ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:29 PM Page 1

JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN THEATRE ORGAN SOCIETY

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007

ORGAN in the New PARAMOUNT Theatre Remarkably significant! The owners of the world's greatest cinema palace, the new Paramount Theatre, New York, regard the Wurlitzer Organ as one of their main feat­ ures. The Wurlitzer Organ can be individu­ ally accommodated to large and small thea­ tres, th e use of which is today considered one of the attributes of superior theatre management. Write today for catalog.

Exccuti1 1e Offices: Cin cinnat i, Ohio fa Clorics: Nor th Ton awanda , N. Y.

New York C incinnati Chicn1,:o Cleveland Pittsbur gh Detroit Philadelphia Buffalo Sa n Francisco Los Amtele!I St. Lo ui<1 K:msas Citv ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:29 PM Page 2

S USAN C OLE K EYBOARD P RODUCTIONS Jeff P RESENTSTHE 9 TH A NNUAL V ILLAGES “Pop” Organ A Complete Line Weiler of Theatre and Concert Series Church Organ

—Rob Richards & Ralph Wolf— Parts Organist, Friday, January 19 For information, use our website: Composer & —Choy Lozada— arndtorgansupply.com Silent Film Saturday, February 3 —Paul Roberts— Or send for our CD-ROM catalog Accompanist Friday, March 30 Arndt Organ Supply Co. —Jelani Eddington— 1018 SE Lorenz Dr. Friday, April 20 Artra Artists Management, Inc. Ankeny, IA 50021 555 West Madison St., Suite 2110 Church on the Square, The Villages, FL Phone (515) 964-1274 Chicago, Illinois 60601 (1.5 hours north of Orlando) Fax (515) 963-1215 800-354-1645 For more information contact Susan Cole. 352-383-6975 legatolady@aol .com

Restoration • Consultation • Installation Audio Arts

Digital Recording - on location Scott Smith Pipe Organs Complete CD Production & replication services 1494 Lake Lansing Road • Lansing, Michigan • 48912 Limited-run CD-Rpackages available Telephone 517- 485-5421 Contact Fred Bru.flodt [email protected] 228 University Dr. - East Lansing, MI 48823 (517) 332-8084 Email: [email protected] Tuning • Maintenance • Cleaning

Complete your collection of dynamite recordings by THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA SCHOOL OF MUSIC JELANI EDDINGTON BLUE TANGO A LEROY ANDERSON CENTENNIAL cELEBRATION (Vol 1) is pleased to This album, together with its companion disc Sleigh Ride, is the world’s most comprehensive collection of the music of announce the appointment of Leroy Anderson -- all recorded at the 5/80 Sanfilippo Wurlitzer. Blue Tango and Sleigh Ride also each contain Dr. John D. Schwandt world-premiere recordings of unpublished works Anderson wrote specifically for the organ! Highlights include Blue as Associate Professor of Organ Tango, The Syncopated Clock, The Waltzing Cat, The Typewriter, and Director for the newly established Serenata, A Trumpeter’s Lullaby, The Phantom Regiment, The Irish Suite, and many more! American Organ Institute at the University of Oklahoma SLEIGH RIDE A LEROY ANDERSON CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION (VOL 2) This album is the companion disc to Blue Tango. Together, these albums feature Dr. John Schwandt, a nationally acclaimed performer and 50 compositions and over 2 1/2 hours of exciting Anderson classics and are the only collection of Leroy Anderson’s music performed on the theatre pipe organ. Highlights clinician, will teach classical and theatrical organ performance, include Sleigh Ride, The Belle Of The Ball, Bugler’s Holiday, Forgotten Dreams, Promenade, Fiddle- improvisation, church music, silent film accompaniment, and Faddle, Jazz Pizzicato/Legato, and the rarely-recorded Piano Concerto In C. pipe organ building and maintenance. MUSICAL FIREWORKS BM Church Music and Organ - St. Olaf College, 1994 This much-anticipated album has been described as a “landmark” recording that must MM in Organ - Indiana University, 1996 be part of every collection. Recorded at the 5/80 Sanfilippo Wurlitzer, this album features 70 minutes of spellbinding arrangements, including Broadway Rhythm, Medley OM in Organ - Indiana University, 2001 from “My Fair Lady”, Polovtsian Dances, Anything Goes, and Overture from William Tell.

To see our complete line of recordings, visit us online at www.rjeproductions.com The University of Oklahoma School of Music Ordering Information: CD only. $18.00 (U.S.). Please add $2.00 for shipping and handling Dr. Steven C. Curtis, Director per item. For all orders shipped outside the U.S. please add $5.00 per item. Send check, 500 West Boyd Street Norman, OK 73019-2071 money order, or Visa/MasterCard number with expiration date and phone number to: (405) 325-2081 http:/music.ou.edu/ RJE Productions USA LLC P.O. Box 44092 • Racine, WI • 53404-7002 • USA ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:24 AM Page 1

THEATRE ORGAN JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 Volume 49 | Number 1

FEATURES

Rex Koury 24 Remembered Creative Reharmonization 28 Part 1 Fundraising 101 30 The Yard Sale A Grand Tour 34 2007 Annual Convention

DEPARTMENTS

5 Vox Humana 7 Headquarters 8 Letters 10 Directors’ Corner 12 News & Notes 20 From the Archives 23 In the Spotlight 44 For the Records 49 Professional Perspectives 50 Chapter News 62 Meeting Minutes (ATOS Editor’s Files) 66 Around the Circuit 70 Obituaries

THEATRE ORGAN (ISSN 0040-5531) is published On the cover: New York City was home to some of the world’s most famous theatre organs bimonthly by the American Theatre Organ Society, Inc., 5 Third Street, Suite 724, San and organists. Wurlitzer was particularly proud of the instruments installed in the Paramount Francisco, California 94103-3200. Periodicals Theatre and its broadcasting studio in Times Square. Jesse Crawford, Helen Crawford, Don Postage Paid at San Francisco, California and Baker, Fred Feibel, Ann Leaf, Dick Leibert, George Wright, and many others held forth in at additional mailing offices. Annual both locations. These two organs (opus 1458: four manuals, 36 ranks, installed in 1926 in the subscription of $33.00 paid from members’ dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to theatre; and opus 1960: four manuals and 21 ranks, installed in 1928 in the studio) set the THEATRE ORGAN, c/o ATOS Membership standard by which all others were measured. 2007 convention goers will be staying at the Office, P.O. Box 5327, Fullerton, California Marriott Marquis, just steps away from the Paramount building which remains hallowed 92838, [email protected]. ground, a monument to days gone by and some incredible music making. (Weiler Collection)

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 1 THE RIALTO SQ UARE THEATRE & JATOE PRESENT ... Rialto Pops Weekend Pipe Organ Extravaganza XI

e Saturday, April 28, 7 pm Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL Tickets $38 Our Guest Artists: Jelani Eddington, Clark Wilson, Martin Ellis, Jonas Nordwall and Donna Parker. Featuring Allen Quantum Digital Organs! And, our orchestra!!! The DePaul University Wind Ensemble

Our other spectacular weekend musical excursions… Friday, April 27, 7 pm Jelani Eddington and Clark Wilson at the Van Der Molen Wonder Morton Tickets $25

Sunday, April 29, 1 pm The New Trio Con Brio! Jonas Nordwall, Donna Parker & Martin Ellis at the Sanfilippo 5/80 Wurlitzer! Tickets $50 (includes hosted desert buffet)

For further information call JATOE at 708-562-8538 e

www.jatoe.org

2 THEATRE ORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:26 AM Page 3

Journal of the American Theatre Organ Society Library of Congress Catalog Number ML 1T 334 (ISSN 0040-5531) Printed in U.S.A. JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 Volume 49 | Number 1

THEATRE ORGAN EDITORIAL OFFICE DESIGN & TYPESETTING INNER-CITY YOUTH/SCHOOLS PROGRAM Notice: E-mail addresses for 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905 Frequency ID, Indianapolis, Indiana Ed Mullins (see above at Chapter ATOS Board, Staff and Chicago, Illinois 60616 PRINTING & MAILING Relations) Voice/Fax 312-842-7475 Committee Chairs have Sutherland Companies MENTOR PROGRAM [email protected] Montezuma, Iowa Donna Parker changed. Please refer to the PRESIDENT P.O. Box 6103 new addresses on this page. Ken Double ATOS COMMITTEES Aloha, Oregon 97007 — Tom Blackwell 1201 McDuffie Street #173 & CHAIRPERSONS 503-642-7009 ATOS Webmaster Houston, Texas 77019 Fax 503-530-8610 713-520-1911 ACQUISITIONS AND EXPANSIONS [email protected] [email protected] Carlton Smith 2175 North Irwin Street NOMINATIONS – BOARD ELECTION THEATRE ORGAN (title registered VICE PRESIDENT Indianapolis, Indiana 46219 Bill Carr Michael Fellenzer 11815 North 77th Drive U.S. Patent Office) is the official 317-356-1240 publication of the American Theatre 6041 Garver Road Fax 317-322-9379 Peoria, Arizona 85345 Indianapolis, Indiana 46208 [email protected] 623-694-1746 Organ Society, Inc. (ATOS), a 317-251-6940 [email protected] non-profit organization. © 2007 [email protected] ARCHIVE/LIBRARY Jim Patak ORGANIST SCHOLARSHIPS American Theatre Organ Society, SECRETARY Rialto Square Carlton Smith (see above at Acquisitions Inc. All rights reserved. John Riester 5 East Van Buren Street, Suite 210 and Expansions) 2175 Spruce Avenue Joliet, Illinois 60432 PUBLIC RELATIONS Annual membership in the Des Plaines, Illinois 60018 708-562-8538 Donna Parker (see above at Mentor Voice/Fax 847-298-3753 American Theatre Organ Society is [email protected] Program) [email protected] $40.00 per year ($55.00 outside of AROUND THE CIRCUIT PUBLICATIONS REVIEW TREASURER the U.S.A.), which includes six Vern Bickel Doug Powers Paul Van Der Molen P.O. Box 3885 3323 Belvoir Boulevard issues of THEATRE ORGAN. 0 N 468 Willow Road Clearlake, California 95422 Beachwood, Ohio 44122 Make check or money order Wheaton, Illinois 60187 Voice/Fax 707-994-4436 216-283-8080 630-653-4986 payable to ATOS and mail to the [email protected] Fax 440-338-5651 Fax 630-653-4987 [email protected] ATOS Membership Office, P.O. Box [email protected] AWARDS & RECOGNITION 5327, Fullerton, California 92838, Don Near RESTORATION AND PRESERVATION DIRECTORS (current term) 9700 Chapman Avenue Allen Miller [email protected]. MasterCard Vern Bickel (2008) Garden Grove, California 92841 167 Carriage Drive Mike Cierski (2008) and VISA are accepted. 714-544-1106 Glastonbury, Connecticut 06033 Jelani Eddington (2007) Fax 714-539-5734 860-633-5710 Single copies of current and back Ed Mullins (2007) [email protected] Fax 860-633-7230 Don Near (2009) issues are available for $6.00 each [email protected] Donna Parker (2009) BYLAWS (please add $3.00 per issue sent Doug Powers (2009) Jelani Eddington SIMONTON LITERARY PRIZE outside of the U.S.A.). Make check Carlton Smith (2008) 1706 West Palamino Drive Carlton Smith (see above at Vacant (2007) Racine, Wisconsin 53402 Acquisitions and Expansion) or money order payable to ATOS and 262-639-8788 mail with your order to ATOS STRATEGIC PLANNING YOUTH REPRESENTATIVE Fax 262-639-8242 to the BOARD Doug Powers (see above at Marketplace, John Ledwon, 28933 [email protected] John Riester (see above at Secretary) Publications Review) Wagon Road, Agoura, California CHAPTER RELATIONS JOURNAL ADVERTISING TECHNICAL 91301. Ed Mullins Jeff Weiler Carlton Smith (see above at 813 Grand Avenue 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905 Acquisitions and Expansion) Billings, Montana 59102 Opinions expressed in articles Chicago, Illinois 60616 406-259-5555 TECHNICAL CONSULTATION and advertisements appearing Voice/Fax 312-842-7475 [email protected] PROGRAM in THEATRE ORGAN are not [email protected] Carlton Smith (see above at CONVENTION PLANNING necessarily those of the American ATOS MARKETPLACE Acquisitions and Expansion) Mike Kinerk Theatre Organ Society or the John Ledwon 2655 Pine Tree Drive DAVID L. JUNCHEN TECHNICAL 28933 Wagon Road Editor. ATOS is not responsible Miami Beach, Florida 33140 SCHOLARSHIP Agoura, California 91301 for omissions or errors that result 305-532-9000 Carlton Smith (see above at Voice/Fax 818-889-8894 from misrepresentation of infor- Fax 305-376-3679 Acquisitions and Expansion) [email protected] mation provided. Advertisers and [email protected] THEATRE ORGANIST HOBBYIST MEMBERSHIP/EXECUTIVE SECRETARY their agents assume all liability for EDUCATION AND ARCHIVAL LIAISON COMPETITION Jim Merry advertising content. Advertise- Vern Bickel (see above at Don Near (see above at Awards P.O. Box 5327 Around the Circuit) and Recognition) ments in THEATRE ORGAN do not Fullerton, California 92838 constitute an endorsement by YOUNG THEATRE ORGANIST COMPETITION 714-773-4354 ELECTRONIC ORGANS (ETONES) ATOS or the Editor of goods or Fax 714-773-4829 Jack Moelmann Jelani Eddington (see above at Bylaws) services offered. The Editorial [email protected] P.O. Box 25165 YOUTH INITIATIVES: Scott AFB, Illinois 62225 Office reserves the right to JOURNAL STAFF GEORGE WRIGHT MEMORIAL 618-632-8455 accept, reject, or edit any and all EDITOR Jeff Weiler FELLOWSHIP Fax 618-632-8456 CONTRIBUTING EDITORS THEATRE ORGAN INSTRUCTOR submitted articles and advertising. [email protected] & STUDENT LISTS Vern Bickel, Tom DeLay, Scott Smith Article submissions: We are PUBLISHER Doug Powers ELECTRONIC THEATRE ORGAN Jelani Eddington (see above PUBLICATIONS MANAGER COMPETITION at Bylaws) pleased to accept manuscripts for review. Contact the Editor, Jeff Alden Stockebrand Bob Acker THEATRE ORGAN STUDENT ADVERTISING Jeff Weiler 216 Glenwick Place OF THE YEAR Weiler ([email protected], 312-842- Allen, Texas 75013 ASSOCIATE EDITORS John Riester (see above 7475) to discuss length and 972-727-5024 at Secretary) content. PROFESSIONAL PERSPECTIVES [email protected] Edward M. Stout III THEATRE ORGAN WORKSHOPS Reproduction: No part of THEATRE WURLITZER RARITIES Ron Mitchell ENDOWMENT FUND Mike Cierski MUSIC Steven Ball Michael Fellenzer (see above ORGAN may be reproduced in 526 Luella Avenue any form by any means without CHAPTER NEWS at Vice President) Calumet City, Illinois 60409 Jane and Warren Tisdale HISTORIAN Voice/Fax 708-868-4039 prior written consent from ATOS. AROUND THE CIRCUIT Vern Bickel Tom DeLay [email protected] For additional reprint information, CORPORATE OFFICE 764 Saratoga Way WEB SITE (www.atos.org) please contact Jeff Weiler, American Theatre Organ Society, Inc. Salinas, California 93906 Tom Blackwell THEATRE ORGAN Editorial Office, 5 Third Street, Suite 724 831-443-5917 9717 Dayton Avenue North 1845 South Michigan Avenue San Francisco, California 94103 Fax 831-443-5826 Seattle, Washington 98103 #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616, [email protected] 206-778-2724 [email protected]. [email protected]

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 3 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 E 12/5/06 7:49 PM Page 4

KENDOUBLERECORDING Great Ladies Darel L. POPS of Song on PIPES 3/18 Barton Organ Warren Performing Arts Center Brainard central Indiana chapter Indianapolis 2007 concert Series Indianapolis Includes: •Everything’s TheaterOrgan Jelani Eddington Coming Up Roses March 25, 2:30, Hedback Theatre •Hard-Hearted Concerts Hannah Richard Hills •Eydie Gorme Over 30 June 3, 2:30, Warren PAC Medley years at the Ken Double •Pass Me By •Allegheny Moon keyboard. September 9, 2:30, Warren PAC And many more! donna Parker 2311 Vaness Dr. October 21, 2:30, Hedback Theatre To order: CIC-ATOS, Mike Rolfe Toledo,OH43615 For tickets or more information: 1431 N. Audubon Rd. www.cicatos.com Indianapolis, IN 46219 419-841-4287 [email protected] US funds only [email protected] $20 ppd. USA, $23 ppd. all others 317-345-8121

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4 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/14/06 5:42 PM Page 5

D D

Our successes have been manythe us would be able to enlighten another as music of the theatre organ continues to be to the significance of Robert Hope-Jones’ heard with commendable frequency work? Who among us can name the through the efforts of our members and six stops of a Style D Wurlitzer? And friends. We have identified, encouraged, the number of instruments damaged or Recently a good friend trained, and rewarded talent. We have destroyed by members armed with little remarked, “If you want to made contributions to the literature. We more than high hopes, wishful thinking, continue to assemble an archive and good intentions, greatly exceeds the grow, you must go back to brimming with historic treasure. We’ve remaining few we can hope to preserve. your roots.” The American developed competitions, scholarships, We have neglected to identify ways to Theatre Organ Society has prizes and awards. We’ve even made effectively build membership. Where are money to the point that we have been able the new faces? reached sufficient maturity to give some of our resources away. It’s encouraging to have a Board that its successes and Organs have been made playable to of Directors who lead by example. The failures can be candidly varying degrees and, in a few cases, ATOS boardroom is populated by a team historically restored. In many areas, our of musicians, restorers, businessmen, analyzed and thoughtfully Society has made great strides. We’re educators and thinkers. Doug Powers, discussed. becoming more informed, focused, and Chair of the Strategic Planning serious as we reassess our purpose Committee, will be center stage in and goals. February as the ATOS Board meets to One of the best things about ATOS is reflect on the status and mission of ATOS the annual opportunity we are given to and chart a course forward. I, for one, come together in convention, to enjoy expect great things. one another’s talents, interests, spirit, So what are the new ideas and creative knowledge, wisdom and experience. forces that will ensure the survival of this But we’ve enjoyed as many failures as thing that we call the theatre organ? One successes. We could stand improvement thing is for certain: we can never allow on how to effectively educate our ourselves the costly luxury of becoming members, inspiring them to learn about content with past accomplishment, our history, traditions, quality restoration, however small or great. and presentation practices. How many of A Happy New Year. — Jeff Weiler, Editor

,..,couR5'~11'{~ 1tlEAiRPoRQAN PLAYING

The addition of a large $25,000 Wurliczer Or• gan gives this school the unexcelled equipment of tWO three-manual and one two-manual theatre unit Organs for lessons and practice. The Vermond Knauss School is long Special course for pi&nists changing to organ. gone. But Bill Irwin returns to the pages Advanced pupils have the advantage of lessons of THEATRE ORGAN with a new series before the screen under the same conditions a~ entitled “Creative Reharmonization” prevail in any large theatre. Graduates are (page 28), to assist readers who wish to in constant demand, at big salaries. improve in general musicianship and Part Scholarships available. organ playing skills. WRITE FOR CATALOGUE E (Weiler Collection) VERMON() KN.c\USSsc~OOL of 1~EATR[ ORGAN PLAYIN§ 110 NORTH 7TH ST . A\..LENTOWN, PA .

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 5 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:27 AM Page 6

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THE DIAPASON ATOS An International Monthly Devoted to the Organ, Harpischord, Memberships Carillon and Church Music

Š Feature articles by noted contributors. Š Reviews of organ, choral and Make Great handbell music, books and recordings. for booking information: Š Stoplists and photos of organ installations. Gifts! DONNA PARKER Š Monthly calendar of events. PRODUCTIONS, Š Extensive classified advertising. Jim Merry, Executive Secretary INCORPORATED P.O. Box 5327 Post Office Box 6103 Fullerton, California 92838 Aloha, Oregon 97007 3030 W. Salt Creek Lane, Suite 201 [email protected] [email protected] Arlington Heights, IL 60005-5025 847-391-1045 Š Fax 847-390-0408 [email protected] www.atos.org Donna Parker Donna Parker 503/642-7009009 website: www.thediapason.com Slf lE AV )1EN '"BAI][ SIIILIENl1IFIILMIS ""41~ . CONCERTS man zo Pipe Organ -·~- ✓~~ Services 1-.-;- •Installation • Restoration •Service & Tonal Finishing—at its best •Expert Installation of Relay Systems -. Century II Exhibition Hall, 4/38 Wurlitzer, Wichita, KS . ~ Little River Studio—Coup Residence, 4/19 Wurlitzer, Wichita, KS -.:•..;N . _:_--­ Wurlitzer Manor, 4/48 Wurlitzer, Gig Harbor, WA ...... -~· Washington Center for Performing Arts, 3/22 Wurlitzer, Olympia, WA ...... I· .~- I• .. f"""', As HeardOn Aveni Residence, 4/60 Wurlitzer, Gates Mills, OH National Public .~. ' ·; ,., ti_! Peery's Egyptian Theatre, 3/23 Wurlitzer, Ogden, UT Radio's "Pipedreams" ffl ' -~·. ~~-. Holdgreve Residence, 3/21 Wurlitzer, Colorado Springs, CO Burnett Residence, 3/18 Kimball, Halstead, KS Markworth Residence, 3/24 Kimball/Wurlitzer, Omaha, NE WWW.SllVIENBALIL.COMI Ed Zollman • 3310 Forest Ridge, Wichita, KS 67205 316-729-6860 • [email protected] (734} 846''3627 www.zollmanpipeorgans.com

6 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:27 AM Page 7

By the time you read this, I hope you all treasure trove of historical documents, will have enjoyed a wonderful holiday photos, recordings and other memorabilia season, and my best wishes to all of you for that is the heart and soul of the history a healthy, very happy and theatre organ- of our organization, and thus part of enriched 2007. our legacy for those who follow to study At the risk of sounding repetitious, this and enjoy. is a most exciting time for your American A significant part of this legacy was in Theatre Organ Society. There are many the possession of the previous editor of exciting programs afoot, in addition to THEATRE ORGAN. Historic one-of- changes and upgrades to several ongoing a-kind photographs, a complete set of ATOS programs. And Board member Doug THEATRE ORGAN (including the Powers is continuing to fine-tune his original issues of The Tibia) and issues of presentation for the Strategic Planning The Console magazine, and much more Initiatives, which might be the most material was in storage. Several attempts important new program that ATOS has over many months to retrieve this material unleashed in many years. were unsuccessful until Carlton Smith The final product of our Strategic played a combination of Sherlock Holmes Planning will involve methods by which we and Hercule Poirot. Not only did Carlton all can help grow our membership, help have to play detective to find the storage our chapters and concert presenters better facility, he got there to find out much of market their programs, develop new ideas what was in storage had been sold at for concert presentation that will help draw auction or given away due to a default on a broader audience, and move ATOS rents due. Fortunately, many files, cabinets forward into the age of digital media, and other boxes of our materials were still digital marketing and all of the new forms there and made available to Carlton. ATOS of communication and entertainment that has retrieved almost all of what had been in the “younger” world takes for granted. storage. The loss would have been Can you imagine that e-mail technology monumental. And it might have gone to the is now “old hat”? How many of us are dump or to salvage. Thank you, Carlton! downloading theatre organ music onto our As you read through this issue, note the iPods? How many of our chapter members first information on the Grand Tour are getting their newsletters via e-mail convention to be headquartered in New instead of snail mail? These are just a few York City. I do hope you are marking your simple questions about new technologies calendars for a Fourth of July celebration “How many of us are that can help ATOS reach out to more of theatre organ along the East Coast this people. And this is just a small part of the summer. We’ll hope it is just one of many downloading theatre Strategic Planning presentation being wonderful theatre organ experiences for organ music onto our developed for our mid-year meeting in you in the New Year. February in Chicago. — Ken Double iPods? How many of In addition to that, Board member Mike ATOS President our chapter members Cierski has developed a spectacular program for the 2007 ATOS Summer Camp are getting their in Chicago, which will provide the young attendees a great opportunity to experience newsletters via some great music, some one-on-one e-mail instead of attention in terms of lessons and training, and a little good old-fashioned fun in the snail mail?” Windy City, too! Finally, all of us in ATOS owe a huge debt of gratitude to Board member Carlton Smith. What might have been a monumental loss to the organization has been avoided by a little luck in terms of timing, and a lot of hard work on Carlton’s part. The ATOS Archive consists of a

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 7 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 7:58 PM Page 8

Pipe Versus Electronic organ. Neither of these men were “stuck” in the 1920s or 1930s, as so many of today’s I would like to take issue with a organists seem to be! What we need today statement made by Lloyd G. Del Castillo in are more organists and other musicians his organ stop primer [“Del Castillo’s willing to “break new ground,” to use the Alphabetical Primer of Organ Stops” theatre organ in new and different ways and reprinted in July/August 2006 THEATRE to play more different types of music. I feel ORGAN]. He said: “The electronic organ that this is necessary if more people are to buyer gets a whale of a lot for his money, be attracted to and continue to enjoy the and don’t let any died-in-the-wool pipe theatre pipe organ. organ devotee tell you different.” That’s not I myself have a special recording project right, in my opinion. To me, the average in mind; one of these days I’m going to electronic organ represents a tremendous make another trip out to Yelm, Washington, waste of time and money—money that to visit Father Terrence Wager at would be better spent on fixing the house, St. Columban R.C. Church and play and another car, or a good acoustic musical record (again) the fine 3/13 Robert-Morton instrument such as a piano or even a good installed in his parish hall. I plan to title reed organ. this recording Animal Passions and will I have two fine reed organs in my living feature original music depicting the room: an 1899 Mason & Hamlin 522 behavior of various species of animals— “Liszt” pump organ and a 1947 Estey of 11 bears, tigers, and humans included—and stops and electric blower upon which I may feature a picture of snarling tiger on the practice most every day. I dare say I get cover! The first theatre organ I ever heard more pleasure and satisfaction from playing live was a Robert-Morton (the 3/10 in the these instruments than I would from any Wilma Theatre in Missoula, Montana) and gave me a good use of improvising and $40,000 to $50,000 electronic! Most was most impressed with its ability to making my own arrangements, which came everyone knows, I think, that the average express a wide range of moods with its tibia in handy all during my professional days. electronic instrument decreases in value biting string and high pressure tuba. So I Readers of ATOS [THEATRE ORGAN] with age and becomes obsolete practically will attempt this project at Yelm when I get will be interested also to know that at overnight, whereas pipe and reed organs the time and money, and when Father the time of my activities as organist, about hold their value, and increase in value, as Terrence will be there. well as having a deeper, fuller, richer sound! — Scott Grazier once a month I would get a complimentary ’Tis probably true, electronics require less Deer Lodge, Montana copy of the latest pop song, arranged by maintenance, but they do not necessarily Jesse Crawford, such as “I’ll Get By,” or last longer. “The Stein Song,” plus cue sheets for Now, for another question I have: Why Silent Movie Era upcoming films. are theatre organists such as Eddie My picture is of that time frame; sorry Dunstedter and Buddy Cole mostly Memories there are no pictures of the organ or theatre. ignored? These two organists, I feel, are Being 94 years old, I still have good My wife and I have been residing in this deserving of much more attention and study memories of the silent movie era. retirement community for 12½ years now. — Walter D. Kimble than they have been receiving. Must they In Titusville, Florida, [in] 1928–29, I Winter Park, Florida forever remain in the shadows of Jesse was 16 and had watched all [the] organists Crawford and George Wright? In my after sitting thru the first show, so in the fall opinion, Dunstedter was an organist of of 1928 I was offered the job [of] organist at uncommon ability who really knew how to the Van Croix Theatre at a 2/7 Wurlitzer for Sarasota Organ get the most out of the numerous Robert- about a year and a half, until Vitaphone Clarifications Morton, Kimball, or Wurlitzer organs he came in. This is mainly in response to the letter played. He really could make ’em talk! And I met a Jimmy Knight in Daytona Beach, from Paul Sahlin that appeared in the Buddy Cole also had a unique and who was playing a 2/6 Wurlitzer in a dance March/April 2006 issue of THEATRE enjoyable style. I have a number of hall on the pier and also at the Florida ORGAN, but it also responds to a few errors recordings of Cole playing his 3/26 Theatre in [Jacksonville], Florida. He was that crept in the article printed in the Wurlitzer/Robert-Morton and really admire very good indeed. During this time frame, January/February 2006 issue. This was the his style of orchestral interpretations of Stanley Malotte was at the Olympia in Miami. first article about any of my major contemporary music on the theatre pipe Needless to say, all of this experience instruments where I was not given the

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Letters to the Editor: Written commentary regarding any aspect of this publication is encouraged and should be directed to the Editor. Letters may be published in whole or in part, and the Editorial Office reserves the right to accept, reject, or edit any and all letters. The opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor are solely those of the author, not those of the American Theatre Organ Society. Letters may be submitted to [email protected], or mailed to Jeff Weiler, THEATRE ORGAN Editorial Office, 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616.

opportunity to review or edit the content of Saxophone was nearly a Brass Trumpet, the Diaphone. The vibrators are the same as a the material. Orchestral Oboe was loud, and most of the 10" pressure Diaphone, but the resonators I must applaud Paul Sahlin for his astute flue pipes were opened as far as the toes are Tuba (Ophicleide) scale. This bass is on observations. In fact, several omissions and would go. This curiously threw the balances 12" wind in Sarasota. errors have crept into writings about the off with ranks that were normal, such as the The Mixture was intended to cap off the Grace Church, Sarasota organ. Kinura and Concert Flute. Open Diapason chorus, as there were Paul asks about the original 260 I remember the Viole d’ Orchestre as the already mutations available to fill out the “Special” installed in the Florida Theatre, loudest I have ever encountered. It was Horn Diapason chorus, and my previous Jacksonville. What Paul may not know is louder than a normal Solo String (mostly experience with the Karl Saunders’ that more Style 260s were Specials than not. missing in this organ). The toe openings Wurlitzer convinced me that this was the Enthusiasts used to wonder about the were flared outward (not that this made any best solution. We sent Cs from the Open as Specials. How many ranks were added? difference) and the upper lips had been match pipes, and Schopp’s did a wonderful There were cases where the Special had no pulled out drastically, a voicing technique job of matching the Mixture. Indeed, a brass, but Dulciana and Aeoline instead of I have never seen elsewhere. It was a major smoothly terraced build-up can be the beloved Trumpet and Saxophone. These challenge to bring this Special Wurlitzer registered right up through the Mixture, at were truly vanilla organs. Indeed there were pipework into what would be considered which point addition of the Trumpet (and ranks added to the 260 (Byrd Theatre and normal balances. going beyond that to the Post Horn) is more Mosque immediately come to mind) as well Missing from the article is any mention seamless than can be registered on many as an extra manual at the Byrd. of the weeks of pipe adjustment, revoicing, large straight church organs. Believe me, I Special meant any deviation from the and tonal finishing that went into this organ. have designed both straight and orchestral stock configuration. Often something as In addition to the work I did, Norm Arnold organs, and placing the Mixture not with its simple as a change in chest configuration is responsible for a great deal of preliminary chorus would never occur to me. received the designation. The 260 appeared adjustment and regulation of the pipes in That’s what I was thinking! either with one seven-rank chest in the the Main chamber, as well as continuing Did Paul wonder why the Spitzflute is 85 Main, two four-rank chests in the Solo, or honing of minor problems we could not notes? In reality, the Möller rank is a Flute vice versa. As a result, the Solo String tackle prior to the rush of the dedication. Conique and is Erzähler scale. The middle may have appeared either in the Main or Norm’s dedication to this organ and his of it is really the Celeste, the large the Solo. expertise are unprecedented. To have left (Wurlitzer) scale Spitzflute is the unison. In most cases, Special seems to have out this important facet of the installation What is not apparent is that this rank meant that something was left out. Usually does ATOS a disservice, because the article extends to 16' and is indeed a very lovely the specification was minus the 32' otherwise implies that the consultant’s (my) soft 16' stop. This was not my intent as tonal Diaphone. Sometimes it was minus Piano. choice of ranks made the organ sound as it designer; sometimes you have to work with If you list out the opus numbers for the Style does. NO WAY! the pipes you have or can find. This turned 260, then go through the list of wiring Every pipe was adjusted for correct into a delightful compromise when the Flute schedules, you find that many wiring speech, AND THEN regulated. Way too Conique suddenly became available. changes were made. One might presume often the important step of adjusting mouths With swell shades on two sides of the that in many cases, certain changes became and languids is ignored except for bringing very small chambers, the organ almost standard in later versions of the same badly damaged pipes to speech. If the jumps into the room when the shades are model, further confusing the term special. speech isn’t correct and uniform, regulation opened. This organ, its tonal design and In some cases, such special organs were will never produce optimum and uniform finishing, speaks for itself. I hope Paul noted as “special three-manual” or “special results. Sahlin was able to enjoy it in person at the four-manual,” when they were variations on Paul notices a mysterious error that convention. If not, Jelani Eddington’s two the Style 260. seems to have started with Jelani CDs, Sarasota Spectacular and Something The Florida Theatre 260 had no 32' Eddington’s Sarasota Spectacular CD liner Wonderful, demonstrate the organ extremely Diaphone, thus making it a Special. notes. The Diaphonic Diapason is indeed in well, and the Main and Solo Diapasons can When I got into the tonal finishing, the Main chamber. What is not evident is be clearly heard and audibly located. something else was quite different. The that this rank was carefully selected for this — Allen Miller theatre was large, and the organ must have organ. It is not the usual 15" hooter. Glastonbury, Connecticut been buried. Wurlitzer made this 260 Because this organ had to be viable as a LOUD! The Trumpet had been voiced as a church organ, I replaced the 15" Diaphonic Post Horn. Tongues, weighting (almost with a 10" Diaphonic (Open). However, the none) everything totally unlike any other 16' octave is what has become known as a Brass Trumpet I have ever encountered. Tuba-Diaphone. Rather than the usual wood Every other rank was equally loud. The Diaphone 18 notes, this is a two-chest metal

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“I look very much forward to continuing to serve the membership and continuing to promote this art form that we all love!”

position of Youth Representative to the dedicated young men—both under 25— Jelani Eddington Board. For the George Wright Memorial have become proven leaders within our It is a pleasure to participate in the Fellowship, ATOS pays for a young person organization and will no doubt continue to Director’s Corner for this issue of to attend his or her first ATOS convention. lead ATOS for years to come. We will be THEATRE ORGAN. I have had the honor Bringing more young people to our eagerly awaiting great things from our next of serving for nearly three years on the conventions obviously gives them the Youth Representative! ATOS Board of Directors, with primary opportunity to meet other theatre organ Finally, in order to increase participation responsibility for our youth-related enthusiasts, hear wonderful instruments, in our various youth-related programs, programs. meet other young people interested in the ATOS has been compiling a contact list of As directors, we frequently field theatre organ, and get to know our ATOS young people interested in theatre organs— questions from members asking us to family. Since the program’s inception in either playing them, maintaining them, or specify what ATOS does to benefit local 2002, ATOS has brought five young people simply enjoying them. This ever-growing list chapters and the membership at large. to their first convention: Zach Frame (2002), allows us to keep in direct touch with young One of the most important ways we have Jonathan Fox (2003), Jesse Kohl (2004), people around the world who may be been working to benefit the chapters and Sam Moffat (2005), and Daniel McCollum interested in or could benefit from our the membership is through our firm (2006). We look forward to welcoming our competitions, scholarships, and other commitment to increasing participation by George Wright Fellow for 2007! programs. I would like to appeal personally young people in the art of the theatre organ. The Youth Representative to the to every ATOS member to keep me up to I am very pleased to be able to announce Board program stands as a shining example date about young enthusiasts within your the 22nd year of the Young Theatre Organist of ATOS’ success in bringing young chapters so that we can ensure that they Competition. This is one of the flagship people into positions of leadership within are aware of the resources that are available programs that ATOS sponsors, and it has our organization. The ATOS Youth to them. proven to be very successful in bringing Representative is selected every two years In closing, I would like to thank the young organists into ATOS and helping and serves on the Board of Directors to membership for its support in electing them launch their careers as organists. promote a two-way avenue for dialogue and me to the Board of Directors. I look very Indeed, the list of competition winners reads the expression of youth-related ideas. The much forward to continuing to serve the as a veritable “Who’s Who” among many of program has been a tremendous success, membership and continuing to promote this the professional theatre organists today. As and two of the Youth Representatives have art form that we all love! a past competition winner myself, this gone on to assume seats as directors on the — Jelani Eddington program is very near to my heart, and it is Board. Mike Cierski, who served as Youth [email protected] very exciting to announce many changes to Representative from 2002–2005, was ATOS Bylaws, Young Theatre Organist Competition, George Wright this year’s competition which are designed elected as a director in 2005 and has served Memorial Fellowship, and Theatre Organ to bring even more young organists into this on the Board with distinction. John Riester, Instructor & Student Lists program. A summary of those changes is the current Youth Representative (through included in this issue as well. 2007), was appointed ATOS Secretary Another way we have been working to in September, 2006 and has been doing increase youth involvement is through two a spectacular job in his new role (and other very important programs: The George he still continues his responsibilities as Wright Memorial Fellowship and the Youth Representative). These enthusiastic,

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that subject, let me also share with you New Theatre Organ CD by that we are putting together a website task force in order to outline several improve- John ments to www.atos.org. This work will culminate sometime in 2007 as a Ledwon professional overhaul of this site, and we anticipate a more interactive, educational, Recorded on the four-manual, exciting, and fun resource for everyone on 52-rank Organhouse Wurlitzer the World Wide Web! As ATOS Publisher, I am thrilled with the revised format of this journal, and I hope you are, too. There are plans to include more articles like you have already seen, Doug Powers and we plan on using our publication to While at the 2005 convention in Los ramp up a national forum for sharing Angeles, I made a public pronouncement at chapter success stories, strategies for the membership meeting that ATOS was in managing local events, and discussion on dire need of a strategy to be more inclusive membership and fundraising. of the chapters and employ open discussion One of many updated or new programs and forward thinking about our collective on tap is the newly created Strategic future. I have been involved with theatre Planning Committee. My Letter to the organs for over 44 years, and I am currently Editor in the November/December issue of a chapter president, experiencing many of THEATRE ORGAN announced the formal the same concerns and frustrations as you. launch of this initiative. You will find that At that convention, I was encouraged to this assembly of directors and officers is l[lliICJ continue my enthusiasm for the theatre very eager to transform our Society into THE MUSIC OF THE MOUSE organ and its future by running for the one that is more transparent and John Ledwon at the Mighty Wurlitzer ATOS Board and doing what I could to help communicative. While the ATOS leadership lead the way to change. So, as I offer my can provide structure and support for thanks to many of you for your support, I am national programs, we have no illusions 32 Disney Songs here to mention a little bit about my first about the fact that much of the effort and • When You Wish Upon a Star impressions of the ATOS leadership and our risk occurs at the grassroots level. Working • Friend Like Me • A Whole New World joint desire to make a difference. with and helping to strengthen the chapters • Once Upon A Dream • One Song If a mantra could be attached to this is a vital objective. A new leaf is being • Hi Ho, Hi Ho group of professionals, it would be: turned and this process will take time, but • Someday My Prince Will Come “Improve Relations with the Chapters!” Let we cannot mold a plan without your input. • Whistle While You Work • Pocahontas • Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo • Lavender Blue us all remember a key point made by Donna Again, as Donna said, there is no “them” and “us.” • Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah • Circle of Life Parker in the Director’s Corner in the • Yo Ho, a Pirate’s Life for Me September/October issue of THEATRE Keep watching the website and this journal for periodic updates on our planning •UndertheSea •AWhaleofaTale ORGAN: ATOS is not a group of elitists • Beauty and the Beast process. And, please contact me with your who meet twice a year as some secret club. • It’s a Small World This Society is nearly 5,000 individuals questions, concerns or suggestions so we • Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious who have some level of experience and may begin this most critical planning • Chim Chim Cheree enthusiasm for this truly wonderful process together. Lastly, please find the • Woody’s Round-Up • Beyond the Sea American art form known as the theatre chapter liaison list elsewhere in this journal. • When She Loves Me organ. We are dedicated to making our Your chapter liaison is interested in keeping • If I Didn’t Have You • When She Loves Me • Cruella De Vil Society more open, dynamic, and to the lines of communication open, and you can expect periodic communications from • This is Halloween • Sally’s Song improving the likelihood of its continued • What’s This success. him or her throughout the year! — Doug Powers • Main Street Electrical Parade If you have not visited our website lately, [email protected] • Mickey Mouse March please fire up your internet connection and ATOS Strategic Planning Chair • One Jump Ahead type this URL in your web browser: and Publisher www.atos.org/Pages/letter-20060901.html. $20 each including postage and handling Here, you will see an open letter from all of JBL Productions us on the Board to all of you. While I’m on 28933 Wagon Road,Agoura,CA 91301 www.organhouse.com/jbl_productions.htm

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OPENINGOFNOMINATIONSFORTHE ATOSENDOWMENT 2007 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS FUNDGRANT

It is time to nominate candidates to fill 1. Each nominee shall furnish a MONEYIS three (3) positions on the ATOS Board of statement, not to exceed one hundred fifty AVAILABLE Directors for the three-year term of 2007 (150) words, including the name and to 2010. All ATOS members who have city/state of residence, personal data, work Is your chapter planning a project or maintained continuous membership in and theatre organ experience, a short program which (i) will have a lasting impact good standing for at least the last two years platform statement, an evening/weekend on the preservation or presentation of the are eligible for nomination and may telephone number, and a photo. theatre pipe organ as an historically nominate themselves or be nominated by Statements exceeding the one hundred American instrument and musical art form; another member in good standing, in fifty (150) word limit will disqualify the or (ii) is of particular historical or scholarly which case written consent of the nominee candidate. The nominee’s name, city/state merit? Grant money from the interest earned is mandatory and must be received before of residence, contact telephone number, by the ATOS Endowment Fund is available to the nominee’s name can be placed on fax number, or e-mail address are not to assist chapters with such projects or the ballot. be included in the word count. programs. Now is the time for your chapter A nominee need have no special talent 2. Candidate résumés and photo are representative to request a grant application or experience in pipe organ technology or to be sent to the Nominating Committee form so that your completed application may musicianship; however, nominees should Chairperson, Bill Carr, 11815 North 77th be returned to the Chair of the Endowment have a demonstrated interest in ATOS and Drive, Peoria, Arizona 85345. It is Fund Board of Trustees, postmarked no later have the time to work toward the goals and strongly recommended that nominations than April 1, 2007. growth of the Society. While there are be sent via “return receipt” or similar mail The Endowment Fund Board of Trustees certain benefits enjoyed by directors, one class if international. Nominations may will review all completed applications of which is the reimbursement of certain also be sent digitally; however, the sender returned by the deadline and will make meeting-related expenses, there are also MUST verify receipt of the nomination by recommendations to the ATOS Board of responsibilities. Along with a willingness the Chairperson. The postmark deadline Directors, which will make the final to participate in the administrative affairs is January 15, 2007. decisions. of the Society, it is most important that 3. We will use a separate mailing of Please request your grant application directors faithfully attend both Board and ballots and résumés of the candidates. form from the Chair of the Endowment committee meetings. While this method is costly, we hope that Fund Board of Trustees, ATOS vice The ATOS Board usually meets twice a it will encourage members to vote for the president Michael Fellenzer, 6041 Garver year, the first being just prior to the annual candidates of their choice, thus Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46208-1516, convention, usually in the summer, and demonstrating their interest in and 317-251-6962, [email protected]. again in mid-year, usually sometime in support of ATOS and its objectives. late January. Attendance of all directors is 4. If you have questions, please contact necessary if the decisions and actions of the Nominating Committee Chairperson, the Board are to be truly responsive to the Bill Carr, 623-694-1746, or [email protected]. THEATREORGAN membership. In addition, directors chair and/or serve on one or more committees Counting words: STUDENTOFTHE providing valuable input to the Board. 1. Name, city, and state in the heading YEAR 2007 The chairpersons of the committees are do not count. responsible for submitting a written report 2. Hyphenated words count as one (1) The Theatre Organ Student of the Year is of their activities and recommendations word [e.g. Vice-President, two-term…]. awarded to a young theatre organ student who prior to the meetings of the Board. 3. Articles and prepositions count [the has demonstrated exceptional commitment to The Board is currently taking action on organ caretaker = three (3) words, an avid and improvement in his/her theatre organ several exciting programs that should lover of theatre organ = six (6) words]. studies. Amateur organ students age 27 or increase public awareness of ATOS and 4. ATOS = one (1) word, MCTOS = one younger are invited to submit applications, set a course for the future. This is a great (1) word. American Theatre Organ Society which are due by March 15, 2007. time to become involved in the work = four (4) words. For further information and an application of ATOS. 5. Abbreviations count as one (1) word form, please e-mail or phone John Riester, Procedure to be observed in the [Asst., Mrs.]. Youth Representative to the Board, at nomination process is as follows: 6. Numbers count as a word [26 = one [email protected], 847-636-0906. (1) word, 5 = one (1) word].

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ANNOUNCING ATOS ANNOUNCES THE 2007 THETHIRTEENTH YOUNGTHEATREORGANIST ANNUAL DAVID L. COMPETITION JUNCHEN ATOS is pleased to announce the sponsors the finalist who is selected the TECHNICAL 22nd annual Young Theatre Organist overall winner will receive an additional Competition. In an effort to make this $250.00 honorarium. SCHOLARSHIP year’s event a more enjoyable experience Amateur Status Clarified—The for everyone, ATOS has made several “amateur” requirement for the competition The American Theatre Organ Society is important changes to the rules. Some of has been clarified to allow for participation pleased to again offer an important those changes include: by entrants who are amateurs, but scholarship to its members. The David L. Increased Prize Money—ATOS is nonetheless play for church services or Junchen Technical Scholarship, created in pleased to offer up to USD $1,500.00 in occasionally play in other venues. 1994, annually offers reimbursement of up prize money for this year’s competition Digital Media Submission En- to $1,000 to a single winner for the express winners. Each of the finalists will receive couraged—Entrants may submit their purpose of attending the annual convention an award of $500.00. The Overall Winner recordings on CD, DVD, or mini-disc. of the American Institute of Organbuilders. will receive an additional award of Submission on analog cassette tape is still There, he or she is recognized as the ATOS $1000.00. The 2007 Overall Winner will permitted, but digital media is preferred. Technical Scholarship recipient, attends be invited to perform a live concert as part A complete set of the rules and lectures and workshops, and has the of the 2008 annual convention. application forms are available for down- opportunity to meet fine organbuilders and Expanded Age Eligibility—This load from the ATOS website, www.atos.org. pipe organ technicians from around the year’s competition will be open to Those forms, or any additional information, world, as well as the major suppliers to competitors between the ages of 13 and 24 may also be obtained by contacting the profession. The 2007 AIO convention as of July 1, 2007. ATOS has expanded the the Competition Chairperson, R. Jelani will be held October 14–17, 2007 in upper age limit from 21 to 24. Eddington at 1706 West Palamino Drive, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Three Finalists Brought to the Racine, Wisconsin 53402, 262-639-8788, The highest standards of professional Convention—The competition judges [email protected]. All competition organbuilding must be applied to any work will select up to three finalists from all materials must be received by the done to pipe organs in our care. All too of the entrants. Those finalists will Chairperson at the address above no later often, well intentioned but casual attempts be brought to the annual convention in than April 1, 2007. at tuning, maintenance, and restoration the New York City area, where they Have fun and good luck! have compromised or destroyed valuable, will perform live during the convention. historic instruments. The David L. Junchen An Overall Winner will be selected Technical Scholarship is one means by from among the finalists based on which we can help assure the safe future that performance. Entrants will no longer of the theatre pipe organ, by providing be classified in divisions according to access to information and to respected their ages. professional authorities. Competition Open to ATOS To qualify, applicants must simply be Members and Non-Members—The an ATOS member in good standing, competition will be open to ATOS be between the ages of 18 and 60, and members and non-members alike. have demonstrated an aptitude for pipe Entrants who are members of ATOS organ work, as well as a commitment to chapters may still be sponsored by their excellence. Deadline for applications is home chapter. Entrants who are ATOS April 15, 2007 . members, but not affiliated with a chapter, For complete information and an or who are not members of ATOS, may application, write to Vern Bickel, compete as entrants “at large.” Chairman. ATOS Education Committee, Incentive to Chapters that Sponsor Post Office Box 3885, Clearlake, California Competition Winners—As a special 95422-3885, [email protected]. “thank you” to our chapters, any ATOS chapter that sponsors an entrant who is selected as a finalist will receive an honorarium of $250.00. Any chapter that

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2007 ATOS AMATEUR THEATRE ORGANIST COMPETITION

The American Theatre Organ Society is from organ competitions and/or scholar- “virtual” organs that otherwise meet the pleased to announce a new competition ships. Playing the organ in a liturgical requirements of these rules. which reflects a merging of the former setting does not constitute organ Recordings—Each entry must include Electronic and Hobbyist Organ competitive performance under these rules; three separate songs: an “up-tempo” events. The ATOS Amateur Theatre • Sold or offered for sale to the general selection, a “ballad,” and a medley Organist Competition provides for prizes and public theatre organ recordings for his or her consisting of three to five songs. The total recognition, but more importantly, it is an financial benefit; OR time limit for all three selections must not opportunity to receive constructive feedback • Performed or performs regularly on the exceed twenty (20) minutes. Recordings from highly qualified judges and to have theatre organ for pay before the general may be submitted on analog cassette tape, FUN through participation in a theatre organ public in any restaurant, pizza parlor, mini-disc (MD-80), CD, or DVD medium in event with other theatre organ enthusiasts. theatre, or other public entertainment venue. accordance with the competition rules. The complete competition rules are Entrants who are ATOS members and Entries will not be returned. available on the ATOS website at www.atos.org affiliated with an ATOS chapter may be Adjudication—Entries will be judged or from the contest chairperson at sponsored by their local chapter. Entrants using a point system on the basis of [email protected]. The following is a who are not members of ATOS, or who are accuracy/clarity, registrations, phrasing/ summation of the competition require- ATOS members but unaffiliated with an dynamics, use of theatre organ styling/ ments—all entrants should review the ATOS chapter, may enter the competition as resources, and overall musicality. Judging complete competition rules prior to entrants “at large” with his/her entry will be by knowledgeable organists who will preparing and submitting an entry. certified by a non-related ATOS member provide each entrant with helpful, written Eligibility—The Amateur Theatre over the age of 18. If your particular comments for the selections submitted. Organ Competition is open to amateur situation requires clarification, please Awards—Up to three winning places theatre organists at least 13 years of age as contact the Competition Chairperson. As may be awarded in each Division, of July 1, 2007. Age divisions for entries will this is a new competition, prior winners in depending upon the number and quality of be a Youth Division aged 13–21 and an the Electronic or Hobbyist Competitions entries received each year. The top winners Adult Division aged 22 and over. This is a may re-enter. will receive official ATOS plaques, and the competition for amateur theatre organists. Instrument Requirement—Entries first-place finisher in each Division will also For the purposes of this rule, an entrant must be recorded on an organ having a receive either a one-year membership or a will be considered as an amateur unless minimum of two 61-note manuals and a 25- one-year membership extension to ATOS. he/she has: note pedal board. Adult division entries Deadline—All entries must be received • Appeared as a featured organist at any may be submitted on either a theatre pipe by the Competition Chairperson no later than convention or concert(s) sponsored by organ or an electronic theatre organ. Youth April 1, 2007. Send your entry to: 2007 ATOS, other than in connection with a entries for this competition must be ATOS Amateur Theatre Organist Competition, competition sponsored by ATOS; submitted on an electronic organ, but 216 Glenwick Place, Allen, Texas 75013- • Received compensation in the individuals are also encouraged to enter the 1529. For additional information, contact the aggregate for any organ performance(s) in a ATOS Young Theatre Organist Competition, Competition Chairperson at [email protected] total amount greater than One Thousand the ATOS premier contest for youth or 972-727-5024. Dollars ($1,000.00) during any one calendar featuring theatre pipe organs. There is no year, excluding any prize money received prohibition against entries submitted on Introducing the ATOS Summer Camp JULY 20–23, 2007 In this inaugural project sponsored by ATOS and co-hosted by our Chicago area chapters, CHICAGO, ILLINOIS AREA ATOS will provide a unique opportunity for young enthusiasts to learn and study the art of the theatre organ. Distinguished guest lecturers and experienced faculty will cover both the technical and performance aspects of this wonderful instrument. Detailed information will follow in subsequent issues of THEATRE ORGAN. The camp is open to anyone ages 13–30. Please contact Michael Cierski at: [email protected] (with “TOSC2007” in the subject line), or call 708-785-4985.

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ATOSDIRECTORS’CHAPTERLIAISON THEETONES ASSIGNMENTS (2006–2007) The Electronic Theatre Organ Each ATOS chapter has Jelani Eddington Donna Parker Owner/Enthusiast group, also known as a liaison who is available 262-639-8788 503-642-7009 the ETONES, is alive and well. This for any questions, concerns, Fax 262-639-8242 Fax 503-530-8610 ATOS subgroup began in 1990, and we or suggestions you might [email protected] [email protected] currently have a little over 500 have about our society. Central Minnesota Binghamton New York subscribers, around 35 of whom live Each liaison is dedicated to Otter Tail Connecticut Valley outside the United States. Its main provide you with a swift and Dairyland Delaware Valley purpose is to exchange information accurate response to any Kingston Eastern Massachusetts concerning electronic organs of any type. inquiry. You will receive Kiwi Oregon To date, 62 newsletters have been sent. proactive comments from La Crosse Scenic Bluffs Pine Tree Publication frequency is based on your liaison periodically, Land O’Lakes Potomac Valley available information or submitted items but please keep in mind Northern Michigan Puget Sound which can be in the form of technical that your calls or emails Packerland Santa Barbara hints, ideas, questions and answers, and are both welcome and Red River other items of interest. encouraged! Doug Powers The latest newsletter was sent in early Ed Mullins 216-401-9671 November. If you are a subscriber and Vern Bickel 406-259-5555 [email protected] didn’t receive yours, it probably means Voice/Fax: 707-994-4436 [email protected] Atlanta that your ATOS membership expired [email protected] Aloha Buffalo or that you moved without sending a Central Florida Australia Felix Central Ohio change of address. Our newsletters go out Gulf Coast Golden State Cumberland Valley by bulk mail and are not forwarded by the Magnolia Great Salt Lake Motor City post office. Manasota Hilo New York Only members of ATOS may belong to Metrolina Jesse Crawford Susquehana Valley the group as ATOS carries publication North Florida London and South Toledo Area expenses. Newsletters are sent at no Orlando of England Western Reserve additional charge. If you would like to Piedmont Mt. Shasta renew your ETONE subscription, have South Florida Northern California Carlton Smith your name added to our mailing list, or San Diego 317-356-1240 change an address, please provide us with Mike Cierski Sequoia Fax 317-322-9379 your name, mailing address, e-mail 708-868-4039 Sierra [email protected] address (if applicable), phone number, [email protected] Central Illinois and type of organ(s), if any, that you own. Alabama Don Near Central Indiana Information should be sent to Jack Alamo 714-544-1106 Garden State Moelmann, chair of the group. Joliet Fax 714-539-5734 Great Lakes We encourage you to join this exciting Nevada Desert Lights [email protected] Hudson Mohawk group. If you have an item that would be North Texas Cedar Rapids Ohio Valley of interest for the newsletter, please feel South Mississippi Chicago Area Rome, New York free to send that in also. — Jack Moelmann Gold Coast Chicagoland St. Louis P.O. Box 25165 Southeast Texas Kansas City Southern Jersey Scott Air Force Base, Illinois 62225 Sooner State Los Angeles 618-632-8455 Valley of the Sun Orange County [email protected] Pikes Peak River City Rocky Mountain Wichita Great Planes

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 15 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:00 PM Page 16

ACALLFOR DOCUMENTS

Theatre Organ Installation Document Research Project The ATOS Technical and Education Committees are jointly requesting the assistance of all ATOS members who have access to original factory organ chamber and contractor blueprints, drawings, contracts, photos, specifications and correspondence. The goal is to acquire historic documents to include in the ever- expanding ATOS Archive. This request for documentation includes all builders of theatre pipe organs. Although a number of original Wurlitzer drawings are presently available through the Smithsonian Institution, they represent less than 10% of the total ELECTRONICTHEATREORGAN number generated by the firm. We are seeking originals, or high-quality copies, COMPETITIONENTRANTSPERSPECTIVE of prints and documents that do not exist in the Smithsonian Wurlitzer collection. I had lamented for several years that The third time was the charm for me. Equally important is the acquisition of I couldn’t enter the ATOS hobbyist Working on the judges’ excellent installation blueprints and technical competition. The logistics of arranging to suggestions, combined with receiving drawings of Robert-Morton, Barton, practice and record on a theatre pipe organ coaching in both arrangement and playing Marr & Colton, Kimball and other theatre were just too complicated. So I was technique from Dr. Marvin Faulwell, I organ builders. delighted when, for 2004, ATOS created achieved my goal this year. My wife is Please assist us with this important the competition for those of us who play delighted that she won’t, again, have to project, before the gnawing tooth of time mostly electronic instruments. listen to my struggling for playing wipes away more of our important history. That first year, I arranged three pieces competence from Thanksgiving until the Contact Carlton Smith, Chairman, to correspond with the requirements: an end of February. ATOS Technical Committee, for further up-tempo console raiser, a ballad, and a Now, it’s embarrassing to listen to the information, assistance and coordination, third of the entrant’s choice. I drove my recordings I made for the first competition. at [email protected] or 317-697-0318. wife crazy rehearsing, trying to get them Having a specific goal, plus receiving note-for-note perfect, then I made a lot of excellent feedback from the judges, has false starts before getting a recording I enabled me to become a better organist, thought was good enough. and this greatly increases the pleasure I The three judges did a great job of get from playing. I encourage all ATOS pointing out things that could be improved. members who play the organ to start These included my less-than-outstanding working on three pieces and to submit an choice of a console raiser, details of the entry for the 2007 competition. arrangements, my lack of emotion in Arrangements may be those of the member playing (after all, I spent my working life or published arrangements. The judges as an engineer), and shortcomings in my have been consistently outstanding in their accuracy in many playing details. I thoroughness and in the politeness of their received the second place award that year. comments and advice. If nothing else, this I worked at improving the areas the is a great way to get instruction from some judges had pointed out, and I submitted theatre organ pros. another entry in 2005. Second place again, — Bill Beningfield but the judges gave me several more details on which to work.

16 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:00 PM Page 17

TECHNICAL THESIMONTONLITERARYPRIZE ASSISTANCE A Call for Papers 6. Except as provided above, copyright The Simonton Literary Prize has been ownership otherwise remains with the author. PROGRAM established in honor of Richard C. 7. Entries are to be postmarked by Several years ago, the ATOS Board of Simonton, founder of American Theatre April 15, 2007 and submitted to: Directors initiated a program by which Organ Enthusiasts, the organization now Vern Bickel, Chair chapters which either own or are totally known as the American Theatre Organ ATOS Education Committee responsible for the maintenance of a theatre Society. Its purpose is to encourage and P.O. Box 3885 pipe organ installed, or to be installed, in an award original research, scholarship, and Clearlake, California 95422-3885 essentially public venue can receive advice writing in the areas of theatre pipe organ Entries shall not be returned. from a qualified organ technician. The history, restoration, and conservation. A 8. Winners shall be notified on or Technical Assistance Program assists those monetary prize, certificate, and publication about May 15, 2007. Award certificates in need of professional consultation to better in THEATRE ORGAN shall be awarded shall be presented during the ATOS access a technician familiar with high- winning entries. convention when possible. Monetary prizes pressure theatre instruments. shall be distributed upon selection. We are all very familiar with installations, Competition Rules and Regulations Winners are encouraged to attend the restorations and improvements which have 1. The Simonton Literary Prize annual convention of the American been compromised due to lack of professional competition is open to anyone except Theatre Organ Society to personally accept advice up front, often wasting much time and present officers or staff of the American their award. money in the process. This program is Theatre Organ Society or their families. 9. One award shall be offered each designed to encourage chapters to seek expert 2. Papers should represent an original, year, comprised of a certificate and a technical advice before attempting costly comprehensive effort in research, docu- $1,000 monetary award. installation, maintenance, or upgrading, mentation, or philosophy relevant to the 10.Submissions shall be reviewed by which might otherwise be done incorrectly. theatre pipe organ. a panel consisting of the THEATRE Under the terms of this program, ATOS 3. Entries may not have been ORGAN Editor, Education Committee will provide partial payment of the trans- previously published, nor may they be Chair, and a third member to be selected portation costs (currently up to $250) and submitted more than once. An author may jointly by the first two. The American partial payment (currently up to $250) of the not submit more than one entry per year. Theatre Organ Society reserves the right fee charged by the professional technician. 4. Entries are to be submitted in not to grant any award in a particular year. The local chapter is responsible for the triplicate, typed or printed, double-spaced The decision of the panel is final. remainder of the costs involved. The program and on white 8½ by 11 inch or A4 paper. 11.Awards may be distributed prior to is not designed to assist with the payment for The submissions shall be between 5,000 the paper’s publication in THEATRE actual work done by technicians or their and 7,500 words in length. Use of the ORGAN. assistants, but to help chapters in obtaining ATOS Archives, photos and other the best possible technical advice before illustrations are encouraged. embarking on any installation or program of 5. Entries must be clearly marked restoration, refurbishment, upgrading, or “Submitted for Simonton Literary Prize enlargement. (ATOS Endowment Fund grants competition.” Furthermore, the author are available for assistance with the actual must include a signed statement that he or work involved in these various projects.) she “agrees to abide by the rules of the Funding for this program is budgeted competition and grants initial and annually by the ATOS Board of Directors. It subsequent publication rights to the will be provided as long as budgeted funds American Theatre Organ Society in any are available during any fiscal year, and will manner or form without further be provided to chapters on a first-come, first- compensation.” Receipt of all submissions served basis. shall be promptly acknowledged in writing. The president of any ATOS chapter interested in using this service is invited to contact the chairman of the ATOS Technical Assistance Program, Carlton Smith, to obtain a copy of the program application and list of guidelines. Carlton Smith, 2175 North Irwin Street, Indianapolis, Indiana 46219, 317-356-1240, [email protected].

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 17 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:28 AM Page 18

Benjamin W. Albert, Laguna Beach, George H. Michon, Coventry, Rhode California Island Albert Applegate, Franklin, Tennessee Brett Milan, Plainfield, Indiana Joseph Barron, Berrien Springs, Nancy Milinic, Arlington, Virginia Michigan Robert Mill, Westfield, New Jersey WELCOMETO Bud Blubaugh, Stone Mountain, Georgia Byron Naegel, Forestville, California NEWATOS Gene Bowers, Boston, Massachusetts Alex J. Nisivaco, Chicago, Illinois J. W. Buttram, Marietta, Georgia David Peredia, Washington, District of MEMBERS Bud Coffey, San Bernardino, California Columbia Richard C. Crane, Millville, New Jersey Randolph Petren, West Windsor, (SEPTEMBER 16, THROUGH Kris Alan Dinnsen, Phoenix, Arizona Vermont NOVEMBER 27, 2006) Ritchie Falk, Racine, Wisconsin F. T. Poole, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom Michael Hal Gordon, Elkins Park, Pennsylvania Audrey Robinson, Kingston, Ontario, Canada Larry Halford, El Segundo, California Kent Sanctuary, Orangevale, California Terry T. Hay, Lincoln, California Bill Sanders, Menlo Park, California Lois Gale Henderson, Saint Petersburg, Florida Glenn Schieke, Van Nuys, California Margene Howard, Cedar Rapids, Iowa Glenn Sels, Capistrano Beach, California William S. Hurst, Marshfield, Carole A. Walton, Dearborn, Michigan Massachusetts Lawrence Whittemore, Gary, Indiana Jack Jenkins, Granite City, Illinois Duane Johnston, Grand Rapids, Michigan David Kendall, New Milford, Connecticut Therald and Janet King, Pataskala, Ohio Mike Knight, Duluth, Georgia Pat Lenhart, Woodland Hills, California Robert H. Lent, Indianapolis, Indiana Dr. Philip Marino, Palm Harbor, Florida Neal Marple, Cedar Rapids, Iowa Robert F. Mertz, Lafayette, Indiana

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18 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:28 AM Page 19

THE STORY OF THE MIGHTY WURLITZER IS ALMOST HISTORY.

Jesse Crawford at the Paramount Organist Frank Lanterman showing Publicity photo used for the Theatre, New York, NY. off the largest and smallest pipes of “Nocturne” radio program from the Opus 1458 (page 666). Opus 1987 (page 690). Paramount Studio (page 189).

The Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: An Illustrated History by David L. Junchen (reconstructed and edited by Jeff Weiler)

Only 2,234 were printed, to commemorate the number of organs built by the Rudolph Wurlitzer Manufacturing Co. Each book has been sequentially stamped in gold with a number corresponding to the opus list. The reception of this book has been tremendous, almost selling out in the first few months after issue. And once they are gone, they're history. There will never be another first edition.

With sixteen chapters, one-thousand images, and eight-hundred pages packed with insightful history, fascinating technical information, and an annotated opus list, The Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: An Illustrated History is the definitive catechism on the subject in a single, hard-bound volume.

$125 US + shipping and handling. WURLITZER CONSOLE ART PRINTS This set of 12 posters feature Available from the American Theatre Organ Society beautiful theatre consoles from The ATOS Marketplace, 28933 Wagon Road, Agoura, California 91301-2735 the Wurlitzer photo archives. 818-889-8894, email: [email protected] Poster size is 11“ x 14“. $15 US + s&h or order online at www.atos.org

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 19 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:00 PM Page 20

0

Mystery Solved Two eagle-eyed members, Tom DeLay (ATOS Archive Collection) and Terry Kleven, wrote in to inform us that the mystery photos in the November/December issue of THEATRE ORGAN are of the three-manual, nine-rank Wurlitzer (Opus 2231) installed in the radio (The Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: studios of KDKA, Pittsburgh in 1939. This An Illustrated History) was one of the last instruments to leave the North Tonawanda, New York factory. Ron Reseigh, through some impressive and keen deduction, reached the same conclusion. He telephoned to announce his findings.

From Tom Delay I believe the instrument awaiting assembly on page 19 of the November/ December issue of THEATRE ORGAN is Opus 2231, the three-manual, nine- rank Wurlitzer for KDKA in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This instrument was unique in that the only 16' Pedal stops were the Diaphonic Horn and Clarinet. This may seem a same

Bernie Armstrong, the day the new Wurlitzer arrived at KDKA Radio in 1940 (ATOS Archive Collection)

Bob Carter, Mary Martha Briney, Bernie Armstrong, and Paul Shannon at KDKA Radio, circa 1940-1950 (ATOS Archive Collection)

20 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:01 PM Page 21

strange choice, but listen to old 78 rpm recordings: the limited frequency response caused many organists to use the 16' Tuba, Diaphone, String and other stops with harmonics. The 16' Tibias and Bourdons were beyond the recording ability of the day. The fidelity of the radio broadcast was surely little different. Rather than stock this organ with large pipes that would not be heard on the limited radio frequency response, these two basses did the job and avoided the cost of the big lumber. The partial photo of the console clearly shows the first two Pedal stop tabs to be ivory followed by a red stopkey. This would make sense for the 16' Diaphone followed by the 16' Clarinet. A nifty Wurlitzer Vibraphone can also be seen to the left and rear of the console. The Diaphone chest can be seen in the foreground. A comparison of this photo with that of the KDKA console on page 432 of The Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: An Illustrated History certainly shows the similarity. (ATOS Editor’s Files ) — Tom DeLay instead of the late (tall box) ones. It also has Salinas, California a late style console with the wide horseshoe as some of the late Balabans had. It also Mystery Organist has the pedal pistons to the left of the From Terry Kleven accompaniment pistons. I do remember it Our next mystery takes us to Nashville This is definitely the KDKA Wurlitzer! having the wrong music rack for the time and its long-lost Paramount Theatre. Can I had a chance to revue some of my old period, too. This was, without a doubt, one anyone tell us the identity of the woman pictures of it, and it IS that organ! Just of the ugliest sounding organs ever seated at the console of the Balaban 3 looking at the style of clothing and how the produced by the Master Firm! In an effort Wurlitzer (Opus 2132, 1930)? instrument was packed (or un-packed), it’s to make it quieter (much quieter) the my observation that this is when it was pipework had ALL been messed with. The unloaded into the basement of Baldwin 8' on up clarinet had no curve on the reed United Methodist Church of Baldwin, tongues, but the curve was on the face of Pennsylvania, where I purchased it in the the shallots. Every note stopped playing late 1970s. The clincher was the 16' after I filed the shallot faces flat. It didn’t clarinet offset chest in your picture. It has a take long to figure that out, since this was divided rack board made in two pieces the equivalent to concrete tires and (lengthwise). The KDKA organ was made of rubber roads! mostly old stuff. The regulators had been — Terry Kleven recovered, but they left all of the wooden Roseville, Minnesota spring lugs (hangers), not metal ones of the time period. It had short box tremulants

ATOS Archive Collections Policy: The American Theatre Organ Society Archive actively pursues the acquisition and preservation of historic, primary research materials specifically related to the theatre pipe organ, theatre organists, and the corporate activities of ATOS and its chapters. These materials include photos, stoplists, and specifications of theatre organ installations; contracts; correspondence, blueprints, engineering documents, and business records pertaining to theatre organ installations and theatre organ builders; photos, correspondence, performance contracts, programs, recordings and scores as they relate specifically to the activities of theatre organists and theatre organ personalities; books, drafts, transcripts, lectures, interviews and other publications related to the theatre organ; oral histories, written reminiscences, and other documents or artifacts relating specifically to the theatre organ.

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 21 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:29 AM Page 22

r------, Journal of American Organbuilding AMICA Quarterly Publication of the American Institute INTERNATIONAL of Organbuilders (AUTOMATIC MUSICAL INSTRUMENT COLLECTORS’ ASSOCIATION) Dedicated to preserving, restoring & enjoying This publication is devoted to the Mechanical Musical Instruments like Player & dissemination of knowledge regarding Reproducing Pianos, Organs, etc. the design, construction and mainte- A gathering place for those who enjoy music, friendship & fun! nance of pipe organs in North America. ANNUAL CONVENTION ! LOCAL CHAPTERS Although primarily a technical journal For a free issue of the AMICA Bulletin & Information for the benefit of organbuilding profes- Contact: Bill Chapman • #760-564-2951 sionals, it is also a valuable resource for [email protected] – (AMICA in subject) architects and project consultants, church To find out more visit us at WWW.AMICA.ORG musicians, building committees, semi- nary and university libraries, and anyone involved with the design or renovation JOIN US AND HELP THE HOBBY GROW! of contemporary worship space. Far from being the “lost art” that the ESTABLISHED 1963 SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA average person believes it to be, organ- building in the United States and Canada is maturing and thriving in The League of Historic American Theatres hundreds of small and large shops throughout the continent. At the same 31st Annual Conference and Theatre Tour time, serious challenges lie ahead for Boston Park Plaza N Boston, Massachusetts those promoting the pipe organ in an July 25-28, 2007 era of limited budgets and competing options. Readers of the Journal of LHAT brings it’s members: American Organbuilding will benefit G Professional Development/Education G Peer Network Opportunities from the thoughtful exchange of infor- G Newsletters and Other Publications G Insurance Affinity Program mation and ideas intended to advance G Online Members’ Forum G PAR—Peer Advisory Reviews this time-honored craft. G Advertising Oportunities G Advocacy And much more. You are invited to become a sub- scriber. Persons who are engaged full- Interested? Contact LHAT at: time in the organbuilding or organ The League of Historic American Theatres maintenance professions are also encour- 334 N. Charles Street N 2nd Floor N Baltimore, MD 21201 aged to request information regarding T:(877) 627-0833 F:(410) 837-9664 email: [email protected] membership in the American Institute www.lhat.org of Organbuilders. Please enter my subscription to the American Institute of Organbuilders’ quarterly publi- cation Journal of American Organbuilding. Enclosed is a check for: □ $12.00 (1 year, 4 issues) □ $22.00 (2 years, 8 issues) □ $32.00 (3 years, 12 issues) Name ______Firm or Institution ______Mailing Address ______www.atos.org City/State/Zip ______Articles and Features □ Check here if mailing address is for Added Regularly HOME delivery. Make checks payable to: Calendar of Events American Institute of Organbuilders Mail this form and payment to: and Submissions AMERICAN INSTITUTE Theatre Organ Locator OF ORGANBUILDERS Conl8"1 of tt-e site Copyrig,t O 2006 American Thea1ra Qgar, Society, Inc. P.O. Box 130982 / Houston, Texas 77219 L------

22 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:29 AM Page 23

IJ

“In the Spotlight” focuses on theatre pipe organ restoration, rebuilding, tonal finishing, and installation projects. Items of interest should be sent to the Editor.

Marr & Colton Installation In the summer of 2005, Pete Haskell began the process of acquiring an organ to install in his South Freeport, Maine home. The organ was built in 1928 by the Marr & Colton Company, Warsaw, New York, and was installed in the Thompson Square Theatre, in Charlestown, Massachusetts. The theatre was described as a neighborhood theatre, with 900 seats, including those in the balcony. The theatre was acquired by theatre magnate E. M. Loew in the 1930s; the organ was removed and installed in his mother’s house, where it remained until 1966. From there, it passed through several owners and storage locations until it was restored and installed in a private home in the 1970s, remaining there until 1996. During that time some extra ranks were added, plus an accordion and a roll-playing mechanism. Pete is fortunate to have audio and video recordings of the organ at that location to use for inspiration. Regarding the “urban myth” that says The organ is now back to close to its “Marr & Coltons were only built to last ten (Haskell Collection) original specification, with the additions years,” Pete prefers to let its 78 years of removed, changes reversed, and keeping age and good condition speak for itself. He it that way is Pete’s plan. Along with the thinks of his efforts as being more of five ranks, there is a toy counter, preservation rather than restoration. While xylophone, glockenspiel, cymbal, and his home installation will not be optimal drums. The Spencer blower is original. He by any means, he feels that at least one had to compromise somewhat by adding small organ is being saved for future an electronic control system to replace the listeners to enjoy! missing electro-pneumatic relay, and the For more details, specifications, and string rank is not the original one, but he some photos, you are invited to visit Pete has no intention of “improving” it by Haskell’s web site: www.suscom-maine. adding extra ranks, electronic voices, etc. net/~phaskell.

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JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 23 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:30 AM Page 24

THE VOICE OF R-ex K-ourY 0-rganist "Pipes" His Best Wishes to "VARIETY" -

Rex KouryBY JEFF WEILER Remembered

“I guess I’ve now run the whole cycle. I started my playing career on the organ, and here I am back at it once more.”

— Rex Koury

(ATOS Archives/Weiler Collection)

24 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:30 AM Page 25

Rex Koury at the Rahway Theatre in Rahway, New Jersey

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 25 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:30 AM Page 26

The famous Cocoanut Grove of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles

Publicity photo

At the Rahway Theatre At the Cocoanut Grove

Composer Rex Koury died May 29, 2006 at Casper, and George Hamilton. In 1938, he began Wyoming of natural causes. He was 95 work as a broadcast studio musician playing Arranger years old. for such programs as Ellery Queen, The Born March 18, 1911 in London, Amazing Mr. Malone, and Fibber McGee Conductor England, Rex and his parents soon and Molly. Mr. Koury’s music could be immigrated to the United States, taking up heard over both the Red and Blue networks Organist residence in Elizabeth, New Jersey. It of the National Broadcasting Company. He was here that he began piano lessons in was known by his given name on the Red Teacher 1919, later taking up serious organ study network, but on the Blue network he at age 13. Billed as the youngest profes- performed under the alias Roy St. George. Businessman sional organist, Rex Koury played for Rex played with the Glenn Miller Band several Radio, Keith, Orpheum circuit for a short time before enlisting in the ATOS President (RKO) theatres as Rex Koury, Organist. Army in 1942. He resumed his successful (See page 22.) broadcasting career in Hollywood with NBC Moving to California in 1933, Koury and ABC upon discharge. By the early 50s, Rex Koury was all began the next important phase of his he had become the Western Division music career as pianist with several touring dance director for ABC. It was at this time that he of these things. bands, including those led by Teddy Mack composed the familiar theme music for the

26 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:30 AM Page 27

Rochester Theatre Organ Society’s Wurlitzer At San Sylmar

With his orchestra at the Cocoanut Grove Re-inaugural of the Worth Theatre Wurlitzer

popular show, Gunsmoke, starring William programs were quite appealing and well Koury retired in 2002 at the age of 91. Conrad as Matt Dillon. Koury won an award played. His genial demeanor and good Elected to the American Society of from Downbeat magazine for best scoring of humor made him a hit with audiences. Composers, Authors and Publishers a radio series in 1956 while music director Typically his program included and often (ASCAP), Rex Koury was a Life Member of of this program. He somehow found the time ended with his playing the title music of Local 47 of the American Federation of to organize a dance band that appeared Gunsmoke. Koury continued to compose: Musicians. He is survived by seven at the famous Cocoanut Grove at the His Concerto for Theatre Organ and children and nine grandchildren. Ambassador Hotel, receiving the first Orchestra, commissioned by the Sussex Late in his career, having spent so many “Golden Cocoanut” award for his 14-week Theatre Organ Trust, Worthing, England, years in the studios, Mr. Koury remarked, engagement. Moving into the television was premiered in 1987 with a 65-piece “It’s nice to be out among people again. I field, Koury became music director for such orchestra and Rex at the console. guess I’ve now run the whole cycle. I started game shows as I’ll Bet and You Don’t Say, Rex was elected to the ATOS Board of my playing career on the organ, and here I broadcast over NBC affiliates, and appeared Directors in 1977 and served as president am back at it once more.” with Monty Hall on Let’s Make a Deal. from 1983–1985. For a brief time he was After moving to Reno, Nevada in 1971, Chairman of the Board for the short-lived Rex returned to the theatre organ, playing Koury Organ Company, which had hoped to dozens of concerts throughout the United build electronic organs for church and States for many ATOS chapters. His concert use.

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 27 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:31 AM Page 28

Creative Reharmonization: Part 1

Welcome to a new series of articles about the use of Scales the Basic Foundation for all reharmonization in constructing organ arrangements from lead lines Modern Keyboard Harmony consisting of single note melodies and chord symbols (which are not First assignment: Using the 2nd finger of each hand, separately, always correct!). I am going to concentrate on teaching how to use pick out all 12 of the Major scales, based on the Roots shown around modern harmonies to enhance and personalize your arrangements. the Circle of Chords. The correct fingering for Major Scales is included in “Chord Construction Magic.” A Review of the Basics of Modern Harmony In this introductory article, using illustrations from the volume, The Five Basic Types of Chord “Chord Construction Magic,” from my Magic Study Series, originally Major, Minor, Augmented, Seventh, Diminished Seventh (In an published by Hal Leonard Corporation, I offer you a review of some easy-to-remember order) of the basics that create the foundation on which to build your Remembering the five basic types of chords is easy if you look at knowledge of scales, chord construction, chord positions and the back of your right hand, spread your fingers and, starting with inversions that will lead to using advanced chords to reharmonize your thumb moving towards your little (5th) finger, say the “liturgy”: the original chords, or chord symbols, after you have determined “Major, Minor, Augmented, Seventh and Diminished Seventh.” that the original chord symbols in the music are correct. This 1. Major…Play I, III, V of the Major Scale. approach will help you determine whether the chord symbols shown 2. Minor…Play I, bIII, V. are correct, even before you play the tune for the first time. (Are the 3. Augmented…Play I, III, #V. melody notes a part of the indicated chord symbol?) 4. Seventh…Play I, III, V, bVII. 5. Diminished Seventh…Play I, bIII, bV, bVII. Whole and Half-Tones—Building Blocks You’ll find it easier to remember the Five Basic Chords in to Construct Scales that manner. There two kinds of tones (sometimes called steps): A half-tone is Routine: Use the five fingers of the right hand to play C Major, the distance between two adjoining notes or keys with no note or left to right, in a full octaveC, E, G, C, the I, III, V and VIII steps key between. A whole-tone consists of the distance of two half-tones, of the C Major scale. Starting with the C, say, “The Major chord built or two adjoining notes or keys with a note or key between. See the on the 1st step or the Root.” Move your eyes to the right and say, following illustrations. “Flat the III step to make the chord C Minor.” Move back to the original Major chord, move your eyes to the right and say, “Raise or HALF TONES WHOLE TONES sharp the V step to play the C Augmented.” Return to the Major ( uou ruGU AU cuou cuou ruGUAU ~uD u ~ r- .A I chord. Move your eyes to the right and say, “Lower the VIII step 11 \ t i, ONE WHOLE-TONE, to the note Bb, to play C Seventh.” Finally, say, “Lower or flat every step of the Seventh Chord a Half Tone, I I except the Root, to play C Diminished Seventh.” See the following BC DE ~GA D E F B g E F G A B C ~ ~ F ~ f . I• ~ ~ • 4 illustrations. v ' " " \, ATTENTION: If you’re in a hurry, use your knowledge of whole and half-tones to form a Major Triad. It’s actually using a Major The Pattern Of Whole And Half-Tones Third interval (two whole tones) followed by a Minor Third interval To Construct The C Major Scale (one whole and a half-tone), as shown: Use the second or “pointing” finger of your right hand to pick Root III V out all eight steps of the C major scale, saying the pattern of “whole- tone, whole-tone, half-tone, whole-tone, whole-tone, whole- tone, ~ 2 half-tone.” Whole Tones lH Tones When the pattern of whole and half-tones to form all Major scales is practiced and understood, use the same pattern to pick out all the Once you have picked out the C Major Triad (three note chord), steps of each of the remaining Major Scales around the Circle of you can see all the major triads by playing the Major Triads up the Chords. The condensed pattern is: “two whole-tones, half-tone, three Manual chromatically (movement in half steps). Example: C, Db, D, whole-tones, half-tone.” Eb, E, F, Gb, G, Ab, A, Bb, B, C. Root ,J ~ j j J ,J L..._,-..J~L__,_,-J~L...... ,.,-J ~L_,,_J Whole Whole Half Whole Whole WhoJe Half

28 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/13/06 4:48 PM Page 29

Using Altered, Extended and Substituted Chords in Modern Organ Arrangements BY BILL IRWIN

Minor, Augmented, Seventh and Summary Diminished Seventh Chords You now have the basis for the forthcoming series of articles Minor Chord = Play the I, III, V steps of the scale and flat the III entitled “Creative Reharmonization,” using altered, extended and step. I, bIII, V steps. (Ex: #1) substituted chords to enhance the original harmonies in a popular Augmented Chord = Play I, III, V steps and sharp the V step. song. I have my own thoughts on how to proceed with the new series, I, III, #V steps. (Ex: #2) but if you are willing to take the time to contact me, please do. Tell Seventh Chord = Play I, III, V,VIII steps and lower the VIII step me any of your harmony problems, such as using progressions to one whole tone I, III, V, bVIII. (Ex: #3) enhance introductions and endings, modulations, “turnarounds” at Diminished Seventh Chord = Play the Seventh Chord, I, III, V, the end of themes or choruses, advice on how to handle non-chordal bVII and lower all steps a half tone, except the Root. I, bIII, bV, tones (melody notes that are not the accompanying chord shown in bVII steps. (Ex: #4) the chord symbol), or just anything to do with modern keyboard 1. C to Cm, F to Fm 2. C to C aug, F to F aug harmony in a popular tune. 3. C to C7, F to F7 4. C7 to Cdim, F7 to F dim The sooner you send in your questions and suggestions, the greater the chance I’ll have time, before deadlines, to respond to 1. C Cmi F Fmi you in this new series. “Don’t sit there and wonder, with a blank stare and sighs; let’s meet in each issue and reharmonize!” I 1ii Contact me at: [email protected]; 480-380-5250; n fax 480-219-8974; 7864 East Natal Avenue, Mesa, Arizona 85209-6161. C C+ F F+ 2. * ,1 I H ~n

3. C C7 F F7 ~ i 1• I R -=~ Cdim. F7 Fdim. 4.

Chord Positions and Inversions It is necessary to be able to see and use chords in all their Positions and Inversions, in both hands. Rule: A chord has as many Positions as there are notes in the chord and one Inversion less than there are Positions. (See illustrations using the three most popular keys of C, F and G.) Major Minor Augmented Seventh Diminished

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 29 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:06 PM Page 30

Fundraising BY SCOTT101: SMITH It was the summer of 1994. Less than six us with a “low-class” image. However, as Y months from the Grand Ledge organ playing soon as he learned that the first sale for the first time, and we were flat broke. generated close to $2,500, he stopped Money had been committed to various scoffing. Now those groups all hold their phases of the project and spent accordingly, own sales, with similar results. I guess it’s but resources had seemingly all dried up. not so low-class after all. All of us had devoted a great deal of time to While the amount generated may not be the project, and it was frustrating, even the moon, it is something. Is it worth all of maddening to be this close, but still so far the time devoted? Absolutely. It has away. What to do? multiple additional benefits. It engages the Finally, it was my mother who suggested public, gives you an opportunity to do a soft the concept of a big yard sale (which is sell of your efforts in an informal setting, chiefly how she became our Fundraising and increases your visibility as a viable, Director). She pointed out that we all were active organization. Plus, it has the added collectors of various types, be it junk or benefit of getting your group together for a something of actual value. Logically, that finite amount of time, with a can’t-miss goal meant that all of us probably had enough at the end. In business terms…low risk, surplus goods to donate “lead items” to a high return. (Smith Collection) sale without sacrificing much of anything. If you plan to do this sort of thing, From there, all we had to do was to put out my advice is to do it all the way, and keep the call to friends, family and our local doing it. You won’t regret it. Through the “If you plan to do this database to seek donations of goods from years, we’ve experimented with the way those who had already donated cash. we do things, and we think we have it sort of thing, my advice Furthermore (and this was the heart of the down to a science. Obviously, there’s is to do it all the way, matter), it gave us an opportunity to do two always room for improvement, and every important things. First, we drew people on situation is different. You may find another and keep doing it. You the periphery to become more closely way that works better, but the basic involved, potentially increasing the number concepts are universal. won’t regret it.” of supporters, thereby increasing interest and excitement, thereby increasing The Basics of revenue. Secondly, everyone who donated items could feel good that they had Successful Yard contributed something tangible toward the ultimate goal of a playing organ; something Saleology: that didn’t cost them anything, at least Where—The real estate maxim works not directly. just as much for this type of sale as it does As it turned out, the sale was so for a great house in an appealing area: successful it has become an annual event, location, location, location. Ideally, you both for our group and for the neighborhood. want some place with high visibility, where It is now the anchor for an annual street you can maintain the sale year after year. sale. A big concept made bigger by virtue An attractive home or business location in a of its size and longevity, generating more good, middle-of-the-road area is ideal. interest, drawing more people. Even the Convenient free parking is essential. local TV news teams rarely miss our event. Moderate traffic at medium or low speed That doesn’t hurt. encourages potential buyers to slow down Over the past several years, through my and stop. Put everything on tables out in the business ties, I’ve come to know many open where it can be easily seen from the people who are key to the arts in my road. Encourage your people to mill around community. Some of them snickered at the the tables and park nearby; people always concept of this sale when we first began. want to be where others are doing One of our own people even verbalized his something fun. Resist the temptation to run belief that a yard sale could potentially hurt the sale out of the inside of a garage.

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YardOftentimes, sales are lost for the simple place to Sale store it. This same storage depot when you publicize “no clothes” to your reason that many people simply do not want should also work as a place where you can members, be sure that they understand that to get out of their cars and enter the “Black mark prices on items as they arrive. That you don't want them to arrive in the nude!) Hole of Calcutta.” way, it doesn’t become a madhouse in the Cleanliness—While it’s an added step, When—In spite of an intuitive notion to week just before the sale. and it does seem to be a pain, make sure run a sale on weekend days only, we’ve Marking—The pre-printed, self-adhe- everything is clean. Items should be clean found that running it on a Friday and sive stickers are a Godsend. Pick up several when they arrive, but you should be Saturday (with option to open on Sunday) packages of these at the office supply or prepared to do it yourselves if at all works the best. Friday is traditionally our grocery store. We have found that it is necessary. Clean items do sell better; that’s heaviest traffic day. Run it either in the late particularly helpful to have a group marking for sure, and it’s good for your image. spring or early fall, and hold it from 9:00am items. A small box of hanging tags comes in Perks—Sale volunteers should be to 5:00pm each day, like a business. In our handy, too. Ask yourself (and each other): allowed a certain amount of “free stuff” case, one of the major determining factors how much is the maximum I would pay for from the sale, as a token of appreciation for for our annual September sale is that we this? Keep in mind that the primary object their time and effort inputting on this event. generally receive a generous contribution of of the sale is to make money, not get rid Just make sure to put a finite dollar-and- goods from an area gift store just prior to the of the stuff. Of course, that philosophy cent limit on this privilege. event, right after their annual sidewalk sale. reverses itself as soon as the sale is over, Promotion—Make sure to take out a Other types of retailers and service but you get the point. classified ad in the local newspaper, and providers should be tapped as well for their Pricing Policy—The estate sale don’t hesitate to spend the extra money for surplus and obsolete goods. Even my professionals usually hold to a rule of full- a hefty border and bold type. Run the ad the dentist has contributed interesting stuff that price the first day, half-price the second day day before and on each day of the sale. was just cluttering up his storage space. (except for jewelry and certain antique Depending on your area, shoppers’ guides Just be convincing that you’re doing them a items), and we modify it by going to “a buck can be a good backup for print media. This favor by hauling it off. a bag” after lunchtime the second day, is a very minor investment for a potentially Sale Director—Perhaps the biggest depending on how much stuff you have to major payoff. Press releases to all of reason for failure of any enterprise or event dispense with at that point. Tacking up a the local print, TV and radio are a must. is the lack of direction. Like anything few signs explaining this simple pricing Remember to include it in your newsletter else, even something as simple and policy may save you from the hassles of and concert season brochures. Don’ t forget straightforward as a yard sale will go much those who will not be put off in their to mention ties to your website (don’t tell me more smoothly if you are organized and attempts at dickering on everything (they’re you don’t have one!), with more info about have one person directing it. This person generally the ones who will ignore the signs the sale, including some digital photos of needs to be generally respected, have a cool and try to dicker anyway). We’ve stuck with the more interesting stuff, like jewelry, head, and have an overall vision for the the simple rule of marking nothing under 25 antiques and unusual stuff. event. It need not necessarily be your cents. If it isn’t worth that, then it goes into Signage—You should learn what your chairman or even an officer, but without it, the Free Box, which helps to make junky local policies are regarding yard sale your sale will be much less than it can be. (but still somewhat useful) stuff go away, signage before putting even one up. Yard To that person, I offer the three most and the associated guilt usually helps to sell signs are good, but it’s not a bad idea to ask important words that potentially spell something, too. first if you can drive a stake into a well- success: delegate, delegate, delegate! Pickup Service—Those who own manicured lawn. More often than not, Storage—Before the sale, you'll want a pickup trucks and vans can be enlisted to transportation departments and utility place where you can store everything. It pick up items from those who have no companies frown on nailing something should be some place where it could be means of transporting them to your location. directly to a wooden pole, so you’ll need to stored for up to months at a time. Whole Just Say “No”—Even though you’re be creative. I use a set of 11" by 17" signs estates, the remains of other sales, and the relying totally on the donations of goods as cut from 3/8" plywood, with photocopied results of spring cleaning have come our a result of the kindness of others, you do signage glued to them with heavy-duty way over the years, and they didn’t all arrive have the right to limit what you’ll take in. spray adhesive. To keep vandals from at convenient times of the year, either. In a Old clothes do not seem to sell particularly pulling them down, I now wire the signs to perfect world, when the sale is over well. They take up a lot of time to unfold various local signs; the type with perforated everything would magically disappear, but and place on hangers, and they somehow metal poles. They have to work pretty hard you will have plenty of stuff to deal with. For seem to take even longer to process to send to get these down! Another clever way to whatever reason, if you choose to save it to to the next stop when the sale is over. Learn handle signage, especially if you live in a run at next year’s sale, you’ll want a central to say “no, thanks,” with a smile. (Note: “concrete jungle,” is to plant your staked

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sign down into a five-gallon plastic bucket, bottled water and soda pop are good to keeping old stuff around long enough to and fill it with sand, stone, concrete have available at all times. put into a sale. Keep this in mind: if they chunks or even wet cement. These can be Cashier—This spot should be clearly have the money to consistently replace placed just about anywhere. You should be marked and manned at all times. stuff, they have the money to contribute aware that some local ordinances outlaw Remember to go to the bank the day before in lieu of it. You know who they are… the use of any kind of temporary signage. the sale starts to get a good variety of go get ’em! Remember: even in the most restrictive singles, other small bills and change. You Curb Service—We know of a man who areas, you can always put up obnoxious don’t want to be embarrassed when the hates waste. I mean really hates waste. He signs with huge arrows on the insides first buyer of the day hands you a twenty- scours the curbs of his neighborhood on of windows of cars legally parked dollar bill for a fifty-cent item and you his bicycle the night before trash day, as strategically near your sale, and there’s not don’t have the right change. he has for decades, as did his father before a thing the law can do to you. It’s free Valuables—Jewelry, watches and him. He takes notes of selected items, speech, after all. other items of value that could easily go the address where they can be located, Even though many of the people who walking should be kept at or near the cash and later returns with a pickup truck to attend your yard sale event might not give register, under the watchful eye of the take them home. He can even recite the a rip about the organ or organ music, do cashier or other members of your staff Supreme Court decision verbatim that not fail to put up a few signs that clearly stationed nearby. Unfortunately, you gives him the right to do this. Bicycles, state that the “proceeds from this sale should expect a certain amount of petty microwave ovens, and computers are all directly benefit….” If at all possible, make theft, and the remarkable thing is that quietly repaired and sold at his annual your signs computer-generated, as it lends when it happens, it’s right under your nose. yard sale. In some cases, the repaired an air of credibility. Plus, don’t be afraid Remember to lock it up at night! items are sold back to the original owners! to be creative with attractive graphics and Coupons—Discount coupons for (He considers “Trash Amnesty Day” to be big, bold typestyles. Remember: it’s a fun concerts or concessions sound like a good a national holiday.) Consider the curb as a event, and everything about it should idea to place in each bag, but we find that resource for your sale. Seriously! reflect that. people are only interested in “the goods,” Leftovers—There are organizations Setup—To save yourself a lot of grief and so we have elected to end this that actively collect, process and sell used and heartache, cordon off your yard or practice. We do, however, keep a handful items that are generally leftovers from yard parking lot area and set up your sale on of season brochures out on display for sales. They are Goodwill, Volunteers of tables the day before (ours are the long those who are interested. America, AMVETS, and the Salvation banquet hall type and were donated by the Entertainment—You will generally Army, to name a few. Some will even come local police department when the tables have some sort of radios or televisions that and pick the stuff up, if it is boxed and were taken out of service). Organizing have been donated to you. We always packed properly. Make sure to check with things will help greatly in making your check stuff out and leave small notes that them before hauling anything there, as sale appear logical, and it reflects well on indicate the condition. It’s probably not a policies vary from place to place. There is you and your organization. Electronics, bad idea to have something on in the also www.freecycle.org, which allows you books, art, furniture, automotive, tools and background to break the din, but whatever to post online the items available (for free so on can all be segregated into their it is (and this includes theatre organ only), and I can guarantee they will go own areas. Remember: this is your music), don’t play it at an obnoxious level away. Finally, assuming your zoning “showroom.” Remember to place lead or people will leave for sure. You may find ordinances are not particularly strict, there items, like bicycles, furniture and other that getting people to agree what to listen is always the curb. If we put stuff out late large items of interest, out near the street, to or watch is the most difficult part of this. on a Saturday afternoon, it is generally where passers-by can’t miss them. When Presales—This is a decision for you to gone by Tuesday. you’re done for the day, cover everything make, but we’ve softened in our position up with heavy plastic drop cloths (it could over the years. If an item is “out,” the rain, you know!) and, if you feel it customer has exact change and is willing Epilogue necessary, volunteers could take turns to pay full price, we say: why not? A sale Be warned: if you choose to do this at standing guard all night. This is especially is a sale is a sale. Many people tell us that your house, after the sale is over and the good for those who work nights and/or they make as much with presales as the tables have been cleared away, your lawn don’t want to be involved in the actual “real” sale. Besides, it makes the buyers will look just like the circus has left town. sale. As items sell, keep consolidating and happy and makes them feel special. Isn’t Fear not. It will grow back. At least it has reorganizing, and start eliminating tables that what we’re really after? on my mother’s lawn for the past dozen Other Sources as soon as you logically can. One full table —Among our people, years. When it’s all over, you’ll likely be is far more appealing that two nearly little gets thrown away during the year. amazed at how much you make on the sale. empty ones. When something gets replaced, becomes Do this: don’t make any rash decisions Food —Ask one person to take care of outmoded or simply done away with in whether you will or won’t have a sale the feeding the crew for lunch, be it take-out, their homes, the words “yard sale” are following year during the last hours on the or catered in from “Mom’s Kitchen.” You verbalized, and they have a special box final day of the sale. You’ll be too tired and could ask everyone to bring a dish to pass, they keep around strictly for that purpose. sore (not to mention cranky!) to make a but if your sale is as busy as ours has been At the end of the year, it gets trotted over rational decision. My advice is to take a over the years, you’ll need someone not to Yard Sale Central. deep breath, and count your money. involved in the actual sale to help feed the Contributions—Some people are by rest. Cookies, finger foods, coffee, and cold nature “tossers” and wouldn’t dream of

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Bob brings them in at ATOS the Orpheum Theatre! Membership “The Orpheum Theatre recently Brochures brought back Bob Ralston for his second performance in less than twelve months. Once again, Bob filled Now Available the seats with over 1,000 tickets sold and the theatre walking away with Jim Merry a nice profit. The organ fans were P.O. Box 5327 delighted with the show and patrons Fullerton, CA 92838 were asking me to bring him back 714-773-4354 again next year. Not only can Bob Fax 714-773-4829 sell tickets for the theatre, he is great [email protected] to work with. The Orpheum plans to have him back again and again!” —Kim Steffen, Development Director Orpheum Theatre, Sioux City, IA BOB RALSTON

17027 Tennyson Place | Granada Hills, CA 91344-1225 All fees are negotiable, 818-366-3637 phone | 818-363-3258 fax allowing your chapter to www.BobRalston.com | [email protected] make a handsome profit.

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AGrBYand MIKE KINERK AND DENNIS WILHELM Tour A Preview of the ATOS Grand Organ Tour 2007—A Convention to Top Them All

It will be one of the most memorable American Theatre Organ Society conventions of all time. The essence of a convention is organs and artists. For 2007 we will hear some of the most amazing, versatile and wondrous pipe organs anywhere, played by world-class organists. And if that’s not enough, our convention headquarters will be in Manhattan, the cultural, financial and—as some would say—organ capital of the world.

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July 1–5 2007 Annual Convention of ATOS in the Mid-Atlantic States June 30 Preglow—Atlantic City, New Jersey (tentative) July 6 Afterglow—The Wanamaker Organ, Macy’s, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Marriott Marquis on Times Square

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We lead off this preview of the Grand we’ll turn that negative into a positive when Organ Tour with a tale of one of our most we tour the Paradise. It’s the largest and beautiful venues, the Paradise Theatre, one certainly one of the most lavish of these of five legendary “Wonder Theatres” in the Wonder Theatres, and we’ll hear a great New York City area. These theatres were five-manual digital Allen theatre organ. Loew’s Paradise built in four New York boroughs and in New The Paradise in the Bronx, located near Jersey. All had aptly named Wonder Morton Yankee Stadium, is the largest of the Theatre pipe organs. These four-manual, 23-rank Wonder Theatres, originally with 3,884 instruments were acclaimed by many as seats. It opened September 7, 1929, the masterpieces of the venerable Van Nuys, same day as another great Wonder Theatre California organbuilder Robert-Morton. opened, Loew’s Kings, in Brooklyn. On The Paradise Robert-Morton was removed opening day, the Paradise featured The around 1970. In 1997 it was acquired by Mysterious Dr. Fu Manchu, with Harold the ATOS Garden State chapter and is Ramsay at the organ. (Ramsay was inducted being re-installed in another Wonder into ATOS Hall of Fame in 1989.) This Theatre, Loew’s Jersey. It is not playable at great cinema on the Grand Concourse was this time. Although none of the five Wonder designed by John Eberson, as Job #605 Mortons is playing in a Wonder Theatre, (1928). Blueprints were titled “Loew’s

Loew’s Paradise Theatre facade with parapet and clock (Photo by Dennis Wilhelm)

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Concourse Theatre for the Concourse American Institute of Architects, declares September 7, 1929. Loew’s Paradise, Realty Corp.” the theatre interior Eberson’s “best.” 2463 Grand Concourse, Bronx, 3,884 seats. It was given a highly detailed French- It has been extensively restored, and John Eberson, architect. Harold Ramsay, Italian Baroque décor, far more lavish than reopened on October 29, 2005. We will be organist. (The organ was removed circa Eberson’s more typical Spanish and experiencing the first theatre organ concert 1970 and was transferred to Loew’s Jersey Moorish interiors. The Bronx Paradise, one in the theatre since the Robert-Morton pipe in 1997; undergoing installation by ATOS of his best and largest, was so richly organ was removed. Garden State chapter, not yet playable.) detailed that it more closely resembles the The Wonder Theatres all opened in a September 7, 1929. Loew’s Kings, 1049 work of his noted competitors, Thomas W. string of spectacular premieres throughout Flatbush Avenue, Brooklyn, 3,676 seats. Lamb (e.g., San Francisco Fox, Loew’s 1929 and 1930. Here is their pedigree: C. W. and George Rapp, architects. (The Ohio) and C. W. and George Rapp (e.g., January 12, 1929. Loew’s Valencia, organ was removed in 1974; subsequently Brooklyn Paramount, Times Square 165-11 Jamaica Avenue, Queens, 3,554 broken up for parts, the console is now at Paramount, Loew’s Kings). This interior seats. John Eberson, architect. John Gart, Wheaton-Fox Studio, Van Der Molen contains splendid murals, chandeliers, Joe Stoves, organists. (The organ spent residence, Wheaton, Illinois.) lamps, statuary, a marble fountain of many years at the Pete Schaeble studio and September 28, 1929. Loew’s Jersey, 52 Poseidon, and a fresco of a god unleashing is now owned by private collector.) The Journal Square, Jersey City, New Jersey, not a bolt of lightning, but a film canister. building survives as The Tabernacle of 3,187 seats. C. W. and George Rapp, The Guide to New York City, published by Prayer church. architects. Ted Meyn, organist. (Original

Loew’s mural (Photo by Orlando Lopes)

Loew’s sidewall detail (Photo by Bob Miloche)

Loew’s lobby detail (Photo by Dennis Wilhelm)

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organ removed circa 1972; installed in We shall seek to simulate the original 1986 at Avalon Theatre, Santa Barbara, sound with digital audio samples and the California.) Loew’s Paradise, Bronx organ technology of the Allen Organ Company. For moved to Loew’s Jersey in 1997. Installation our convention, we will install one of their by ATOS Garden State chapter, not yet largest and newest models in the theatre to playable. see if we can achieve a satisfactory recreation February 22, 1930. Loew’s 175 Street of the magical days when the theatre organ Theatre, 4140 Broadway, Harlem, New York reigned in the Paradise. The concert will take City, 3,564 seats. Thomas W. Lamb, place on the fourth day of the convention, architect. Closed in 1967; operates as Rev. July 4. Our evening will be kept free for an Ike’s United Church. Organ remains in optional boat tour of New York Harbor and theatre awaiting restoration. the Fourth of July fireworks. All Wonder Mortons originally had four In keeping with the patriotic theme of the manuals and 23 ranks of pipes. (Some were Fourth of July holiday, we also will enjoy enlarged later.) The pipes were scaled for the fireworks on Day Two of the convention—but Wonder Theatres (big), and were voiced at these will be aural fireworks, not visual. We 15" wind pressure (Vox Humana on 10") with will visit a very patriotic and historic locale, pedal extensions on a thunderous 20" wind. the national military academy.

Loew’s lobby ceiling (Photo by Dennis Wilhelm)

Loew’s lobby (Photo by Orlando Lopes)

(Photo by Orlando Lopes)

38 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:12 PM Page 39

Here in the Cadet Chapel we will see tour will witness a brief program on this and hear one of the largest horseshoe very historic instrument. It may be the consoles ever built playing a Möller organ only opportunity in your life to hear such a with 325 ranks (and still growing). The unique organ. The new console looks organist and organ curator have graciously nothing like a typical theatre organ, but the West Point consented to host us for a morning concert sounds of its Tibia and Vox will reveal all! in this incomparable setting, followed by a Military Academy lunch (on your own) in the historic Hotel Thayer, right on the Post grounds. As a special treat, we will arrange an optional tour of the West Point Post Chapel, a small private facility for staff and faculty who live nearby. It boasts a rare Æolian-Skinner studio organ, originally installed in Rockefeller Center radio studio 3-B. During the two-hour interval scheduled for lunch, those willing to give up 45 minutes and register for the optional

West Point Cadet Chapel exterior and interior (Photos by Dennis Wilhelm)

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 39 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:12 PM Page 40

This will be an unprecedented the largest theatre organ consoles you’ll opportunity to stay in the world’s most ever see anywhere, when we hear the newly exciting city, New York, because our restored 3/16 Möller at the Trenton War headquarters hotel is the Marriott Marquis Memorial Auditorium in New Jersey’s located at the Crossroads of the World, capital. Times Square. From this base of operations What could top that? How about a visit we will launch our Grand Tour of the to see the world’s largest pipe organ? It’s the Marriott Marquis Mid-Atlantic States’ theatre and orchestral Midmer-Losh in Atlantic City Municipal Hotel, Times pipe organs that many of you have been Auditorium, now called Boardwalk Hall. waiting years to visit. This will be offered as a Preglow excursion Square In Manhattan are some of the best pipe to the Grand Organ Tour. This is truly a organs in the world. We will be treated to a tour, not a concert, as we know this giant great concert at a famous New York church. 449-rank organ is not playable. But haven’t Our Grand Organ Tour will also include you always wanted to see it? It’s the world’s theatres and organs in surrounding cities, only seven-manual console. including the Paramount in Middletown, Another optional activity will be New New York, with its 3/12 Wurlitzer. We’ll York City’s Circle Line cruise ships. This hear the “Ben Hall Memorial” 2/11 will be provided as a way to view the July Wurlitzer at the Lafayette Theatre in Fourth fireworks show from the harbor Suffern, New York and undeniably one of and river.

Marriott Marquis on Times Square

40 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:12 PM Page 41

The fun doesn’t stop when the Grand ' Plan now to attend. Tour ends. Stay another day and participate Scheduled to play concerts in the in our Afterglow. We travel to Philadelphia Grand Organ Tour are: This is the ATOS for a truly grand finale in the Grand Court • Dan Bellomy of the former Wanamaker Department Store, • Cameron Carpenter convention of a lifetime. now Macy’s. We will hear concerts on the • Peter Conte It’s the convention you largest playing pipe organ in the world, with • Jelani Eddington its wonderful orchestral divisions, including • Scott Foppiano can’t afford to miss. 100 ranks of strings. The six-manual, 469- • Simon Gledhill Arrangements are not finalized. All events and rank organ began as a special exhibition • David Gray (the sensational artists are subject to change without notice. instrument built by Los Angeles Art Organ Scottish young organist from the NOTE: The New York Theatre Organ Society has Company for the 1903 World’s Fair in St. 2006 Florida convention) asked us to let you know that NYTOS is not Louis. • Donnie Rankin (2006 ATOS involved in the organization, sponsorship, or There is much more planned, and a few Young Organist competition running of the convention, except that NYTOS is making available to convention participants for things remain in negotiation for later winner) concert performances the organs that are announcement. We will continue to detail • Ron Rhode owned and maintained by NYTOS at the our 2007 Grand Organ Tour in the • Walt Strony Paramount in Middletown, New York and the Lafayette Theatre in Suffern, New York. March/April issue of THEATRE ORGAN. • Clark Wilson

Lafayette Theatre and Ben Hall Memorial Wurlitzer (Photos by Dennis Wilhelm)

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 41 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:13 PM Page 42

Question and Answers About the ATOS 2007 Annual Convention

Q. Why is the schedule not yet final? Quality Inn, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, of options. The concierge at the Marriott Comfort Inn, or Doubletree. Yet our Marquis will be able to assist you. A. We will continue to negotiate with some location is a premium hotel, arguably with of our preferred venues, such as Radio Q. Why are we not going to the Loew’s the best location in New York. You can City Music Hall and Atlantic City 175th Street Theatre, now known as Rev. stay at the hotel at our group rate for three Convention Hall, until the last possible Ike’s United Palace church, in Harlem? days before and after, but reserve early minute to get the best deal. These two It has an original Wonder Morton since the number of rooms on this basis is and a few other locations will consider organ…right? extremely limited. granting the convention special discount access rates if no other client books the Q. How can I participate in the convention A. Yes, the pipes are there. An accident venue during the week of the convention. for lower cost? with TV show lights a few years ago The venues above, for example, normally caused the console to be ruined by fire. A require rental fees above $40,000 for A. You can register for four days, skipping new console was built, but funds have not Broadway plays, TV shows, boxing the final fifth day. You would save $70, permitted the console to be placed in matches and other entertainment. If ATOS but you would miss a concert and the service; thus the organ is not playable. ATOS awards and optional banquet. You were to rent the venue at such rates we Q. Will there be any time for some of can stay at less expensive hotels in would have to charge YOU up to $100 Manhattan’s world-class attractions, such Manhattan, or New Jersey, Queens, or each, which we don’t think is reasonable as museums, cathedrals, Broadway and Brooklyn. We plan a no-bus registration or feasible. How much is it worth to see off-Broadway shows? Radio City Music Hall? We hope to keep fee, if you are able to travel on public the entry fee portion of your registration in transportation on your own or if you plan A. Yes, definitely. To allow you to the range of $15 to $35 per person. We to bring a car. (Warning: parking in experience New York to the fullest, we can’t obtain such a rate unless we wait midtown Manhattan is very expensive: have built in several time slots for touring, until later in the year when it’s clear that approximately $25 to $45 per day.) shopping, and dining on your own. Not our dates are not going to be booked by Q. Why will the convention not visit the only will this meet the requests of our another show. For that reason, we cannot famed LIU (Brooklyn Paramount) to hear members, but it will also keep the say whether we can go into Radio City that great Wurlitzer? convention overall costs (paid by you) Music Hall for a concert or just a tour. For down to the minimum, and allow you to similar reasons, we are not able to A. The New York chapter (NYTOS) has participate in attractions, show and other determine whether our Preglow event at advised us that the organ will be down for events that fit into your budget and appeal the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City will scheduled maintenance during the to your particular interests. There is truly be Saturday afternoon, June 30, or Sunday summer of 2007. We very much regret this something for everybody in New York City. situation, but we were unable to gain morning, July 1. Q. What happened to Dickinson High access to this venue. It was originally one School in the After-Glow? Q. Our convention headquarters hotel is of our planned prime sites. the Marriott Marquee in Times Square. Our A. In early 2006 ATOS received a convention rate is $199 per night. Is this a Q. What will we do to celebrate July commitment for a concert in the good rate? What is the average hotel rate Fourth? Dickinson High School, and a signed, in Manhattan? A. We will not schedule an official con- approved application for use from the A. Times Square is the “Crossroads of the vention concert for the evening. We will School Board. However, remodeling work World.” We believe we have secured a obtain a block of tickets on the famed that was scheduled to be completed in super deal. Our price per night is a once- Circle Line ships that cruise around New 2006 has not gotten done. The School in-a-lifetime rate that you will not see York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, the Board has notified with great regret that again. The average rate for a hotel room in Battery, up the East River and down the they must perform this work in June and midtown Manhattan is now the highest in Hudson. Voyagers will have views of the July, 2007. They have revoked our permit the U.S.A., at around $241 per night. Our traditional Macy’s Fourth of July to use the school. So unfortunately, we will ATOS group rate is below the average rate fireworks. There will be an extra charge not be visiting Dickinson. for ALL hotels, including off-brands, no- for this excursion. For those who wish to brands, and budget brands such as stay on dry land, there are literally dozens

42 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/13/06 4:46 PM Page 43

,nustc lfff!mak Clark Welling of Montrose, Missouri sent in this ad featuring famous New York theatre organist Dick FOR 6,200 LISTENERS Leibert. It first appeared in Life magazine, October 18, 1937. And, yes, Dick Leibert's name Fashioned of genuine Bison, this is misspelled in the ad! ACTIVE, expert-the organist's feet Fortune plain toe bal oxford has tread the pedals, produce unerr · everything that spells daytime Style ing harmony . For your feet,Fortune this season , plus real Fortune qual­ Shoes create th e ir own unerring ity and wear. Style specified with harmony - of brilliant styling com· this Fall's popular checks, plaids, bined with expertl y selected leath­ overplaids, stripes, herringbones ers, specially lasted for comfort in and heather mixtures-also plain action. At a price definitely com· weaves in the rougher textures. forting to your pocketbook.

The 1Vur/itzer . New y Bllllcli Ork City

1. feat urin g­ Wu~1,,.FzE~ The Wurlitzer Building on 42nd Street liOP£-JONES in New York City became a Times u Square icon soon after it opened in NIT ORGAN 1919. It featured a Style F Unit PR£LlJOE INSelection Orchestra which prospective R C SHARP achrnaninoff MINOR purchasers could audition while seated in a swank salon.

(Weiler Collection)

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 43 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:13 PM Page 44

REVIEWS

CHRISTMAS AT THE FOX Fidelis” is both expansive and exuberant. MAGIC! THE MUSIC The second stanza is played with altered Larry Douglas Embury, harmony in the best Anglican style, and if I OF THE MOUSE Fox Theatre, Atlanta, heard this sound in church I would be John Ledwon at the singing full voice. I’ve heard this tune Georgia played not nearly so well in some famous Mighty Wurlitzer It having been a long time since I heard New York churches. The durable if not omnipresent John the Möller organ in the Fox Theatre, “We Three Kings,” while not strictly a Ledwon has cut another CD on the equally Atlanta, I had forgotten what a real pleasure Christmas song, is played like a good silent enduring Wurlitzer at his sumptuous this organ can be. It’s rich, it’s lush, and it’s picture score; you expect Vilma Banky to Agoura, California home. Produced in 2005, very, very much a theatre organ, without the ride in on a camel at any moment, wise men it is yet another entry in his growing slightest tinge of Wurlitzer brashness about in tow. With its strong rhythm and oriental discography. it. The Möller company outdid itself on this The Instrument flavor, it’s really good fun. —John has collected instrument, and the fit between organ and The jarring note in all this is “Silver pipe organ components for decades, room is legendary. Bells.” If I needed a reminder that re-it amassing the 52 ranks heard here. With its The Baldwin piano attached to the Fox bells should be used only if the theatre is on origins in historic instruments throughout Möller is certainly the most successful fire and you’re trying to clear people out, the United States, the provenance of this organ piano around, and it is used to good “Silver Bells” provides it. In the words of instrument is a veritable Who’s Who of effect in several numbers. However, there Miss Jean Brodie, “For those who like that legendary, long-gone movie palaces and are two numbers in which Mr. Embury plays sort of thing, that is the sort of thing they church instruments. on the piano and accompanies himself on like.” However, amidst the constant jangle a The actions and wind system are the organ, or perhaps it’s the other way really interesting chime peal is stirred into mercifully inaudible in this recording, around; it’s difficult to tell which is solo and the mix, creating enough interest to keep my leaving the listener alone with the music, which is accompaniment. These are two of hand off the skip button. harmony and registration. Only an occasional the best cuts on the disc. I enjoy Mr. Embury’s playing immensely. out-of-tune pipe provides a gratifying As a rule, I do not like hymn tunes He displays a wide range of styles on this reminder that this instrument is the real played on a unit organ, but the “Adeste disc, but if I had to describe the style thing, not a digital imposter. he seems most comfortable with, I would Taming an instrument of this size for have to call it cocktail lounge pipe a small space is a challenge. John meets organ; excellent cocktail music it is, a the challenge in large measure by spare rare pleasure these days. It’s smooth, registrations that focus on color and sophisticated, and very listenable. harmony. The room is unavoidably “dry” If you enjoy hearing Christmas music all acoustically, giving a sense of intimacy that through the holiday season, I recommend works well with John’s colorful registrations. this disc highly. It does not disappoint. However, anyone hoping to hear the mouse In the 19 tracks on the disc, Mr. Embury roar will go wanting. The instrument’s true seems to have covered the December Hit might is rarely heard on this CD, and then Parade pretty thoroughly. The selections only for musical punctuation. The Recording are: “I’ll Be Home for Christmas”; “Silver —The result of John’s Bells”; “Have Yourself a Merry Little undaunted effort to create a fine audio Christmas”; “O Little Town of Bethlehem”; experience at his Southern California home “The Christmas Song”; “We Three Kings”; is readily evident on this CD. The producer “Good King Wenceslas”; “Away in a and audio engineer was Terry Cutshall, Manger”; “O Come, All Ye Faithful”; whose endearing labor has enhanced “White Christmas”; “Carol of the Bells”; many seminal George Wright recordings. “Silent Night”; “Little Drummer Boy”; Mastering was done by Bill Lightner, who “O Holy Night”; “My Favorite Things”; reaffirms his expertise at putting the final “Sleigh Ride”; “Winter Wonderland”; touches on high-quality recordings. “Home for the Holidays”; and “Joy to Liner notes were written by John and are the World.” spare. A few photos of the console are Available for $15, plus shipping and included, but none of the music room or Compact discs, cassettes, videos, books, and handling, from Duo Arts, 1153 Oakdale John. For more information and pictures, music to be reviewed should be sent to the the listener is referred to John’s web site, Editor, Jeff Weiler, 1845 South Michigan Road NE, Atlanta, Georgia 30307, Avenue #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616. Items 404-808-7136, www.duoarts.com. www.organhouse.com. must be received three months prior to the — Stanley D. Hightower issue date in which the review will appear.

44 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:14 PM Page 45

The Music—Perhaps more than any RHAPSODY IN BLUE other source in musical history, Disney’s film scores chart the gamut of human Piet van Egmond at the emotional experience. Often showcased by Steinmeyer organ, such unexpected things as a teacup or crustacean, they unite us through a Princessekerk, cinematic experience that teaches tolerance Amsterdam and love. From 1948 to 1967 organist Piet van Snippets of the most poignant Disney Egmond, well known as a recitalist in movie music composed in the past 50 years the Netherlands and United Kingdom, can be heard on this all-Disney CD. played weekly “Popular Organ Recitals” Fourteen tracks, most of which are medleys, which were broadcast by NCRV, the The pre-Hitler Steinmeyer organ is render the vast Disney musical genius to Dutch Broadcasting Company. This disc interesting as an example of a German firm’s just over an hour in this salute to John’s has been compiled from the NCRV archive idea of a “romantic” organ, which is legendary employer. and contains 12 transcriptions from orches- somewhat different from our own. The The Artist—With the vast resources of tral and piano works. These programs Steinmeyer company seems to have been this instrument upon which to call, John were broadcast from the Princessekerk completely innocent of the concept of a explores “color” ensembles and phrasing in Amsterdam, on a 1924 more-or-less Full Swell as we English-speakers have less familiar to traditional theatre organ romantic style organ by the G. F. Steinmeyer come to know it. The flutes are very pretty, listeners. Described as “Unusual harmonic company of Nuremberg. and the flue chorus is acceptable until the derivatives…,” some of these sounds The performances are varied in upperwork is added, whereupon the organ will be more familiar to classic organ character, as one might expect of excerpts begins to shriek like a banshee. The chorus aficionados. Taken as John’s way of from over 15 years of radio programs. On reeds are quite nice when played alone, but expressing the lyrics of a song, these some broadcasts the playing is merely in full combinations they are practically moments become an adventurous if not competent, while on others the organist inaudible under the shriek. The strings are curious experience. plays extremely well, really capturing the so Geigen-y as to be no strings at all. The John’s fans will find this CD a worthy spirit of the music. Although the booklet solo reeds seem to be limited to a very nice discography entry. Organ builders will informs me that I am supposed to find the Clarinet and an unfortunate Oboe which is recognize the competence behind the sound eponymous “Rhapsody in Blue” to be the among the ugliest and worst-regulated stops and be grateful so many historic parts have “high point of the CD,” I found the most I have ever heard. In a few passages we hear been rescued. To everyone else, Magic! The exciting selection to be the Kreisler a glass-shattering, Teutonic über-cornet Music of the Mouse will likely be a pleasant transcription, which is played with great which defies description. It was a good try, hour’s entertainment. vitality. Also of particular interest is Mr. van I suppose, but the Steinmeyers really ought Available at $20, including postage and Egmond’s own improvisation, a concert to leave the romantic organ to British and handling, from JBL Productions, 28933 waltz in true Viennese style. The “Rhapsody American builders. Wagon Road, Agoura, California 91301 or in Blue” is enjoyable, despite some Rhapsody in Blue is interesting chiefly www.organhouse.com/jbl_productions.htm. questionable tempos and odd choices from an historical point of view. If you are — Stephen L. Adams of registration. interested in organs or musical transcription While the Princessekerk provides a per se, do buy it, but for casual listening very live acoustic, the quality of the you can leave it on the shelf without being recordings is as good as one might expect deprived. from radio transcriptions, and old ones at The selections on the CD are: Adolphe that: tape hiss is very evident, and there is Adam: Overture to If I Were King; Delibes: a bit of distortion on full ensembles. In a few Selections from Coppelia; Alexandre spots, there is the unmistakable squeal of Luigini: Egyptian Ballet, Part 1; Dirk dried-out recording tape being unwillingly Shäfer: Two “Interludes” from Op. 17; dragged across the playback head. There Debussy: “Clair de Lune”; Sibelius: are also some extraneous room noises which Finlandia; Dvorak: “Largo” from Symphony are to be expected on a live broadcast, and No. 9; Fritz Kreisler: Selection from The some distinctly xylophonic action noises King Steps Out; van Egmond: from the instrument are noticeable in “Improvisation”; Lee Sims: “Shoutin’ quiet passages. Additionally, tremulants are Glory”; and Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue. adjusted in a quasi-theatre organ manner, Available at $9.98, plus shipping and and the organ is much happier without handling, from the Organ Historical Society, 1'1JIG-ICI tremolo. www.ohscatalog.com. THE MUSIC OF THE MOUSE — Stanley D. Hightower John Ledwon a, the Mighty Wurlitzer JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 45 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:14 PM Page 46

In particular, this device is quite valuable orchestral organ, and students must be for the beginning organist who soon learns aware of this clear distinction from the start. the technical necessity of chordal efficiency In seeking to properly register these pieces, (non-duplication of chord tones) in order to a student would be better advised to ask his create clean textures. instructor for some pointers, do some careful A glance through the volume quickly listening to favorite theater organ albums reveals other interesting construction details and consult one of the few available sources worth noting. For the organist first becoming about the subject of registration such as acquainted with use and construction The Secrets of Theatre Organ Registration of counter melodies, as well as the by Walter Strony (1991, published by Walter manipulation of 2nd touch, these are noted Strony). (ex: “Volare” mms. 28–31 or “Charmaine” On now to our second collection of Rio mms.16–19) when appropriate for both right arrangements: Sacred Duets for Organ and and left hands. On a practical level, Piano. Properly speaking, these pieces are arrangements are also usually kept to two ecclesial and not secular in origin. This pages to avoid inconvenient turns in aside, however, when looked at stylistically, performance. Several measures of the final they show much of the same careful two arrangements (“Spring is Here” and arranging seen in the collection mentioned “Autumn Serenade”) are notated in full above. Printed in full score (organ on three which represents a nice transition for staves and piano on two), this work students moving to a more advanced level represents more of a challenge to both the THREE ROSA RIO SHEET of interpretation. Another nice feature is the pianist and organist technically, yet the consistent variety of meter and key. This arrangements are seldom difficult and quite MUSIC COLLECTIONS creates an all-important opportunity for a rewarding musically. It might be better to Rosa Rio’s arrangements spanning the “breath of fresh air.” In some cases, these think of the theatrical role of the organ in three collections Rosa Rio Special changes are really quite novel, such as at these arrangements as that of an orchestra; Arrangements for all Organs, Sacred Duets ms. 37 of “Charmaine” where we move from frequently in places we see the organ in for Organ and Piano arranged by Rosa Rio, 3/4 to 4/4 with some lovely syncopations dialogue with the piano. Although one finds and Organ Arrangements of Classic Melodies noted in the right hand as part of the new, the occasional portamento for the organ, Volume III arranged by Rosa Rio traverse brighter tempo. It reminds the author of nothing about these arrangements would the entire range of skill levels. All three of some of Ann Leaf’s delightful musical preclude their being played and effectively them are compilations of works extracted sleight-of-hand as can be heard in her registered on a classical organ. Unlike the from previously published material. recording That Ain’t the Way I Heard It. previous volume, no registrations are Perhaps the best part of all three collections In fact, as a teaching tool or book for suggested. Overall, this is an excellent is that they give a little something for further musical development, the only collection to keep in one’s library as a everyone, although they vary completely in aspect of this edition which warrants any church organist—effectively arranged duets their overall character. criticism is the unfortunate inconsistency in for piano and organ are difficult to come by. The first of them, Rosa Rio Special registration. “Volare,” for example, suggests Finally, of perhaps the greatest interest Arrangements for all Organs, consists of on the Hammond Organ to use 76-8806-000 amongst all three volumes being reviewed eleven arrangements of early to mid-20th on the Solo (upper) keyboard, while the “all is Organ Arrangements of Classic Melodies century popular songs. The scores at first organ” registration is indicated as “Tibia 8', Volume III. Notated fully on three staves, glance appear to resemble “fake book” Fr. Horn 8', Flute 8-4'.” Even in trying to contained herein are six fantastic arrange- notation; i.e., melody in treble clef with understand this as a broad tonal suggestion, ments of theater organ standard literature. chords written above. Pedal notes, however, one realizes that the former is a chorus This volume in particular would be a valu- are also indicated below the chord symbols based on the 16' pitch series, the latter on able addition to the library of any organist as encircled note names. This is an the 8'. The author also objects to the working in the moderate to advanced skill important addition as it automatically builds classification “all organ.” The tonal palate level. More importantly than that, however, into these arrangements the correct of a theater organ is not interchangeable they provide excellent material for teaching inversion to be used at each chord change. with that of the classical or even the the art of arrangement itself.

“They give a little something for everyone, although they vary completely in their overall character.”

46 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:15 PM Page 47

Efficient, stylistically innovative, har- challenging pieces of the collection, the Sacred Duets for Organ and Piano monically interesting and carefully planned three-page composition even includes a few arranged by Rosa Rio out, these are arrangements which have small passages for solo pedal as well as $20 plus shipping and handling a musical language which is completely several meter changes. It is a work well Michael’s Music Service Rio’s, although one can also hear the worth performing and, it is important to Copyright 1979 with permission of Bradley unmistakable distant echo of Jesse Crawford note, a piece of organ literature composed Publications in the highly efficient voice leading, specifically for the theatre organ. “Oh, Happy Day”; “Just a Closer Walk occasional use of blocking with the melody All three collections are available at the with Thee”; “Blessed Assurance”; “Were mise en scène. prices indicated below from Michael’s Music You There?”; “Beautiful Isle of Speaking of Crawford, “Forgotten Service, www.michaelsmusicservice.com, Somewhere.” Melody”—the work he made famous 704-567-1066. through his radio broadcasts—is one of the Organ Arrangements of Classic Melodies works to be found in this collection. Also Rosa Rio Special Arrangements Volume III arranged by Rosa Rio appearing in an interesting setting here is for all Organs $15 plus shipping and handling “Moonlight Serenade” which combines the $17 plus shipping and handling Michael’s Music Service opening right hand motive of Beethoven’s Robbins Music Corporation Copyrights 1928, 1930, 1931, 1933 1938, Sonata Op.27 No.2 known popularly as the Copyrights 1919, 1923, 1924, 1926, 1934, 1939, 1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, “Moonlight” with Glenn Miller’s well-known 1938, 1939, 1945, 1947, 1951, 1952, 1961, 1961 1966, 1969, 1979 with melody in the left hand. 1954, 1958, 1961, 1962, 1965, with permission of Alfred Publishing Company From this collection, in particular must permission of Robbins Music Corporation “Moonlight Serenade”; “Manhattan be mentioned “Dreaming”—composed by “Alice Blue Gown”; “All I Do is Dream of Moonlight”; “Dreaming”; “Forgotten Rosa Rio herself. It is the only of her You”; “Autumn Serenade”; “Charmaine”; Melody”; “Manhattan Serenade”; compositions appearing to date in published “In a Little Spanish Town”; “June Night”; “Holiday.” form. Some readers might remember that “Over the Rainbow”; “Spring is Here”; — Steven Ball this work appeared on a recital program by “Swingin’ Down the Lane”; “Tender is the Lew Williams during his performance at Night”; “Volare.” Grace Baptist Church during the 2006 ATOS convention. One of the more

SHOPPINGFORRECORDINGS

Allen Organ Company— JBL Productions— Organ Stop Pizza— P.O. Box 36, Macungie, Pennsylvania 8933 Wagon Road, Agoura, California 91301, 480-813-5700 x200, www.organstoppizza.com 18062-0338, 610-966-2202, www.organhouse.com/jbl_productions.htm Pipe Organ Presentations— www.allenorgan.com/www/store/maincds.html Stan Kann—2952 Federer Place, St. Louis, 760-324-0470, Steven Ball— Missouri 63116, www.stankann.com [email protected], 734-846-3627, www.stevenball.com Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust— www.pipeorganpresentations.com Banda—(George Wright recordings), http://theatreorgans.com/lancast/lanc1.htm Bob Ralston—SPOTOMA, 17027 Tennyson 720-733-2905, fax 720-733-2137, Michael’s Music Service— Place, Granada Hills, California 91344-1225, [email protected], 4146 Sheridan Drive, Charlotte, 818-366-3637, www.bobralston.com http://theatreorgans.com/cds/banda.html North Carolina 28205, 704-567-1066, RJE Productions—P.O. Box 44092, Coming soon: www.georgewrightmusic.com www.michaelsmusicservice.com Racine, Wisconsin 53404-7002, Canterbury Records —626-792-7184 Midnight Productions, Inc.— www.rjeproductions.com Central Indiana Chapter–ATOS— 800-788-1100, [email protected], Rob Richards—www.robrichards.com 1431 North Audubon Road, Indianapolis, www.theatreorgan.com Roxy Productions— Indiana 46219, www.cicatos.org MSS Studios—www.organ.co.uk 480-460-7699, [email protected] Cinema Organ Society — Musical Contrasts— T-V Recording— www.cinema-organs.org.uk [email protected], www.lynlarsen.com 408-248-6927, [email protected] Dickinson Theatre Organ Society — NOR-CAL TOS— Walter Strony—www.waltstrony.com 302-995-2603, www.geocities.com/dtoskimball Box 27238, Oakland, California 94602-0438 Wichita Theatre Organ Mark Herman Productions LLC — — Organ Historical Society— 316-655-8177, [email protected], P.O. Box 5059, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46895, Box 26811, Richmond, Virginia 23261, www.nyparamountwurlitzer.org www.markhermanproductions.com 804-353-9226, Fax 804-353-9266; JAV Recordings— [email protected], www.organsociety.org 888-572-2242, www.greatorgancds.com

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48 THEATREORGAN Of English Horns and Ensembles BY EDWARD MILLINGTON STOUT III

Some months ago a discussion completely wipe out the rest of the developed on the Electratone Highway™ ensemble. The microphones heard the concerning the Wurlitzer English Horn. As organ differently, and they gave the organ a the hay wagon jerked down the dusty path, two-dimensional effect, full organ without various organ technicians and organists the English Horn and full organ with the jumped on and off with their burnt Horn. I might point out the fact George offerings. It was most enlightening to Wright did make use the English Horn associate the opinions with the specific age tremulant. and experience of the writer. The Pasadena Studio organ did not have (Stout Collection) Those who have been exposed to some a Wurlitzer English Horn before or after the blending quality of the original Wurlitzer of the great early orchestral Wurlitzer fire. George mentioned it was once in the English Horns. All of the Wurlitzer sets organs, which were vertical installa- Grant Union organ, but theatre organ pipes had a pronounced “Diapason” foundation tions, may have a clearer understanding having a nomadic nature, one can only tone that allowed the otherwise aggressive of English Horn’s responsibility. Most guess. That set seemed to work with the stop to blend with the ensemble. That certainly the earlier Unit Orchestras were extremely bright top end of that well- blending quality was present in both the symphonic in tonal design. The English recorded instrument. 10" and 15" ranks. Horn was the crowning ensemble reed, and The golden age of the Crust Palaces was The gifted Kevin King installed an it did not set aside from the ensemble. The concurrent with George’s Pasadena Studio original Wurlitzer English Horn in his English Horn always had a tremulants and, installation and many of his recordings. Grand Lake instrument, and it blends well. in the model 216, the English Horn was on Several of the young and very brilliant Richard Taylor and his old mentor did a the same reservoir as the Orchestral Oboe talents were designing their “dream” side by side test of two English Horns at and Tibia Clausa. The English Horn was organs, all of which had some sort of the Castro Theatre. The 15" set was not intended to have the power and impact English “Post” Horn. Most of the new installed on its original Brooklyn Fox of an entire division. replicas were much more aggressive than Orchestral toeboards. Directly adjacent, a When asked why the orchestra the original Wurlitzer sets due to their new Möller 10" Post Horn was installed. In normally played with “tremulants on,” an thinner tongues, higher pressures and testing the two ranks with the overall official of the San Francisco Symphony going harmonic in the top octaves. These ensemble, the original Wurlitzer rank on replied: “because it warms up the “chew up the crowd and leave no 15" wind blended better. It could be ensemble.” The principal job of the prisoners” fire-eating voices did not blend, considered a little loud for the bright room, tremulant is to help the radical voices but stood aside from the ensemble. In some but the effect in the two top octaves blend into a warm ensemble, and the respects theatre organs were little more assured installing the Wurlitzer English English Horn was always considered to be than warbling laboratories with their Horn. The Möller Post Horn was very well a part of the ensemble. respective geniuses bending tongues with voiced, but it was far too bright, especially The balance misconception for the their thumbs to accommodate the tornadic in the two top octaves. English Horn was most likely the result of blasts out of the toeholes. Bob Grommes posted the following: “By the George Wright recordings on the San First of all, the series of reproductions all accounts, the original Wurlitzer English Francisco Fox and the Pasadena Studio built by Möller and later by Trivo are Horn is the gold standard, not just tonally, organs. The Fox recordings did not place not true reproductions. Möller’s first not just in how it blends, but also how it the English Horn in its proper balance and reproduction was to have been based on takes a tremulant.” The brilliant and most perspective with the behavior of the room. the 10" rank, which was out of the 165 gifted Lew Williams posted several fine The 15" English Horn at the Fox was the special from the Sequoia Theatre in Mill examples of Jesse Crawford, Sidney Torch, second rank in from the shutters, in the Valley, California. The great reed voicer, George Wright and Dick Leibert all making Orchestral chamber. That manual chest Adolph Zajic, voiced the new rank, but the most musical use of the English Horn on was closer to the openings out into the new set had a harmonic top end, which tremulant. As Richard Purvis often told his house, so the English Horn did have direct accelerated the brightness and power. students: “Listen with your ears, and not contact with the house, but it did not None of the reproductions possessed the your eyes and preconceived notions.”

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 49 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:15 PM Page 50

CENTRAL INDIANA both CIC and ATOS. An honorary plaque was for our third public concert of the season. Indianapolis, Indiana—On May 14 presented. Rob, being the official organist at the Disney CIC-ATOS had the privilege of meeting in the While in Indiana, Ken also accompanied a El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, of course, home of Tim Needler for the first time in silent film at the Long Center in Lafayette. brought us several well-known Disney tunes several years. Members and guests were Shawn Chase reports on that event. in the grand Disney style. treated to the musical talents of Dyne When was your first time? That is, your Also in October came the task of de-piping Pheffenberger and Dr. Michael Davis. Both first time seeing a silent film with theatre and protecting the chassis of the 3/26 gentlemen have enjoyed extensive musical organ accompaniment? The evening of Wurlitzer at Manual High School. A major careers. Tim’s gracious hospitality and the Friday, September 1, 2006 is now the renovation of the school’s auditorium included musical virtuosity of these two gentlemen were answer to that question for the over 900 some reconstruction in the organ chambers. greatly appreciated by all. people assembled at the Long Center for the With the leadership of our indefatigable On June 4 we were very pleased to present Performing Arts in Lafayette. Many were Technician in Residence, Carlton Smith, ten the Australian-based Neil Jensen at the students from Purdue University, and the volunteers removed, bubble wrapped, and Warren Performing Arts Center on the sea of Purdue T-shirts in the audience packed the approximately 1814 pipes into 45 chapter’s 3/18 Barton. All in attendance would have easily allowed one to mistake 2' x 8' wooden pipe trays and removed them enthusiastically received his performance. the occasion for a university sporting event to temporary safe storage. Carlton and the CIC Our July 9 chapter meeting was held at the rather than an evening of silent film. The volunteers have provided about 260 man- Warren Performing Arts Center. Tim Needler event was held in conjunction with the hours of labor to accomplish this temporary played a very professional, ear-pleasing North American Society for the Study removal. The powers that be say that this program. of Romanticism and North American phase should take about six months. (So nine August 13 again found us assembled at the Victorian Studies Association convention, or ten?) Then we get to do it all again in WPAC for a brief business meeting followed taking place at Purdue University. reverse. While this has been a lot of hard by the artistry of Scott Smith from Lansing, The evening opened with Thomas work, it does afford us the opportunity Michigan. Scott is one of the elite few who Edison’s 1910 short film Frankenstein, to get done some much needed repair makes his living solely from his pipe organ followed by the feature presentation, work on several less-than-perfect pipes. activities. It was certainly a pleasure to see the Nosferatu. Lance Duerfahrd, a professor of This reconstruction process brings much- musical side of this multi-talented man. English at Purdue University, introduced anticipated air conditioning to the ever- The annual Ken Double concert was held both films. The enthusiastic ovation sweltering Carl Wright Auditorium and new on September 10 at the WPAC. Ken played lavished upon Mr. Double from the dedicated air-conditioning units to the organ the dedication concert for this instrument in audience following his efforts at the console chambers. We so look forward to concerts in 1997 and has presented an annual concert on removed any doubts as to their enjoyment the newly decorated and comfortable this organ nearly every year since. Ken’s local of the evening. auditorium at Manual High School with the celebrity, stage presence, and vast musical In October we met at the beautiful Embassy magnificent 3/26 Wurlitzer that may now stay talents make this concert a near sell-out every Theatre in Ft. Wayne, Indiana. As we don’t in tune for more than 15 minutes. year. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed Ken’s often get the opportunity to meet at the All of CIC looks forward to sharing this program of mostly 50s hits. Embassy, no one seemed to mind the two-hour “new” old venue and the soon-to-be-installed Mrs. Penny Mitchell has been auditorium drive from Indy. There we were entertained by organs at the Indiana Theatre in Terre Haute manager at the WPAC for many years and has northern Indiana’s own roving musician, Bill and the Circle Theatre in Indianapolis for the been a staunch supporter of the theatre organ. Tandy. Bill’s popular musicality and engaging 2008 convention in Indianapolis. I believe that Penny is as proud of the personality made for a most enjoyable Barton as anyone. Upon Penny’s impend- afternoon. — Kevin A. Ruschhaupt ing retirement from the WPAC, and in We found ourselves at the Hedback theatre Mike Rolfe, President appreciation of her never-failing support, CIC on October 22 to hear Rob Richards pull some 317-466-7745, [email protected] made Penny an honorary lifetime member of amazing sounds out of our 3/11 Page/Wurlitzer

50 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:15 PM Page 51

The deadline for receipt of Chapter News items by the Editor is the FIRST of the month TWO months prior to the THEATRE ORGAN publication date. Text may be edited for space and clarity. Due to space considerations, please submit a maximum of 250 words of text. Submission via e-mail is preferred ([email protected]), accompanied by no more than two photos, scanned at 300 dpi resolution (minimum). Photo prints will be scanned for you if sent via postal mail to: Jeff Weiler, Editor, 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905, Chicago, Illinois, 60616. Photos will not be returned. Please be sure to include the following with Chapter News items: your chapter name and principal city of operation; the name, telephone number, and e-mail address of your chapter president; and the name of your chapter correspondent. A caption and appropriate credit to the photographer MUST be included with photos. Please remember that ATOS policy prohibits inclusion of music titles played at programs or menu items served at chapter functions.

Delaware Valley: Wayne Zimmerman at the Delaware Valley: Host Mark Dresden demonstrating the Kimball console (Photo by Dick Auchincloss) MIDI system (Photo by Dick Auchincloss)

DAIRYLAND Our October 22 social was a birthday part of DELAWARE VALLEY Racine/Milwaukee, Wisconsin—Sunday, sorts when we celebrated what would have Media, Pennsylvania–Recently we visited August 20, we had our 15th annual picnic at been the 100th birthday of John Muri, who the beautiful home of Mark and Carol Dresden the Lake Geneva summer home of Jack passed away in 2001 at the age of 94. The in Media, just outside of Philadelphia. Mark Moelmann. The weather was just beautiful, party was once again held at the Racine home and Carol have installed in their home a 3/17 and that might explain in part why our of Fred and Veryl Hermes. The organist was hybrid in an addition built specially to house attendance at this event hit an all-time low of Dennis Scott, who was a close friend of this instrument. In a previous life the console, less than 20 people, with only 12 of them Mr. Muri. Dennis also accompanied the silent built by Kimball, was temporarily hooked up DTOS members. A musical group, the New film, Golden Age of Comedy, which is full of to the Wanamaker Organ in Philadelphia South Rampart Dixieland Band, even donated excerpts from early comedies, and he played a during the rebuild of its six-manual console, their services and played for us on Jack’s large sing-along using John Muri’s slides from the allowing the organ to be played. deck. A special guest was past president of 1920s. Also presented was a cameo solo, At the Dresdens’ home, all mechanical ATOS, Father Gus Franklin, who also played by a young and upcoming artist, David items are in the basement, with the blower in entertained during open console time on Rhodes. a small building nearby. The wind line from Jack’s Hammond. — Sandy Knuth the blower goes underground to the house and Dairyland began its fall social season on Gary Hanson, President the organ. All we get in the music room is pure Sunday, September 24 at the Racine home of 414-529-1177, [email protected] organ, without any mechanical noise. The Fred and Veryl Hermes. The organ is a five- console sits in a commanding position; off to manual Wurlitzer and is located in Fred’s the side is a grand piano connected with the basement Bijou; it has been featured in organ. At one end of the room are bookshelves several ATOS conventions. DTOS also invited which hide the two pipe chambers. Tuned and the Chicago Area Theatre Organ Enthusiasts non-tuned percussions and the toy counter are (CATOE) to join us, and a large number of located in full view in a balcony above the them did, along with some members of the chambers. Everything just sounds great. Joliet Area Theatre Organ Enthusiasts Our own Wayne Zimmerman gave us a (JATOE). It was fun to meet new people and terrific mini-concert, consisting of tunes from renew old acquaintances with our friends from the entire spectrum. What a show! The man Illinois. The organist was Jelani Eddington, never disappoints. Open console and well-known concert and recording artist, as refreshments followed Wayne’s performance. well as a member of the Dairyland chapter. Those who took to the bench were Tom Surprisingly, Jelani had never played a formal Rotunno, Bob Nichols, Dick Metzger, Steve performance at Fred’s before. Fred joked that Eaklor, and Dick Auchincloss. We also had no expenses were spared in getting Jelani to several “mystery” organists playing through play for us, and that we even paid all his travel the MIDI system installed in the organ. There expenses. Then Fred told us that Jelani only was plenty of music from many sources. lives 1.5 miles from Fred! Jelani played a Many thanks to Mark and Carol for their wonderful program for us, including several hospitality and for sharing a very fine instru- threatre organ classics. It was as if he knew ment with us. what we wanted to hear. Thanks, Jelani, for — Dick Auchincloss making a beautiful fall afternoon even more Harry Linn, Jr., President special. 610-566-1764

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 51 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:16 PM Page 52

Eastern Massachusetts: Stu Hinchliffe, the most senior EMCATOS member, Garden State: Ralph Ringstad plays for Ashley Miller's memorial rides the Knight Auditorium console up on its new lift; Jack Cook (Photo by Cathy Martin). Bob Ralston playing the Trenton Möller (Photos by Bob Evans) (Photo by Tony Rustako)

EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS GARDEN STATE Ralph Ringstad, Jr. playing in Ashley Miller’s Wellesley, Massachusetts—It is with great Trenton, New Jersey—About 50 members style on the 3/24 Griffith-Beach theatre organ. sadness that we inform you of the passing of gathered at Lake Hopatcong in July for Members and friends of Ashley continued to Stan Garniss, long-time chapter corre- the 10th annual GSTOS picnic at Bob and reminisce throughout the evening, long after spondent. We will all miss Stan, a tireless Cathy Martin’s summer cottage. Cal Bacon’s the formal service was concluded. worker for EMCATOS. Technics keyboard and Tony Rustako’s Note: The Miller family has just established Summer has been a busy and productive Miditzer computer program allowed for solos an annual Ashley Miller Memorial Concert as time for EMCATOS. Knight Auditorium, our and duets. Sheila Mendel’s beautiful violin an annual GSTOS event. All initial donors will home, received a major renovation. The hall artistry captured everyone’s attention. be listed as “founders.” This is an opportunity now boasts of a new heating system, hardwood August’s organ crawl included the Delaware to say thank you once more to Ashley Miller floor, and freshly carpeted lobby. In addition, Valley and South Jersey theatre organ for all the music he has given to us, and to new lighting was installed. The hall has a societies. At the Trenton War Memorial 12 memorialize his name. Anyone wishing to vibrant new look. of the 40 attendees took turns playing the contribute to this memorial may send their Our organ maintenance crew was very busy. 3/16 Möller. The group grew to 55 as we checks to Catharine Oliver, 612 Oakcrest Don Phipps, Ken Duffie, and Dick Hill moved on to Nina Heitz’s home for a Road, Brielle, New Jersey 08730. Checks constructed a carpeted platform top for our bounteous buffet and open console on the should be made out to GSTOS and noted to be new hydraulic lift and an enclosure for 3/23 Wurlitzer hybrid. for the Ashley Miller Memorial Concert Fund. our new 15-horsepower blower. Thank you, Three significant events marked our fall Later in October, GSTOS was proud to once gentlemen. season. In September, installation of new again offer a full concert at the Trenton War A work party also removed years of officers took place at the home of incoming Memorial’s Patriot Theatre. Bob Ralston, of accumulated and unused materials from our president Ed Fritz and his wife, Dolores. Lawrence Welk fame, showed off not only the work/storage area under the stage. Special plaques were given to outgoing 3/16 Möller but the Steinway grand piano. The On Sunday, October 8, Jack Cook, resident officers: president Don Hansen, vice- Möller played flawlessly throughout the organist/curator of the 2/10 Wurlitzer at president Virginia Messing, and treasurer Bill concert; kudos to Jay Taylor and his crew. the Stadium Performing Arts Centre in Furcht. Michael Cipolletti and Catharine — Catherine Martin Woonsocket, Rhode Island, entertained an Oliver were installed as vice-president and Edward W. Fritz, President enthusiastic audience at our first social of the treasurer, respectively. Marilyn Fitz will 973-694-5173, year. Jack offered standards and show tunes to continue in her second term as chapter [email protected] an appreciative audience. Come back again, secretary. After lunch by the pool, members Jack; you’re always welcome. took turns at the Fritzes’ new Walker theatre We have an exciting year ahead with our organ. Holiday Bash featuring Jim Riggs, a January A beautiful memorial service for our much- concert with Brett Valliant, a Ken Double loved member, Ashley Miller, was held in concert at our January social, and a silent film October. Ashley’s family came in from Florida in March. Phil Kelsall, popular Blackpool and New York to be with us in celebrating the organist, will round out our 2006–2007 life of their husband and father. The event took concert season in early May. place at Bob and Cathy Martin’s home. The — Bob Evans, President full program included video clips of Ashley 508-674-0276, [email protected] performing in his inimitable style, shared remembrances from those in attendance at the memorial, letters from friends like Rosa Rio and other highly regarded organists, all interlaced with music performed by organist

52 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:16 PM Page 53

Garden State: New officers Mike Hudson-Mohawk: The stage at Proctors Kingston: Ken Keyes, Chris Whyman, Stephanie Cipolletti, Catharine Oliver, and Ed Fritz Theatre during the October 2 banquet Attwood, Roy Young and John Gerretsen at the Trilium (Photo by Tony Rustako) (Photo by Norene Grose) Foundation grant presentation (Photo by Jim Hopkins)

HUDSON-MOHAWK board member and has served the chapter in KINGSTON Schenectady, New York—The 2006/07 several capacities over the years. Member Ontario, Canada—Thursday, October 5, season of the Hudson-Mohawk Chapter Avery Tunningley continues to demonstrate was the 25th anniversary of the installation of commenced a month later than usual due to his prowess as an interpreter and innovator in the Kingston chapter’s refurbished Kimball renovations undertaken during September in the area of silent music accompaniment. He organ, as well as that of KTOS itself. Proctors Theatre in Schenectady. Proctors has played a number of times at the New York Stephanie Attwood presented us with a is the home of Goldie, the 3/18 Wurlitzer, State Fair in Syracuse and also performs $40,000 grant on behalf of the Ontario and the focal point of most club activities. regularly at the Capitol Theatre in Rome, Trillium Foundation for the preservation of Our schedule began with the October 2 New York. He continues to provide his very our organ. catered banquet on the stage, coordinated by entertaining silent film series the first Friday The evening’s concert, first of the season, Maude Dunlap. Philip Morris, Proctor’s CEO, of each month at the Union Presbyterian was performed by Richard Hills, former announced the adoption of Goldie by an Church in Schenectady, New York, accom- organist for Westminster Abbey in London, area health plan, MVP-Gold. The adoption panied by chanteuse Bubbles LaRue, who with a cameo singing performance by Chris includes publicizing Goldie events, promoting presents a mini-concert prior to the movie. Whyman, Town Crier. Richard Hills’ amazing the instrument, and contributing money for — Norene Grose performance included novelties and medleys. maintenance. Later in October, our annual Frank Hackert, Chair There was hardly a stop on the organ that he Halloween party was held at the home of 518-355-4523 didn’t use at least once. An overture made a member John VanLaak. John’s organ, piano, grand finish to a brilliant concert; it wasn’t and harpsichord were played by Al Moser, quite over, though: Richard then performed a John Wiesner, Frank Bosher and Bob novelty rendition which showed off his sense Frederick. of humor and used a whole host of really neat The free noon concert series sponsored tricks to amuse the audience. by Proctors Theatre and our chapter began In attendance at the VIP reception prior to on October 3 with Carl Hackert and the concert were Mayor Harvey Rosen; vocalist/accordionist Sam Madia. The Kingston’s MPP (member of the provincial Halloween show was presented on the day parliament) John Gerretsen; Ken Keys, former itself and starred Ned Spain, assisted by mayor of Kingston; John Carey, an original organists Carl Hackert and Charles Jones, and member of KTOS; Gilles Bruyere, organ vocalists Ann Hoffman and Tiffany Bethuniak. technician; Arthur Critchley, organ relay These events continue to grow in popularity. electronics; and organ tuner Alain Gagnon. Several chapter members were in the Please check out our website at www.ktos.ca. spotlight in past months. Donna Tallman, club — Audrey Robinson historian, received the Organ Club Volunteer (At age 15, the youngest playing of the Year award on September 28 at the member of KTOS) annual Proctors Theatre Volunteer Party. She Roy Young, President was also celebrated for her 20 years of service 613-386-7295, [email protected] to the theatre and our chapter at a dinner prior to the ceremony. Donna has consistently demonstrated a willingness to assist in any task involving Goldie maintenance and repair. Helen Menz, last year’s Volunteer of the Year, celebrated her 90th birthday with a party on October 21 attended by over 100 family members and friends. Helen is a longtime

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 53 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:16 PM Page 54

Land O’ Lakes: Dave Kearn at Paul London: Hannah-Jade (left), Elaine, Mary-Ann London: John Atwell at the Kilburn State Kenworthy’s Allen LL324Q (Photo by Kim Crisler) wearing the chain of office, and Adam (Photo by David Coles) (Photo by Mike Clemence)

LAND O’ LAKES LONDON AND SOUTH LOS ANGELES Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota/Hudson, OF ENGLAND Los Angeles, California—Wurlitzer Wisconsin—On September 10, 20 members Woking, Surrey —We have sad news to start Weekend 2007 orders are coming in; if you are and friends gathered at the Heights Theatre. with as we come to terms with the sudden reading this in early January, we can very Following a brief business update, Kim Crisler death from a heart attack of a hard-working probably still find room for you at all of the played a program of varied selections at the committee member, Bernard Baldwin. venues. Come and enjoy the beautiful warm 4/14 WCCO Wurlitzer. Bernard’s contribution at Woking and his California sunshine. The five-event weekend The Heights presented the week-long engineering skills are being sorely missed. We package kicks off at the Opulent Orpheum festival, “The Films of Harold Lloyd” extend our condolences to his wife, June, and Theatre in downtown Los Angeles at 8:00pm September 8–14, followed by the second his family. on Friday evening, January 12 with the annual “Viva Vitaphone!” on September 16. On September 9, Adam Evans was at the recently discovered and restored silent film On September 20 we had a special screening console of our 3/19 Wurlitzer at the Leisure Beyond the Rocks, starring Gloria Swanson and of the MGM classic Meet Me In St. Louis, with Centre. He gave a wonderful performance with Rudolph Valentino. Bob Salisbury will be at a special appearance by the film’s co-star, a wide-ranging programme of music. Adam the console of the historic original installation Margaret O’Brien, who fielded a question-and- won our Young Theatre Organist Competition 3/13 Wurlitzer. Saturday morning starts early, answer session after the movie. The Wurlitzer in 1998 and became the overall winner of the with an 8:00am concert at the El Capitan was kept busy with pre-show concerts by International Competition held at the Theatre in Hollywood with house organist Rob Heights’ house organists Karl Eilers and convention in 1999. Richards at the console of the former San Harvey Gustafson, and guest organist Dave On October 8, we were very pleased to have Francisco Fox 4/37 Wurlitzer. Rob will be Knudtson from the Fargo Theatre. the 4/16 Wurlitzer at the State Theatre Kilburn joined by his perennial sidekick, Ralph Wolf. Chris Elliott opened the Phipps Center in London in the talented hands of John Atwell Saturday evening Jelani Eddington will be for the Arts’ 2006/07 Organ Series on from Australia. John’s skillful musicianship featured at the newly installed Wurlitzer in September 24 accompanying the 1924 silent was not to be missed; and the larger-than- South Pasadena High School auditorium. classic Peter Pan at the 3/17 Wurlitzer. usual audience was treated to many lovely Peter Crotty, Chris Gorsuch and other This was the first film adaptation of J. M. registrations full of beautiful tone colour, volunteers have spent many hours on this Barrie’s play directed by Herbert Brenon, rarely heard on this classic instrument. project. Sunday morning events start at featuring its innovative use of special effects. October 22 saw us gathered at Woking 11:00am at the Paramount Ice Rink, featuring Chris’ score consisted of several musical for our 128th Young Theatre Organist Chris Gorsuch in the organ loft, with a buffet excerpts that engaged the audience into the Competition. The three entrants were: brunch served during the concert. Sunday action of the film. The series continued with Hannah-Jade Murphy, 15 (Woking); Mary-Ann afternoon the newly appointed ATOS Jelani Eddington on December 2. Wootton, 12 (Lancashire); and Adam Zair, 16 president Ken Double will preside at the About 16 members gathered at the home of (County Durham). Each entrant played music console of the Plummer Auditorium Wurlitzer Paul Kenworthy for our October 15 meeting on of his/her own choice, as well as a set piece: in Fullerton. Attend all five events and a brisk afternoon. Dave Kearn was the “Fools Rush In,” arranged by Bill Irwin. the buffet brunch for $85. This is a drive- featured artist on Paul’s LL324Q Allen, with The judges were Len Rawle and Keith yourself mini-convention, with driving open console following. Beckingham, who congratulated all three. instructions provided. In a separately priced Other events included November 11 Finally, Mary-Ann was judged the winner, event on Sunday evening, Ron Rhode at Metropolitan Community Church in followed by Hannah-Jade in second place, and will be performing at the Old Town Music Minneapolis featuring our 3/11 hybrid organ, Adam in third. While the judges conferred, Hall at 7:00pm. and December 2 at the Heights Theatre in a Elaine Dawes, the previous winner, played a joint event with the Twin Cities AGO Chapter. lovely mini-concert. More information is available online at — Ian Ridley, President www.loltos.org. [email protected], — Terry Kleven, President +44 1494.674944 612-489-2074, [email protected]

54 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:16 PM Page 55

New York: Organist John Baratta with organ students Jeff New York: Jesse Kohl installing rack boards on Chandler, Chris Prestia and Andrew Van Varick at the restored pipe chests at Long Island University Middletown Paramount (Photo by Tom Stehle) (Photo by Tom Stehle)

The Fifth Annual LATOS Oktoberfest was NEW YORK The New York chapter recently took held at the San Gabriel Civic Auditorium. New York, New York—New York chapter advantage of an opportunity to purchase a This year was somewhat different from years members and friends gathered at the Allen used three-manual Allen ADC 4600 past but nonetheless enjoyable. The San Organ Studios of New York in Mineola as electronic theatre organ, with assistance from Gabriel Wurlitzer theatre organ is undergoing guests of owner Steve Frank again this past a generous donor, so that we can present renovation and is presently out of service. In summer, and we had an opportunity to play theatre organ music in schools, colleges, its place that day was an Allen organ and enjoy the Allen GW-IV digital theatre theatres and other venues where there is no graciously furnished by Henry Hunt of Church organ. Thanks to the magic of electronic theatre pipe organ. The Allen was used for its Organs, Inc. in Pasadena, California. The reverb, the small studio is able to assume the first road show in September at Vassar Allen organ was placed on the lift and was acoustics of a vast theatre. Steve generously College, where organist Ben Model played beautifully for our guests by Jerry provided a delicious lunch for everyone, and accompanied the silent classic Nosferatu as Nagano. He shared the spotlight with Nick members were able to meet and chat with part of the College’s film history program. Ariondo, a very accomplished accordionist. fellow theatre organ enthusiasts and enjoy a And, we have good news from Long Island Together, these two fine gentlemen played full day of theatre organ music. Thanks to University: the University’s 4/26 Brooklyn an extremely enjoyable program that ranged Steve for his hospitality, and also to NYTOS Paramount Wurlitzer is up and playing again, from light classical to traditional popular vice-chairman John Valentino for arranging having been silenced for three years as a tunes. During Mr. Ariondo’s solo portion of the the event. result of damage to solo and orchestral program he spent a few minutes demonstrating Our activities took us north on chambers caused by a leaking roof drain. The the capabilities of his fine accordion. September 16 to the Middletown Paramount University has had all the old room drains In previous years our guest organist had Theatre where we enjoyed a day filled with the replaced, had contractors repair the damaged been joined by a Bavarian-style “Oompah wonderful sounds of the chapter’s 3/12 Mighty plaster in the chambers, and contracted with Band.” This year we departed from this Wurlitzer. Since we had use of the theatre for Crome Organ Company to restore the damaged tradition. That was, admittedly, a gamble, but the full day, members and guests had plenty windchests and other organ components. Late to our delight it was sincerely enjoyed by all in of time to play as well as to catch up with old in August, Ken Crome and company, assisted attendance. and new friends over refreshments in the by volunteers from the New York chapter, Thank you to Dorsey Caldwell for reviewing lobby. In addition to open console, we were reinstalled the restored chests and regulators, our Oktoberfest event in my absence. treated to an excellent mini-concert by and returned the instrument to playing — Wayne Flottman organist John Baratta. Many of our own condition. Members had a chance to hear and Dorsey Caldwell, President talented chapter members, including several play the Mightiest of Wurlitzers at an open 626-798-1820, [email protected] of John’s young organ students, entertained us console and membership meeting at the during open console with a bit of everything University in October. from jazz piano to Bach, and lots of great — Tom Stehle theatre organ music in between. The David Kopp, Chairman Paramount’s director, Maria Bruni, had placed 201-818-9950, ads in the local newspaper promoting the [email protected] event, which attracted a good number of guests from the community who stopped by, some staying for the full day to enjoy the music of our Mighty Wurlitzer. Many thanks to John Baratta for performing for us and also for assisting other players with registrations. Thanks also to Jesse Kohl and Tom Stehle, the organ was in fine tune and concert ready.

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North Texas: Rick Mathews with new admirers at the MPAC Orange County: Dave Wickerham at the Wurlitzer (Photo by Don Peterson) OCTOS 4/35 Wurlitzer (Photo by Randy Foto)

NORTH TEXAS ORANGE COUNTY OREGON Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas—The North Texas Fullerton, California–A warm, sunny day in Portland, Oregon/Vancouver, Washington— chapter, in conjunction with the McKinney a cool air-conditioned auditorium is just The summer 2006 program of the Oregon Performing Arts Center, presented the classic perfect for an organ concert. Dave Wickerham chapter (OCATOS) ended on August 19, on a silent film epic, The Phantom of the Opera, for put the beautiful OCTOS 4/35 Wurlitzer high note on host Larry Plunkett’s 2/14 two performances on October 27 and 28. through all of its paces. Afterwards, we Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ at our third Organist Rick Mathews, who has performed wondered if there was a pipe or percussion annual co-picnic with Columbia River Organ this silent film for at least 30 years, was at the that didn’t get played, but we couldn’t think Club (CROC). Our host began open console 3/17 Wurlitzer. His scoring of the film was well of one. with up-beat classical numbers. He was received and laughter, where appropriate, was Dave’s mastery was displayed when, for his followed by new member, 11-year-old Isaiah evidence of his command of the score. second “doublet” of songs, he did a memorial Horton, who entertained us with a couple of The pre-show promotional efforts were to September 11, encouraging the audience patriotic numbers. Oregon chapter members successful in that there was nearly a full house to sing along with his patriotic tribute of Shirley Clausen, Mike Bryant, Rob Kingdom for each performance in the Courtroom “God Bless America” and the “Star Spangled and several others were in great form. Mike Theatre of the historic Collin County Banner.” There were tears coming from our and Rob did memorial takes on the musical Courthouse. The theatre is delightfully eyes at the conclusion, and it was gratifying to styling of their late good friend, Tom Hazleton. intimate, seating just over 400 and including see the entire audience rise at the beginning of The Oregon chapter is the primary a horseshoe balcony. The chapter’s 3/17 our National Anthem. custodian, maintaining the 3/25 Kimball Wurlitzer has found a most favorable The second half began with a great Laurel theatre organ donated to Portland’s public environment that allows the subtle nuances of and Hardy short, Bacon Grabbers. After a few school district in the early 1930s. Now the organ to be heard clearly and a full more songs, Dave concluded, although one installed in Portland’s Cleveland High registration to be authoritative without being could tell he really wanted to play all School auditorium, it is the site for our overbearing. Although the organ has not been afternoon—and the audience concurred. monthly meetings with open console. Our completed, it was more than adequate to Many new faces were present, as evidenced by September 15 program was a visit and perform its principal job of accompanying the same question about the price of Dave’s discussion with our ATOS Board of Directors silent films. CDs being asked over and over again—a sure liaison, Donna Parker, also a member of our During the intermission of the film, the sign of newbies at a concert. Dave’s CDs didn’t chapter. She told us about programs available audience was invited to take a chamber tour. last out the intermission! to us from the national office and what was At least 50 people each night took advantage Following the concert, Dave spent time changing since the introduction of the newest of this opportunity, and the questions asked talking to a young teenager, Adam Couste, who ATOS officers and Board members. We are were indicative of the audience’s keen interest was extremely interested in the instrument. looking forward to working more closely with in the theatre organ. After the show was It was great to see an artist give so much time her and the ATOS committees at the national finished, Rick spent a half hour at the console to a young man so interested in the music, level. Following her question-and-answer answering numerous audience questions instrument and staging. This may be the start session, she assisted Isaiah by registering regarding the instrument. The chapter has a of a new concert artist—well, let’s hope so! the Kimball for his performance at open new venue in the Courtroom Theatre and is — Pat Mower console. Donna and several other members striving to cultivate an appreciative new Ed Bridgeford, President each played a couple of numbers. It was an audience to enjoy it. 714-529-5594, interesting evening. — Don Peterson [email protected] OCATOS and CROC gathered at the Richard Stewart, President MacNeur Studio in Oregon City to hear the 214-575-7499, [email protected] Puget Sound chapter’s scholarship winner, Nathan Avakian, perform on the George Wright IV Allen Special theatre organ.

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Oregon: Nathan Avakian at the George Wright IV Allen theatre organ (Photo by Luurt Nieuwenhuis)

Nathan, a talented 15-year-old, told inter- PACKERLAND On October 30 we screened The Phantom esting stories about the composers of the DePere, Wisconsin—We had a very good of the Opera at the Outagamie Museum in works he played. He received a standing 2006, with the most silent film shows we have Appleton, Wisconsin, using their historic ovation, for which he rewarded us with a ever done in a single year. Our audience is 1926 two-manual, ten-rank Austin organ. The rousing encore. A great potluck concluded growing, and with each show there are evening started with a welcome by Jane the event. improvements both in publicity and to the Woosley of the Outagamie Museum. Tom Many Oregon chapter members attended production values. McNeely, chapter president, discussed the new ATOS president Ken Double’s energetic As part of All Saints Episcopal Church’s importance of pipe organs. Mark Harris gave September 24 concert at the console of the 150th Anniversary celebration this year, we a talk about 1920s horror films and Lon 3/24 Wurlitzer in the historic Elsinore Theatre showed the classic 1927 Cecil B. DeMille Chaney. Then Frank Rippl explained a bit in Salem. We thoroughly enjoyed both his silent film The King of Kings on April 20. about his score for the film. All who came humorous comments and considerable Frank Rippl performed his own organ enjoyed themselves, and the Austin pipe musical talents. The crowd was enthusiastic accompaniment to the film on the church’s organ sounded wonderful. We thank Robert and appreciative, and Ken responded in kind. two-manual, 25-rank Möller organ. Mark Hoppe for his hard work getting the pipe organ During the intermission in the beautiful Harris from the Green Bay Film Society did a ready for our performance. Elsinore Theatre lobby, Ken discussed with special introduction before the start of the On December 16 we presented the Harold some of the autograph seekers his view of an presentation. Lloyd film For Heaven’s Sake, using the virtual approachable and helpful ATOS membership On Saturday, July 22, our chapter presented Wurlitzer at the DePere Cinema. This show committee. He added that on a local level we The Kid, starring Charles Chaplin and Jackie was the last for 2006 and capped a great year. must encourage new memberships in both our Coogan. Organ accompaniment was provided — Tom McNeely, President own chapter and ATOS: immediate growth of by organist Frank Rippl, who performed on 920-339-8501, [email protected] the parent and local organizations is a virtual theatre organ. This was the imperative if we are to follow our calling and instrument’s debut. It was still under save what is left of our theatre organ history, construction, however, and had only a single both documentary and instrumental. Bravo! keyboard available for this show. Donna Parker accompanied the silent On Saturday, September 9, the Packerland film The Phantom of the Opera to a sizeable Theatre Organ Society presented three silent crowd in Portland’s Hollywood Theatre on comedy shorts, starring Charles Chaplin and October 15. Members of both the Oregon Fatty Arbuckle. We heard the completed chapter and CROC applauded this fine two-manual and pedal virtual theatre organ performance. played by Frank Rippl. Sounds were sampled — Jeanette Nieuwenhuis, Chairman from a 2/8 Wurlitzer Style F. Brett Milan of [email protected] Milan Digital collected samples from the Virginia Theatre Wurlitzer located in Champaign, Illinois.

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Puget Sound: Jonas Nordwall (left) and Andy Crow (Photo by Jo Ann Evans); The Seattle River City: Jack Moelmann at the Markworth 3/24 Paramount and PSTOS presented Swing Era Greats to raise funds for organ restoration Kimball Theatre Pipe Organ (Photo by Jerry (Photo by Tom Blackwell) Pawlak); Greg Johnson and Jerry Pawlak at The Rose Theater 3/21 Wurlitzer (Photo by Steve Witt)

PUGET SOUND RIVER CITY The October chapter meeting was held at Seattle, Washington—On October 8, people Omaha, Nebraska—The River City chapter The Rose Theatre in Omaha, which houses the came from miles around (Canada, Oregon, meeting was held on September 17, 2006 at Wurlitzer 3/21 theatre pipe organ. After a Idaho, and all over Washington) to enjoy a the Markworth residence. This was the short business meeting, guest artists, past- wonderful afternoon of music from the great chapter’s annual picnic potluck. After a president Greg Johnson, and secretary Jerry Swing Era, with Jonas Nordwall at the Seattle short business meeting, president Bob Pawlak commanded the keyboards. The artists Paramount’s Wurlitzer and Andy Crow at the Markworth introduced retired United States pleased the audience of over 100 members grand piano. The audience included members Air Force Colonel Jack Moelmann. Jack was and guests. of the American Institute of Organbuilders instrumental in chartering the RCTOS chapter Since the The Rose Theatre Wurlitzer who were attending their national convention some 22 years ago when he was stationed at console is located at the back of the theater, a in Seattle. No one was disappointed! The Offut Air Force Base in Omaha. You might call projected video of the keyboard was screened organ sounded great, following many hours of Jack the godfather of RCTOS. Jack is an to the front of the theatre. A representative maintenance work by Puget Sound chapter electrical engineer, in addition to being an from local television channel KETV videoed volunteers. accomplished theatre pipe organist who has the concert, a portion of which was featured on To the surprise of the audience, Andy toured all over the world. Jack has quite a wit their Sunday night newscast and also mentioned that in spite of knowing Jonas since about him and is a wonderful host; a group of appeared on their website. the 1960s, this was their first-ever perfor- RCTOS members visited Jack at his home RCTOS anticipated the arrival of Christmas mance together. And what they did was magic! near St. Louis last year for a weekend of with a special Christmas party held on They gave the crowd a taste of everything— wonderful music and hospitality. Jack December 3 at the Markworth residence with organ solos, piano solos, and a number dedicated the Markworth Kimball in its new featuring the keyboard artistry of Dan Bellomy. of duets. location in June, 2001. As always, Jack — Jerry Pawlak The event was organized as a fundraising included his special tribute to the Armed Bob Markworth, President benefit for the Paramount’s Mighty Wurlitzer Forces with a medley of songs that reflect our 402-573-9071, [email protected] Restoration Fund. Although the organ heritage and our patriotism. Jack stated that performed flawlessly for this event, much work he always closes his program with the National is needed to provide complete reliability for Anthem, thereby commanding a standing the future. Over $11,000 was raised toward ovation…which he did indeed receive. the $100,000 goal! A new celeste flute rank was recently added The Wurlitzer is used regularly for the to the Markworth Kimball. Patti and Ed Paramount’s Silent Movie Monday series, Zollman of Wichita added the rank and tuned presented during two months each year. and voiced the Kimball a few days prior Dennis James, house organist, has carved to the September chapter meeting. Patti and out a name for himself as accompanist Ed attended Jack’s program; during open for these movies. The January series will console Patti, a remarkable concert artist, feature three 1929 German expressionist demonstrated the new addition as well as some silent films. More information may be found at of the other fine voices of the Markworth www.theparamount.com. Kimball. Visit www.pstos.org to view nearly 700 The afternoon concluded with a jam session pages of northwest theatre organ history! with participation by members; in addition to — Jo Ann Evans the Kimball 3/24 theatre pipe organ, the Tom Blackwell, President Markworth listening room includes two pianos 206-784-9203, [email protected] and a drum set.

58 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:17 PM Page 59

Rocky Mountain: Warren York responds to a question during Silents Please; Sierra: Craig Peterson and Ken Sooner State: Joyce Doug Thompson and Harry “Doc” Ferguson during Northern Exposure Double with the cake honoring Hatchett at the 3/13 (Photos by Bill Kwinn) Ken’s ATOS presidency Robert-Morton (Photo by Sherry Clifton) (Photo by Bill Rowland) ROCKY MOUNTAIN SIERRA SOONER STATE Denver, Colorado—Silents Please: The pop- Sacramento, California—August featured Tulsa, Oklahoma—Sooner State’s corn consumption was high on September 17 the Sierra chapter’s traditional Hot August September meeting was at the German- at the Holiday Hills ballroom, where 115 Pipes Ice Cream Social. Over 100 people were American Society’s building in Tulsa. We people enjoyed Warren York’s theatre organ entertained by Gregg Isett from Music heard all kinds of music on their Geneva pipe skills. Warren accompanied Teddy at the Exchange; the audience included many of his organ and Baldwin grand piano, along with Throttle with Gloria Swanson and a 34-minute electronic organ fans. He played both the music for banjo, accordion, and violin, as well condensed version of the Black Pirate starring chapter’s 3/13 George Seaver Memorial as some singing. Douglas Fairbanks. What fun to be Wurlitzer and a Roland Atelier which he We opened with our customary singing of transported back to the mid-1920s! brought with him. After Gregg’s performance, the National Anthem, with Carolyn Craft at the Fortunately for us, Warren has a sister we all enjoyed ice cream sundaes. organ. Her varied program followed which (member Margaret Forbess) who lives in Ken Double, ATOS’ new national president, included a gospel number, a Latin medley, and Longmont, so we were able to take advantage was our featured artist in September. He songs from the 1920s and 30s. Next we heard of Warren (along with his projector and his scored three short comedies on the chapter’s Joyce Hatchett and her granddaughter, Sarah films) being in town! Dale Mendenhall Memorial 3/16 Wurlitzer at Sweeney, playing a fun piano duet. Jeanette Northern Exposure: On Sunday, October 22, the Towe Auto Museum. The films were Buster Maxfield followed, closing with a song sung by again at the Holiday Hills ballroom, we Keaton’s One Week (1920), Harold Lloyd’s Hot her husband, Joe. welcomed our contingent of members from Water (1924), and Two Tars with Laurel and Sam Collier was next at the organ. We also “up north” (Fort Collins). We enjoyed a great Hardy. He also played musical selections for heard from Bill Rowland, Bonnie Duncan, afternoon of theatre organ, saxophone, and us before and between the films. We had a Betty Sproull and Mike Stoops playing his grand piano: piano by Ben Favre and Dan special reception for Ken at the intermission accordion. We closed with Bill Rowland’s Farlander; saxophone by Harry Ferguson; and with a cake in honor of his presidency. This daughter, Jocelyn Rowland Hughes, playing theatre organ by Phyllis Ferguson, Kevin was Ken’s first performance for us; we hope it her violin with Bill at the piano. It was truly a Utter, and Doug Thompson—with musical is not the last. delightful evening of music. pause (paws?) provided by Kevin’s seeing-eye Paul Quarino returned to the Dale Our October meeting was at Tulsa dog, Jaylee. Mendenhall Memorial 3/16 Wurlitzer at the Technology Center’s Broken Arrow campus. In Memoriam: Lucille Brooks, our Towe Museum for his traditional October The meeting opened with Phil Judkins serving oldest member (age 102), passed away on cueing of a film for Halloween. He has been as our emcee. Joyce Hatchett (who plays for September 17. We extend our sympathies to our pre-Halloween artist for the last 15 years. Southern Hills Baptist Church in Tulsa) began her son, Richard. We will miss Lucille’s Paul again accompanied the popular Phantom our program at the 3/13 Robert-Morton organ. charm. of the Opera featuring Lon Chaney. He also Bruce Wilkin, who plays for First Baptist — Priscilla Arthur gave us a half-hour mini-concert before the Church in downtown Tulsa, was next, followed Jim Burt, President film, and then ‘played-out’ the audience with by open console. 970-749-1302, [email protected] many of the attendees surrounding the console We enjoyed it very much. until he finished. Paul and the film received — Dorothy Smith their usual well-deserved ovation for an Bill Rowland, President excellent job from the 135 in the audience. 918-355-1562 Next year let’s make it 16, Paul. — Pete McCluer Craig Peterson, President 916-682-9699, [email protected]

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Southern Jersey: The Broadway Theatre comes back to life—the lighting Susquehanna Valley: Organist Ken Double with the of the marquee; Jeff Barker acknowledges applause for his Phantom of Bob Clay Orchestra (Photo by Rick Zentmeyer) the Opera performance (Photos by Fred Oltmann)

SOUTHERN JERSEY New Jersey. It was obvious from Jeff’s SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY Franklinville, New Jersey—The Broadway outstanding performance that he was fully York, Pennsylvania—The 2006/07 season Theatre in Pitman, having just completed a familiar with Phantom. The music blended for organ enthusiasts in central Pennsylvania full rehabilitation, has been the center of our with the action on-screen without distracting started with a bang. On Sunday, September 16, activities for the last two months. The theatre the audience’s attention, helping draw the newly appointed ATOS president and looks brand new, inside and out. An official audience into the story. Most of the music was nationally known theatre organ stylist Ken grand reopening gala show was presented on “ad lib,” with an occasional familiar tune from Double joined the Bob Clay Orchestra for an Saturday, September 23. Two of our organists, opera (most of the settings were in the opera afternoon of big band nostalgia. Harold Ware and Nathan Figlio, played the house, of course) or other classics. None of the Following a few selections from the organ theatre’s 3/8 Kimball pipe organ. Among the music from the Andrew Lloyd Webber version alone, Ken introduced the orchestra. From performers on stage was Erica Scanlon, Miss of Phantom was used. Jeff did not miss a cue. their extensive library they selected well- New Jersey 2004. There were about 500 in He knew what the next scene would be and known tunes made famous by band leaders attendance, which is the largest audience this was ready with the music, harmony and like Glenn Miller and Harry James. In fact, theatre has seen in many years. The seating registration as the new action unfolded. His trumpeter Skip Stine once played with Harry capacity is about 1,000. job was not made easier by the lack of an James, and he faithfully recreated those The following Saturday, September 30, was operating combination action. All registrations fabulous trumpet solos. Following tunes by the open house for the public to come and marvel had to be set by hand. Thankfully, the console orchestra alone, Ken joined in on the Mighty at the beautiful work that had been done has three manuals to ease the problem a bit. Wurlitzer. He even got to sing one number with during the refurbishment. The organists for The organ being only eight ranks helped also, the band. this event were John Breslin and Harold Ware. by reducing the dazzle of the stop key display On Saturday, October 28, we traveled back Several hundred people entered the building of a larger organ. All the sounds needed were to the Golden Age of Radio with the Spirit to witness the splendid décor and hear the there, and they were used with great effect. of the Airwaves Players along with Don organ in all its glory. The performance was followed by enthusiastic Kinnier at the Mighty Wurlitzer. Our favorite Out with the Kinura, in with the Clarinet. applause and an impromptu discussion radio dramas were performed live on stage at That, in an incomplete sentence, is a change between Jeff and the audience concerning the the Capitol Theatre: comedy, suspense, we made to the Broadway Kimball to improve music and restoration of old movie film. westerns. And, of course, soap operas. In the organ’s solo voices. The Kinura was — Fred Oltmann between the re-creations, Don kept us seldom used due to the weird sound and will Joseph Rementer, President entertained with famous theme songs and never be missed. 856-694-1471 commercials of the era. There are two more improvements needed Along with these major events, we’ve had a on the organ. The first and most important is general membership meeting with open the installation of a digital combination action. console and nomination and election of The original combination, an old-fashioned officers. Six of our members play regularly for mechanical/pneumatic, is not working and is the Sunday Classic Film Series at the theatre: irreparable. The second improvement is the Gary Coller, Glenn Houck, Emmitte Miller, refinishing of the console. We propose an Terry Nace, Ivan Spahr and Glenn Thompson. attractive white finish with gold trim to replace Terry and his crew keep the instrument in top the original dark wood finish. The white and condition. gold should look very regal in the spotlight. — Dusty Miller On Sunday evening, October 29, the Sam Groh, President Broadway Theatre presented its first silent 717-534-2470, [email protected] movie since reopening. Phantom of the Opera starred Lon Chaney, and the organist was Jeff Barker of the Galaxy Theatre, Guttenberg,

60 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:34 AM Page 61

Interested in ATOS Membership?

Please tell your musical, historical and preservationist-minded friends about the American Theatre Organ Society and its work. Encourage them to join the ranks! Contact Jim Merry, ATOS Executive Secretary, P.O. Box 5327, Fullerton, California 92838, 714-773-4354 or e-mail [email protected].

Membership Application Valley of the Sun: Ralph Wolf; Rob Richards (Photos by Madeline LiVolsi) Name ______

Address______VALLEY OF THE SUN City, State______Phoenix, Arizona—September 10 found us at Organ Stop Pizza for a pizza and salad Zip/Post Code______buffet luncheon. Charlie Balogh assured us of a really good time with his program of Phone ______beautiful ballads and toe-tapping standards. Chapter members and guests enjoyed a E-mail______very special treat at the home of Adrian Phillips on October 14. Adrian has a Member of ATOS Chapter ______Midmer-Losh symphonic organ with over 100 ranks of pipes in his music room. Help me contact local chapter Featured artists for the evening were Rob □ Richards and Ralph Wolf. These two are □ Renewal □ Past Member quite a pair! At the organ, Rob announced that it would be a night of reminiscing; he played several numbers associated with Payment by:□ Check/Money Order # ______different stages of his career. When Rob and MasterCard VISA Ralph came together for organ and piano □ □ duets, it was just magic! (And their comedy Card Number ______routine wasn’t bad either!) An encore featuring both artists playing the grand piano Expiration Date______was truly impressive. Our silent film series continues at the Security Code (back of card) ______Orpheum Theatre, with Ron Rhode at the console. On October 15, we presented the Signature ______1928 film, Beggars of Life, starring Richard Arlen, Wallace Beery, and Louise Brooks. Date______Work continues on the Phoenix College Wurlitzer. We had hoped to have the organ playing for our October 22 chapter Dues are for 12 months from the date Membership Levels meeting, but unfortunately it was not entered and cover one household. Presidents Club...... $1,000 ready. However, the head of the music Contributions in excess of regular □ Benefactor...... $500 department at the college graciously membership are tax deductible. □ provided us with a Yamaha concert grand □ Patron...... $200 piano for the afternoon. Several chapter □ Sustaining ...... $100 members (including our young organist Send the completed form and Contributing...... $75 your remittance to: □ competition hopeful Eric Fricke) showed Regular ...... $40 ATOS Membership □ that they are just as talented at the piano as (Outside U.S. $15 additional surcharge) they are at the organ. P.O. Box 5327 Student...... $25 — Madeline LiVolsi Fullerton, California 92838 (Age□ 23 and under with documentation) Bill Carr, President Optional Services 623-694-1746, [email protected] □ First Class Mail U.S. only add ...... $15 □ Airmail Outside U.S.add ...... $35

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 61 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:21 PM Page 62

MINUTES OF THE ATOS BOARD OF DIRECTORS SPECIAL TELEPHONE CONFERENCE MEETING Tuesday, August 22, 2006; 6:00 p.m. EDT

A special meeting of the ATOS Board of “That ATOS send EMCATOS a check for 3. Proposal by Michael Fellenzer on Directors was called by Paul Van Der Molen $1000.00 as a positive, pro-active effort August 7, 2006 to change the policy and Carlton Smith pursuant to ATOS Bylaws towards their convention success, with future regarding authorized signatures. Section 4.8. The meeting took place by possible settlement options to be studied at a Board members discussed the proposal to telephone conference call. later date upon the close of the convention. liberalize the signature requirement in order to Vice President Michael Fellenzer, acting as Attached with the check would be a letter allow the Treasurer to issue checks without the President for the purposes of the meeting written by the Publisher apologizing for the President’s co-signature for regularly occurring pursuant to Bylaws Sections 5.6 and 5.71, late publication of the Journal, and expenses for contracted services—namely called the meeting to order at 6:06 p.m. EDT. reiterating ATOS’ interest in working with related to the THEATRE ORGAN Journal. Director Jelani Eddington agreed to keep the EMCATOS for a successful convention.” After the discussion, the following motion minutes of the meeting due to the (Motion: Van Der Molen—unanimous. was made: unavailability of Secretary Jack Moelmann. Michael Fellenzer, who in his capacity as “ATOS Policy ¶ 1(a) is hereby amended by Jelani Eddington conducted the roll call. acting President did not vote on the motion, but adding the following language to the end of Officers present: Vice President: Michael read into the minutes his support of the the second sentence: Fellenzer, Treasurer: Paul Van Der Molen. motion.) Notwithstanding, only the Treasurer’s Elected directors present: Michael Cierski, 2. Proposed rule changes to various signature is required on any regularly Jelani Eddington, Ed Mullins, Donna Parker, programs as outlined in Bob Acker’s occurring expenses provided that a director Doug Powers, and Carlton Smith. The Youth July 29, 2006 e-mail to the Board. with responsibility for the expenditure has Representative to the Board, John Riester was Jelani Eddington suggested that, inasmuch authorized the expenditure in writing (email, present. ATOS Parliamentarian Jeff Weiler as Russell Holmes who chairs the Young fax, or other written communication). For the (who joined the meeting at 6:12 p.m. EDT) Theatre Organist Competition was unavailable purposes of this paragraph, a “regularly was present. Special guests Mike Kinerk and for the call, that the discussion should be occurring expense” includes monthly or bi- Bob Acker (who joined at 6:25 p.m. EDT) were limited to rule changes affecting the Electronic monthly payments for contracted services also present. Competition. including THEATRE ORGAN journal design, With eight board members present, Jelani Following discussion among the board, the mailing, printing and postage, provided that Eddington, in his capacity as Chairperson of following motion was made: such expenses fall within the parameters of the Bylaws Committee, declared a quorum to “To merge the Hobbyist Competition into the the contract. In cases requiring the President’s be present pursuant to ATOS Bylaws Section Adult Division of the Electronic Competition.” signature, the President’s signature may be 4.12.2 (Motion: Cierski—unanimous. Michael waived if the President provides written The meeting followed generally the agenda Fellenzer, who in his capacity as acting authorization (email, fax, or other written that had been distributed on August 21, 2006. President did not vote on the motion, but read communication) to the Treasurer.” 1. Status update concerning the into the minutes his support of the motion.) (Motion: Parker—unanimous. Michael EMCATOS regional convention, Following discussion among the board, the Fellenzer, who in his capacity as acting including discussion of possible following motion was made: President did not vote on the motion, but read remedies for the late publication of “To create a new committee responsible for the into the minutes his support of the motion.) the July/August issue of THEATRE administration of the merged Hobbyist and Michael Fellenzer adjourned the meeting at ORGAN. Electronic competitions (name to be 8:00 p.m. EDT. Convention Planning Coordinator (CPC) determined).” Minutes submitted by John Riester, who Mike Kinerk provided an extensive update to (Motion: Eddington—unanimous. Michael would like to thank Jelani Eddington for his the board concerning his discussions with Bob Fellenzer, who in his capacity as acting notes while acting as scribe for this meeting. Evans of the Eastern Massachusetts Chapter President did not vote on the motion, but read /s/ John Riester, Secretary (EMCATOS). Specifically, Mr. Kinerk relayed into the minutes his support of the motion.) to the board that he had told Mr. Evans that Since Mr. Acker has been responsible for the 1 President Bob Davidson did not participate in the ATOS was very interested in resolving the successful administration of the Electronic special meeting. Accordingly, Vice President situation amicably. Mr. Kinerk said that, while Competition for the past few years and has Michael Fellenzer acted as President during the the late publication was viewed by all as a indicated his willingness to continue in that meeting. See ATOS Bylaws Section 5.7 (“[i]n the serious problem, he felt that in view of the capacity, Michael Fellenzer, in his capacity as absence or disability of the President, the Vice- President shall perform all of the duties of the attendance cap and the expectation that the acting President, appointed Mr. Acker to be the President and in so acting shall have all of the regional will be a sell-out, the financial impact Chairperson of the newly-formed committee. powers of the President.”) would probably be limited. In order to confirm Mr. Acker’s appointment, 2 Under the bylaws, a “majority of the then-acting Mr. Kinerk suggested to EMCATOS and to the following motion was made: voting Directors shall be necessary to constitute a the board that expected maximum financial “That the Board hereby approves the quorum for the transaction of business, except to loss to EMCATOS would be the loss of late-fee appointment of Bob Acker as the chairperson adjourn as hereinafter provided.” See ATOS Bylaws addons that would not be collected because of the newly-formed committee (name to Section 4.12. There are presently 13 voting directors EMCATOS had extended the so-called “early- be determined) responsible for the (9 elected directors and 4 officers/appointed bird” registration rate. administration of the merged Hobbyist and directors), any 7 of whom thereby constitute a quorum. Extensive discussion followed concerning Electronic competitions.” various settlement options, which resulted in (Motion: Eddington—unanimous). the following motion:

62 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:21 PM Page 63

MINUTES OF THE ATOS BOARD OF DIRECTORS SPECIAL TELEPHONE CONFERENCE MEETING Thursday, August 31, 2006; 6:00 p.m. EDT

Special session was called August 30, 2006 2. Donna Parker nominates Ken Double for i Section 4.10 CONSENT TO MEETINGS. The by Board members Donna Parker and Don the office of President. No additional transactions of the Board of Directors at any meeting however called and noticed or wherever Near. Pursuant to Section 4.10i of the ATOS nominations are received. Motion to elect held, shall be as valid as though done at a meeting Bylaws, this action was taken with the full Ken Double as President. Moved: Paul duly held after call and notice, if a quorum be knowledge and full consent of the entire board. Van Der Molen. Carried: Unanimous present, and if either before or after the meeting The meeting followed agenda distributed by e- President Ken Double turns the meeting each Director not present signs a written waiver or mail to the board by Donna Parker. over to Vice President Michael Fellenzer. notice or a consent to the holding of such meeting, Meeting was called to order at 6:06 P.M. 3. Jelani Eddington nominates John or approval of the minutes thereof, or who attends EDT by Acting President, Michael Fellenzer. Riester for the office of Secretary. No the meeting without protesting, prior thereto or at its The scribe, John Riester, conducted the roll additional nominations are received. commencement, the lack of notice to such call: Officers Present: Michael Fellenzer, Motion to elect John Riester as Director. All such waivers, consents or approvals Acting President; Paul Van Der Molen, secretary. Moved: Jelani Eddington. shall be filed with the corporate records as a part of the minutes of the meeting. Treasurer; Directors Present: Mike Cierski, Carried: Unanimous ii Section 4.5 VACANCIES. [Line 12]…Upon the Jelani Eddington, Ed Mullins, Don Near, 4. A planning session was held for two tendering of resignation by any Director to the Donna Parker, Doug Powers, Carlton Smith; vacant Director positions, expiring Board of Directors, the Board shall have the power Youth Representative Present: John Riester. summer 2007 and summer 2008. to elect a successor to take office at such time as Staff Members Present: Jeff Weiler, Pursuant to ATOS Bylaws Section 4.5ii, the resignation shall become effective…. Parliamentarian; Jim Merry, Executive board is considering potential candi- Secretary. A quorum was declared by the dates to be elected at a future meeting. Acting President. a. Motion for the Board of Directors to New Business gather a list of potential candidates, 1. Motion to accept resignation of Bob and reconvene September 8, 2006 Davidson, President; Jack Moelmann, with the intent of filling the two Secretary; Russell Holmes, Director; empty seats. Moved: Don Near. Nelson Page, Director; and Fr. Gus Carried: Unanimous Franklin, President ex-officio with The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 P.M. regret. Moved: Doug Powers. Carried: EST. Unanimous /s/ John Riester, Secretary

MINUTES OF THE ATOS BOARD OF DIRECTORS SPECIAL TELEPHONE CONFERENCE MEETING Friday, September 8, 2006; 6:00 p.m. EDT

Special session was called at the August 31, New Business 2b. Motion: Fill [second] vacated director 2006 meeting. The meeting followed agenda 1. Motion: Change Bylaws Section 4.3i— position on Board of Directors expiring distributed to the board by Ken Double, with Strike last sentence of first paragraph Summer of 2007. Moved: Michael additions/changes by John Riester. and add in place: Each nominee shall Fellenzer. Not carried: 4-6 Meeting was called to order at 6:07 EDT by furnish to the Nominating Committee 3a. President distributed to the Board of President Ken Double. Chairman such personal information as Directors twelve names that had been The secretary, John Riester, conducted the is specified in the notice, and each raised to him in the past week should the roll call: Officers Present: Ken Double, nominee shall furnish such information board decide to fill one or two positions President; Michael Fellenzer, Vice-President; in the manner specified by the and asked if there were any other names. John Riester, Secretary; Paul Van Der Molen, notice. Notice of applicable nomination Discussion proceeded. Motion: Appoint Treasurer; Directors Present: Mike Cierski, procedures shall be in conformity with Vern Bickel to fill vacated director Jelani Eddington, Ed Mullins, Don Near, the written policies that the Board shall position, term expiring Summer of 2008. Donna Parker, Doug Powers, Carlton Smith. from time to time adopt. Motion allows Moved: Don Near. Carried: Unanimous. Youth Representative Present: John Riester. e-mail submission of nominations for [Ken Double will notify Mr. Bickel and Staff Members Present: Jeff Weiler, Board of Directors election WITHOUT confirm his willingness to serve.] Parliamentarian; Jim Merry, Executive use of certified mail. Moved: Jelani 3b. President tabled appointment of com- Secretary; Mike Kinerk, Convention Planning Eddington. Carried: Unanimous. mittee chairs for further consideration. Coordinator. A quorum was declared by the 2a. Motion: Fill [first] vacated director President. position on Board of Directors expiring Summer of 2008. Moved: Paul Van Der Molen. Carried: 6-5 [President casts tiebreaker]

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 63 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:21 PM Page 64

4. Dale Baker/editor file updates: Paul 9. Board accepted with regret the i Section 4.3 NOMINATION AND ELECTION OF Van Der Molen updated Board of resignation of Bob Miloche, Nomi- DIRECTORS. Elected Directors shall be elected by Directors that former THEATRE nations–Board Elections chairperson. annual written ballot in accordance with this ORGAN editor Dale Baker has been Board tabled appointment of new Section 4.3. In the event that the Society fails to comply with this Section 4.3, then Elected notified by email and certified mail, chairperson. Directors shall be elected at the annual meeting return receipt requested, that final 10. Motion: Permit secretary to purchase of members or at a special meeting of members. payment is being held until Carlton computer and printer, fax, copier, Notice shall be given members not earlier than Smith picks up the ATOS editors files. scanner possibly in an all-in-one November 1 and not later than December 31 of 5. Board set mid-year meeting dates: machine, and treasurer to purchase a each year that nominations for positions of Strategic Planning session February 3, scanner with stand, total not to exceed Elected Directors are open. Each member is 2007. Board meeting February 4, $1625.00. Moved: Michael Fellenzer. eligible for nomination and may nominate himself 2007. Travel on February 2 and 5, Carried: Unanimous or herself or be nominated by other members, in 2007. Mike Kinerk will arrange hotel 11. Motion: Authorize President to prepare which case written consent of the nominee is required and must be received before the and meeting rooms in the Chicago/ and send a first class letter to the entire nominee's name can be placed on the ballot. The O’Hare area. membership. Included with the letter close of nominations shall be not less than 50 nor 6. Mike Kinerk provided updates on will also be a copy of the open letter more than 120 days before the day Directors are EMCATOS and Mid-Atlantic Convention. posted on the ATOS website. Motion: to be elected. No nomination for the Board of 7. Board tabled “International News”/ Michael Fellenzer. Carried: Unanimous Directors can be made after the date set for the “Around the Circuit” discussion until The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 P.M. close of nominations. [Each nominee shall furnish the next meeting. EDT. to the Nominating Committee Chairman such 8. President will contact two directors to /s/ John Riester, Secretary personal information as is specified in the notice fill executive committee appointments. by certified, returned receipt, mail postmarked on or before January 15th.] The Nominating Committee shall prepare…

MINUTES OF THE ATOS BOARD OF DIRECTORS SPECIAL TELEPHONE CONFERENCE MEETING Friday, September 15, 2006; 6:00 p.m. EDT

Special session was called September 14, 2. Donna Parker nominated Bill Carr i Section 4.10 CONSENT TO MEETINGS. The 2006 by President Ken Double. Pursuant to for Nominations Chairperson. No transactions of the Board of Directors at any Section 4.10 of the ATOS Bylaws, this action additional nominations are received. meeting however called and noticed or wherever held, shall be as valid as though done at a was taken with the full knowledge and full Motion: Appoint Bill Carr as meeting duly held after call and notice, if a consent of the entire board. The meeting Nominations Chairperson. Moved: quorum be present, and if either before or after followed the agenda distributed by e-mail to Donna Parker. Carried: Unanimous. the meeting each Director not present signs a the board by Secretary John Riester. 3. President Ken Double made the written waiver or notice or a consent to the President Ken Double calls the meeting to following appointments: holding of such meeting, or approval of the order at 6:06 p.m. EDT • Executive Committee (to serve with minutes thereof, or who attends the meeting The secretary, John Riester, conducted the President, Vice-President, Secretary, without protesting, prior thereto or at its roll call: Officers Present: Ken Double, Treasurer): Doug Powers and Don Near commencement, the lack of notice to such President; Michael Fellenzer, Vice-President; • Mentor Program: Donna Parker Director. All such waivers, consents or approvals shall be filed with the corporate records as a part John Riester, Secretary; Paul Van Der Molen, • Youth Theatre Organ Program: Jelani of the minutes of the meeting. Treasurer. Directors Present: Vern Bickel, Eddington Mike Cierski, Jelani Eddington, Ed Mullins, • Organist Scholarships: Carlton Smith Don Near, Donna Parker, Doug Powers, • Acquisition and Expansion: Carlton Carlton Smith. Youth Representative Present: Smith John Riester. Staff Member Present: Jeff • Education and Archival Liaison: Weiler, Parliamentarian. A quorum was Vern Bickel declared by the President. 4. Motion: Remove September 11, 2006 New Business Open Letter from website on or after 1. Motion: Approve minutes from September 25, 2006. Moved: Paul Van August 22, August 31, and September Der Molen. Carried: Unanimous. 8, 2006. Moved: Paul Van Der Molen. The meeting was adjourned at 6:46 p.m. Carried: Unanimous. Discussion EDT. proceeded whether to post minutes on /s/ John Riester, Secretary ATOS.org website. The Board’s consensus was to post minutes.

64 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:34 AM Page 65

"The OTCis loads of fun "The most fun thing and versatile!" G.S. you can add to a theatre organ!" O.H.

Take your theatre organ to the next level of realism! The theatre organs of yesteryear used toy counter sound ef­ fects to give realism to their music. Now your organ can have authentic toy counter sounds by using the Digital Toy Counter. The walnut control bar has thumb pistons engraved with the names of the 12 sounds you select from a list of over 30 high quality digitally recorded sounds. Attaches easily to most organs. Four additional sounds also available for toe stud use. "I will tell you it's everything it's advertisedto be!" G.B. "A great piece of workmanship, looks and sounds great!" R.G. "There's a real needfor a unit like the OTC!" W.S. Crafted from the highest quality materials. Guaranteed. Send check or money order to : Mark Herman Productions LLC Digital TOY COUNTER™ P.O. Box S059 9 Updyke Road, Hunlock Creek, PA 18621 Ft. Wayne, IN 46895 570-477-3688 www.digital-auto.com/DTC.htm www .MarkH1umanProductions .com ·-

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JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 65 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:22 PM Page 66

Theatre Organ Programs and Performances

ALASKA Paramount Theatre—2025 Broadway, Colorado Springs City Auditorium— State Office Building—333 Willoughby Oakland, 510-465-6400 (4/27W). Public tours on 221 East Kiowa Street, Colorado Springs, 719- Avenue, Juneau, 907-465-5689 (2/8K). Organ first and third Saturdays at 10:00am. Movie 488-9469 (3/8W). Sack Lunch Serenade: weekly concerts Friday at 12:00 noon. www.pstos.org/ overtures, Thursdays at 6:30pm. free noontime concert with silent short each instruments/ak/juneau/state-bldg.htm www.paramounttheatre.com Thursday from 12:00 noon to 1:00pm, performed Stanford Theatre—221 University Avenue, by local and guest artists. ALABAMA www.theatreorgans.com/PPATOS Alabama Theatre Palo Alto, 650-324-3700 (3/21W). Organ played —1817 3rd Avenue North, before and after the 7:30pm movie by David Holiday Hills Ballroom—2000 West 92nd Birmingham, 205-252-2262 (4/29W). Hegarty, Jerry Nagano, or Bill Taylor. Call ahead to Avenue, Federal Heights, 303-466-3330 www.AlabamaTheatre.com verify the theatre is open for the evening. (Electronic). www.RMCATOS.org ARIZONA Towe Auto Museum—2200 Front Street, Joel’s Organ Barn—Southeast of Kiowa, Organ Stop Pizza—1149 East Southern Sacramento, 916-442-6802 (3/16W). Sunday 719-488-9469 (4/38H). Avenue, Mesa, 480-813-5700 (4/74W). Winter concerts, 2:00pm; free with museum admission. Mt. St. Francis—7665 Assisi Heights, Colorado organ hours: Sunday through Thursday, 4:30pm to www.toweautomuseum.org Springs, 719-488-9469. 9:00pm; Friday and Saturday, 4:30pm to 10:00pm. Paramount Theatre Summer organ hours: Sunday through Thursday, CALIFORNIA (SOUTH) —Glenarm and 16th Street 5:30pm to 9:00pm; Friday and Saturday, 5:30pm Arlington Theatre—1317 State Street, Santa Mall, Denver, 303-446-3330 (4/20W). to 10:00pm. Charlie Balogh, Lew Williams. Barbara, 805-963-4408 (4/27RM). All concerts on www.RMCATOS.home.comcast.net www.organstoppizza.com Saturdays, 11:00am. http://members.cox.net/sbtos CONNECTICUT Avalon Casino Theatre Orpheum Theatre—203 West Adams, Phoenix, —One Casino Way, Thomaston Opera House—158 Main 602-252-9678 (3/30W). www.silentsundays.com Catalina Island, 310-510-2414 (4/16P). Friday Street, Thomaston, 203-426-2443 (3/15MC). and Saturday, 6:15pm, pre-show concert, John www.ThomastonOperaHouse.org CALIFORNIA (NORTH) Tusak. www.visitcatalina.org Angelino’s Restaurant—3132 Williams Road, Balboa Park DELAWARE —Spreckels Organ Pavilion, San Dickinson High School San Jose, 408-243-6095 (3/13W). Tuesday and Diego, 619-702-8138 (4/73A). All concerts on —1801 Milltown Road, Thursday, 6:30pm to 9:30pm, Dean Cook. Saturday, Sunday afternoons at 2:00pm, unless otherwise Wilmington, 302-995-2603 (3/66K). Concerts at 6:30pm to11:00pm, Dean Cook and “A” Street noted. Carol Williams and guests. August 20, 8:00pm unless otherwise noted. January 27, Dave Band. Silent movies, Sunday, 4:00pm, Dean Cook. 8:15pm, Dennis James, Laurel & Hardy Festival. Peckham; March 10, Dick Smith; March 25, Bella Roma Pizza—4040 Alhambra Avenue, www.serve.com/sosorgan 1:00pm to 6:00pm, Open House with open console; Martinez, 925-228-4935 (3/16W). Tuesday El Capitan Theatre April 3, daytime concert at 10:30am; April 28, —6838 Hollywood Simon Gledhill; June 9, Chris Elliott. through Thursday and Sunday, 6:00pm to 9:00pm; Boulevard, Los Angeles, 800-DISNEY6 (4/37W). Friday and Saturday, 6:00pm to 10:00pm. Tuesday, www.geocities/com/dtoskimball or Organ played for weekend intermissions and www.dtoskimball.org Wednesday, Saturday, Dave Moreno; Thursday, special showings. House organist: Rob Richards; Bob Reichert; Friday and Sunday, Kevin King. Staff organists: John Ledwon and Ed Vodicka. DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Berkeley Community Theatre—1930 Alston www.elcapitantickets.com (WASHINGTON, DC) Way, Berkeley, 510-632-9177 (4/33W). Nethercutt Collection—15200 Bledsoe Street, National Gallery of Art—East Building, 6th www.theatreorgans.com/norcal Sylmar, 818-367-2251 (4/74W). Guided tours Street and Constitution Avenue NW, 202-842- Bob Hope Theatre (Former Fox California)— twice a day, Tuesday through Saturday, at 10:00am 6272 (Electronic). May 5, 4:00pm, Dennis James, 242 Main Street, Stockton, 209-337-4673 (4/21 and 1:30pm. Free admission by reservation. Organ Seventh Heaven. RM). Organ played monthly for classic and silent is played at the end of each tour. Organ concerts on FLORIDA movies and for special occasions and public tours. Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at 2:00pm and Grace Baptist Church—8000 Bee Ridge Road, Castro Theatre—429 Castro, San Francisco, 8:00pm. Reservations required in advance. Old Town Music Hall Sarasota, 941-922-2044 (4/32W). Concerts Sunday 415-621-6120 (4/21W). Intermissions played —140 Richmond Street, afternoons at 3:00pm. www.mtos.us nightly by David Hegarty, Warren Lubich. El Segundo, 310-322-2592 (4/26W). Bill Field at The Kirk of Dunedin January 16, 8:00pm, Dennis James, Nathan of the the Wurlitzer. www.otmh.org —2686 Bayshore Boulevard, Dunedin, 813-733-5475 (4/100H). Way; July 14, 15, Dennis James, film titles to be Orpheum Theatre—842 South Broadway, Los announced (San Francisco Silent Film Festival). www.kirkorgan.com Angeles, 310-329-1455 (3/14W). Saturday, Polk Theatre Fox Theatre—308 West Main Street, Visalia, 11:30am; organ is featured as part of the guided —127 South Florida Avenue, 559-625-1369 (4/24W). Thirty-minute organ tour of theatre. www.laorpheum.com Lakeland, 863-682-7553 (3/11RM). Movie prelude, with guest organist, to frequent classic Plummer Auditorium overtures: 7:45pm Friday and Saturday, 1:45pm —201 East Chapman, Sunday. Johnnie June Carter, Bob Courtney, Sandy movies. www.foxvisalia.org Fullerton, 714-671-1300 (4/36W). www.octos.org Grand Lake Theatre Hobbis, and Heidi Lenker. —3200 Grand Avenue, San Gabriel Auditorium—320 South Mission Roaring 20’s Pizza and Pipes Oakland, 510-452-3556 (3/18W). Intermissions: —6750 US Drive, San Gabriel, 888-LATOS22 (3/17W). Highway 301, Ellenton, 941-723-1733 (4/41W). Friday, Warren Lubich; Saturday, Kevin King. www.latos.org Harmony Wynelands Sunday through Thursday evenings: Open 4:30pm —9291 East Harney Trinity Presbyterian Church—3092 to 9:00pm; organ performance: 5:00pm to 9:00pm. Lane, Lodi, 209-369-4184 (3/15RM). Tasting Kenwood, Spring Valley (San Diego), 619-286- Friday and Saturday evenings: Open 4:30pm to room open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 11:00am 9979 (4/24W). www.theatreorgans.com/ca/tossd/ 10:00pm; organ performance: 5:00pm to 10:00pm. to 5:00pm, or by appointment. Bob Hartzell, live TOSSD/TOSSD.html Saturday and Sunday afternoons: open 12:00 noon and recorded performances. to 2:30pm; organ performance: 12:30pm to www.harmonywynelands.com COLORADO Avalon Theatre 2:30pm. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday afternoons, Johnson’s Alexander Valley Winery—8333 —645 Main Street, Grand Sunday evenings, and alternating Mondays: Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-433-2319 (3/10RM). Junction, 970-242-2188 (Electronic). February 16 Dwight Thomas. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday Daily, in tasting room, from 10:00am to 5:00pm. & 17, Dennis James plus the Grand Junction evenings, Sunday afternoons, and alternating Kautz Vineyards and Winery Symphony, Phantom of the Opera. Mondays: Bill Vlasak. www.roaring20spizza.com —1894 Six www.gjsymphony.org Mile Road, Murphys, 209-728-1251 (3/15RM). Winery tours; theatre pipe organ. www.ironstonevineyards.com 66 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:22 PM Page 67

Key: A=Austin, B=Barton, C=Compton, CHR=Christie, E=Estey, Schedules subject to change. GB=Griffith Beach, H=Hybrid, K=Kimball, M=Möller, MC=Marr Send information for inclusion to: and Colton, P=Page RM=Robert-Morton, W=Wurlitzer. Vern Bickel. P.O. Box 3885, Clearlake, California 95422-3885 Example: (4/19W) = 4 manual, 19 rank Wurlitzer. Voice/Fax 707-994-4436, [email protected]

Tampa Theatre—711 Franklin Street, Tampa, Orpheum Theatre—528 Pierce Street, Sioux Redford Theatre—17360 Lahser Road, 813-274-8981 (3/14W). Movie overtures: Bob City, 712-279-4850 (3/22W). February 2, 8:00pm, Detroit, 313-531-4407 (3/10B). Movie overtures, Baker, Stephen Brittain, Bill Brusick, June Carter, Dennis James, film to be announced; February 3, Fridays at 7:30pm, Saturdays at 1:30pm and Bob Courtney, Sandy Hobbis, Richard Frank, and 2:00pm, Dennis James, film to be announced; 7:30pm. Guest organists: Steven Ball, Gus Bob Logan. April 18, Dennis James plus The February 3, 8:00pm, Dennis James, film to be Borman, David Calendine, Jennifer Candea, Gil Florida Orchestra, Phantom of the Opera. announced. www.OrpheumLive.com Francis, John Lauter, Tony O’Brien, Sharron www.tampatheatre.org Paramount Theatre—123 3rd Avenue, Cedar Patterson. www.redfordtheatre.com HAWAII Rapids, 319-393-4129 (3/12W). Senate Theatre—6424 Michigan Avenue, Palace Theatre—38 Haili, Hilo, 808-934-7010 KANSAS Detroit, 313-894-4100 (4/36W). All concerts start at 3:00pm. (4/8RM). Weekend movies, pre-show enter- Century II Civic Center—225 West Douglas, tainment: Bob Alder. www.hilopalace.org Wichita, 316-838 3127 (4/38W). Richard Hills. MINNESOTA ILLINOIS Saturday, March 24, 7:00pm, Clark Wilson, silent Center For The Arts—124 Lincoln Avenue Arcada Theatre—105 East Main Street, St. film. Saturday, May 5, 2007, 7:00pm, Dave West, Fergus Falls, 218-736-5453 (3/12W). Charles, 630-845-8900. Organ interludes Friday Wickerham. www.nyparamountwurlitzer.org www.fergusarts.org and Saturday nights.www.arcadatheater.com Little River Studio—6141 Fairfield Road, Heights Theatre—3951 Central Avenue NE, Beggar’s Pizza—3524 Ridge Road, Lansing, Wichita, 316-838 3127 (4/19W). Sunday, March 25, Columbia Heights, 763-789-4992 (4/11W). Movie 708-418-3500 (3/14B). Tuesday 6:00pm to 9:00pm, 1:00pm, John Lauter. Sunday, May 6, 1:00pm, overtures every Friday and Saturday. Saturday and Sunday 3:00pm to 7:00pm: Glenn Donna Parker. www.nyparamountwurlitzer.org Minnesota State University Moorhead— Tallar. http://local.yahoo.com/details?id=17277828 MAINE 1104 7th Avenue, South Moorhead, 701-237-0477 Coronado Theatre—314 North Main, Merrill Auditorium—389 Congress Street, (3/7H). Lloyd Collins, Steve Eneboe, Lance Rockford, 815-547-8544 (4/17B). Portland, 207-883-9525 (5/107A). All concerts on Johnson, Dave Knutson, Gene Struble. E-mail: www.centreevents.com/Coronado Tuesdays at 7:30pm, unless otherwise noted. [email protected] Lincoln Theatre—103 East Main Street, February 9, 7:00pm, Dennis James, The Iron MISSOURI Belleville, 618-233-0018 (3/15H). Organ plays Horse. www.foko.org Fox Theatre—527 Grand Boulevard North, movie overtures: Friday, David Stephens; Saturday, MARYLAND St Louis, 314-534-1678 (4/36W). Theatre tours at volunteers. www.lincolntheatre-belleville.com Rice Auditorium—Stoddard Street, Catonsville, 10:30am with Stan Kann at the organ. Rialto Square Theatre—102 North Chicago 410-592-9322 (2/8M). www.fabulousfox.com Street, Joliet, 815-726-6600 (4/27B). Organ pre- www.theatreorgans.com/md/freestate Missouri Theatre—203 South 9th Street, shows and intermissions: Jim Patak or Sam Yacono. Columbia, 573-875-0600 (2/8RM). Schedule to be Theatre tours with Jim Patak at the console. MASSACHUSETTS announced. E-mail: [email protected] Knight Auditorium Babson College Tivoli Theatre — —5201 Highland Avenue, Wellesley Avenue, Wellesley, 508-674-0276 NEW JERSEY Downers Grove, 630-968-0219 (3/10W). Theatre (4/18W). www.emcatos.com Broadway Theatre—43 South Broadway, organ interludes on Friday and Saturday, Freddy The Shanklin Music Hall—130 Sandy Pond Pitman, 856-589-7519 (3/8K). Arnish. www.classiccinemas.com Galaxy Theatre Virginia Theatre Road, Groton, 508-674-0276 (4/34W). —7000 Boulevard East, —203 West Park Street, www.emcatos.com Guttenberg, 201-854-6540 (3/12K). Friday and Champaign, 217-356-9063 (2/8W). Organ played Saturday evenings during intermission, Jeff Barker prior to monthly film series, Champaign-Urbana MICHIGAN (Lobby, 2/6M). Sunday afternoon before matinee, Theatre Company performances, and many other Crystal Theatre—304 Superior Avenue, Crystal Jeff Barker. www.galaxy-movie-theatre.com live shows throughout the year. Warren York, Falls, 906-875-3208 (3/21M). E-mail: [email protected] The Music Hall at Northlandz organist. www.thevirginia.org —Route 202 Fox Theatre—2211 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, South, Flemington, 908-982-4022 (5/39W). Organ INDIANA 313-471-3200 (4/36W) and (3/12M). Lobby organ played several times daily; call for exact times. Embassy Theatre—125 West Jefferson, Fort played for 45 minutes prior to selected shows. Call Bruce Conway, Harry Ley, Bruce Williams. theatre for dates and times. Wayne, 260-424-6287 (4/16P). October 27, Newton Theatre—234 Spring Street, Newton, 8:00pm, Dennis James plus the Fort Wayne Grand Ledge Opera House—121 South 973-579-9993 (2/4E). Friday evening inter- Philharmonic, Phantom of the Opera. Bridge Street, Grand Ledge, 888-333-POPS missions, John Baratta. www.EmbassyCentre.org (3/20B). Sunday, February 11, 3:00pm, Scott Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Auditorium— Long Center for the Performing Arts—111 Smith, Intolerance (1916). Sunday, April 22, 3:00pm, Donna Parker. www.lto-pops.org 27 Pilgrim Pathway, Ocean Grove, 732-775-0035 North 6th, Lafayette, 765-589-8474 (3/21W). (4/154 Hope-Jones + Hybrid). Concerts by www.cicatos.org Michigan Theatre—603 East Liberty, Ann Dr. Gordon Turk. www.oceangrove.org Manual High School—2405 Madison Avenue, Arbor, 616-668-8397 (3/13B). Wednesday through State Theatre Sunday intermissions (times vary). Henry Aldridge, —11 Livingston Avenue, Indianapolis, 317-356-3561 (3/26W). New Brunswick, 732-246-7469 (Electronic). www.cicatos.org Director; Steven Ball, Staff Organist; Newton Bates, Wade Bray, John Lauter, Stephen Warner. February 11, Dennis James, Son of the Sheik, Paramount Theatre—1124 Meridian, Anderson, March 25, Dennis James, Ben-Hur. The Mole Hole—150 West Michigan Avenue, 800-523-4658 (3/12P). www.parathea.org Symphony Hall—1040 Broad Street, Newark, Warren Center Marshall, 616-781-5923 (2/6 B/K). Organ daily, —9500 East Sixteenth Street, Scott Smith, recorded artist. 973-256-5480 (3/15GB). Used for special events. Indianapolis, 317-295-8121 (3/18B). www.cicatos.org www.gstos.org Public Museum of Grand Rapids Meijer Trenton War Memorial IOWA Theater—272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, —West Lafayette Street North Iowa Area Community College— 616-459-4253 (3/30W). Tours by appointment, at Wilson, Trenton, 732-741-4045 (3/16M). Mason City, 641-422-4354 (Electronic). and ATOS guests welcome to hear organ weekly at www.gstos.org noon on Thursdays. Story time slide program Union County Arts Center—1601 Irving Street, during school year. Organ played on Sundays, Rahway, 732-499-8226 (2/7W). www.ucac.org 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

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NEW YORK The Historic Ohio Theatre—3114 Lagrange Keystone Oaks High School—1000 Kelton Auditorium Center—885 East Main, Street, Toledo, 419-241-6785 (4/11MC). Organ Avenue, Pittsburgh, 412-921-8558 (3/19W). Rochester, 585-544-6595 (4/23W). Sunday, pre-show for movies (6:30pm to 7:00pm). All concerts on Saturdays at 7:30pm. January 14, 2:30pm, Donna Parker; Sunday, Masonic Auditorium and Performing Arts www.aol.com/wurli2/index.html February 11, 2:30pm, John Ortloft and Bill Porter; Center—3615 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Longwood Gardens—Kennett Square, 610- Sunday, March 11, 2:30pm, Ken Double. 216-432-2370 (4/28W). Organ is currently being 388-1000 (4/146 Aeolian). Organ undergoing www.theatreorgans.com/rochestr installed by WRTOS, Inc. restoration. Bardavon 1869 Opera House—35 Market www.aasrcleveland.org/tour/aud1-ljpg.htm Macy’s—13th and Market, Philadelphia Street, Poughkeepsie, 914-473-2072 (2/8W). Music Palace—11473 Chester Road, (6/469H). Regular daily 45-minute recitals: Organ played before selected movies. Call or Sharonville, 513-771-1675 (4/22W). Friday and Monday–Saturday, 12:00 noon; Monday, Tuesday, check the website for details. www.bardavon.org Saturday, 11:00am to 2:00pm, and 5:30pm to Thursday, Saturday, 5:30pm; Wednesday, Friday, Capitol Theatre—220 West Dominick Street, 8:30pm. Groups of 20 or more with reservations 7:00pm. Visitors are welcome to tour the console Rome, 315-337-2576 (3/7M). Silent film programs welcome at any time. Call for other special events. area (Floor Two) and meet the staff following the in 35mm (all shows start at 7:00pm). Call for evening performance times. Trent Sims. daily concerts. Special concerts (free admission): www.theatreorgans.com/ny/rome Ohio Theatre—55 East State Street, Columbus, Tom Hazleton Memorial Concert: date to be The Clemens Center—207 Clemens Center 614-469-1045 (4/34RM). Organ overtures and determined. Private Wanamaker Organ After- Parkway, Elmira, 800-724-8191 (4/20MC). intermissions. March 31, Dennis James plus the Hours Concert and Symposium Fund-Raiser, www.clemenscenter.com Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Phantom of the Sunday, January 14, 3:00pm to 8:00pm (approx). Wanamaker Organ Day, June 9: Upcoming: annual Empire Theatre—581 State Fair Boulevard, Opera. www.capa.com day-long music festival. www.wanamakerorgan.com Syracuse, 315-451-4943 (3/11W). All concerts Palace Theatre —330-454-8171, 605 Market Roxy Theatre start at 7:30pm unless stated otherwise. Avenue North, Canton (3/12 Kilgen). Frequent —2004 Main Street, www.jrjunction.com/estmim pre-show and intermission use, occasional concert. Northampton, 610-262-7699 (2/6W). Organ is played 6:30pm to 7:00pm and intermissions. Lafayette Theatre—Lafayette Avenue, Suffern, www.cantonpalacetheatre.org/content /view/29/65 Henry Thomas. www.Roxytheaternorthampton.com 845-369-8234 (2/11W). Thursday, 7:30pm and Palace Theatre —Cleveland’s Playhouse Strand-Capitol PAC movie overtures, Ed Fritz. Friday and Saturday, Square, 1515 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, —50 North George Street, 7:30pm movie overtures, Dave Kopp, Earle Seeley. 216-771-1771 (3/15K). Organ pre-shows for York, 717-846-1111 (3/20W). Saturday, 11:00am, Jeff Barker. Saturday evenings summer film series and special events. www.strandcapitol.org and Sunday before matinee, John Baratta. http://playhousesquare.brinkster.net/cinema/ RHODE ISLAND Long Island University—385 Flatbush Palace Theatre—617 Broadway, Lorain, 440- Stadium PAC—28 Monument Square, Extension, Brooklyn (4/26W). Organ undergoing 245-2323 (3/10W). Occasional pre-show and Woonsocket, 401-762-4545 (2/10W). repairs. intermission use, and special events. www.stadiumtheatre.com Middletown Paramount Theatre—19 South www.lorainpalace.org SOUTH CAROLINA Street, Middletown, 845-346-4195 (3/12W). Pre- Palace Theatre —276 West Center Street, Recital Hall—School of Music, 813 Assembly show music, concerts and silent films presented Marion, 740-383-2101 (3/10W). Occasional pre- by the New York Chapter and the Middletown Street, Columbia, 803-777-3214 (2/36D). April 6, show and special events. Dennis James, film to be announced. Paramount Theatre. www.nytos.org www.marionpalace.org/index.html?home.php~b Proctor’s Theatre TENNESSEE —432 State Street, Renaissance Theatre—138 Park Avenue, Mansfield, The Paramount Center for the Arts Schenectady, 518-346-8204 (3/18W). Noon 419-522-2726 (3/20W). Frequent use, including free —518 concert series, Tuesdays, unless stated otherwise. summer concert series. www.culture.ohio.gov State Street, Bristol, 423-274-8920 (3/11+W). www.proctors.org /project.asp?proj=renaissance www.theparamountcenter.com Tennessee Theatre Shea’s Buffalo Theatre—646 Main Street, OKLAHOMA —604 South Gay Street, Buffalo, 716-684-8414 (4/28W). www.theatre Knoxville, 865-684-1200 (3/16W). Organ played Coleman Theatre—103 North Main Street, organs.com/ny/buffaloarea/sheas/concert.htm before movies throughout the year and at free First Miami. 918-540-2425 (3/12W). March 16, Monday concerts, the first Monday of every month NORTH CAROLINA 7:00pm, Dennis James, Tumbleweeds, March 17, at 12:00 noon. Subject to cancellation due to other Carolina Theatre—310 South Green Street, 2:00pm, Dennis James, Tumbleweeds. scheduled events. www.tennesseetheatre.com Greensboro, 336-333-2600 (3/6H-Electronic). Tulsa Technology Center—129th E. Avenue TEXAS Organ played before and after the Carolina Classic (Olive) and 111th Street, Tulsa, 918-355-1562 Jefferson Theatre Film Series. www.carolinatheatre.com/index.htm (3/13RM). Third Friday of each month, programs —345 Fannin, Beaumont, NORTH DAKOTA and open console. 409-835-5483 (3/8RM). Organ played occa- members.aol.com/SoonerStateATOS sionally before shows and for concerts. Fargo Theatre—314 North Broadway, Fargo, www.jeffersontheatre.org 701-239-8385 (4/21W). Organ plays Friday, OREGON McKinney Performing Arts Center—111 North Saturday, and Sunday evenings, before and Bijou Theatre—1624 NE Highway 101, between performances. Short organ concerts: Tennessee Street, McKinney, 972-547-2650 Lincoln City, 541-994-8255 (Electronic). Silent (3/17W). www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org Lance Johnson, David Knudtson, and Steve film series on Wednesdays at 1:00pm. Eneboe. www.fargotheatre.org Meyerson Symphony Center—3201 Flora www.cinemalovers.com Street, Dallas (4/84F). March 29, Dennis James, OHIO Elsinore Theatre Akron Civic Theatre —170 High Street SE, Salem, The Ten Commandments. —182 South Main Street, 503-375-3574 (3/25W). Silent film programs start Akron, 330-253-2488 (3/19W). Wednesdays at 7:00pm. Rick Parks, organist. UTAH www.akroncivic.com www.elsinoretheatre.com Capitol Theatre—200 South 50 West Street, Grays Armory—1234 Bolivar Road, Cleveland, PENNSYLVANIA Salt Lake City, 801-355-2787 (2/11W). www.slco.org/fi/facilities/capitol/capitol.html 440-338-5233 (3/15W). Spring and fall public Keswick Theatre—Easton Road and Keswick concerts, occasional special events. Call for Avenue, Glenside, 610-659-1323 (3/19M). Musical The Organ Loft—3331 South Edison Street, concert dates and ticket info (home of WRTOS). overtures before live shows. House organists: Salt Lake City, 801-485-9265 (5/36W). www.theatreorgans.com/clevelan.arm Barbara Fesmire, Michael Xavier Lundy, Bernie www.organloftslc.com McGorrey. www.keswicktheatre.com

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Peery’s Egyptian Theatre—2415 Washington AUSTRALIA The Barry Memorial Hall—7 Gladstone Boulevard, Ogden, 801-395-3200 (3/24W). Silent Capri Theatre—141 Goodwood Road, Road, Barry, South Glamorgan (4/15CHR). films; entrance and exit music at some other Goodwood, SA, (08) 8272 1177 (4/29H). Organ www.atos-london.co.uk programs. www.peerysegyptiantheater.com used Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. The Burtey Fen Collection—3 Burtey VIRGINIA Dendy Cinema—26 Church Street, Brighton, Fen Lane, Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincs, 011-44-0- Byrd Theatre—2908 West Carey, Richmond, VIC, (03) 9781 5349 (3/15W). Organ before films, 1775 766081 (3/12C) (2/8W). www.burteyfen.co.uk 804-353-9911 (4/17W). Overtures Saturdays, Saturday evenings. Civic Hall—North Street, Wolverhampton, West 7:15pm and 9:30pm, Bob Gulledge. Her Majesty’s Theatre—17 Lydiard Street, Midlands 011-44-0-1902-552121 (4/44C). Friday South, Ballarat, VIC, (03) 5333 2181 (3/8C). noontime concerts 12:00 noon to 12:30pm before WASHINGTON the tea dance. Steve Tovey or Cameron Lloyd. John Leckie Music Centre—25 Melvista Everett Theatre—2911 Colby, Everett, 425- Concerts Saturdays at 2:00pm. Avenue, Nedlands, WA, (08) 9276-6668 (3/12C). 258-6766 (3/16K). www.everetttheatre.org www.geocities.com/comptonplus/civic_hall.html au.geocities.com/tosa_wa/index.html Kenyon Hall—7904 35th Avenue SW, Seattle, Fentham Hall—Marsh Lane, Hampton-in- Karrinyup Center—Perth, WA, (61) 9447-9837 206-937-3613 (2/10W). Saturday and Sunday, Arden, Solihull, 011-44-0-1564-794778 (3/11C). (3/21W). All concerts on Sundays at 2:00pm. 2:00pm, silent film. Call to verify schedule. All concerts on Sundays at 3:00pm. www.cos- Mt. Baker Theatre—106 North Commercial, Malvern Town Hall—Glenferrie Road and High centralandwales.co.uk/ Street, Malvern, VIC, (03) 9781 5349 (3/16C). Bellingham (2/12W). Second Sunday monthly, Kilburn State Theatre—197–199 Kilburn, 2:00pm, open console. Marrickville Town Hall—Corner Marrickville High Road, Kilburn, London (4/16W). Lincoln Theatre Center—712 South 1st and Petersham Roads, Marrickville, NSW, (02) www.atos-london.co.uk 9629 2257 (2/11W). www.tosa.net.au Street, Mt. Vernon (Style D W). Organ played New Victoria Centre—High Street, Friday through Tuesday before the film. Orion Centre—155 Beamish Street, Campsie, Howden-le-Wear, Crook, County Durham, www.lincolntheater.org NSW, (02) 9629 2257 (3/17W). www.tosa.net.au 011-44-0-1388-762467 (3/12W). Concerts on Paramount Theatre—911 Pine Street, Seattle, Orpheum Theatre—380 Military Road, Saturdays at 7.00pm and Sundays at 2.30pm. 206-467-5510 (4/20W). January 15, 7:00pm, Cremorne, NSW, (02) 9908-4344 (3/15W). www.theatreorgans.com/uk/netoa Dennis James, Diary of a Lost Girl; January 22, Saturday night, Sunday afternoon, intermissions, Ossett Town Hall—Market Place, Ossett, 7:00pm, Dennis James, The White Hell of Piz Palu; Neil Jensen. Wakefield, West Yorkshire, 011-44-0-1132-705885 January 29, 7:00pm, Dennis James, Asphalt; AUSTRIA (3/13C). All concerts on Sundays at 2:30pm. April 30, 7:00pm, Dennis James, Grandma’s Boy Peterborough Regional College and Dr. Jack; May 7, 7:00pm, Dennis James, Why Konzerthaus—Lothringerstrasse 20, Vienna, —Eastfield Worry and Hot Water; May 21, 7:00pm, Dennis (+43-1) 242 00-0 (5/113R). May 14, 8:00pm, Road, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, 011-44-0- James, The Kid Brother and Speedy; May 25, Dennis James, Phantom of the Opera. 1733-262800 (2/11W). 7:00pm, Dennis James, The Freshman and For CANADA www.ptops.ptops-wurlitzer.co.uk The Ritz Ballroom—73 Bradford Road, Heaven’s Sake. www.theparamount.com Casa Loma—1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario, Washington Center for the Performing Brighouse, West Yorkshire, 011-44-0-274 589939 416-421-0918 (4/19W). All concerts on Monday at (3/10W). All concerts on Sundays at 2:30pm. All Arts—512 Washington Street SE, Olympia, 360- 8:00pm. www.theatreorgans.com/toronto 753-8586 (3/25W). November 27, 2006, 7:00pm, dances on Saturdays at 7:45pm. St. Albans Organ Church of the Redeemer—89 Kirkpatrick Museum, 320 Camp Road, Street Albans, Dennis James, The Yankee Clipper. Street, Kingston, Ontario, 613-544-5095 (3/28K). www.washingtoncenter.org Hertfordshire, 011-44-0-1727-851557 (3/12W). [KTOS c/o John Robson, 412-217 Bath Road, www.stalbansorganmuseum.org.uk WISCONSIN Kingston, Ontario, Canada. K7M 2X7.] Friday, St John Vianney RC Church—Clayhall, 1 DePere Cinema—100 North George Street, March 30, Peter Hansen, Sounds of Silver. Friday, Stoneleigh Road, Ilford, Essex, 011-44-0-1525- DePere, 920-339-8501 (Electronic). May 4, Simon Gledhill, The Silver Lining. All 872356 (3/7C). www.cinema-organs.org.uk Hermes’ Basement Bijou concerts 8:00pm unless otherwise stated. E-mail: —Racine (5/34W). [email protected] Singing Hills Golf Course—Albourne near For bus tours, contact Eileen at Racine County Uptown Theatre Brighton, 011-44-0-1903-261972 (3/19W). All Convention Bureau, 262-884-6407, or Fred —612 8th Avenue SW,Calgary, concerts at 3:00pm. www.cosnorth.co.uk Alberta. 403-543-5115 (GW-4). February 5, Hermes, 262-639-1322, for appointment to visit. Thomas Peacocke Community College— Lakeshore Cinema 7:00pm, Dennis James, Wings; February 12, —1112 Washington Street, 7:00pm, Dennis James, Sunrise; February 19, The Grove, Rye, East Sussex, 011-44-0-1424- Manitowoc, 920-339-8501 (Electronic). 2:00pm, Dennis James, The Cameraman; 444058 (2/6W). All concerts on Sundays at www.packerlandtos.tripod.com February 26, 7:00pm, Dennis James, The Crowd. 2:30pm, except the May Weekend. February 11, Organ Piper Music Palace—4353 South 2:30pm, Donald Mackenzie and Barbara Manning; 108th Street, Greenfield (Milwaukee), 414-529- HOLLAND March 4, 2:30pm, Chris Stanbury; May 5, 2:30pm, 1177 (3/27H). Organ hours: Tuesday 5:30pm to CBS Building—Princes Beatrixlaan 428, President’s Weekend, Len Rawle; 7:00pm, Nigel 9:00pm, Wednesday 5:30pm to 10:00pm with live Voorburg, 0344-624623 (2/11 Standaart). Ogden; May 6, 10:30am, Chris Powell; 2:30pm, band, Thursday 5:30pm to 9:00pm, Friday 5:00pm www.xs4all.nl/~janhuls/Pagina-EN/NOF-intro-E.htm Presidents’ Concert, Len Rawle, John Mann, Janet to 9:45pm, Saturday 12:30pm to 9:45pm, Sunday Fortis Theatre an der Schie—Stadserf 1, Dowsett, Chris Powell; September 23, 2:30pm, 12:30pm to 8:45pm. Ron Reseigh, Ralph Conn, Schiedam, 0102-462555 (3/11 Standaart). Nicholas Martin; October 21, 2:30pm, Michael and Dean Rosko. www.xs4all.nl/~janhuls/Pagina-EN/NOF-intro-E.htm Wooldridge; November 18, 2:30pm, John Mann; Oriental Theatre—2230 North Farwell Avenue, Theatre de Meenthe December 2, 2:30pm, Jean Martyn. —Stationsplein 1, www.geocities.com/ryewurlitzer Milwaukee, 414-276-8711 (3/39K). Steenwijk, 0521-514004 (4/29 Strunk). Town Hall www.theatreorgans.com/wi/milwaukee/orientaltheatre http://home.wanadoo.nl/tomk/website_peter/web/ —Victoria Road, Portslade, Sussex, Phipps Center for the Arts—109 Locust index.html 011-44-0-1293-844788 (3/20C). Street, Hudson, 715-386-8409 (3/16W). www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/southcoast-tos.html UNITED KINGDOM Woking Leisure Centre www.ThePhipps.org The Assembly Hall —Woking Park, —Stoke Abbot Road, Kingfield Road, Woking, Surrey (3/17W). Worthing, Sussex 011-44-0-1903-206206 www.atos-london.co.uk (3/23W). All concerts on Sundays at 3:00pm, unless noted otherwise. Dances Saturday, 7:15pm.

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IJ D

Vince had a passion for detail and Ralph Wolf this past summer. We have been Vincent T. Aveni perfection. His fabulous museum of self- very privileged to have experienced their Vince Aveni was a long-time friend, playing musical instruments remains as one hospitality, their friendship, and their supporter, and member of the Western of the more respected and highly acclaimed magnificent musical instrument collection. Reserve Theatre Organ Society in Cleveland. collections anywhere. Among his instru- Vince will be missed so very much by so Vince passed away on September 22, 2006 ments are his beloved Hupfeld Phonolizt, very many. at the age of 80. He was the founder of reproducing grand pianos, rare band organs, — Doug Powers Realty One, the largest residential real orchestrions, a delightful Bursens, and Beachwood, Ohio estate firm in Ohio, a member of the many other luxuriously decorated music Cleveland Orchestra board, and chair of the boxes and other fully restored items from national leadership board of The Cleveland the early 20th century. His favorite, Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Center, as well as a however, was his theatre pipe organ. member of the Ohio State University Starting out with a superbly restored Style D Foundation Board. In August, his alma Wurlitzer in the 1970s, his drive brought mater honored him with a distinguished him to have it replaced with a 3/11 Balaban service award. He was an avid fan of the 1A that was augmented to 27 ranks. Buckeyes football team and the Cleveland That project then grew to Vince’s final Browns. prized possession: a four-manual, 60-rank He had been president of the Cleveland Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ that was visited Area Board of Realtors and the Ohio by several top theatre organists from around Association of Realtors and was a life the globe. Vince and his wife, Pat, member of the National Association of welcomed WRTOS into their home on many The Aveni 4/60 Wurlitzer Realtors’ board, winning the organization’s occasions, including hosting our chapter (Photo by Doug Powers) highest honor for distinguished service. benefit concert with Rob Richards and Inset: (The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio)

energies to the restoration of our organ, and the most treasured award that our chapter Stan Garniss continued to be a vital part of the eventual has ever designated. Only two of our If you’ve attended any ATOS gathering presentations of the instrument to an members have ever been so honored: the during the last few years, you’ve probably ongoing succession of enchanted audiences. late Clayt Stone and the recently deceased noticed an elderly fellow sitting down front Early in Stan’s membership, he took on Bob Herterich. Each of these men now bear somewhere, with one hand cupped behind responsibility for gathering news of the the title of “Member Extraordinary,” and an ear in a valiant attempt to hear what was chapter’s activities, putting it down in when one considers the records and the going on around him. You may yet find some informative and readable form, and seeing reputations of the first two men so other old-timer in much the same situation; to it that it arrived in timely fashion in the designated, it is high praise, indeed. but unfortunately our good friend Stan will Chapter News Department of THEATRE How uniquely fortunate for our good not be among these appreciative listeners. ORGAN, a task to which he was faithful for friend Stan that, in the same year which saw At the venerable age of 90, Stan has lost his an impressive number of years. him attain his 90th birthday, he also found brave battle with age and illness. Among his many other contributions, himself the recipient of this cherished Throughout much of Stan’s working life, Stan also served his chapter as an elected award. he served as a booking agent for the coastal member of the Board of Directors for several We are glad to have known Stan and to steamship lines. But, aside from his beloved years. Eventually, in a sort of tribute to his have worked alongside him through all wife, Persis, Stan’s other great passion continuing devotion to his duties, Stan was these past years. We are happy for him that centered on the Mighty Wurlitzer organs successively appointed to several terms as he was able to reach the venerable birthday that were once so commonly heard in our an Alternate Director. The accumulated he had so wanted to share with us—and theatres. Stan’s love of these instruments birthdays and slowly diminishing faculties especially, that he would be so highly came to its natural fulfillment when he eventually led Stan and the writer of this honored by his fellow organ friends. Our joined the American Theatre Organ Society. piece (his fellow Alternate) to the deepest sympathy goes to Persis on the loss It was inevitable that Stan would become realization that they were becoming of this gentle man. part of the crew which would move the somewhat less useful in their posts. So, they — Stu Hinchliffe Loew’s State Wurlitzer (now our chapter mutually decided to gracefully withdraw. Woburn, Massachusetts organ) from its original home and relocate One wonderful last chapter in Stan’s life it at Babson College. Both Stan and Persis story still remained to be written. Some of continued their involvement with ATOS, the senior officers of our chapter had giving unstintingly of their time and decided to confer on Stan (and this writer)

70 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:23 PM Page 71

great fun at whatever city was hosting the for a tireless worker who loved the theatre Harry Heth young performers. organ and the people involved with ATOS. The theatre organ world lost a great Harry Heth was born and raised in He will surely be missed. friend and tireless champion with the Valentine, Nebraska, the son of Lynn and — Ken Double passing of past president Harry Heth. Harry Clara Heth. He graduated from Valentine Houston, Texas died on October 11, 2006 from compli- High School and attended the South Dakota cations due to acute leukemia. His passing School of Mines in Rapid City, studying was sudden and unexpected following a civil engineering. brief hospital stay. His interest in pipe organs and organ Organ technician, player, supporter and music led to positions with the Wicks leader, Harry was the ATOS president from Organ Company, and later with Gulbransen 1996–99. His work with the Society’s in Chicago, where Harry held playing hierarchy began in 1993 when Harry served positions at several churches. Later as the executive secretary. Heth also served employment with Honeywell Corporation as the editor of the International News led to a move to Houston, where he also (1998–2006), and as a member of the Board worked for Texas Eastern (later Duke of Directors (2000–2005). Energy) prior to his retirement. Perhaps he took the most joy and In Houston, Harry was involved with the satisfaction during his tenure as the director local Houston Area Theatre Organ Society, of the Young Organists Competition. Harry performed at Scooby’s Pizza Parlor on stepped in following the passing of Dorothy their Wurlitzer, was involved with several Van Steenkiste and worked diligently to different churches, and occasionally worked provide the young performers every for different organ firms helping with opportunity to ply their craft and succeed installations in the area. during the competition, while also having His sense of humor, laid-back demeanor and casual attire were a comfortable front (ATOS Archive Collection)

running the much-appreciated “Name That of memory and recall the man who loved to David A. Lester Tune” general sessions. make us all smile and was always eager to On September 30, 2006, the Hudson- David’s musical career exceeded 30 lend a hand. Mohawk Chapter of ATOS lost a dear friend years. He was a music teacher for over 30 — Norene Grose and colleague with the passing of David years at Ballston Lake Middle School and Watervilet, New York Lester. Dave will be long remembered for served as choir director and organist at his unceasing wit and charm, as well as his many area locales. Most recently he was considerable musical talent. He was always organist at Jonesville United Methodist ready with a joke or to volunteer his Church. technical and artistic skills whenever the He is survived by his companion Linda occasion arose. Dave served on the board of Post, daughter Kimberly Puglisi and many, the Hudson-Mohawk Chapter for many many friends. years and previously held the position Amid many memories of David, possibly of Program Chair as well as other the most vivid is his participation in our membership-related duties. club meetings at the home of member John He performed every year at Proctors VanLaak who has a home-installed pipe Theatre as part of the club’s noontime organ, harpsichord, and piano in his concert series. He also volunteered his residence. Each Halloween, club artists services every summer playing the antique play unrehearsed sessions on these Ferris Tracker organ at the historic Round instruments to the delight of the listening Lake Auditorium in Round Lake, New York members. David always played the piano in at pops concerts and hymn sings in that these sets. This October, the piano will be historic Victorian-era town. He was an silent as the players of the other musical indispensable part of the chapter and was instruments carry on in the “missing man” involved in all areas, especially conducting formation; but all who knew and loved technical meetings and creating and David will still hear his music with the ears (Photo by Sid Brown)

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2007 71 ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 H 12/8/06 11:35 AM Page 72

FORSALE COMPLETE PAGE THEATRE PIPE ADVERTISERINDEX ORGAN with original Page ornate three- Allen Organs...... BC ORGAN LESSONS ON VIDEOCASSETTE: manual console, toys, percussions, AMICA International...... 22 PART I: Manual & Pedal Technique, 32 reservoirs, relays and blowers, etc. Ideal for Arndt Organ Supply Co...... IFC minutes, $29.95. PART II: Registration, 56 theatre, large house, etc. Has interesting minutes, $29.95. Write to: ALLEN ORGAN history and was used in many recordings. Audio Arts...... IFC CO., P.O. Box 36, Macungie, Pennsylvania Also for sale: many Wurlitzer ranks and Ball, Steven ...... 6 chests, including 16' diaphone, 16' 18062-0038 or phone 610-966-2202 ++ Brainard, Darel ...... 4 bombarde, clarinet, tuba, flutes, strings, many solo reeds, etc. Also: other theatre (and CICATOS (concert series)...... 4 1970S RODGERS TRIO (not working) and church) ranks and parts—too many to list bench; walnut cabinet in v.g. condition. CICATOS (Ken Double recording) ...... 4 here. Three-story block-long warehouse full! Separate free-standing Leslie, speakers Cole-Shaw Concerts...... IFC Call 717-843-3762 or e-mail [email protected] rotate. Located in Central Florida. Asking 01/07 Crome Organ Co...... 33 $250.00; good for parts or rebuild. 352-408- Diapason, The ...... 6 9919 03/07 CELEBRATING 25 YEARS, a colorful, Digital Toy Counter ...... 65 illustrated 44-page coffee table paperback on TICKET BOOTH FAÇADE from Loew’s Eddington, Jelani (concerts)...... 6 ATOS’ progressive Canadian chapter. $12 Pitkin Theatre, Brooklyn, New York: 10' tall Eddington, Jelani (Can/US, incl S&H) payable to Kingston by 7' wide by 2' deep. Plaster overlay on Theatre Organ Society. Remit to T. Robinson, (OrganMP3.com)...... 23 wood. Needs some restoration. Picture 344 Friarhill Crescent, Kingston, Ontario, Eddington, Jelani (recordings) ...... IFC available on request. $5,000. 931-858-0675 Canada K7M 8P5. 01/07 03/07 Foppiano, Scott ...... 48 Herman, Mark ...... 65 RECORDINGS—KENDOUBLE, GREAT Journal of American LADIES OF SONG & SIMON GLEDHILL, WANTED Organbuilding...... 22 UP, UP AND AWAY Grande Barton, 3/18, Ledwon, John...... 11 Warren Performing Arts Center, Indianapolis. 32’ DIAPHONES & DOUBLE RAIL $20 each ppd US, $23 each ppd outside US. WURLITZERCONSOLE, (no hybrids) or Kann, Stan ...... 4 CIC-ATOS, c/o Mike Rolfe, 1431 North complete organ, 503-771-8823. 03/07 League of Historic American Audubon Road, Indianapolis, Indiana Theatres...... 22 46219, www.cicatos.org 01/07 Leather Supply House ...... 6 1948 HILLGREEN-LANE THEATRE Meet Me in Saint Louis (SLTOS) ...... 48 ORGAN, 16 or 17 ranks and three Michael’s Music Service...... 4 percussions, partial unification, compact Musical Box Society International.....23 three-manual console with capture Organ Historical Society...... 4 combination action and multiplexed relay, playable, good condition, located in Parker, Donna...... 6 Kingston, Ontario. 585-235-5688 or 613- Pipe Organ Percussions...... 4 533-2448, www.frontiernet.net/~kcscott/ Ralston, Bob...... 33 hlqu.html 01/07 Rialto Pops Weekend (JATOE)...... 2 Rogers, Fr. Andrew ...... 18 Smith, Scott ...... IFC Strony, Walt ...... 48 Theatre Historical Society of America ...... 48 CLASSIFIED ads—75¢ per word for ATOS members; $1.00 per word for non-members. $10.00 minimum. Not counted as words: a, and, the, &. Phone numbers are counted as one word, University of Oklahoma...... IFC as are hyphenated words. All classified ads must be submitted PRE-PAID to avoid a $10.00 Weiler, Jeff ...... IFC handling/billing charge. PRE-PAID charge of $15.00 to have a THEATRE ORGAN showing your White Blower Mfg., Inc...... 18 ad sent to your mailing address. Deadline for placing ads is the FIRST of each even month (February, April, June, August, October and December). Make check payable to ATOS and Wilson, Clark ...... 48 send to: Jeff Weiler, THEATRE ORGAN Editor, American Theatre Organ Society, 1845 South Wurlitzer Book ...... 9 Michigan Avenue #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616. Word counts may be verified in advance by e-mailing Joanne, the Editorial Office Administrative Assistant, at [email protected]. Zollman Pipe Organ Services ...... 6

72 THEATREORGAN ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:24 PM Page 75 ATOS Marketplace Prices listed INCLUDE shipping within U.S.A. THEWURLITZERPIPEORGAN–ANILLUSTRATED HISTORY — This long-awaited complete history of the Wurlitzer theatre organ by David Junchen is an essential reference book for every theatre organ enthusiast. With 800 pages of interesting facts, photos and appendices, each volume is sequentially numbered corresponding to the Wurlitzer organ opus list. Fabulous photos, informative tables and lists of long-forgotten Wurlitzer information…an absolute must! $140.00 WURLITZERCONSOLEARTPRINTS — Whether you attach them to your workshop walls or frame them, these prints of 12 original factory photos of spectacular consoles are a must for your collection of theatre organ memorabilia. Each one is 11" wide and 14" high, printed on heavy card stock, suitable for framing. $20.00 WURLITZER FACTORY TOUR — This video is a copy of a vintage newsreel showing various portions of the Wurlitzer factory and the actual construction of Wurlitzer pipe organs. Includes visits to the pipe shop, voicing rooms, console, cable-making departments and many other sections of the North Tonawanda factory. $24.00 ATOS 50TH ANNIVERSARY BOOK — Published in hardcover and softcover editions, this 150-page book is an absolute must for all theatre organ aficionados. Text and pictures cover the first 50 years of the American Theatre Organ Society’s history. Contains many historic photos, quotes, and informative tidbits, including photos of the first meeting of the organization. Hardcover: $35.00. Softcover: $15.00. THEATRE ORGAN BINDERS — Here is the best way to store your past issues of THEATRE ORGAN (through July/August 2006). Holds up to two full years of magazines. Includes metal wires to attach your journals to the binder. Black finish with gold lettering. Pouch on spine for identification information. $14.00 DECAL — Help promote ATOS; put these decals every- where! Three-inch self-stick adhesive back with red, gold and black printing. $3.00 LAPEL PIN — Show your support of the theatre organ by wearing this American Theatre Organ Society lapel pin. Approximately one-half inch in diameter. Bronze color with embossed lettering makes for a distinctive look. $2.50 BACK ISSUES — Complete your collection of THEATRE ORGAN. Quantities are limited. $6.00

An ATOS Marketplace order form is printed on the mailing cover of each issue of THEATRE ORGAN. The prices listed above are postpaid for all orders shipped within the U.S.A. See the order form for additional shipping charges on items sent outside of the U.S.A. VISA and MasterCard are accepted. If you have any questions, please contact John Ledwon, ATOS Marketplace Manager, at [email protected] or 818-889-8894. ATOS Jan/Feb 49-1 F 12/5/06 8:24 PM Page 76

Looking for Can “Advanced MIDI Capabilities” whet your penny whistle? Or “Sampled something Tremulant Sounds™” pique your interest? Are you really special? secretly craving individually adjustable and felted keys or user-reconfigurable pistons? Like five manuals? Four? Three? Two?

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