cini's scores of "Peter Gunn" and "Mr. and an excellent organist, many years Potomac Valley Member Lucky", Irving Berlin and "Duke" ago in the theatres. I located Ace at a Has Prestige Job Ellington, and others. concert and returned the book with a The American Film Institute The­ Another fine dealer with whom I thousand apologies, saying "I'm dread­ atre located in the John F. Kennedy have done a lot of business is Mr. Tom fully sorry, Ace, but I don't usually Center for the Performing Arts, Wash­ Radcliffe of 210 Ocean Avenue, Ocean keep borrowed music this long!" Only ington, D.C., the National Cultural City, New Jersey. At one time Mr. about 30 years! Center, has as its organist and musical Radcliffe had many of his show tunes If you have any questions , drop me consultant, Potomac Valley Chapter and glossy prints from the old shows a line at 17 West Browning Road, ATOS member Ray Brubacher. Ray is mounted on cardboard that could be Collingswood, N. J. 08108. Who at the console of the Rodgers Theatre displayed on peg boards on stands. knows, I may be in the old music Organ to accompany all silent films These displays attracted wide at­ business myself one of these days. □ presented by the A.F .I. □ tention at various malls and I had the pleasure of playing organs in con­ junction with the show, filling requests of the songs displayed. Incidently, the most requested number was "Mandy" from The Ziegfeld Follies, don't ask me what year! We were in New Rochelle, New York for a week, Hunt­ ington, Long Island and nearby Moorestown, New Jersey. It was while playing old tunes here that a lovely young girl requested "TipToe Through eHAPTERNOTE~ the Tulips" many times as she was an ardent admirer of Tiny Tim. It was no surprise to me to learn a little later that she was Miss Vickey who later ',ecame Mrs. Tiny Tim. ALABAMA Motor City Chapter did in handling Mr. Radcliffe was selling his num­ The Alabama Chapter was repre­ the mountains of details such a con­ bers at $2.00 a copy, the last I wrote sented at the National Convention this vention entails. him. Usually a small postage charge is year by Chapter Chairman Riedel The convention ended rather due on these numbers. West, Dr. and Mrs. Cecil Prescott, abruptly for this correspondent. I re­ Some of my friends have found Ralph and Jim Ferguson and Alleen ceived word of my husbands heart some wonderful old music, in their Cole. We had a ball and we were attack and I had to rush off - sort of own neighborhood, on a trash box, impressed with the tremendous job the "in the heat of the day without my waiting to be carried away to the dump. Another friend recently took a bus trip to New Hope, Pennsylvania. This colorful town is in the heart of Bucks County, the home of many show people, retired actors, artists, etc. Many European show folk retire here. My friend was browsing through an antique shop where she found a lot of old music. As she joined her group at the restaurant, owned by that once great French actress, Odette Mytel, she was ecstatic about her bargain, saying, "I got all of this for $5 .00 and I could have had lots more if I could have carried them." I am still hunting certain numbers and I suppose you are, too. If you are interested, contact these dealers and get on the mailing lists. What a thrill it is, when the postman delivers your package of music, to tear off the wrappings and try it over and over. You will be on Cloud Nine all day with your find. Recently in our attic I found an old out-of-print overture book. I was hor­ rified to see the name of Ace Pancoast A labama Chapter presents brother and sister act with presentation of Cathy and Tom Helms on it. I worked with Ace, a fine fellow during July meeting at Alabama Theatre 4 / 20 Wurlitzer. (Thomas L. Hatter Photo/

44 THEATRE ORGAN OCTOBER, 1974 blanket." I'll take this opportunity to Wayne V. Russell, his son Harold, and Steve Rechtoris in Indianapolis for an thank everyone for their help and the Miss Jody Jensen. interesting variety of music, and not good wishes sent our way. I'm happy After a brief meeting, those attend­ all organ. The first and more serious to report Don is improving and is ing the meeting were invited to play portion of the program was presented already planning a trip to San Fran­ the giant Wurlitzer. The members of by Bernice Fraction, well known cisco next year! the chapter would like to thank Mr. coloratura soprano from Indianapolis. In July, a program was presented Lawrence Bray for this opportunity Her program included operatic, secular by Tom Helms, a 20 year-old from and also for the use of his kitchen and classical numbers. Her charm, Pensacola, Florida. His parents, Mr. facilities. talent and versatility were a delight to everyone. The group then moved to and Mrs. T.F. Helms, Sr., started him MAXINE V. RUSSELL on his musical education at the age of the downstairs recreation room for the 6, but as youngsters will do, he gave second part of the program presented up music and didn't begin again until A glimpse of San Francisco . .. by several well known Indianapolis 1972. He is presently studying organ personalities. at the University of Alabama. He is Johnny Winn, guitarist and house organist for the Saeng·er Theatre banjoist, whose famed Johnny Winn in Pensacola and serves as director of Trio performed in the 40's and 50's on music and organist for the Holy Spirit radio and television in Indianapolis, Catholic Church in Tuscaloosa. started the program with a group of It is amazing how beautifully Tom selections from that period. A "new" handled the big 4/20 Wurlitzer at the Johnny Winn Trio suddenly sprang Alabama with very effective reg­ into being, complete with vocalist, istrations and a good selection that when Jack Murray (a member of the included "oldies", pop-tunes, ballads, original trio), and our hostess, classicals, show music and a march. Virginia, joined Johnny at the Ham­ About half-way through his pro­ mond organ and piano respectively. gram, a new sound came through, like Jack has been an organist around town a Vox Humana. But no, it was the for a number of years, is well known voice of his sister, Cathy. She went in teaching circles and as the owner of over big with the audience as she a music store, and for many years has joined Tom in several numbers. played in a number of restaurants For the August meeting, we quote around town. Jack and Virginia each member Riedel West, who says: performed several organ solos. Virginia "Atlanta may never be the same has been a well known figure in musical again!" On August 11, members of the circles in Indianapolis for many years, Alabama Chapter "invaded" Atlanta doing theatre organ, TV and radio for a joint meeting with the South­ work and presently is organist-director eastern Chapter at the Fox Theatre. of Chapel Door on WISH-TV. They were surprised by the appearance It was a lovely setting for an of Lee Erwin at the console of the early June meeting and we do thank "Mighty Mo." As a special treat, Mr. the Rechtorises for their hospitality. Erwin played many selections from his The Embassy Theatre in Fort new Angel recordings of Scott Joplin's Wayne was the location of our July ragtime and some of his own scores meeting which turned out to be a from "Sound of Silents." Mr. Erwin is weekend affair. Some 25 to 30 mem­ really a master at the theatre organ. bers arrived around noon on Saturday. We are grateful to Joe Patten and After a tour of the theatre, several Bob Vancamp for arranging this visit. hours of open console time gave every­ Everyone who can, should try to get one a chance to play the beautiful to Atlanta. This group is working hard 4/14 Page. to try to save the Fox Theatre. We A tour was made of several down­ hope that our chapter visit helped to See it all at . .. town Fort Wayne installations. The first was the Scottish Rite Auditorium show that this magnificent theatre and ATOS CONVENTION organ should remain a part of Atlanta. July 15-20, 1975 which has a lovely, but small, 2/6 Wicks. This was played in the usual ALLEEN COLE good styling of Tim Needler so we could hear the beautiful tone of this BEEHIVE CENTRAL INDIANA interesting installation. Pipes and Pancakes!!! '' Jam session" doesn't usually We then went to Trinity English On June 2, members of the Beehive describe a normal ATOS meeting, Evangelical Lutheran Church where Chapter and their guests enjoyed a however, the June meeting of CIC­ Richard A. Carlson, organist-choir­ pancake, bacon and egg breakfast ATOS might well be called just that. master, explained the chamber lo­ meeting at The Organ Loft. About 80 members gathered at the cations and stops of the 4/91 Aeolian­ The breakfast was prepared by lovely home of Virginia (Byrd) and Skinner organ. He played a short

OCTOBER, 1974 THEATRE ORGAN 45 program to exploit to the fullest this played from the same installation of magnificant instrument. Trinity also pipes, but they cannot be played has a lovely pipe organ in the chapel simultaneously. No formal program which Mr. Carlson played for us. HEAR YE! was given here, but several members The thi~d stop on our afternoon HEAR YE! played so we might hear the organ. tour was Holy Trinity Episcopal It was time now to return to the Em­ Church. We did not have an op­ Now is the Time bassy and use the remainder of the portunity to hear the organ here due to pay your afternoon for open console time. to the illness of the organist, however, 1975 NationalDues Tours of the theatre for interested we did have an interesting tour of the local people were being conducted church and an explanation of its his­ throughout the weekend and the live torical background. Our thanks to Bob 5 organ music lent a great deal of Nickerson for arranging and con­ 1975 Dues...... 10 atmosphere and transmitted the ducting this tour. Chapter members please submit feeling that this mighty instrument After dinner Saturday evening we your National Dues to your chap­ and the theatre of another era were delightfully entertained by a ter treasurer. really belonged together. We hope number of members in the home of Other members please send it is a convincing factor that will Byron Fotz who has an excellent 3/8 National Dues direct to ... ultimately lead to its restoration as a Barton. community and civic endeavor. ATOS Last on our "tour of home instal­ The August meeting was almost a lations" was the beautiful country P.O. Box 1314 repeat performance of last years meet­ home of Ray and Dorothy Danford. Salinas,California 93901 ing. This meeting is anticipated with We especially thank them for their great delight because of the dual at­ hospitality, for they returned from First Classmailing of THEATRE O_R- / traction at the lovely home of Dave their cottage so we might see, hear and GAN is $5.00 extra. Total -$15.00 . .~: and Betty Roch in suburban India­ play their 2/8 Wurlitzer, and the ·~;-:;,.• ...... , ••• · •·•• ...... -· .•· ·•.;-; •• · •.•··•=-"'•· _.· napolis. Inside is the marvelous 2/7 Gulbranson electronic. The Danford's Geneva which was originally installed are members of the Motor City Chap­ this building and to restore it to its in the Ritz Theatre in Indianapolis. ter in Detroit but reside in Fort original condition and grandeur. This is a beautiful little organ and Wayne. The Foundation feels strongly that Dave had it in top condition. In the Sunday morning took us back to a 2,800 seat auditorium with excellent living room is a lovely grand, allowing the Embassy Theatre and the 4/14 acoustics and typical of a past era :_ piano and organ duos, and in the den Page where we were entertained by unable to be reproduced at this time at there is a player piano for those who Buddy Nolan. It was a real treat to any cost - should be preserved and are musicians of another type!! The hear Buddy again since the theatre has restored as a place available to the organ incidentally has its own room. not been available for concerts for general public for road shows, recitals, That's the "inside" story. quite some time. ballet presentations, philharmonic con­ Now for the other half of the story A bit of historical background certs, special movie productions, old - outside is a lovely swimming pool about the Embassy is in order here. time movies with organ accompani­ which attracts both organ-playing Over the past 15 years a small group of ment, exhibits, etc. The rentals members and those who come just to people, primarily interested in the charged, or admissions received, listen. The business meeting was short preservation of the Page pipe organ in should go a long way toward the and no formal program was planned so the Embassy Theatre, and in the actual maintenance, as long as the there would be ample time for every­ playing of the instrument, have met on building is tax exempt, and the income one to play and still time for a swim as Saturday mornings to enjoy it. Over to the Foundation also tax exempt. well. the years, lack of maintenance by the More of these landmarks should be Our thanks to Dave and Betty for owners of the building required this preserved. They belong to an era that their hospitality and to Ruth Haw kins group to occasionally repair the roof, deserves as much recognition as the who so faithfully provides refresh­ replace light bulbs, repair leaks, etc. to architectural beauty of any historic ments each month. Bob Cox served as keep the building from deteriorating, creation of other centuries. To tear co-host with the Rochs. and ultimately damaging the organ. them down, as so many have already Since CIC-ATOS had over 20 mem­ When it became known that the been demolished, is a crime against bers attending the Convention, the company owning the building was in historical culture. We commend this August meeting was an opportune bankruptcy and that an out of the city Foundation for true devotion to this time to relive the exciting events of a group intended to acquire it, and cause. really superb convention, exchange perhaps demolish it for parking, the After our sojourn at the Embassy pictures, and generally talk about group decided to try to rescue it. After we made one last stop at the Cathedral plans to attend next year's convention. a number of legal points were resolved, of the Immaculate Conception in I'd like to add here that we want to the court, in the interest of conserving downtown Fort Wayne where we saw compliment our own Dennis and Heidi this site, agreed to lease it on a month and heard a most unusual pipe organ James for a superb performance in the to month basis to the group which has installation. The organ is a 3 manual opening concert at the Senate Theatre. since become the Embassy Theatre Wicks and has 2 consoles. One is We are extremely proud of them and Foundation, Inc., a not-for-profit located in the lower main sanctuary, their continuing success in concerts foundation, formed solely to acquire the other in the balcony. Either can be everywhere.

46 THEATRE ORGAN OCTOBER, 1974 performers at the Ohio were Frank Babbitt, Tom Hamilton and Mike Williams. IRENE BLEGEN

CHICAGO AREA During the summer almost fifty CATOE members were in Detroit to share the excitement of the Noteab le '4 Nineteenth national convention. This included a whole busload of CATOErs who made the trip aboard a Grey­ hound which bus coordinator lone Tedei had equipped with a "mighty" Estey pump organ, which was also used to play "Chicago" from the

. / ballroom balcony during the roll call _,,..,,...... ,,T of chapters. Chris Phillips, age 12, at the Conn 651 during the chapter's August meeting. The CATOE board has been in­ specting hotels for our turn as host in Also representing our chapter was party house at their condominium 1977. We expect at least 1500 and John Landon whose presentation on complex, the meeting was complete want a hotel capable of handling a Jesse Crawford was very well attended. with the use of the swimming pool and crowd that size. Members with home This two-hour spectacular of sound a Conn 651 furnished for our use by installations were so impressed with and film slides gave a fine insight in to Durthaler Organ Company of Colum­ those in Detroit that they are renewing the man and his music. bus. The piece de re-sis-tance was efforts to improve and install home Among our other members actively having Heidi and Dennis James as installations here. engaged in musical endeavors during guests. On August 24, John Koch , Joan the summer are Ken Double and Tom Dr. Fine played the opening con­ Geyer and crew hosted a preview Haw kins. Ken is staff organist and cert followed by Chris Phillips of social meeting to hear their project, a musical director for the Tommy Dayton. Many members shared their 3/10 Barton in Waukeagan's Genessee Bartlett Water Show at the Wisconsin musical talent with us and credit goes Theatre. Millard Heyman, who was the Dells. This is Ken's fourth year and he to Kenny Winland, who under­ last regular house organist there, was does a beautiful job with the show. standably, reluctantly followed Dennis at the console. The organ still needs Tom Hawkins has been playing a James. work before its debut in front of the 30-minute program each evening, Mon­ Special credit goes to Betsy public during a CATOE concert, but day through Friday from 6:30-7:00 on Richards who played despite the fact the 7 5 members and guests recognized FM Radio Station WSMJ,Indianapolis she is recovering from a broken foot. that it will be another good, sweet and also played at the Hancock The organ was at its best with the sounding Barton when finished. County Fair. cathedral ceiling, wood floor and the Newly-elected national director and From all indications the fall season speakers and Conn pipes mounted in CATOE Secretary Bill Rieger was coming up is going to be equally as the rafters. among members who were present on busy. We now have 105 family mem­ Betsy Richards played the Robert September 1 to hear young Walt berships and continue to grow in Morton at the Ohio Theatre for the Strojny represent CATOE during the numbers and enthusiasm. summer dollar movie series along with cameo appearances at the Atlanta Fox RUTH D. WARD another newcomer, Bill Clausen. Other Theatre.

CENTRAL OHIO Our members who attended the National Convention thank the Motor City Chapter for their efforts in pro­ viding such a great convention. Motor City members are to be commended for their personal help to individuals needing personal assistance. It can't be said too often - what great people we have in ATOS - and when we lose members it is an acute loss, such as our friend Al Mason. An outstanding meeting for us was our annual picnic in August. Hosted Some of the CA TOE members who rode an organ-equipped Greyhound to Detroit to enjoy by Frances and Dr. Willard Fine at the the convention banquet there in July . (Car/Anderson Photo)

OCTOBER, 1974 THEATRE ORGAN 47 guests enjoyed open console. We were and recent. Then Kathy Roberg played favored with perfect weather, so two of her own arrangements of windows and doors could be open; medleys of tunes from the musical also, suitable loudspeakers were lo­ stage, including selections from cated on the grounds so that both the Fiddler on the Roof and Funny Girl. music and the business discussions Then Tim Storrs continued with ad­ were audible most enywhere. ditional popular tunes of past and Stillman had made available present, closing with music from charcoal broilers for those who Oklahoma. brought food to cook and a good We heartily thank the Rices for number of us made excellent use of providing such comfortable and them. hospitable surroundings which made After the dinner hour the usual the meeting a very pleasant one. business items were reviewed and W.F. POWERS, JR. discussed. An item well received was Eddie Weaver's scheduled appearance at the Thomaston Opera House September 20 and 21 to play concerts LOS ANGELES for the benefit of the Rice Memorial. The Los Angeles chapter did not Chairman Colton advised that our take a recess this summer. The July Official ATOS photographer and CA TOE members in Western Massachusetts Wiltern concert featured Gaylord member Bill Lamb discusses 1977 Chicago who had petitioned for a charter were Carter. His playing and showmanship convention plans with VOX CA TOE editor Richard Sklenar . (Carl Anderson Photo) granted permission by the national were superlative, as usual. Much of the officers to form a chapter. They have program was a tribute to silent motion The CATOE produced film "When been active in maintaining and re­ pictures, and he played excerpts from So Few Actually Play" was debuted storing organs in the Greenfield and the scores of several classics. These during a September 21 concert by Jim Springfield areas and we wish them included Chaplin in The Gold Rush, in Roseveare. It tells the story of how well in continuing their good efforts which a desperate Chaplin attempts to CATOE moved the Downers Grove under their immediate leadership. eat a boiled shoe, and spends several Wurlitzer and 16 mm sound prints are The final item of this portion of the frantic minutes inside a house teeter­ now available for chapter rental. meeting was Norman Ray's pre­ ing on the edge of a cliff. A novel October 18 and 19 Bob Coe will be sentation to Stillman Rice, who was feature of his concert was the demon­ at the Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, Ill. not able to attend the National con­ stration, a first I believe, of how not to for two nights of "Vaudeville To­ vention in Detroit, the plaque awarded play a silent movie. He took the scene night" both of which will feature the him there as a past National President from Phantom of the Opera in which 3/16 Geneva. Work is also continuing by the National Board of Directors. Lon Chaney is unmasked and used the at the Chicago Theatre for a CATOE Stillman was most grateful and as­ most incredible and funny con­ presentation there in the near future. sured all present that the plaque will temporary lyrics instead of the original occupy a place of prominence among score, which he played later. I am not RICHARD J. SKLENAR his effects. going to tell what he did play, because Concert time featured offerings by that would spoil the act, which you two excellent performers, Tim Storrs, must see when he comes to your town. CONNECTICUTVALLEY professional, and Kathy Ro berg, We are fortunate in having several Our August 10th meeting was held award-winning amateur. Tim Storrs, large theatre organs at our disposal. at Melody Hill, the aptly named who is associated professionally with a Although our monthly concerts have residence of Stillman and Claire Rice music company in Hartford, played usually been played on the Wiltern in North Haven, Ct. The beautiful the first part of the program, opening 4/37 Kimball, there has been recent 3-manual Allen organ inside the house with Sweet Gypsy Rose and con­ interest in concerts at other organs in was ringing the hill with melody all tinuing with Love is Blue followed by and around Los Angeles. The August afternoon as chapter members and music from motion pictures, both old concert featured Don Thompson at

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48 THEATRE ORGAN OCTOBER, 1974 the style 260 Wurlitzer installed in the Rodgers 340, including DeFalla 's our members , ones who went through San Gabriel Civic Auditorium. This Ritual Fire Dance, I Enjoy Being a unbelievable travail to make the trip. organ was originally in the RKO Albee Girl, and Holiday f or Strings. Example: Joe Koons , who hosts the Theatre in Brooklyn , and was secured most famous Saturday night theatre and brought to Los Angeles as a labor organ jam session in the West , under­ of love by one of our members , Neal went major surgery seven days before Kissell. the trip. His doctor didn't have the The Thompson concert was warmly heart to tell him he'd be in the received. His selections included a hospital 7 to 10 days, and there was medley of Judy Garland favorites, no way he could go. Joe awoke from Puttin on the Ritz, and the Bach anesthesia asking "where 's the bus! " Toccata and Fugue in D Minor. He and went home 5 days later. Through also presented the Billy Nalle com­ the efforts of Kim Nagano , Joe was position , Trio. able to take in all the events - The second in our series of organ transported by Kim's station wagon. crawls, conceived and carried out by Another couple arrived at the chairman Ray Bonner , was a bus trip "blast off point" in Los Angeles , ready to San Diego. Our members were to get on the San Diego-bound bus, treated on the way by hearing Don only to discover that their bags, sitting Thompson play the 3/ 16 Style 260 on the sidewalk , had been taken to the Wurlitzer installed at the Sandy Fleet airport by mistake. They drove to the residence in Rancho Santa Fe (see airport , retrieved their baggage and article in the August THEATRE OR­ boarded a plane for San Diego, and GAN by Stu Green). Don played were waiting there when the three several selections for the members and buses arrived. For them it was "Pipes guests , and the three buses then and Planes." Needless to say , a good headed for the Sheraton Inn at Harbor time was had by all. Island in San Diego. Then an excursion MALIN DOLLING ER to Sea World, "Old-town," and Don Thompson and Sandy Fleet console . Tijuana ( couldn't find any theatre (Stufot o) organs there) before assembling for a MOTORCITY buffet dinner (for 150 people!). Maria On Sunday morning at the San Kumagai then entertained us on the Diego Fox we heard Bill Thomson We had fun during the third week play the 4/32 Robert Morton that the of July showing 1106 ATOSers a good San Diego Theatre Organ Group has time at the Note-able Nineteenth. The refurbished and maintained. He played planning and cooperation of so many a medley from Merry Widow, 2001 chapter members helped to make this Space Odyssey Theme, and This Could year's convention enjoyable for every­ Be the Start of Something Big. After one, that is impossible to name them intermission we heard The Con­ all without leaving someone out. The tinental, and an original composition, overwhelming success of the con­ Flight From Harbor Island from his vention is a real tribute to Convention Bahama Suite. He closed with Monti 's Chairman Al Mason , who lived to see Czarda.s, a medley from Sound of it all happen. Music, and for an encore , selections Our annual picnic was held on from Man of La Mancha. He left Sunday , August 18, at the home of shortly thereafter for an Australian Betty Mason, and was attended by tour. more than 100 chapter members. The The San Diego trip must have held weatherman was on our side as we Maria Kumagai (Stufoto ) a tremendous fascination for some of grilled steaks and hamburgers on the

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OCTOBER, 1974 THEATRE ORGAN 49 large outdoor charcoal grill we now organist for some time. He also plays rent every year for this occasion. at one of the local supper clubs. While some members lounged in Greg played something for every­ folding chairs in the back yard, still one, accompanied the slides for a talking about the convention, the sing-along, a silent movie and the sound of the 3/10 Wurlitzer, Ham­ Lillian & Sid dance team. Another mond, upright piano or grand piano added attraction was Roy Simon at could be heard almost continuously the Steinway concert grand piano. We throughout the afternoon. Since the are proud of Greg and think we will be Sendyour changeof convention brochures and vinyl port­ hearing more about him. folios were completely depleated by addressto ... In September our artist will be Don the record convention attendance, the Thompson, another regular who keeps only things left to offer picnickers VI THOMPSON coming back and pleasing the crowd were the decorative plaster plaques on THEATRE ORGAN year after year. P.O. BOX 1314 a ribbon, picturing chapter organ con­ SALINAS, CALIFORNIA 93901 Our October concert will find soles. These were sold in record num­ another first at the Riviera, Bill bers during a mid-afternoon limited­ Langford. time-only sale. Chapter members had In November, our chapter Sweet­ given out-of-towners first chance to heart Luella Wickham will be the purchase the plaques during the con­ artist. At the 1970 convention, after vention. Luella played Tica Tica, the late Ben On Sunday, August 25, we were companied by Art Smith, have quietly Hall said, "Now I know where Ethel guests of the Wolverine Chapter at the crossed into the United States where Smith learned to play Tica Tica. Royal Oak Theatre, where Don Jenks they were met by Tom and Jane Luella is well known from coast to and Lance Luce were heard in concert VanBrocklin (collaborators) and have coast, especially by the convention at the 3/13 Barton. An open console gone about the job of completely goers, as she never misses a con­ session followed the program. rebuilding the 2/8 Wurlitzer in the vention. Contributions to the Al Mason Rapids Theatre at Niagara Falls, N.Y. In December, Frank Olson will Memorial Fund (for educational Hats off to a dedicated group. make another annual appearance at scholarships) can be made payable and On July 24, Rex Koury appeared in the Riviera. Frank is another one of sent to: Motor City Theatre Organ concert at the Riviera for the second those great internationally known Society, P.O. Box 2329, Livonia, time . We did this review not by lis-­ artists whom the crowd wants back Michigan 48150. tening, but by looking. Everyone re­ year after year. We have heard Frank turned to their seats after intermission, DON LOCKWOOD many times throughout the years and and stayed in their seats until after never seem to get enough of his three encores, only leaving their seats playing. for the three standing ovations. They NIAGARA FRONTIER This will complete our schedule for had to turn the lights out to get the this year for our public concerts, With the Niagara Frontier Chapter crowd to go home. When are you unless some artist happens along on a located along the U.S. - Canadian coming back, Rex? night that the theatre is available. border we are pleased that we have Our August concert was a first time many members on both sides of the for both the artist and the crowd. Greg STEVE CROWLEY border. The hardest part about Gurtner made his debut as a concert crossing this border is the raising of thea tre organist. Greg is known to the 35 cent bridge toll, otherwise we many of our chapter members having POTOMAC VALLEY cross back and forth quite freely. played at parties and other club While some chapters might take a For the past several years a group functions. He is also well known to the vacation even from their interest in the of Canadians, namely Gordon and movie patrons of the Riviera, playing theatre organ, Potomac Valley Chapter Thelma Gillette, along with Ken and regularly before shows and at inter­ only increased its activities! July Dorris Martin and sometimes ac- missions where he has been house brought a visit to the unusual and

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50 THEATRE ORGAN OCTOBER, 1974 two of our members turned out on Upon entering we were met with moving day to assist in the project. a wonderland of color from the au­ Even now, while it rests in our storage thentic Tiffany shades to the many location, we are formulating plans for mechanical instruments that lined the its complete renovation and final in­ walls. stallation. The "action" chapter is Names such as Link, Cremona, moving right ahead with the full sup­ Aeolian, Gebruder, Rand of North port and assistance of every member. Tonawanda and of course Wurlitzer To round out the month of August were seen and the sounds of music we were all treated to a superb per­ boxes , player pianos, orchestrions and formance of no less than Mr. Show­ orchestrelles, calliopes and band or­ man of Richmond, Mr. Eddie Weaver, gans of all types were heard. at the console of the beautiful Byrd Wurlitzer. Eddie's natural and relaxed handling of each and every piece demonstrated his proficiency which Eddie Weaver at the Byrd Theatre Wurlitzer can only be obtained from a com­ (Mark Hurley Photo) bination of genuine talent coupled with years of work. To add to the interesting antique musical instrument enjoyment of this occasion we made museum owned by Mr. Jim Wells. Over many new acquaintances with our a period of quite a few years Mr. Wells guests, the Piedmont Chapter. To Tiffany shades and musical marvels . has been swapping, trading and buy­ further highlight the a ff air we were ing. The result is a collection of items honored to have present three of our which is nothing less than as­ National officers, Dr. Paul Abernethy , tounding, from Violin Virtuosos to a Mrs. Jean Lautzenheiser, and Mr. calliope. To everyone's delight we Erwin Young. heard many of these instruments play, including a "Gee Dad It's A Wurlitzer" ROY WAGNER band organ. The month of August was very special in the history of this chapter as WEST PENN the month we obtained and moved WPTO'sSummer caravans for 1974 OUR CHAPTER KIMBALL PIPE OR­ got underway on June 30th with a trip GAN. Yes, The Potomac Valley now to the DeBence Musical Museum in has its own organ project and thirty- Franklin , Pa., just north of Pittsburgh. DeBence Musical Museum, Franklin , Pa .

F.L.C .M., L.R .A .M., A .R.C .M. , A .R.C.O. (CHM) L.T.C.L., A.R .C.C.O . LEE ER-WIN British Theatre Organist, presently located in Canada

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Octob er 26 - Wh eaton College , Wheaton , Illinois Octob er 31 - Indiana University, Bloomington , Indiana November 2 - Auditorium Theatre, Rochester, New York Theatre and Classical Nov ember 21 - Coronado Theatre, Rockford , Illinois Organ Concerts December 5 - Pearson Auditorium , Roswell , New Mexico January 11 - Tilson Music Hall, Terra Haute, Indiana Feature Silent Films January 25 - Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana Piano/OrganDuets February 8 - Gray's Armory , Cleveland, Ohio February 10, 11 - Casa Loma Castle, Toronto, Canada 413 S. Henderson,No. 9 March 8 - Roberson Center, Binghamton, New York March 15 - Ohio Theatre, Columbus , Ohio Bloomington,Indiana 47401 Additional Dates still available . (812) 336-9902 CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR DETAILS

OCTOBER, 1974 THEATRE ORGAN 51 A Wurlitzer brass chorus. Always in readiness for the drop of a coin . The Cremona . Musical automation of a bygone era .

Music reproduced from rolls, metal program like this was that all present WOLVERINE wheels and continuous loops activated could enjoy the music, even West Flute, Violin and Brass Trumpet pipes, Penn's gifted organists who just stayed On August 25, Detroit's Royal Oak Piano Strings, Bass and Snare Drums back and let the early 20th century Theatre was the scene for another in a with Cymbals and Xylophones of automation take over. No stops to series of "member" concerts. Lance wood and metal. pull, no pedals to push, no musicians Luce opened the program at the 3/13 The cabinet adornments ranged to blame the clinkers on, just good Barton with The Carousel Waltz. from cherubs to stained glass with old-fashioned musical fun. Throughout Lance's program, it was such musical selections as Kiss Me, This program which proved to be a evident that he had done considerable Wang Wang Blues, a Sousa march or very popular one by its good at­ work in choosing just the right reg­ two and an occasional waltz, polka tendance, was the first undertaking by istration for each piece. His arrange­ and oberek. our new program chairman and past ment of March Militaire showed off As you listen your eyes are treated president, Ray Galbraith , and was the the new Durst Post Horn, donated by to many reminders of the past, such as brainchild of another past president, another Wolverine member - Gary clocks and clothing from the turn of Harrold Meinhardt (both were in at­ Montgomery. He chose Scott Joplin's the century, placques commemorating tendance). It also was the first pro­ The Entertainer for an encore, show­ practically everything and clever catch gram co-attended by West Penn and ing off the Royal Oak's superb new phrases on yellowed post cards. their sister society, the Pittsburgh Area piano. One of the really great features of a Theatre Organ Society. After a short intermission, Don

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52 THEATRE ORGAN OCTOBER, 1974 music. Upstairs was Gary 's superb Rodgers electronic organ and a Stein­ way grand piano. In the basement of the Bloomfield Hills home was a Ham­ mond and yet another grand piano, and, outdoors at poolside, we were entertained by a series of tapes from the 1974 ATOS Convention. All who attended were provided with a buffet dinner. Chairman Lawrie Mallett called a business meeting during the after­ noon to thank Gary and Scott for their hospitality. Wolverine is indeed fortunate to have such a high per­ centage of fine musicians in its mem­ bership. SCDTT S. SMITH

Don Jenks and Lance Luce at th e Royal Oa k 3 / 13 Barton . fl. G. Mafler Pharo/ WESTERN RESERVE Jenks , former D.T.O.C. president, registrations. In a previous chapter note we in­ took the helm of the Barton with a The morning program ended with troduced our audience to the name of medley of tunes in a tribute to sum­ an open console session at the Barton, Lance Havens who was a surprise guest mer , starting with On A Wond erful during which many members and at our 1973 Christmas Party. Since Day Like Today. His program included guests took part. Motor City Chapter, then, W.R.T.O.S. has had the pleasure several medlies , each one woven and in particular , Mert Harris and the of hearing Lance play the silent film around a particular theme. Don 's pro­ crew, are to be congratulated on The Pilgrim , written and directed by gram ended with a medley from the keeping the Barton in such fine shape. Charles Chaplin who also starred in it. movie , That's Entertainment. Following the Sunday morning con­ It was voted 1923's best comedy ; and Don also owns a 3/10 Barton , cert , Wolverine members enjoyed a its story may be briefly summarized as originally installed in Detroit's Bir­ most entertaining afternoon at the "love conquers all, even the heart of mingham Theatre , a duplicate of the home of Gary Montgomery and H. an escaped convict." Redford and Royal Oak Theatre Scott. No matter where one ventured Launcelot Havens was born in Bartons. His familiarity with the at the residence , one could always Canada but brought to East Cleveland Barton organ was quite evident in his depend on an abundance of organ at the age of three , where he has been 1111 SUIUilllll Rosa Rio COLORFUL and EXCITING RESTAURANT and COCKTAIL LOUNGE THEATRE ORGAN 3/17 WURLITZER HAMMOND X66 CONCERTS Theatre Pipe Organ Organ Complex

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OCTOBER, 1974 THEATRE ORGAN 53