Vox Lancastria

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July 2008 Edition - 26

Patron LANCASTRIA Vacant VOX www.voxlancastria.org.uk Trustees Don Hyde David Alldred Journal of The Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust Colin Smith M.I.C.M. Bill McNally Registered Charity 261487 Peter Ratcliffe Ron Whalley C.Eng. M.I.E.E. M.I.E.I.E. Michael Dawson. A.C.M.A. Contents Eric Halsall. C.Eng. M.I.E.E. Sales Cover

Honorary President From The Chair 2 Frank D Read The Secretary's Report 2 Your Letters 3 Honorary Vice Presidents A Big Thank You 4 Joyce Alldred L.L.C.M. Doreen Chadwick Minutes of the 37th Annual General Meeting 11 Nigel Ogden New Members 16 Len Rawle Your Observations from the Questionnaire 18 Honorary Committee Poem for Doreen, by Sylvia James. 25 Chairman Don Hyde Vice Chairman Walter Baker Features Hon. Secretary Michael Dawson A.C.M.A. Treasurer Colin Smith M.I.C.M. The World Around Hope Jones (Concluded) 5 The Silent Choir Organ (Additional) 9 House Manager Ron Whalley C.Eng., M.I.E.E., M.I.E.I.E News From the Heritage Centre 10 Heritage Centre Building Centenary 17 The End of an Era (The Blue Coat School) 21 Committee Members Alan Crossland. History - The Blue Coat School. 22 Roger Fisher - Heritage Centre Manager. Concert Diary. Back Cover Vic Matthews - Maintenance Manager. Marion Read. Peter Taylor. Contributions and Letters to the Acting Editor David Alldred Head of Technical Team 4 Green Meadows Drive, Eric Halsall C.Eng.,M.I.E.E. Marple. Membership Secretary Stockport. Michael Holmes. SK6 6QE

Acting Editor Vox Lancastria 0161-427-2180 David Alldred Membership Secretary Hon Secretary Assistant Editor Vox Lancastria Michael Holmes Michael Dawson Peter Ratcliffe. Technical Advisors 26 Stocks Gardens "Silverdale" Don Hyde Stalybridge 22 Ashdale Road, Ron Whalley C.Eng., M.I.E.E., M.I.E.I.E. Cheshire Leak Past Chairmen SK15 2RD Staffordshire Les Barlee, 1968 - 1973 ST13 6QZ Frank D Read 1973 - 1996 LTOT Chairman Tel 01538 388281 Web Pages Don Hyde http://www.voxlancastria.org.uk 8 Headlands Road http://theatreorgans.com/lancast/ http://www.ltot.org..uk Bramhall Stockport email addresses: SK7 3AN Chairman: [email protected] Tel 0161 440 8070 Secretary [email protected] Acting Editor [email protected]

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From The Chair From The Secretary

Firstly an apology for the lateness of this copy of Vox, As this is my first piece for Vox as the Secretary to the we are trying to put together an editorial team so the Trust, let me thank you for your support at the AGM. production doesn’t rely on one person. This has taken It has been an interesting few months with various events some time plus a learning curve to get to production. taking place and my thanks are extended to those As some of you may now know we have been dealt volunteers who have supported the activities of the Trust. another blow with an official request to remove our In particular I must thank Alan Crossland for taking on Christie Theatre Organ from the Blue Coat School in the task of the Sales Stall. Alan transports the sales stall Oldham. The organ has been involved with the school from Peel Green to Stockport every month for the since 1976 when the original agreement was drawn up. Monday concert and on other occasions for the Sunday So we now have another organ either in storage or concerts in the Town Hall. looking for a buyer. Following on from the above, and I Communication has been a high priority for me in these don’t want to bore you too much with the same first few months and I hope that all Trustees and comments, can I once again bring to your attention the Committee members are fully up to date with all the cost of keeping the Gaumont organ in storage This is a activities of the Trust. major drain on our resources and will affect the future of For a number of years, discussions regarding the the Trust unless; 1. Sponsored storage can be found for Constitution of the Trust have been going on, and at last, the whole organ quickly and here we are looking for the Trustees are in a position to issue a draft of the 1000 sq. ft. on a ground floor. We have had an offer but proposed new constitution with an explanatory because it is on a 3rd floor and the entrance is small only commentary explaining what has changed and why the half the organ could be put there, however I would like to Trust needed to propose the changes. These documents thank the member for trying. 2. A new home for the will be sent out shortly as a separate mailing in order to organ, preferably in the Greater Manchester area so our ensure that all members have as long as possible to study technical team can be “hands on” in carrying out the the proposals before the next AGM in November. installation. Thanks must go to those members who responded to the If however we cannot satisfy the above in a short time the questionnaire and included a donation to the Trust. As I future of this organ will have to be re-looked at by your am also the Gift Aid Administrator, I will be making a trustees. bumper tax re-claim at the end of June that will include Now on to a more pleasant topic. In this issue is the the donations received from everyone who has signed a second part of my paper that won the Simonton Literary Gift Aid Form in the past. Don't forget that it isn't too late award in America. I have been amazed how this new to sign a form if you haven't already done so, or your tax work on Robert Hope-Jones has raised the profile on the circumstances have changed. Please call me on 01538 Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust around the world. It just 388281 if you would like a Gift Aid Form or would like shows you that any theatre organ research is appreciated to discuss the scheme. by our colleagues anywhere. Keep an eye on the Sales Web Site as there will be some Finally; if any of you have any ideas about future homes new items appearing shortly - details at for our organ or someone who might have an interest, www.theatreorganmusic.co.uk or via the link from also any form of sponsorship for the Trust, please get in www.voxlancastria.org.uk touch with any of our trustees. Thanks and Bye for Now

Would you like to be actively Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust involved in the work of the Trust? Annual General Meeting There are many areas of activity open to you, Stockport Concerts, The Sunday 23rd November 2008 Heritage Centre, Technical, Sales, Front of House, I.T. Publicity. Stockport Town Hall Contact the editor for further details 11-00a.m. or see article in the next Newsletter

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Your Letters

Dear Sir/Madam, It is my view that two editions of Vox Lancastria each Today (27th May 2008) we visited the Organ Heritage year would be perfectly adequate and acceptable. Centre with Peter Haynes, PJ mini bus hire. The Vox publication in terms of presentation is of superb I would like to thank you for such a lovely interesting calibre and it is understandable that it must be both time afternoon, we all really enjoyed it and were so well and cost consuming. The content of Vox, often with looked after by you all. lengthy specialised contributions is, I feel, particularly We will certainly tell our friends about it and hope to directed to those with an "in depth" organ interest. As visit again sometime. regards the actual dimensions of the publication possibly Mrs. Christine Roberts (Peter's sister) Prestatyn. a further saving could be achieved with a size reduction - at least there would be a postage saving. Dear David, I welcome the introduction of a quarterly Newsletter. 1/ Are there still available any CDs of Ernest Broadbent Kenneth Sawyer, Wilmslow. 2/ A good photo of the "Wurlitzer Music Desk" donated by Sylvia & myself would be appreciated. Dear David, 3/ The Souvenir Museum Guide would be appreciated , In the early days, when we began researching for suitable when ready, please. premises to house the Gaumont Organ for organ concerts, 4/ I would have serious reservations about continuing to I with many others wrote to the L.T.O.T. suggesting that pay "Storage Costs" for the Gaumont Wurlitzer. Buxton Octagon would be a suitable site. Our application Kind regards, unfortunately was turned down. I certainly think that a Brian Marsden , Sheffield. second application would be worthwhile. Buxton is an Dear David, extremely busy town, bustling with visitors from local Many thanks for the Newsletter. I think this is an and outside areas. As with "Bruce and the Spider" legend excellent way of keeping members up to date with recent I believe a second try could be successful. events, etc. and the details of the activities at the Heritage Alec Bromley, Stockport. Centre - I look forward to the next issue. Hello David, Anthony White, Littleborough. This is Tom Herd here from Casterton, Kirkby Lonsdale, I think £16.50 p.a. is rather low in this day and age! LA6 2SF. Thank you for LTOT Newsletter No.1 plus the Suggest an annual increase of say 10%. questionnaire and SAE. I have just finished reading the In view of the financial situation, 2 issues of Vox newsletter and want you to know how sad I feel at the Lancastria makes sense and the quarterly Newsletter is an possibility of the LTOT having to part with the Gaumont excellent idea. Hopefully the Vox Lancastria issues can Wurlitzer. For lovers of Eric Lord's type of music, the be increased again when finances allow. Odeon organ suited them fine. I always thought that the Richard Wright, Marple, Stockport. combination of Stanley Tudor and the Gaumont organ was unbeatable and I am really saddened to read about it. The silent films shown at the Wednesday Heritage Centre All Preservation Societies are struggling but, if the LTOT concerts are very enjoyable, provided that the visiting can just keep going until the current credit crunch comes organist can improvise and accompaniment them. There to an end, they will survive. If it's any consolation, the seems to be little point in showing them in complete LTOT is the best Preservation Society of it's type in the silence. world. Nobody but nobody has ever done it better than Peter Rhodes, Didsbury, Manchester. the LTOT do it. I have completed the questionnaire and it's on it's way Dispose of the Granada/Gaumont Wurlitzer without back to you. further delay. I am constantly amazed each time I read of Tom Herd, Kirkby Lonsdale. the sterling work put in by all of you at L.T.O.T. Your enthusiasm and optimism are worthy of great praise, but difficult to understand in the light of diminishing Help us to promote the Trust by audiences for any music that doesn't include yelling passing this copy of Vox to your yobbos, guitars and percussion. I hope my pessimism about the future of theatre organs is misplaced and friends consider myself very lucky to have so much enjoyed nearly eighty years of this unique type of music. Deryck Burgoyne, Parrswood, Manchester. Tell them of our achievements I fear I am a rather "distant" member, but I have and enormous pleasure from receiving all the Newsletters. Thank you for all the work you do. Encourage them to join us Michael Davey, Telford, Shropshire. 3 Vox Lancastria

A Big Thank You! David Alldred

May I thank all of you who returned the questionnaire sent to you via the first Newsletter. The percentage returned was overwhelming and the comments received were quite instructive and informative. Some of the comments are included in the "Your Letters" section of this edition. About 25% of our membership have email facilities and although this percentage will help reduce our postage costs for those agreeing to receive the Newsletter via email the majority will receive their copies by second class postage. The email facility will also enable the Trust to keep you up to date on the Trust's activities in advance of the Newsletters dropping on your doormats. When I compiled the questions I included a line asking members to make a donation to the Trust, if appropriate. The response to this was overwhelming. A total of just under £3,000.00 was donated and with the tax reclaimed the total for the work of the Trust is over £3,800.00.

Thank you all for your generosity.

A list of those donating is shown below at the time of going to press.

Peter Clouston. Bob Clarry. Mrs E Penney. George Edward Drew. Mr & Mrs Staddon. Mr & Mrs Fogg. Carolyn Hawkins. N. Heaps. J.D. Ratcliffe. Bob Shore. Dennis Hammond. Mr & Mrs Sullivan. Arthur Rutter. Alan Caiger. Mr Melling. H. Cronkshaw. Freda Galloway. Mr & Mrs Dixon. Norman Scott. Ron & Audrey Cowburn. Simon Campbell. W. R. Rudge. Alec Bromley. Mr A. Cuickshank. Roderick Boggs. Richard Wright. F.J. Watts. Trevor Bolshaw. Peter Maddock. Mr B.E. Pyatt. Stephen Dutfield. Kenneth Sawyer. Mavis Phillipson. M. Norton. Rev. B. Bason. A.J. Cheetham. Jean Smith. David Spencer. Grace Rycroft. Malcolm Forrest. Mr & Mrs Brierley. J. A. Poulton. James Monaghan. Mr A White. Mr & Mrs R.B. Mather. Richard Hagon. Mr Francis Leigh. Mr l. W. Chapman. Roy & Marion Wood. George Peet. Mr G. Blake. Heather Jones. H.J. Leadbetter. B. Hanley. Mark Latimer. B. Inglesfield. G & D Mitchell. James Duxbury. Brian Marsden. Mr & Mrs Sherlock. J.J. Rackstraw. Mr D. Jenkins. Mr C.J. Kirby. Duncan Thornton. Mr R. Jackson. Mr N. Haynes. Michael Baron. Mr P.H. Edwards. Derek Mountford. Len & Judith Rawle. Mr & Mrs W. C. Platt. Mr W. Bennett. J. Chester. Michael Marsh. V.W. Lown. David Clegg. Gerald Burrell. A.R. Bingham. Michael Ryder. John Firth. E.J. Warburton. Mr & Mrs W. Escott. Mary Coleman. Mrs. N. Henderson. Mr & Mrs J.R. Lomas. Mr & Mrs Bridge. John Werring. Peter Rhodes. Michael Lees. Mr J. S. Holt. Gordon Johnson. Mr & Mrs Armstrong. Mr C.H. White. C. Holmes. Mr & Mrs Wilkinson. Mr Beckerleg. Mike Slater. Eileen Howard. Mr D Brocklehurst. Alan Tomlinson. Brian Wakeford. Mr G. Hughes. Deryck Burgoyne. Bryan Underwood. Mr E. Schofield. Eddie Nuttall. Gordon Kershaw. Mrs A.L. Sharman. Eric Wilson. A. Watkins. Mrs Lena Lewis. E.G. Wardle. G.J.Vare. John Appleton. Mark & Margaret Robinson. Gordon Egerton. Mrs. D.M. Cotterall. Christine Beaumont. Sylvia James. Mr. G. A. Viney.

4 Vox Lancastria The World Around Hope-Jones Concluded from Issue 25 Don Hyde

A major stockholder in the Hope-Jones Electric Organ It was printed in the “Discovery Magazine” of February Company was Thomas Threlfall the famous brewing 1891 that St. John’s Birkenhead organ had an electric magnate in Liverpool, who held 155 Preference Shares action that was supplied by a 2 hp Gas Engine driving a and 300 Ordinary Shares. In 1894 Thomas Threlfall had a Dynamo. It is known that Henry Royce had just three manual Hope-Jones organ installed in his London previously taken out a Patent for that same combination, home at 19 Hyde Park West. The Hope-Jones order book so with the now established close links between the two shows this to be quite a substantial instrument with 18 there is no doubt that Royce supplied the electrical ranks of pipes. It is also interesting to note that the first supply for the St. John’s organ. It is mentioned in the commercial organ built by Hope-Jones for St. Paul’s company profile written by John De Looze that Henry Burton-on-Trent was paid for by Mr. Bass of the Bass Royce’s Company made Leclanché cells, a type of Brewery, another brewing magnate. battery developed by Frenchman Georges Leclanché. It Following on the same line, Bensons Organ builders who was this type of cell that Hope-Jones mentions in his shared their factory building in Blake street Hulme with various lectures as the battery supply he used for his the electrical company owned by Henry Royce, was organs. Measurements made on the coils manufactured financed by a Benjamin Joule another well known by Henry Royce show that the voltage required to brewing magnate in Hulme Manchester. operate these coils and thus the voltage required for the Benjamin Joule was the father of Benjamin Joule junior electric organ action was 4.5 volts. This is the same as and James Joule. Both these sons had a fascination for the output voltage of the Royce Dynamo and also the electricity and were taught by the well known John voltage output of three Leclanché cells in series. Another Dalton who was a scientist and professor in mathematics very interesting link between Hope-Jones and Royce is in Manchester University. James Joule (1818 - 1889) had that they were both Members of the Institution of a fascination for electric motors and was still alive when Electrical Engineers and they joined the Institution just 5 Henry Royce’s company started work in the Benson’s years apart, Hope-Jones in 1892 and Henry Royce in Organ Company building in 1884. One wonders if these 1897. two met each other? It was well known that Robert Hope-Jones gave a lot of One of Joule's main interests was to try to produce an free advice to many of the other organ builders in the electric motor driven by a zinc-acid battery. He hoped country much to the annoyance of his financial supporter that this would replace the coal-driven steam engines that brewing magnate Thomas Threlfall. George Benson, were the norm at that time. He realised that this was a Norman and Beard, John Compton and Nicholsons were highly ambitious project which would require a great deal certainly among them. of preliminary research. During this project he worked In 1903 following several accusations, some by out how to measure the heat generated by an electric prominent organ builders, that Robert Hope-Jones was current. James Joule was of course the famous Physicist an amateur and shouldn’t be manufacturing pipe organs, who founded the definition for the mechanical equivalent Robert felt it was necessary to leave the country on the of heat with that famous constant 4.2 named after him. S.S.Teutonic and emigrate to the USA together with his

fig 3

5 Vox Lancastria

wife, Cecil Laurence whom he had married on 27th Albert Lloyd is the young man on the right of the picture August 1895 (see figure 3). He arrived in New York on kneeling (see figure 14). the 7th May 1903. The story goes on, when Hope-Jones emigrated to At the time Robert’s departure must have caused some America, Albert Lloyd again requested a job. This time amusement and relief to the many organ builders who Lloyd actually emigrated and arrived in the USA on the were hostile to his patents and inventions and who were 22nd June 1907. The very day he arrived, a letter was in consequence missing out on some large orders for pipe waiting for him offering a job with the “Hope-Jones organs that always seemed to be given to Robert Organ Company, New York and Elmira” ( see figure 17). Hope-Jones. However, in the absence of Hope-Jones Lloyd eventually followed Hope-Jones to the Wurlitzer these very same organ builders lost no time in making Factory. Then on 6th September 1911 Lloyd received a use of many of Robert's Patents, in many cases while the letter from George Kilgen and Sons offering him a job in Patent was still registered to Robert Hope-Jones and had charge of organ building (see figure 15), Albert Lloyd is third from the right. Interestingly, Lloyd’s address on the letter offering him the job is Box 4 North Tonawanda, New York. A main feature of Robert's work in the USA was his dream to build a people’s instrument in the form of a fully unified organ, a feature which Hope-Jones had mentioned in a paper he had given as early as 1891. The Hope-Jones unified system allowed individual ranks of pipes to be played from any keyboard and with his coupler design were able to be used at any chosen pitch. This of course came to fruition in his design of the Wurlitzer Theatre Organ now known the world over. It is well recorded that when Robert Hope-Jones was working for Wurlitzer’s at their factory in Tonawanda he was banned from the factory because he would insist on fig 14 going on the shop floor and interfering with production, trying to improve or change designs etc. In fact it is now not expired. known that Robert Hope-Jones was a perfectionist of After Robert had left the country a large number of the major proportions. Recently our research has found out various Hope-Jones organs appeared to have been that Henry Royce was also a perfectionist and was also sabotaged by unknown organ builders maybe in the hope banned from the Rolls Royce Factory for that very same that they could obtain orders to rebuild them. It was reason - another very interesting link. certainly true that many of these organs unexpectedly To recap, we have Henry Royce, who shared a factory received innumerable faults for no apparent reason. One with Bensons Organ Builders. We know that Benson such casualty was his organ at St. Modwen’s Burton- on-Trent (the console now being at our museum). Here one pipe from each of the more unusual stops was stolen, most probably to be copied by a rival organ builder. This fact helped to spread the word as evidence that Hope- Jones Organs were unreliable. Investigation has shown that many of these faults were engineered, even in some cases causing what might appear to be a fire started by an electrical fault when in fact the organ electrical system had been disconnected. To go back to 1892 for a moment, a series of letters have recently come to light. These were recently discovered when the grandson of an organ builder was sorting out his father’s estate. These letters have an interesting connection which starts at Bensons Organ Builders at the fig 15 time that Henry Royce was sharing the factory. Robert Hope-Jones received on 8th July 1892 a letter from an knew Hope-Jones and made his electric action under employee of Bensons asking for a job with the Hope- licence. At this time Ernest Claremont was the Managing Jones Electric Organ Company. Robert replied offering Director of Glovers Cables; he was also Henry Royce’s the person a job at a pay of seven pence an hour, if his brother in law, so no doubt that Royce got his wire for present employer George Benson had no objection. The winding Hope-Jones electromagnets from Glovers. person, who was called Albert Lloyd accepted (see figure Ernest Claremont was also the Chairman of Royce Ltd. It 16). In a photograph of Bensons' Organ Builders staff, is recorded that Henry Edmunds, a major share holder in

6 Vox Lancastria

fig 16

Glover’s cables, was the person who introduced Charles possibly telephones. Henry Royce had a house built in Rolls to Henry Royce. However as mentioned, Frank Knutsford, the village just outside the gates to Tatton Hope-Jones was the first Company Secretary of Roberts Hall; also Henry Royce was a member of the local Motor Electric Organ Company and Frank was one of the first Club of which Lord Egerton was also a member. It just Radio Amateurs in the area and a founder member of the goes to show how the Victorians worked and got to know Radio Society of Great Britain. It is also fact that Lord everyone who mattered. This was often referred to in the Egerton of Tatton - who was a descendant of the Duke of past as the “Old Pals Act”. Bridgewater - was also one of the first Radio Amateurs Since my involvement in Theatre organs, which started and involved quite deeply in the radio amateur over 33 years ago, we have always jokingly referred to movement. Lord Egerton was a flying pioneer and often the Wurlitzer Theatre Organ as the “Rolls Royce of flew his plane from Tatton Park, his home. It is recorded Theatre Organs”, and so our present research and that one partner in his flying was Charles Rolls. The two knowledge goes well with the old saying “Many a True of them went together to meet the Wright Brother Word is Spoken in Jest.” pioneers on a visit to Britain. Tatton Hall was the first The Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust’s “Hope-Jones place in Cheshire to have electricity installed and Museum” was opened on the 30th September 2006 by the 7 Vox Lancastria

fig17

Mayor of Salford, Councillor B. P. Murphy, and is now Acknowledgements: open to the public. The Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust Birth, Marriage and Opus details:- also use the 1920’s decor auditorium for a series of lunch Roger Fisher, LTOT Committee Member. time concerts presented every Wednesday using the Henry Royce material and Copy Archive:- Heritage Centre Wurlitzer - this is the ex Trocadero, Tom Clarke, Rolls Royce Historian. Liverpool, Style DA, 2/6 Wurlitzer, Opus 1664, which Glovers Material:- was one of the first 13 Wurlitzers shipped to Britain and Archives in Manchester Science Museum. is now the sixth oldest surviving Wurlitzer in the UK. Electric Action and some pipes:- The Wurlitzer was first installed in October 1927 and Co-op Funeral Directors, Midlands area. was of course originally used for accompanying silent Albert Lloyd material:- movies. Tom Lloyd, Albert’s grandson in New York, USA. Hope-Jones consoles:- kkk Rev Paul Farthing, Vicar of St. Pauls Burton-on-Trent. New Hope-Jones Web Site See “World Around Hope-Jones” CD or www.hope-jones.org www.voxlancastria.org.uk for more information.

8 Vox Lancastria

had restored the original two-manual organ and You can see it and play it disconnected the third manual in 1996. To cut a long story but you can't hear it. short, the outcome was that David Wells was able to As a post script to Bob Jones' introduction to the rescue the six tabs assembly, not realising its historic silent Hope-Jones additional manual at Aldford significance, and he very kindly presented them to me. In Church in the last issue (Number 25), Roger Fisher David's words “Its only through guys like you that we organ builders can sometimes appreciate what we are brings the story up to date. working on.” After some years in my own personal collection of Hope-Jones artefacts, I have now donated them to the Peel First of all, for the record, Aldford Church is dedicated to Green Museum. When the second showcase is completed St. John the Baptist, not St. Mary as Bob says. In the last in the near future, the tabs will be displayed there. To issue Bob told us about the Choir manual that Robert complete the Aldford saga, it is planned, when funds Hope-Jones added in 1893 to the 1866 two-manual Hill permit, for the Choir organ to be restored, and to be organ at Aldford, near Chester. This was in Hope-Jones' controlled by new matching stop knobs. early period, job number 18, when he only supplied his The accompanying photograph shows the rescued tabs. At patented form of electro-pneumatic action to organs of some time the original electric action had been replaced other builders. In by a form of this case the pneumatics, and pipework was by this is still evident Whiteleys of in the tab assembly. Chester. Visually The tabs themselves the Choir pipes however, and the look nothing like ornamental ivory Hope-Jones pipes, “Choir Organ” label simply because beneath, are all they aren't, so the original. A Aldford organ remarkable fact is never had the that even here, and Hope-Jones sound. as early as 1893, the The following were colour coding later the stops:- used in theatre organs is evident in the circular studs below each tab: black for the Dulciana………… ………8 coupler, white for the flues, and red for the reed. Here Lieblich Gedeckt… …….8 again is early proof of a Hope-Jones idea that has Suabe Flute………………4 survived right down to the present day. Harmonic Piccolo………..2 Coincidentally, the Aldford organ was the first to be Clarionet…………………8 featured in my regularly changing Museum display The pipes bore no resemblance to the tonal ideas that were featuring the “Hope-Jones Organ of the Month”, in soon to come from Hope-Jones' mind. Only the action was August last year. If Bob had visited the Museum in provided by Robert. This was controlled by six stop tabs August he would have been fascinated to see the Aldford that were placed in a row above the Swell (top) manual display. and below the music desk. As you will see from the above, there were five stops and ranks of pipes. The sixth tab was for a coupler Swell to Choir. Interestingly, and historically quite significant is the fact that these tabs were of Hope-Jones earliest form, that of an L shape in cross-section. This design was soon to be superseded by the vertical style as used at St. Pauls Burton on Trent, to be seen in the Museum.

As part of my researches into Hope-Jones, I had visited Aldford some years previously and seen the Choir tabs in situ, but then on a later visit noticed they had gone, and the Choir manual inoperative. Investigations led to my contacting organ builder David Wells of Liverpool who 9 Vox Lancastria

A Busy Heritage Centre Wurlitzer Plays a Major Part Roger Fisher tells of events at the Centre other in Stockport Town Hall than our regular Wednesday concerts. Centenary Many readers will have attended our regular Wednesday lunchtime concerts at the Peel Green Heritage Centre, but June and July saw the Centenary I thought it might be worth mentioning some of the other Celebrations of Stockport Town Hall, events that take place there. with the Wurlitzer featuring at many Once a fortnight on Tuesdays we have the Wurlitzer Club activities. where a few members meet to play the Wurlitzer and Kevin Morgan opened the festivities exchange some tricks of the trade, views and opinions on with a lunchtime concert on the 30th. the art of organ playing. It's an entertaining and June. Kevin commenced his educational occasion not to be missed by budding players programme with a new March as well as the more experienced. If there is anyone else composed by Joyce Alldred especially out there who would like to join us, then Peter Taylor is for the Centenary Celebrations. The March is entitled the man to see, or call him to enquire on 01706 212142. "Animo et Fide" (With The Centre is now often hired by groups for private Faith and Courage), afternoon or evening events. These usually consist of a which is the Motto of concert interspersed with one or two short films, a visit to Stockport M.B.C. The the Museum, and refreshments. The proceedings can be March was received tailor-made to suit the requirements of each group. A with rapturous number of Organists' Associations have also been, where applause. A Bow Tie open console sessions for their members are included in Social Dance at 7-30 the programme. For some events the groups have pm with resident dance arranged for their own caterers to supply refreshments, organist Charles Brown full-scale buffets in some cases. Last year (2007) we had with a welcome guest 22 such events. These all have a knock-on effect in Kevin Morgan appearance of popular bringing more people to the Centre. I think our volunteers organist Eric Barlow to get as much enjoyment from these events as the visitors accompany a sing-a-along on the Wurlitzer. The do! Anyone who would like to enquire about a group Wurlitzer was also featured as part of the guided tours of booking, call Roger Fisher on 0161 792 1836. the Town Hall. It The Centre is open to the public every Friday and provided music for Saturday between 11 am and 3pm. During these times the Edwardian anyone can call in to see, hear or play the Wurlitzer, see Evening on Monday the Museum, and have a chat with whoever is on duty that 7th July, with Carolyn day. On these days it's all very informal, and anyone can Hawkins at the do anything to suit themselves, with the help of one of our console. A Party Tea volunteers. Do come along and see us. Dance on Wednesday We also use the centre for all our meetings of the 9th. with Charles Committee and Trustees. After all, this is the Trust's Brown at the Dennis James headquarters, so that is one of the benefits of having our Wurlitzer. A highlight own premises. of the two week long events was a Silent Movie Christmas Party - Concert presentation with American artist Dennis James at the Wurlitzer accompanying "The Blacksmith" and Harold Finally, our Christmas Party on 19th December was a LLoyd in "The Girl Shy". An Orchestral Gala Concert on great success. We heard Wurlitzer music from John Ford Saturday 12th July and Vic Matthews followed by Laurel and Hardys 1928 featured Stockport silent film “The Two Tars” accompanied on the Wurlitzer Symphony Orchestra by Alan Crossland. George Peet then wound up the with Nigel Ogden at proceedings for the first half. Sylvia James was also to the Wurlitzer. The read some of her poetry, but because of long delays on the final event was on motorway she was unable to be with us. So there's Sunday 13th July with something to look forward to next Christmas. Sylvia says Stockport throwing the she will set out the day before to make sure she arrives in biggest street party the time! town centre has ever After a very jovial interval with wine, mince pies and the Nigel Ogden seen, with fabulous raffle, the second half began with Peter Taylor on the free entertainment, Wurlitzer, then Jackie ------Continued Page 16 culminating in a spectacular firework finale.

10 Vox Lancastria

Minutes of the 37th. Annual General Meeting of The Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust held at the Theatre Organ Heritage Centre, Peel Green, Eccles. Saturday 1st December 2007.

The Chairman, Mr Don Hyde welcomed everyone to the 37th. Annual General Meeting.

Apologies; From 7 members.

Members Present; 47

Minutes of Last AGM. Proposed by Mr. J.C. Gaskell, Seconded by Mr. F Leigh. All agreed.

Matter Arising; None.

Chairman's Remarks. Mr. Don. Hyde.

We are coming to the end of yet another year in the life of the Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust and again as in previous years it has been a very rewarding one. The two organ venues we have operational are doing well even though audiences have dropped a bit at Stockport. Also if we can find the volunteers it would be nice to get the Blue Coat Christie organ in concert again so think about it. I will jump a little forward because we are already directly involved. Next year is going to be a very important one for several reasons; firstly as I mentioned in the VOX, next November is the fortieth anniversary of the founding of the Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust and we need to put on a special celebration event. We do need your input on this so please think about it and speak out during any other business. Also next year it is the Centenary of the opening of Stockport Town Hall in July 1908 and during the first two weeks in July there will be a series of events to celebrate this. We have already been involved in the presentation for this and are putting on three events during that time. These are a special Lunchtime event on Monday 30th June with Kevin Morgan at the console. Another silent movie event on Thursday 10th July and following the great success this July with Dennis James he is coming over to UK again for a repeat event. Finally, on Saturday 12th July we are staging a joint event with the Stockport Symphony Orchestra and Nigel Ogden will be our organist on that occasion. There’s more, following some more research again we find that on the 8th of May next year it is the Centenary of the opening of this building, which we have made our Heritage Centre. Again I think we need to put on a special event. The building was opened by Mr. Atack whose Great grandson lives in Chesterfield and still has a special Gold Key that was presented to his great grandfather in celebration of that opening. I am in the process of acquiring a photograph of the said Key to hang here. By now no doubt you will have read the first part of my Simonton Literary award paper, the result of research we have been doing here. Also as a result we have been asked to help with a display to Robert Hope-Jones at a new museum in Tonawanda where the Wurlitzer Factory still stands and I’ve been asked to write articles for magazines in the USA and Australia. Our work still goes on and the latest discovery has been finding all the paperwork relating to the setting up of the various Hope-Jones organ companies. Here is a copy of some of the papers, which for those interested I will put on the table here for you to browse through. All this work is giving the Trust very good PR around the world. Finally, again I wish to bring to your attention the storage of the ex Gaumont organ which is costing us quite a bit of money in rental, and again I am asking does any member know or can help with finding sponsored storage. Also as important does anyone know of a good venue, preferably in Greater Manchester area, that would make an ideal venue for this important Wurlitzer. I sincerely hope that we can find a venue for this organ over the next 3 years. You know it's getting a bit frightening when I look back and think I’ve been directly involved in every organ installation the Trust has ever done over the past 35 years.

So I think we should now quickly carry on with our AGM.

11 Vox Lancastria

Secretarys Report Year Ending 31st July 2007. Report from Mr R. Pierce. Further Report and Observations from Mr. D. Alldred

Mr. Bob Pierce.

Work carried out by the former elected Hon. Secretary, R J Pierce on behalf of the LTOT during the year 2007.

Upon being elected Hon. Secretary by the A.G.M. on 18th November 2006, I saw my role, in addition to normal secretarial duties, to be that of a supporter of, and ambassador for, the Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust. Accordingly, my wife and I have visited as many as possible related organisations in the area and have tried to support Roger Fisher, as Manager of our Heritage Centre, in his need to man the Headquarters, Peel Green, on Saturdays, both by our own presence there on many weekends and by approaching volunteers, requesting their help.

“Flying the Flag,” we have visited, and /or attended concerts at:

The Plaza, Stockport. Stockport Town Hall Productions. The Paramount, Penistone. Cheadle & District Organ Society. Pipes in the Peaks, Thorpe, Ashbourne. Heaton Moor Methodist Church. Llay British Legion Organ Society. Patricroft Methodist Church. Bury Unitarian Church. St Andrew’s Church, Penistone. Bolton & Dist. Electronic Organ Society. Trafford Organ Society. Rossendale Electronic Organ Society. Stockport Organ & Keyboard Club.

Our purpose was to support their activities, converse with them and, if possible, promote the LTOT to them. We believe we can claim a degree of success, having welcomed a number of their members to our concerts for the first time, both at the Town Hall and the Heritage Centre. Pam, on my (the Secretary’s) behalf, has worked valiantly for Roger Fisher, to keep the Heritage Centre open on Saturdays. The licence requires a minimum staff of 3 persons present when open to the public. Eric Halsall has, on more than one occasion, expressed his concern that we must fulfil this condition. On some occasions Pam could not supply the requisite number of volunteers and we have then stepped in to make up the numbers. I would wish to place on record the following list of persons who have given up their time, some on several Saturdays, to help keep the Centre open, often heartbreakingly, with no visitors to justify their kind contribution:

Rhon Jones. Eric Halsall. Norma Home. David Alldred. Colin Smith. Michael Baron. James Crompton. Don Hyde. Kathleen Veevers. Walter Baker. Frank Armstrong. George Peet. Peter Taylor. Jean Collon. Jim McCulloch. Peter Mansell. Mike Dawson. Marion Jones. Jean Halsall. Ben Saunders. Francis Leigh. Pat Howarth. Ian Gough. Sylvia James. Judy Hyde. Sheila? (Kathleen friend.) Alan Crossland. Joan Armstrong. Edward Wilkinson. Rob Howard. John Ford. Elsie McCulloch. Dave Appleyard. Val Dawson.

Mr. D. Alldred

Since its inception in 1968 the last twelve months have been one of the most closely scrutinised and criticised in its history and we are now at a junction when the right decisions have to be taken to restore the credibility and effectiveness of the Trust to ensure that all the hard work of the past is not forgotten and more importantly that the right decisions are made to carry the message, and our heritage forward for future generations. As you all know, the interest that we have in the Theatre Organ has a relatively low following, not only in this country, but world wide, with all of the work being carried out by volunteers. Like all community, recreational trusts and organisations, sourcing volunteers is not always easy. The officers of the Trust have for many years encouraged the need for increased membership, and although we do attract new members, we also lose members due to death and non-renewal of membership. During the life of the Trust our membership peaked at over 600 with a very active local membership involvement. Today it is a very different story. At the end of July 2002, five years ago, our membership was 574. It is now 458, a

12 Vox Lancastria drop of 116 or 25% and during that time voluntary hours have also reduced, resulting in a few dedicated enthusiasts carrying out whatever is necessary to maintain the effectiveness of the Trust. Five years ago the Trust embarked on what is the goal of most Theatre Organ preservation societies, their own headquarters complete with a Theatre Pipe Organ installed. The Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust was again a pioneer in this kind of venture. It has taken a great amount of dedication, effort and commitment by a small number of volunteers and nothing can be done but to praise and thank these people for their unstinting efforts. Unfortunately, the work carried out in its completion and subsequent weekly management in running the Heritage Centre has resulted in other activities of the Trust not being enhanced. It is often pointed out to me that the Heritage Centre is an integral part of the Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust and not that the Heritage Centre is the Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust. Members are proud of the achievement, but it must only be part of the bigger picture in the future of the Trust. Due to the fact that these small bands of workers are retired, it was obvious that the work in creating the centre would be carried out during weekdays. Unfortunately no provision was made for keen members in full time employment to take part in the project in the evenings and weekends. As a result, many decisions were taken without the input of members and volunteers in the way the centre evolved, thereby reducing the effectiveness of the committee. This in turn has caused some resentment and resulted in resignations. At the Annual General Meeting last year new appointments were made to the offices of Trustee and Committee members. Unfortunately, due to unrest and disagreements in the committee in recent months we have lost the following newly appointed officers, through either resignation, or names not being put forward for re-election.

Bob Pierce resigned as secretary. Bob Jones resigned as a Trustee and also Editor of Vox. Everson Whittle resigned as Trustee Rev Quentin Bellamy resigned as Trustee. Kevin Grunill requested that his name not be put forward for re-election to the committee.

Human nature dictates that stories abound around what has taken place both inside and outside the committee with regard to these disagreements. As a member of the Trust I am sure that you will agree with me this unrest and underlying attitudes have to be addressed. I do not wish to expand on the events that led up to these resignations, but as we are here at the Annual General Meeting and at the start of a new year, may I suggest that what has gone before be laid to rest and that we concentrate on what is far more important - The future of the Trust and its activities. An organisation such as the LTOT is like a jigsaw; our individual membership and volunteers have their own special part to play in that jigsaw and, by pulling together as a team that jigsaw is completed and the result can be seen for all to enjoy. Likewise, the running of any group has to have the right criteria in place to make it effective. As far as the LTOT is concerned, and in my opinion, there are three main points that need to be in place. Commitment Communication and Control. We will be shortly voting on the appointment of officials of the Trust for the next twelve months and beyond. May I personally emphasise the importance of ensuring that the names put forward appreciate what is involved in the decision making and running of the Trust, and that if they feel that their commitment and attendance at meetings may be in question, they consider their position of putting their name forward for office. And above all must be willing to work as a team. This is most important in the office of Trustee, as the Trustees are responsible for membership, for all the material and financial assets, and also policy making of the Trust. Communication between Trustees and committee members ensures that all ideas and policies are discussed, a consensual agreement secured and subsequently acted upon by those who are given the responsibility of carrying out that decision. Control is to ensure that no individual is placed in a position where he or she makes a decision without complete authorisation from the Trustees, unless a remit has been given laying out the criteria of that remit. I mentioned two years ago in my report as the then Secretary, that the Trust will be reviewing its rules or constitution to bring our activities in line with the dictates of the Charity Commission and to modify anomalies that exist in the current rules. In the main the draft rules are complete and will be further discussed and agreed by the Trustees at the earliest opportunity in the New Year and will be placed before the membership for ratification at a future Extraordinary AGM,

13 Vox Lancastria

or at the AGM next year. The Heritage Centre has now been in operation for over twelve months and its profitability has to be maintained, otherwise it could be a serious drain on the Trusts main resources. After many requests for possible suitable storage for the Gaumont organ, the Trust's assets are still being eroded by having to pay ongoing rental and insurance for storage. Concern has been tabled as to the availability of finding a new venue for the installation of the Gaumont organ in the foreseeable future. Concerns, comments and observations from members in general over the past weeks have been received, these will be placed before the Trustees for discussion and implementation after this meeting and will include;

Proposals for; Increasing membership. Raising the profile of the Trust Future of The Gaumont Organ. Future of the Davenport Organ Increased involvement at Blue Coat Maximising the use of the Heritage Centre and Theatre Organ Museum Address the restrictions, both financial and access-wise at Stockport Town Hall. Promotion of events apart from the Heritage Centre. A perception exists that the Trust is a closed shop, a clique.

This perception must be completely laid to rest and any evidence of this culture must be attended to. We need all the membership and voluntary help that we can muster and the future must ensure that all capabilities are recognised, training be given in all aspects of Theatre Organ Presentation and Preservation and all aspects of the day to day running of the Trust. We must delegate, encourage and welcome new faces and new skills to face the demanding future. We must put in place a rota system of jobs undertaken, we must invite feedback and indeed constructive criticism from our members and visitors. Just because a job has been done by one person for years does not mean that no one else is capable of doing it. Suitable volunteers should be given the opportunity to do it and we must ensure that new members, existing members and volunteers are welcomed into our activities and made to feel needed. In presenting this report I have tried to emphasise that in some areas we need to amend our ways, work cohesively and look to the future. I am sure that many of you can read between the lines and take on board any comments that could relate to you and accept that the future in the short term is not with us, but with those who we welcome aboard and train for the next group of enthusiasts who will follow.

Thank you.

Treasurer’s Report Year Ending 31st of July 2007. - Mr. Colin Smith

Once again it is my pleasure to present the accounts for the year ending 31st July 2007 and to draw your attention to just a few items. On the income side, subscriptions are down by £883.00 as a result of declining membership. I did warn members last year that each time we increase membership fees, we lose some members who do not renew, regrettably a sign of an ageing membership with too few under forties coming on board. On a brighter note, donations show an increase of £5,434.00, but the most significant increase is at the Heritage Centre from £6,406.00 to £13,397.00. It has to be pointed out that the £13,397.00 is for a full years operation, whereas the £6404.00 was for a period of seven months. Amazingly, the Wednesday lunchtime concerts are still attracting a few new faces every week, which is most encouraging. In addition we have had a steady increase in the number of private parties paying us a visit, who in turn pass on the word to other private parties. Long may it continue. Expenditure of £3,972.00 on Vox Lancastria and News North is divided between Vox Lancastria £2,903.00 and News North £1,069.00. In this instance the average cost per issue for three issues of Vox Lancastria is £968.00 and for six issues of News North, £178.00. Thanks as always to the two editors for keeping us up to date after hours of dedicated work. A cause for concern is the ongoing cost of storing the ex Gaumont 4/14 Wurlitzer, which again begs the question, how much longer can we hang on to this absolute gem of a Wurlitzer organ? It will be a very sad day if we ever have to let it go, but there is a limit to how much longer we can go on paying out £458.25 every thirteen weeks to keep it in 14 Vox Lancastria storage. As you are aware, countless locations have been followed up without success, but sadly, sentiment will not pay the bills. A solution has to be found and before too much longer. Finally, a sincere thank you to Mike Dawson who again has prepared the accounts in a professional manner at no cost to the Trust. Ladies and gentlemen, I formally submit the accounts for the year ending 31st July 2007 for your approval.

Mr D. Hammond proposed and Mr G. Egerton seconded that the Treasurer's report be accepted. All agreed.

Election of Trustees; The following Trustees were elected as follows; Mr. Ron. Whalley. Proposed Mr. M. Dawson - Seconded Mr K. Grunill. - All agreed Mr. Michael Dawson. Proposed Mr. R. Whalley - Seconded Mr. V. Matthews. - All agreed Mr. Eric Halsall. Proposed Mr. D. Hyde - Seconded Mr. P. Ratcliffe. - All agreed. Mr. Peter Ratcliffe. Proposed Mr. G. Kingston - Seconded Mr. R. Whalley. - All agreed

Election of President; Mr. F.D. Read. Proposed by Mr. M. Dawson - Seconded Mr. K. Grunill. All agreed.

Election of Vice President; Mr. P. Ratcliffe proposed and Mr. W. Baker seconded, that the current Vice Presidents be re-elected for a further term of office. All agreed

Election of Chair by Rotation Mr. F. Leigh Proposed and Mr. B. McNally seconded that Mr. Don Hyde be elected Chair. All agreed.

Election of Hon. Secretary; Mr. R. Whalley proposed and Mr. G. Egerton seconded that Mr M. Dawson be appointed Secretary. All agreed.

Election of Committee; The following members were proposed, seconded and elected to serve on the committee;

Mrs. M. Read. Mr. V. Matthews. Mr. R. Fisher. Mr. A. Crossland. Mr. P. Taylor.

Membership Secretary; Mr. Michael Holmes Proposed Mr. M. Dawson Seconded Mr. W. Baker. All agreed

Election of Examiner of Accounts; As a result of Mr. M. Dawson not being eligible due to his election as secretary, Mr. D. Alldred proposed and Mr. W. Baker seconded that Mr John Fitzpatrick, (Retired Chief Accountant) be elected Examiner of Accounts. All agreed.

Any Other Business;

Joyce Alldred requested information regarding a proposal submitted by A. Sly regarding promoting the Theatre Organ to educational bodies. D. Hyde replied that he had communicated with Mr Sly and heard nothing since.

Kevin Grunill enquired re. storage and asked as to the numbers being attracted specifically to the museum. According to his information it was only around 68 people since the opening. R. Fisher replied that it was a lot more than 68.

15 Vox Lancastria

Graham Kingston asked what size storage would be needed for the Gaumont organ. E. Halsall replied around 1000 Sq ft.

Dennis Hammond asked if the Winter Gardens at Morecambe would be a suitable venue to install the Gaumont Wurlitzer. D. Hyde responded saying that this venue had been looked at and measured and the chambers could not be accommodated. Graham Kingston enquired if Hotel chains may be approached as to the viability for installation of the Gaumont Wurlitzer. Peter Ratcliffe mentioned that the old Essoldo in Stretford was still standing and put this venue forward as to a possibility. M. Dawson - enquired if any person who would be interested in forming a working party in sourcing a venue, contact him later. M. Dawson asked if the Trustees would meet before leaving to set a mutual date for a Trustees meeting. Colin Smith thanked everyone who had sent best wishes to Muriel during her hospital stay.

The Chair, Mr. D. Hyde thanked all present for their attendance.

Mary Ann Wootton A Note From Joyce Alldred Michael Holmes Membership Secretary I am sure many of you will remember Mary Ann, who won the American Theatre Thank you to everyone for their support to the cause by Organ, London Chapter, being a member of the LTOT. We are especially Competition at the Leisure grateful to those of you who pay when their Centre, Woking, back in subscriptions are due rather than waiting to be reminded. 2006. As reminders are issued a month in arrears, this helps to I would like to give you a keep the costs down especially now postage is so short up-date on what Mary expensive. Ann has been doing since then. The Trust is pleased to welcome the following She has obtained a Diploma for Piano with the Associated new members: Board of the Royal Schools of Music, and can now append the letters Dip.A.B.R.S.M. to her name. Mary Ann Mr & Mrs Ashton, Standish has also won a Scholarship from the American Theatre Mr John Barnett, West Midlands Organ Society in America, which is to help with her Mr Norman Scott, Stafford tuition fees. Mr & Mrs Lentin, Davyhulme She has just returned from the A.T.O.S. Convention in Mr Gordon Crook, Exmouth Indianapolis, where she was one of three chosen from six Mr Stuart Batten, Sale entrants for the final of the Young Organist Competition. The winner was a 22-year-old American man, Jonathan To those who are not sure (and might ring me up to ask!), Ortloff. the current rates are £16.50 Ordinary Members, £4.50 She received great acclaim from the audience, and a Associate Members and £7.00 Junior Members (under number of Americas top organists, especially when the 18). Life Membership is currently £250. piston-setting mechanism failed, and she had to hand Best wishes, register on the 3-26 rank Wurlitzer. She showed great Michael presence of mind in telling the audience there was a technical hitch and she would therefore have to hand Continued from page 10 ---- register. Wilkinson showed us her talents on the piano, followed Mary Ann will be giving a concert at The Peel Green by Marion Jones on the Wurlitzer. The afternoon was Theatre Organ Heritage Centre on Wednesday, 20th completed with a sing-along of Christmas Carols to the August at 1-00 p.m., and will be featured in a Coffee accompaniment of Alan Crossland. There was no excuse Morning at the Plaza Theatre, Stockport on Saturday 20th not to join in - the words were on the screen! I wonder September, playing for half-hour periods between 10-00 how many there noticed the impromptu Peel Green Choir a.m. and 1-00 p.m. If you get chance to go and hear Mary that developed at the back led by Judy Hyde clearly Ann, do try; I am sure you will not be disappointed. This singing the descant in most of the carols. Well done young lady is very talented. Judy!! 16 Vox Lancastria

Our Peel Green Heritage Centre was created, we were treated to a selection of classical organ music from David Emery, who is organist Centre Building's Centenary next door at Patricroft Methodist Church, regularly playing their historic Wadsworth organ. We then watched a complete Laurel and Hardy film “Them Thar Hills”. The first half was then wound up by our old friend Marion Jones. Refreshments, including some scrumptious buttered scones were soon devoured in the interval. The second half opened with Laurel and Hardy's short silent film “Two Tars” where everyone was much amused at the road-rage of the 1920s, accompanied in the traditional way by Alan Crossland. Peter Taylor then took his place at the console, and included a selection of “Beatles” music, done tongue-in-cheek for the forty-odd members of the audience who had come from the church next door. They were to have had a “Beetle Drive” that evening but had cancelled it on the strength of our special concert! Next a selection of old photographs of the area from times James Atack - Michael Atack - Roger Fisher past were screened, with Roger Fisher's narration. This was On Friday evening, 30th May, it was exactly a hundred followed by a complete showing years to the day since the Official Opening Ceremony of Charlie Chaplin's silent took place of the then new Sunday School Annexe to comedy “Easy Street”. The Patricroft Methodist Church. The 1908 ceremony was evening concluded with a sing- performed by one Joseph Atack, a Bolton mill owner, and along of patriotic and old-time he was presented with a gold key for the occasion. songs, accompanied by Alan Now, a century on, the building is owned by the Crossland. Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust, and is the Theatre Organ We think we suitably marked the Heritage Centre. Friday evening saw a small but packed occasion with quite a memorable theatre for our special concert and film evening to evening, and a printed celebrate the centenary. In attendance as guests of honour programme was also available as were members of the Atack family, including James a souvenir of the occasion. Atack, the Great-Grandson of Joseph. Travelling from (Further copies of this can still their Derbyshire home for the event, they brought with be obtained upon request.) them photographs of Joseph and other members of the Pictured is James Atack with his family, and these are now on display at the Centre. The son Michael, showing the key to Gold Key Roger Fisher, and also James seated at our Wurlitzer organ.

Your Heritage Centre is Available for Group Visits

Why not organise a visit by your Church, W.I. Rotary, Probus etc.

A warm welcome awaits James Atack at the Heritage Centre Wurlitzer Contact Roger Fisher gold key, a photograph of which is displayed in our foyer, has since become an Atack family heirloom, but we were on privileged to be able to see it. 0161-792-1836 The Centenary programme opened with music from Alan Crossland. Then after the short film telling of how the

17 Vox Lancstria

Your Observations and Comments from the Questionnaire

Please send LTOT Newsletter by Email. opening a Bank Account which members can contribute Have you considered Wallasey Town Hall and/or the to on a voluntary basis as and when they are renewing Pacific Road Theatre in Birkenhead for the Gaumont their subscriptions. I would call this The Helping Hand Organ? Fund, and the Trust could draw on this fund for Norman Scott, Stafford. unexpected items and printing costs involved in producing Vox Lancastria. The other item which concerns me is the I wrote to Colin Smith some time ago offering to do a lack of progress in finding a new home for the Gaumont concert at Peel Green when I am in Sheffield with my Wurlitzer. I know that the Trust is working tirelessly to aughter. find a new home, but I feel that we do not have suitable I would do the Peel Green concert free of charge. I buildings in this country, unlike America. I also feel that suggest we might combine it with a lunchtime show at we could do with an Open Meeting at the Heritage Centre Stockport. I didn't receive a reply! to discuss this organ's future. It could also be used as a Trevor Bolshaw Honiton, Devon. fund-raising occasion with open console, and £2 a tune raised; maybe a raffle as well. We could call it "What's the Has the Trust considered becoming part of ATOS and Future of the Theatre Organ". forming a Northern Chapter? The backing and support of My own personal view is that its short term future is a large organization would help ensure the survival of our assured with some good organists, and good venues, but I group of enthusiasts, and also bring us more onto the fear for its long term future. I know it is painful for us international scene. organ enthusiasts in not being able to find a new home for We all have a common goal, why not pull together? the Gaumont organ, but in this so-called Modern Britain, Adrian Sly, Macclesfield, Cheshire. people are losing their gardens, and bowling greens, and schoolchildren losing their playing fields, and buildings In the modern Era, why doesn't the Trust view the being torn down, so I suppose we shouldn't be too possibility of producing (and of course, selling) DVDs of surprised at not finding a suitable home for the Gaumont concerts? Organ. Just a thought, although accepting it's fact that a number Finally David, I take my hat off to all the Trust's Officers of videos (which I have) have already been produced; but for all the work they do for the Trust. times are a-changing! Francis Leith, Aspull, Lancs. Ronald Dowd, Golborne, Cheshire. I own a Gulbransen Series 600 Full Compass Theatre Payment for storage of the ex-Gaumont Wurli is a Organ which was stored for some time. It now requires an constant drain on the Trusts finances and I feel that the overhaul by a competent engineer. I live one mile from disposal of this organ is becoming increasingly necessary. Junc. 33 on the M6. I say this with regret, as this instrument has been an If anyone knows of an engineer, I would be very grateful integral part of the Manchester scene for many years. if they could put me in touch with them. I am in Considering that we need to find a suitable home for the possession of all the relevant Service manuals. ex-Davenport Compton, and because we have a dormant My Email address is: and my Tel.No. is 01254 793513 Christie at Blue Coat School, disposing of the ex- Keep up the good work Gaumont/Granada Wurli would stop the financial drain Jim Duxbury Preston, Lancs. and allow more focus to be applied to the other two mentioned instruments. Speaking for myself, I would be quite happy for there not We members are very lucky to have the Ex-Odeon Wurli to be a Vox at all. In other words, why not discontinue it and the Heritage Centre Wurli, Museum, and facilities to altogether! enjoy. Long may it continue. Think of the money you would have to spend on more Thanks to all of you for all your hard work. aspects, important aspects, of the Organ/Organs. To say Denis Ratcliffe, Liverpool. nothing of the time and effort of all the people who work so hard to produce it. I fear I am a rather distant member, but I have enormous I consider the Newsletter more than adequate for most pleasure from receiving all the newsletters. people. Thank you for all the work you do. (Mrs) Norma Henderson, Bramhall, Cheshire. Michael Davey, Telford, Shropshire. Dear David Dear David LTOT are doing a fabulous job, as you and Joyce are. I Thanks for the latest LTOT news, an interesting was joint Chairman of A.T.O.S. 1986-1990 with Les Newsletter. In view of the rising costs of producing Vox Rawle. He and Edith were great workers and very great Lancastria, which is a quality publication, I suggest friends of mine as Len and Judith are. I did 25 visits to the

18 Vox Lancastria

States and about 7 conventions great days! I am with superlative musicianship of the many organists you have Charity Aid Foundation (C.A.F.) no gift aid needed from engaged to entertain us. me. We moved from Radlett in 1995, five miles from Len With best wishes for the continual success of LTOT. So and eight miles from Les and Edith. Now we find it very sorry not to be able to be there again. I will retain my impossible to do a lot; we belong to Cardiff Organ Society membership. but the football match crowds and cars stopped us getting If you consider my comments suitable for inclusion in the to the meetings. Sad really, but I do enjoy all the LTOT Vox, please do so. newsletters, so keep up the good work. I'm now 81 and Graham Stansfield, Sale, Cheshire. Bettie is 82 (no children sadly). I am glad to know that a Civil Engineer is on your tech team, I have a BSc. Eng I find that when going to the Stockport concerts you meet ACGI and M. Brit. Inst. Radio Engineers the public who are very interested in the music played on Our Love and best wishes to you both. the Wurlitzer but who have no idea how it works, by Des & Bettie Jenkins Penarth. questions asked, usually around the console. For example, at the Phil Kelsall concert I was talking to a lady who had You seem to be doing everything right. The Wednesday no idea that the Wurlitzer was a pipe organ. concerts always run like clockwork; nothing ever goes I wonder if a small leaflet could be produced to outline wrong and the atmosphere you create makes a real home the history and a general description of the Wurlitzer from home experience. which could be purchased at concerts for a small fee? Congratulations to all involved. Thank You Joan & Frank Armstrong, Bolton, Lancs. Derek Mountford, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs.

I wish to inform you that mMy wife and I have been Dear Mr Alldred members of the LTOT for a long number of years and I It ill behoves a Yorkshireman to pass comment on look forward to the literature you send. Lancashire affairs but I do, with trepidation! This time you have sent a duplicate letter to my wife! I To my knowledge there are now at least three large only receive 1 on the publishing dates and don't want to Wurlitzer organs on the loose, with as yet no sign of get another one sent. I return the spare envelope with this permanent addresses. Surely it is time for ALL the letter. principal organ societies in the UK to bring their It was many years ago we became members, I would no combined talents to bear on this problem. I just feel doubt have filled this (gift aid) in at the time. Will you individual pride (and prejudice) sometimes gets in the check this out so that you can obtain the extra with me way of objective! being a tax payer? For instance would it not be better to install a 4/14 H Walkerworth, Burnley, Lancs. Wurlitzer in the Victoria Hall in Saltaire (West Yorkshire) in place of the (COS) 3/10 presently destined for there. Enjoyed the first Newsletter This of course assumes technical feasibility. Ian Lockie, York. My view would be to install the best instrument available each time and rarely an opportunity arises. Otherwise, it Might it be possible for Lynn Larson to feature at the does not make economic sense to continue paying storage Stockport Town Hall Wurlitzer in the near future? costs for ever and a day. Might it be possible for the (ex) Gaumont Manchester There does seem to be an increasing tendency for Wurlitzer to be housed in the Heritage Centre, commercial ventures to install Wurlitzers e.g. Singing Macclesfield. This is meant only as a vague helpful Hills Golf Club in the south. So maybe, in order to suggestion, as I do not know the capacity of space at this preserve and use these wonderful instruments we must venue, or indeed the technical possibility of installation. make them available to commercial interests. But I do PS: A further suggestion for the Gaumont Organ - could think the various societies (COS, TOC, LTOT and ATOS) Macclesfield Town Hall be a possibility? (suggested by must collaborate more. Miss Eileen Walshe of Macclesfield) Best Wishes Sorry I was unable to make a more generous donation .. Donald Wood, Bingley, West Yorkshire. sign of the times, I'm afraid. Regards to all. David D, Pyatt, Macclesfield, Cheshire. In order to assure the long term future of the LTOT, I believe it should affiliate with a larger and richer Until recently my wife and I had been regular attendees at organization. I am also a member of the ATOS, and have the Town Hall concerts. My wife's ill health prevents us noted that their representation in the UK is limited to the making the long journey to Stockport and it is unlikely “London and South of England Chapter”. that we will be able to come again. My suggestion is that the LTOT evolve into becoming the Listening to the Wurlitzer over so many years brought North West England Chapter of the ATOS. back memories of my time working at the Manchester This would enable the LTOT to tap into the huge Gaumont and Odeon, and we both greatly enjoyed the resources of a wealthy and like-minded organization, and

19 Vox Lancastria

could underwrite the future of the LTOT as its older place is manned anyway - it would obviously need a members retire. They might even contribute funds to the reasonable organist(s). I think the L.T.O.T. could learn storage of the Gaumont organ, and when a suitable home from the successful Plaza coffee mornings. is found, may also offer a grant towards installation? Peter Mansell, Stockport. I did mention this to Don Hyde both at the 2007 ATOS Convention in New York, and the 2005 Convention in Los Angeles. On both occasions he seemed distinctly unimpressed, but I think the Committee may like to debate the feasibility of this. David Spencer. Places for the Gaumont Wurly:- I'm sure that they've all THE been tried, but; 1/ Manchester Bus Museum, Queens Road, Burnage 2/ Trafford Centre LANCASTRIAN 3/ Manchester Arndale 4/ Royal Exchange THEATRE ORGAN 5/ A big shop like New Gallery/Habitat, London 6/ Museum of Science and Technology 7/ Tameside Hippodrome (due for a refurbishment now) TRUST Also, a little money spinner, all playing members to receive one track each on a souvenir CD, with all profits to LTOT and all players receive nothing ( i.e. volunteer). I think that an attractive CD could be made. If this is a crisis then, needs must. You could easily get about 60 40 YEARS ON mins on a CD and sell for £5, and it could be done over 1968 - 2008 2/3 weekends. School trips and educational packs, as part of a visit to the area see a silent picture with the Wurly and go on somewhere else. Downloadable resources for all, for a nominal cost/ CELEBRATIONS donation. PDF the Archive and Safe Deposit the hard copies in a regional archive. 21st - 22nd - 23rd Give Wednesday Organists the opportunity to have a sing along in their presentation too along with a little film/slide NOVEMBER 2008 show all in an extended interlude with the concert finishing at 2.30pm. You could also sell a little souvenir programme at each concert. Only send out one Vox a year, and do that in the form of a Report after the AGM, and send everything else out via Make a date in your diary the Newsletter. Have the Newsletter available at all events, sell copies of Vox to non-members at concerts, NOW! etc. I don't want to appear too smart, David, but I am worried because I will be eternally grateful for the big chance you all gave me. More information to follow With best wishes, Michael Baron, Market Rasen, Lincs. Up to date information Granada Wurlitzer needs to be installed at Peel Green in place of Hope-Jones stuff. available on Quentin Bellamy, Prestatyn. www.voxlancastria.org.uk Comments in reply to Walter's request for feedback to downloads from prevent Peel Green concerts getting stale. 1/ Don't always have the same M.C., it gets very tiring www.ltot.org.uk hearing the same comments every week at each concert. 2/ Consider occasional coffee mornings on Saturdays. The

20 Vox Lancastria

The End of an Era. 25 Years at The Blue Coat School, Oldham. 1983 - 2008 David Alldred

On the 22nd June 2008 our Head of Technical Team, Eric My own association with the organ goes back to the late Halsall received a disturbing, but not altogether fifties, when as a young enthusiast would visit the cinema unexpected telephone call from the business manager at along with Joyce, Keith, Brian Robinson, Roy Perry, John The Blue Coat School, Oldham. The theme of the call was Potter and many more to play the organ on a Sunday that the school had no further use for the organ and the afternoon. The organ at that time was held together with space occupied by its several components was required Baked Bean cans and the like, but at least it was kept playing and appreciated by fellow enthusiasts. This was before the days of the L.T.O.T. when the Theatre Organ Club and the Cinema Organ Society would present monthly meetings at all the cinemas and theatres in and around Manchester on Sunday mornings. (Perhaps I can tell you more of these activities in a future issue). Being unique in its console design and having two consoles. The ornate Egyptian style console was very rarely used and under wraps on the stage, the plain console in the pit, (no lift). The chambers were tight and not very high and considering the capacity of the cinema, the organ was a little less than adequate. The organ, after it was installed in the school, brought a great deal of enjoyment to so many people for many years and featured many of the country's leading organists, it also featured in all the Trusts Organ Weekends. Doreen Chadwick recorded a cassette on the Christie, entitled, Organised in Oldham. Presentations were suspended some years ago due to charges being incurred by the school and low attendances. Frank Hare, Reg Mander, Keith Phillipson, I thought it would be a good idea, after so many years in Cyril Castle seated situ at the Blue Coat to refresh the memories of members Pit Console in situ, Pyramid,Sale c 1953 who attended the concerts and to inform the most recent Photo - Joyce Alldred collection members of one of the major projects of the Trust from the early 80s and give some indication of the pride, for advancements in the school. commitment and enthusiasm of members at that time. As you can imagine, on top of our problems with storage The following details are taken from the opening brochure with the Gaumont Wurlitzer, and the future of the written by Keith Phillipson on the history of the organ. In Davenport Compton under discussion, we really needed the next issue I will include details of the Installation also this request like a hole in the head. taken from the opening brochure. The Trustees and committee, along with other involved personnel will be discussing the future regarding the Christie as a matter of urgency. The opening of The Blue Coat Christie, 25 years ago, (what an anniversary) came just after I became secretary. Blue Coat Opening Brochure The opening followed many years of commitment and toil from a small band of enthusiasts and Trust members led Collectors Item by Wilf. Fitton. Wilf. at that time, was the music teacher at Blue Coat and also a Trust member. Shortly after the opening of the organ the Trust's then A small number of copies of the Opening concert secretary and North West Representative of the Brochure of the Blue Coat organ have been Theatre Organ Club, Keith Phillipson was diagnosed with released from the archives and are available a brain tumour and sadly died after a very short period in from Roger Fisher. hospital. Keith had been associated with this instrument for many years during its time in the Pyramid/Odeon, 0161-792-1836 Sale, as he lived in the area.

21 Vox Lancastria

A History of the Blue Coat School Christie Organ and its Organists Taken from the Opening Brochure 17th September 1983, written by Keith Phillipson.

The Blue Coat School is not unique in having a pipe organ in this manner has, however, proved a boon at Blue organ installed in its premises; there are many schools Coat where similar chamber height restrictions were and colleges fortunate enough to possess such an encountered. instrument. Indeed records show that the Blue Coat As its name implies, the cinema was designed and School itself had an organ installed in “The School decorated in Egyptian style and this was carried through Room” as long ago as 1852 but how long this remained is to the casework surrounding the stage console which was not known, although one of the School Trustees, Mr. placed on a mobile platform which could be moved to Charles Hunter, presented an organ which was opened on any position required on stage. There are several November 20th 1901. Again, what became of this one is elaborately carved consoles around the world but hardly unknown and the pedigree of both organs has long since another like this one. At each end are towers bearing a been lost in antiquity. Pharoah or sphinx head and other decorative work Neither is the Blue Coat School unique in having a cinema organ. There are several schools and colleges so equipped. Northampton Boys Grammar School, Wellingborough Technical High School, Peterborough Technical College and the famous City School in Sheffield immediately spring to mind. These installations combine the theatre organ building work of Conacher, Compton and Wurlitzer, but Blue Coat is unique in that the organ here is the only Hill, Norman and Beard “Christie” Unit Organ in a school and perhaps even more startling is that it is the only one with two consoles. In fact, it is now the only original theatre organ in any building outside America with two consoles (one excludes here the dual purpose twin console Compton Organ in the Southampton Guildhall which is not a theatre organ). The instrument you are listening to today was conceived Reginald Liversidge - Pyramid, Sale in 1933 and appeared as Job Number 2908 in the Hill, together with a matching bench. Norman and Beard order books being destined for the In complete contrast, the orchestra console is contained new Pyramid Cinema/Theatre in Washway Road, Sale, within a small and neat polished wooden casework. Cheshire, a 2000 seater of large and lavish proportions. Another unique feature of this organ is that the console Despite the fact that the building provided two large casework is interchangeable and, in fact, on several organ chambers (one above the other), blower room and occasions during its life in the cinema, the stage console relay room behind the ornamental grill at the stage end of surround was found in the orchestra pit and the pit the right hand wall of the cinema, the organ was console surround on stage. subsequently installed in two much smaller chambers Although built in 1933, problems with the granting of the constructed under the stage with the pipework speaking necessary licences by the local council delayed the through swell shutters into the orchestra pit. The opening of the cinema until Saturday, 24th February orchestra pit console was static in the centre with 1934 when Reginald Liversidge, the theatre’s first Chamber A (Main) to the left containing Open Diapason, resident organist, presided at the consoles, although it is Flute and the two rank Celestes together with the known that the theatre was opened to the public for Chrysoglott/Vibraphone. To the right was Chamber B inspection free of charge on the 4th February and public (Solo) containing the wooden Tibia, Viole, Vox Humana meetings were held there on the 7th and 21st February to and Tuba and the Chimes, Glockenspiel, Xylophone, enable protests to be made at the delay. After the second drums, cymbal, castanets, tambourine, sleigh bells and protest meeting, the Press reported that “The Pyramid comedy effects. Installation of the organ cannot have organist, Mr. Liversidge, first entertained the audience to been easy as the chambers were seriously lacking in a varied repertoire on the beautiful new organ”. Whether height and mitring of all full length eight foot pipes this or the 18,403 names on the petition persuaded the together with the sixteen foot octave of the Diapason was authorities to grant the licences is not reported! But they necessary. The difficulty over the big wooden bass did, and the theatre opened to a packed house with a full octave of the Tibia was overcome by laying the pipes on film programme, variety acts on the stage and the their backs on the chamber floor. The construction of the Augmented Pyramid Orchestra directed by J. Fielding

22 Vox Lancastria

Crompton, as well as the organ. The orchestra made its he had been joined for a week by Peter Kenyon who first broadcast on the 27th July 1934 and Reginald played the organ whilst Gordon transferred to the piano Liversidge his first of some thirty broadcasts on the 18th for organ and piano duets. Earlier, on 14th March to be September 1934. exact, a “Grand All Star Charity Concert” featured the Reg. remained as resident organist until March 20th famous Stanley Tudor from the Gaumont Theatre, 1937, his last broadcast from there being on March 12th Manchester at the organ. He was at that time serving in 1937, when he left to open the new Lido, Bolton Christie the Royal Air Force. organ and later its twin in the new Carlton, Salford. Both From October 1943, Eric Easton, by then 15 years of age, returned as resident organist, remaining until February 1944. A special one night guest appearance by the celebrated BBC Staff Theatre Organist, Sandy Macpherson, took place on November 12th 1943. Although Eric Easton had left Sale , in February 1944, he appeared there again for one of the Saturday Morning Children’s Matinees in June 1944. In August, September and October 1944, Harold Eadie played guest weeks and Charles Saxby, from the Odeon, Manchester, did likewise in September. In October 1944, Harold Dawber was again at the organ for a special performance of “Judas Maccabaeus” performed by the Sale and District Musical Society. From March 1945, Jess Yates was appointed resident and for the following three months patrons were treated to a series of quite lavish stage shows presented by him in which both organ consoles, two grand pianos, vocalists, singers and dancers were featured. On the 15th June 1945, the cinema changed its name Ornate Console - Blue Coat School from Pyramid to Odeon, although in practice this made of these organs were built to his design and he continued little difference as it had been operated as an Odeon his broadcasts from the Lido. However, he was not lost Theatre since December 1942 when it was taken over by entirely to Sale audiences because he returned there only the Rank Organisation. From October 1945, Edna Collier a month later for a special Sunday Charity Concert and was to be found playing for the Saturday Morning he continued to play for the annual “Festival of Remembrance” Concerts held each November until 1944 and again in 1946. In October 1935, Guest Organist Andy Hulme appeared for a week and it was during this period that Reg. Liversidge occasionally visited other cinemas which were then on the same circuit, namely the Broadway, Eccles; Capitol Didsbury (both Christie organs) and the Kingsway, Levenshuime (Jardine organ). However, after Reg. left the Pyramid, no resident organist was appointed and the organ was used only on special occasions. For instance, in April 1939 Sydney Gustard, the famous broadcasting organist from the Apollo, Ardwick, Manchester, played for a week. In December 1939 and May 1940, the Halle Orchestra and the Sale and District Musical Society gave special performances of the “Messiah” and “Elijah” with Harold Dawber at the organ and at a Sunday variety concert in Plain Console - Blue Coat School April 1942, Reg. Liversidge himself returned to play the organ. Children’s Matinees and when Jess Yates made a The theatre was taken over by the Rank Organisation at spectacular return for another week in November 1945, the end of 1942 and from the 18th January 1943 the she appeared with him at the organ. organ was “re-opened” by Gordon Banner who was For the first time since the annual “Festival of appointed resident. The following week,14 year old Eric Remembrance” concerts had been held at the Pyramid in Easton played but Gordon Banner returned the week after 1934, the November 1945 concert did not include and remained until June 1943. During the previous month Reginald Liversidge, Jess Yates playing instead. The 23 Vox Lancastria

week after this, Gordon Banner re-appeared for a week. he who gave what was the organ’s first, and last, He was then the resident broadcasting organist at the broadcast since 1937 when it was aired by BBC Radio Odeon, Manchester and he made his final guest Manchester on 6th October 1972. There had, however, appearance at Sale during the first week of October 1946. The November 1946 “Festival of Remembrance” concert saw Reginald Liversidge back again for what proved to be his last appearance there for many years. Early in 1947, the last full time resident organist was appointed. This was Charles Allen, and although his appointment was to last only until the June of that year, he remained closely associated with the theatre for the next 14 years playing for the weekly Saturday morning Children’s Matinees, the annual “Festival of Remembrance” concerts and for other special occasions, such as on the General Election nights of February 23rd 1950 and October 25th 1951 when cinemas remained open for most of the night waiting for the results to be announced. In December of 1947, Tommy Nicholson from the The Blue Coat School, Oldham Odeon, Blackpool, played for a week but it was to be almost four years before the stage console was next been one other moment of glory when BBC Television revealed to the public when Stanley Tudor played for a televised an edition of the children’s programme “Screen week in November 1951. He returned for another week Test” from the theatre in December 1971 and Robinson in March 1952, this being the last occasion on which the Cleaver was seen, heard and interviewed at the console. stage console was used in public. As a matter of interest, At the end of 1972, it was announced that the theatre was the Saturday Morning Children’s Matinee of this week to close and the organ was for sale. In fact, there was to featured Stanley Tudor and Charles Alien in duets using , be much nail biting and burning of the midnight oil plus both consoles. long and hurriedly arranged cross country journeys for The theatre had a large and well equipped stage and this discussion and negotiation before the organ was, happily, was put to good use in January and November 1953 secured by the Lancastrian Theatre Organ Trust and when Ice Shows were presented. For “Babes in the Wood rescued from what might have been the “breaker’s yard”. on Ice” in the January the organ was played by Peirson It was removed to storage early in 1973 but not before Webber with the orchestra, and for “Puss in Boots on the Theatre Organ Club was able to turn a rather sad Ice” in the November, Gerald Shaw was at the organ with occasion into a happy, though nostalgic, event by holding the orchestra. Between 1957 and 1965, the Sale Amateur a Farewell Concert in the theatre on Sunday, December Operatic and Dramatic Society produced 12 splendid 10th 1972 at which the theatre’s first resident organist, musical shows on the stage, in each of which the organ Reginald Liversidge, returned to the console to delight was played with the orchestra by Tony O’Brien or Alan everyone present. He included in his programme a Hallmark and on one occasion by the Musical Director special Christmas Slide Show which he had first used in himself, A. Stanley Jones. the Pyramid in 1934. The 1962 and 1963 “Festival of Remembrance” concerts And so our story is almost up to date. The years between were played by Jeffrey Barker, who was Sunday organist 1973 and 1983 are ones of storage, moving, frustration, at the theatre from 1961 to 1964. From 1964 until the last more storage, negotiations for re-installation, one of all in November 1972, Raymond Wallbank from disappointment, more negotiations and finally agreement the North Pier, Blackpool, was the organist. here at Blue Coat School followed by some five years of Although, the condition of the organ was deteriorating installation in their spare time by the Lancastrian Theatre seriously and had suffered flood water damage on at least Organ Trust Technical Team. two occasions over the years, it was taken off We hope that you enjoy the performance today and think maintenance around 1960 and it was left to local that the results were worth waiting for. Our only sorrow enthusiasts in their spare time to minister to its many is that you won’t hear “The Desert Song” played by the ailments and keep it playing. By so doing, regular use man who used it as his signature tune from the day he was maintained on Sundays and on other rare special was appointed organist at the Pyramid, Sale in 1934, occasions. Reginald Liversidge, as, sadly, he passed away on the The policy of Sunday use had been established by Roy 17th October 1979. Perry around 1954 and subsequently occasional Sunday Although the organ was first heard here in the Blue Coat visits were made by Mike Slater and Ronald Curtis School in its unfinished state by those from outside the between 1957 and 1960. Regularity was firmly School on September 25th 1982 when it was played by established with the arrival of Jeffrey Barker in 1961 and Nigel Ogden at a special L.T.O.T. “Open Day”, it has carried on from 1964 to 1972 by Brian Robinson. It was been in limited use for some time for school purposes,

24 Vox Lancastria

but the next few months will see it settling in to a regular Queen; series of concerts. As a matter of interest, the Odeon, The Granada, too, re-opened after loving restoration Sale never did close and is operated today as the Tatton When Doreen was the honoured guest to a rapturous Theatre, Sale. Still with its large stage but with the organ ovation; chambers empty. The roof was raised in triumph - the chandeliers were shattered, A Special Birthday Poem to But Doreen was seen and heard again and that was all that mattered. Doreen Chadwick Yet the little girl from Pontypridd hasn’t left the Rhondda written by hills Sylvia James For she lovingly carries her homeland in a bunch of daffodils; ”D0REEN” And to honour her Special Birthday in Ossett’s moorland ” A Little Bunch of Daffodils ” town, With that little bunch of daffodils Doreen's career was There is a saying that "Born Welsh" is a privilege unique crowned; Beneath the flag of dragon red, the daffodil and leek, The audience was upstanding - her performance at its Not with finest silver spoons or coronet of gold height - But with music in your blood and poetry in your soul; Now we say, “Thank you, Doreen, you’ve been a pure And so was born a little girl who fitted such a scene delight”. Of music, verse and poetry in Pontypridd - Doreen. ** Still are and always will be **

And so the little girl advanced with musical ambition In the valleys of the "Land of Song" in truly Welsh Also Featured at Stockport tradition; The organ in the village church was first to catch her eye Town Hall Centenary But then the call of Tooting echoed o’er the River Wye. It must have taken courage for one so young to leave the Rhondda But "A Welcome in the Hillside" goes with Doreen e’er she wander. Charles So Doreen made an impact such as never heard before: Brown From east to west and north to south o’er land and sea and shore. From Granada to the ABC she left the Tooting pits And cruised along the River Thames onto the Richmond Ritz; Then as the cinema world did fade - twin theatres were the order, Still Doreen flew the Welsh flag high o’er the “House at Lyon’s Corner”. Carolyn Hawkins Then came dearest Leonard with cream ponies and a carriage, Who showed he was a gent by seeking Doreen’s hand in marriage. Together they then moved up north to a Pennine cotton town And there they ran the Magnet where the organ wore the crown; Eric But this did pose a problem as Doreen’s talent went so Barlow far Folk were listening to her music and not propping up the bar.

Then came a fine revival of the theatre organ scene:- The Pyramid, Gaumont, Plaza and the Mighty Odeon 25 Vox Lancastria

Diary Dates 2008 STOCKPORT TOWN HALL 2-30 p.m.

Sunday 12th October 2008 Byron Jones Sunday 23rd November 2008 Peter Jebson

HERITAGE CENTRE - PEEL GREEN

Showcases each Wednesday, featuring the the Wurlitzer Pipe Organ with guest artists at the Console. A list of Organists will appear on the Theatre Organ Heritage Centre Web page Ticket price £3-00p 1-00pm to 2-30pm. As seating is limited to 80, advance booking is highly recommended. Contact Colin Smith for further details.

Lunchtime Events at Stockport Town Hall SMBC Events start at 12.00, £1.50 at the door Refreshments available from 11-30am.

1st September 2008 Michael Baron 6th October 2008 Ian Gough 3rd November 2008 Kevin Grunill 8th December 2008 Andrew Nix

Tickets and price details for LTOT events available from Colin Smith : 28, Rectory Lane, Jericho, Bury. BL9 7TA Tel 0161 764 3979