heller Carol L. Kruse Robert & Patricia Henley Theresa M. Kuhn Shirley Henrich Mr. & Mrs. Lawrence H. Kyte. William E. Henrich Sandra T. Hitzler L Mrs. Florette B. Hoffheimer Susan Laffoon Ruth C. Holthaus Thomas & Jane Lake Bob & Dolly Holzwarth Frederick H. Lampe Debora Hopper Sandy Laney Ruth Ann Hopper Ms. Cynthia A. Leslie Marcella Hsiung & Tony Lang Calvin & Patricia Linnemann Carolyn Ruth Hunt Adele & Thomas Lippert Wetzel Hurst Ginger & Steve Loftin Dr. & Mrs. Edward E. Loftspring J - K Dr. Jennifer Loggie Mr. & Mrs. Michael Janson Carl & Joyce Lohstroh Tommie J. Jenkins Whitney & Phillip Long Henry L. Jennings Alfonso & Mary Lopez Linda Busken Jergens Dan & Joyce Lorey Jean C. Jett Joanie & Bill Lotts Ann M. Johnson Susie & Jack Louiso Marlene R. Johnson Dr. & Mrs. Franklin Lowe Robert L. Johnson Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Lowenstein Tricia & Eric Johnson Judy Lucas Brenda A. Jones Dr. & Mrs. Joseph T. Luttmer Dr. Edmund & Della Jones Mary Reed Lyon Ken Jones Robert & Connie Jones M Mary Ann Jordan Helene & Millard Mack Jay & Shirley Joyce Marianne Magill Mace Justice Lois & Richard Manifold Michael F. Kashar Anita & Ed Marks Nancy & Bill Keating Judith L. Martin Terry & Kathy Kessler J. Cromer Mashburn Family Foundation David A. Klingshirn David J. Mason Eileen K. Knollman Bobbie Maybrier Kayley S. Knollman James & Rebecca McDermott Kenneth & Mary Jane Knollman Dr. & Mrs. William McKim, Jr. Lee Koehler Laura McMahon Peter Koenig Charlotte McNary Patrick M. Korb Gene Melton MUSIC HALL Marks 28 Amy Mercer Timothy L. Pohlman, D.D.S. Susan Sterritt Meyer Judith & Ron Porges James & Sarah Michael Barbara & Michael Porte Deb & Jerry Miller Judith Prinz David & Martha Millett Amanda H. Prus M. G. Minsky Graham & Sharon Mitchell Q - R Donna S. Montgomery Cliff & Debbie Radel Herta L. Moore Maribeth & Martin Rahe Regeana & Al Morgan J. Lee Rasmussen Marjorie Motch Jean Ratcliff Paul Muller Joan F. Reckseit, Ph. D. George & Anne Musekamp Timothy & Paulette Reed Patti Myers & Alan Flaherty Sandy & Frank Reeder David & Marilyn Reichert N Kathleen Reinmann Timothy S. Needler Prof. Edward J. Requardt Jerry & Monica Nerl Ed & Barb Rider Chris & Tom Neyer Charles Scott Riley III Foundation Lindsay Niklas B. J. Robinson Donald & Joan Nitz Ramon & Christina Rodriguez Carol Norris David & Priya Rolfes Mr. & Mrs. J. David Rosenberg O Edward & Nancy Rosenthal Jane & Ervin Oberschmidt Solveiga Rush Tamar & Alan Oestreich Margene Ryberg Mr. & Mrs. William R. Oligee Fred & Leila Oliver S Robert & Anne Olson Mrs. Richard Salzer Mrs. Sylvia E. Osterday Scott Santangelo Marilyn Z. Ott Melissa Santomo David & Judy Savage P Mr. Thomas R. Schiff Eileen Parris & Margaret Guentert Rosemary & Mark Schlachter Ms. Lavonia F. Payton Stacy Sommer Schmidt Carol & James Pearce Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Schmitz Mark & Kim Pearson Charlotte & Richard Schnitz Gloria & Bradley Pemberton Mr. & Mrs. Richard Schorr Rick Pender & Joan Kaup Mrs. Zell Schulman Mr. & Mrs. John E. Pepper, Jr. James E. Schwab Mrs. Norma Petersen Joseph T. Schwab Alice & David Phillips T. L. & Debra Schwartz Foundation Mr. & Mrs. Joseph A. Pichler David & Martha Seagram Mr. & Mrs. John W. Plattner Martha Seaman 29 MUSIC HALL Marks Mildred J. Selonick Mr. & Mrs. James S. Trowbridge John & Teri Senhauser Jon & Jacqueline Seymour V – W Ildiko Sherman Madge Vanbuskirk Julie Shifman Joyce Van Wye Eleanor Shott Ruth Ann Voet Eli Shupe & Toby Ruben Bethany A. Vondran Brian & Julie Siekmann Nancy C. Wagner Donald & Linda Siekmann Patricia M. Wagner Irwin & Melinda Simon Dr. & Mrs. Elmer Wahl Jim & Linda Simpson Jack & Leann Ward Murray & Robin Sinclaire JoAnn & Paul Ward Mr. & Mrs. Paul Sittenfeld Mr. & Mrs. Frederick D. Warren Mr. & Mrs. Gerald Skidmore Paula J. Watters Sally Skillman & Nancy McGaughey Wayne Wauligman, D. D. S. Adrienne A. Smith Mark & Lisa Weadick Genevieve Smith Dr. James Weaver & Mary Vanags & Charlotte Smith (deceased) Mrs. William N. Weed (Katie) William & Judith Smith Mr. Ron Wehmeier Sisters of the Transfiguration Irwin & Barbara Weinberg Bill & Sue Sommer Patty & Gary Welsh Richard & Lois Sprigg Gary & Diane West Cherry & Bob Staab Mike & Sue West Mr. J. R. (Bob) Steelman) David & Sandy Westerbeck Mr. & Mrs. Thomas E. Stegman Franklin H. White Judy & Steve Stein Julie A. Whitmer Julia & David Stephen George & Kathy Wilkinson Mary S. Stern Dr. & Mrs. James Willis Amy Stier & Jeff Brown Mrs. Beatrice Winkler Steven R. Sunderman Betty Ann Wolf Shelby Wood T – U Stacey & Kathryn Woolley Dudley S. Taft Mrs. Dorothy Wuzelbacher Thomas L. Tallentire Dr. & Mrs. Shiro Tanaka X - Z Sue Thacker John M. Yacher Joyce Thieman & Earl Ross Margaret Yeiser Norman J. Thomas Dr. & Mrs. Daryl N. Zeigler James L. Thompson Dr. Robert W. & Carol Ziegler III Janet G. Todd

Please let us know if we have duplicated, omitted or misspelled your name Call (513) 744-3293 or [email protected] MUSIC HALL Marks 30

“ My own definition of Leadership is this: The Capacity and the Will to rally men and women to a Common Purpose and the Character which inspires Confidence.” – General Montgomery

Thank You, Don Siekmann, for 5 years of Leadership as President of SPMH!!

Acknowledgements

Editor: Cover: Kathy Janson Jonathan Queen

Contributing Writers: Photo Credits: Lisa Allison Phil Groshong pages 1-8 Joanne Grueter Erin Horton page 21 Megan Hall Kathy Janson Kathy Janson Scott Santangelo Ed Rider Jay Yocis page 23 Rosemary Schlachter Don Siekmann Design and Layout: Ramona Toussaint Creative Flair Co Ronald Wehmeier Printing: Berman Printing Company

Society for the Preservation of Music Hall www.spmhcincinnati.org. Renew your membership or join today by using the enclosed envelope. - Thank You! MUSIC HALL Marks is a Publication of The Society for the Preservation of Music Hall 1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 www.spmhcincinnati.org [email protected]