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JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN THEATRE ORGAN SOCIETY

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THEATRE ORGAN MAY | JUNE 2007 Volume 49 | Number 3

FEATURES Wurlitzer Rarities 21 24-note Wurlitzer Treble Chest At Home with Linc Pero 22 Wurlitzer Opus 1584 Creative Reharmonization 24 Part 3 Fundraising 101 26 Benefit Concert Organist on the Cover 30 Collecting Sheet Music 36 Samuel A. Cooper A Grand Tour 40 2007 Annual Convention Simon Gledhill 44 in New Zealand 48 Shaskan Wurlitzer

DEPARTMENTS

4 Vox Humana 5 Headquarters 7 Director’s Corner 8 Letters (Weiler Collection) 10 News & Notes 16 From the Archives

On the cover: It seems like it is human nature to collect. In some cases, our very lives are 18 Vox Pops defined by the collections we build. Of course, this rather universal principle applies to the theatre organ. In this issue, Richard Sklenar shares his collection of “organ covers”— 50 In the Spotlight vintage sheet music featuring theatre organists. (Weiler Collection) 52 For the Records

THEATRE ORGAN (ISSN 0040-5531) is published bimonthly by the American Theatre Organ 54 Chapter News Society, Inc., 5 Third Street, Suite 724, San Francisco, California 94103-3200. Periodicals Postage Paid at San Francisco, California and at additional mailing offices. Annual subscription of $33.00 66 Around the Circuit paid from members’ dues. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to THEATRE ORGAN, c/o ATOS Membership Office, P.O. Box 5327, Fullerton, California 92838, [email protected].

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Journal of the American Theatre Organ Society Library of Congress Catalog Number ML 1T 334 (ISSN 0040-5531) Printed in U.S.A. MAY | JUNE 2007 Volume 49 | Number 3

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

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The deadline for receipt of Chapter and e-mail address of your chapter’s News items by the Editor is the FIRST of president. A caption and appropriate credit the month TWO months prior to the to the photographer MUST be included Our need for knowledge is THEATRE ORGAN publication date with photos; please put this information at endless, and the desire to acquire (that’s the first of every odd-numbered the end of your text document. it insatiable. It’s our goal to pack month). Please note that ATOS policy We’d also like to suggest that if your as much information into every prohibits inclusion of music titles played chapter has a special project or event, at programs or menu items served at please consider a stand-alone article for issue of THEATRE ORGAN as chapter functions. Text may be edited publication in these pages. Remember possible. But we need your help, for space and clarity. Due to space that in reporting your news, you are particularly in the Chapter News considerations, please submit a maximum writing our history. of 250 words of text. Submission as a I look forward to seeing you in New York! department. We are eager to Microsoft Word file attached to an e-mail publish your news, but in order to (to [email protected]) is our first pref- —Jeff Weiler, Editor accommodate the volume of erence; second is text in an e-mail; finally, typewritten hard copy may be sent via news we receive, and to ensure postal mail to the Editor (address on that news is published accurately, Masthead). Please submit a maximum of we’ve established a few simple two photos (300 dpi resolution minimum), guidelines. preferably sent as a .jpg file attached to an e-mail. Photos may be sent to the Editor via postal mail, however they will not be returned. IMPORTANT: Please name your text file with your chapter name, and name your photos with your chapter name followed by the numerals one or two. Your text MUST include your chapter name and principal city/state of operation; your chapter correspondent’s name; and the name, telephone number,

Elevator certificate: Federal, state, and municipal regulations are not new. Sometimes even console lifts had to be inspected and certified. (Jeff Weiler Collection)

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Greetings from what is now very hot and exciting and very fun weekend for the humid Houston, Texas. young players and their families who will Someone once wrote “Hope springs spend a weekend in Chicago being taught eternal,” and I certainly hope this Spring by three of the best in our field. This is a is bringing renewed hope for all of us great program that will get more attention in ATOS. As you read this, the final and will continue to grow through the years. preparations are being made for the Congratulations to our editor, Jeff Annual Convention, THE GRAND TOUR, Weiler. He is garnering honors and shining and I hope to see many of you there. a most positive spotlight on ATOS by virtue While we enjoy the wonders of New of his splendid work, particularly with the York City, there will be much to talk book, The Wurlitzer Pipe Organ: An Tonawanda, New York; Denver, Colorado; about. Board member Doug Powers and Illustrated History. We were pleased to San Francisco and the Bay area; close to his strategic planning committee continue learn that it has been nominated for the Minneapolis; up to Dallas; and all this after their efforts, and the ongoing movement Bessaraboff Prize, a prestigious inter- stops in Atlanta and Sarasota in April and toward re-organization and building ATOS national literary prize awarded every May. All this travel provides me with the through membership will continue. There two years for the best book on a musi- chance to see so many members in so will be a full report and much discussion cal instrument in English. The selection many chapters. at the Annual Meeting. committee is headquartered at the This “one-on-one” communication al- Wewill also have very important news of University of Edinburgh and will convene lows me to directly convey what our Board two major items. We will provide an update later this year to review the books which is working on, while offering the local on what was the Smithsonian Project and have been nominated. In addition, I’m members direct access to the ATOS will indicate a potential new direction for happy to report that the Wurlitzer book hierarchy. What better way to demonstrate that program. And we will be reporting on a project has also generated over $75,000 in this renewed effort to open the commu- major new center for organ studies which profit for ATOS. As the supply of the first nication lines between the Board and the will include unprecedented focus on the edition of the book dwindles, let’s pause to membership. The concerts are great fun— theatre organ. I have said it before. This is a reflect on its success and the honor the an added bonus! most exciting time for ATOS! Bessaraboff nomination brings to our Don’t forget that when driving, play it You have already seen the information organization. Thanks, Jeff, for your hard loud and proud! And think about NEW on this July’s Young Organists’ Camp to be work, scholarship, and your achievements MEMBERS! Let’s add them to our roster held in the Chicago area. Board member on behalf of ATOS. just as fast as we can! See you in New York. Mike Cierski and his committee did a My concert travels this summer will —Ken Double, ATOS President spectacular job in planning an educational, carry me into Indiana twice; North

Furse Organ Console Lift ad: From The Ideal Kinema, August 12, 1937

MAY | JUNE 2007 5 ATOS MayJun49-3J4/6/073:04PMPage6 6 Donna Parker 503/642-7009 [email protected] 97007 Oregon Aloha, 6103 Box Office Post P D information: booking for I NCORPORATED RODUCTIONS ONNA P ARKER , 009 altdyfraFE Catalog FREE a for today Call 48917 MI Lansing, • Road Webster 2540 www.pipeorganblowersnew.com ht lwrMg,Inc. Mfg., Blower White ast.net 1-800-433-4614 atr ietPricing Direct Factory mrcnMade American s.1972 Est. Weiler 800-354-1645 60601 Illinois Chicago, 2110 Suite St., Madison West 555 Inc. Management, Artists Artra Accompanist Film Silent & Composer Organist, TREORGAN A G R O E R AT E H T Jeff ocr Series Concert P S RbRcad ap Wolf— Ralph & Richards —Rob E H T S T N E S E R N A S U Pp Organ “Pop” Jln Eddington— —Jelani C E L O audy eray3 February Saturday, Pu Roberts— —Paul Co Lozada— —Choy rdy aur 19 January Friday, rdy ac 30 March Friday, rdy pi 20 April Friday, K 9 D R A O B Y E H T A L A U N N P S N O I T C U D O R V S E G A L L I ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:04 PM Page 7

After a brief “retirement” from active published later this year in two versions. ATOS service, it is an honor to have been One form will be for ATOS Chapters which appointed by the ATOS Board of Directors wish to present an educational program to to fill a vacant board position. I pledge to students. Another form will be for teachers do my best to live up to the faith and trust in school districts who wish to present the Board has in my abilities. lessons about the theatre pipe organ to In addition to my chapter liaison their students. In addition, we are looking assignments, I am the chair of two commit- into the possibility of having a DVD tees—the ATOS Education Committee and produced that will accompany the Guide. I the Simonton Literary Prize Committee. wish to take this opportunity to thank Both committees are active and are cur- Louise Eddington for her dedicated work rently working on projects. on this project. The Education Committee is busy re- The Simonton Literary Prize Committee “Your current ATOS vising and updating the ATOS Educators’ seeks submission of original research, Board is dedicated to Guide. This publication was first made scholarship, and writing in the areas of available in 1993. Throughout the years, it theatre pipe organ history, restoration, keeping communications has been used by many chapters and and conservation. An annual award of school districts to teach students about the $1,000 is available to the winning entry. open between the board theatre pipe organ. It has been a very The committee is reviewing this year’s members and the effective tool in helping teachers to present submissions and will announce the win- lessons to their students. ning entry soon. membership.” As you are aware, the world is changing Your current ATOS Board is dedicated rapidly. What was an excellent publication to keeping communications open between —Vern Bickel several years ago is now outdated. There- the board members and the membership. [email protected] fore, the Education Committee is revising It is my desire to serve ALL ATOS the Guide and updating it so that it meets MEMBERS. Should you have any con- the national standards established by the cerns, questions or comments, please do Music Educators’ National Conference. not hesitate to contact me. The committee plans for this Guide to be

Our organization is made up of many Please submit an e-mail or letter to the members who play the theatre organ for ATOS Mentor Program, attention: Donna their own enjoyment. They do not consider Parker at the address below. Included themselves professional musicians, nor do should be a few things about you and your they wish to perform on a concert stage. present playing skills and abilities. It is They do, however, derive much satisfaction preferred that you are presently taking from playing and sometimes wish for the organ instruction in some form or have opportunity to be able to sit down with a done so within the past few years. Please professional to pick up a few new ideas and include why you would like to be selected techniques. and what you would expect to gain from the Does this sound interesting to you? Will session. Also include your age, type of you be attending the ATOS Convention instrument you normally play, the number in July? Then consider applying for the of years you have been playing/studying ATOS Mentor Program. This program gives the organ, your musical activities, and any —Donna Parker a selected qualifying member of ATOS other information about yourself that you ATOS Mentor Program the opportunity to participate in a private would like to have considered. P. O. Box 6103 coaching session with Jelani Eddington, Please send your application letter/ Aloha, Oregon 97007-0103 to be held during the ATOS Annual e-mail so that it is received no later June 1, 2007 [email protected] Convention in New York. Please note that than . If you are selected, you must be planning to attend the Annual you will be notified no later than June 15, ATOS Convention in New York, as no 2007. The preferred method for trans- expenses will be provided. mittal is e-mail. If this is not available, To qualify for this opportunity, you must regular mail is acceptable. Let me know if be a member in good standing of ATOS. you have any additional questions.

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Paramount Follow-up tion on one of the composers, Lee Sims, The emphasis on the word preservation to the CD’s producer. While I respect is mine. In the report, the first item men- I received this additional information Mr. Hightower’s views, I would like to offer tioned is the replacement of the organs from Everett Hertenstein about those days another opinion. original Kinura with a Clarinet to, as the at the Paramount (through Bert Allee). The audio defects which Mr. Hightower article says, “improve the organ’s solo —Larry Davis accurately describes, do not, to my ear, voices.” First, it is NOT the preservationist’s Marietta, Georgia detract substantially from van Egmond’s job to improve anything. I would also like From Everett: energetic and sensitive performances. I to point out that the Kinura is not meant to I was never officially organist at the highly recommend this recording to anyone be a “solo voice,” but is provided to add Paramount. A lot of times if I was playing with an interest in transcriptions per- color to other stops, which job it performs on Sunday and it came time for house to formed on non-theatre organs. I agree with very well. open, I would continue to play until show Mr. Hightower that the Fritz Kreisler selec- The next item I found troubling was that time. It wasn’t anything I got paid for, and I tions are a highlight. In addition, van concerning the organ’s original combination wasn’t committed to doing it. Egmond’s adaptation of the Lee Sims piano action. The group feels that their most Mostly this was after World War II, and a solo, “Shoutin’ Glory,” alone is worth the pressing issue is to replace the original large part of that time there was no house price of this CD. combination action with a modern digital organist and the organ was not being used. By the way, Piet van Egmond was no version. The reasons they gave for this I did this some before the war, too. stranger to the theatre organ. At one time, he being a priority really bothers me. They Thinking more about the Nashville broadcast the “BBC Möller” at Jubilee said, “The original combination action, and Paramount, I don’t think Mary Elizabeth Chapel, London, which had been Reginald old-fashioned mechanical/pneumatic, is not Hicks was ever the “house organist” at the Foort’s traveling organ. There is CD of these working and is irreparable.” Paramount. I don’t remember anybody broadcasts, Piet van Egmond: Foort’s Touring Old fashioned?! I thought the entire between Malcolm Tate, who was there when Möller (FECD-140, $11.98, plus s/h), reason we exist as a PRESERVATION I was a little kid, and Bob Luck, whom I available from the Organ Historical Society. group is to save the “old fashioned” so that remember primarily for his inability to hit —Mark Renwick future generations can not only hear the the right pedal notes (and for his avoidance Jacksonville, Florida music but learn about the technology of that of Cole Porter songs). era and learn what it was capable of doing I never encountered Mary E. Hicks Preservation with primitive technology! And as to being until WLAC installed the Kilgen in Studio 3. “irreparable,” pardon me, but BALONEY! I don’t know what she did before that. I Yesterday I received the January/ Anything that can be built can be restored. remember Bob Luck grouching to me February issue of THEATRE ORGAN Yes, it requires research and skilled because he had told her not to play chords which, as usual, I began to read from cover labor. If a group lacks the manpower or below middle C with combinations contain- to cover. One of the sections I go to first is skills to maintain these precious links to the ing 16' stops. It’s something she frequently the “Chapter News.” While reading the past, then they should defer to those who did both before and after Bob pointed out to report of the Southern New Jersey chapter, are capable of maintaining and preserving her that the sound was “muddy.” I became concerned at what I personally the incredibly small number of totally Hicks married Charles Nagy (sp?), also feel are errors in judgment regarding the authentic instruments which remain in the on the WLAC staff. Professionally, she organ at the Broadway Theatre in Pitman, venue for which they were designed and stayed Hicks. Nagy played violin and she New Jersey. I am thrilled to learn that the built. Many, perhaps even most, of the sometimes had him on her 15-minute theatre has been saved. The organ, which theatre organs ever built have been moved, program of organ music. If you haven’t up until now had remained a totally enlarged, used as sources of parts and, heard a pipe organ accompanying a violin authentic example of the W.W. Kimball worse, totally destroyed. Is it too much to playing 1930–1940s pop music, take my company’s superb output, I feel is now fated ask to leave the tiny handful of original word for it: it’s not worth looking for to to lose its historic value through well organs alone? And to not turn them into check it out. Don’t remember how often that intentioned but misguided efforts of a glowing “ice cream confections” that look was on—a couple of times a week, maybe. volunteer group. snazzy in the spotlight, but now hide the I’d like to quote from the ATOS website’s gorgeous wood veneers that were a hallmark Review Remarks statement of our mission: of the Kimball Company? I had hoped “The American Theatre Organ Society that as we entered the 21st Century, we I read Stanley D. Hightower’s review of (ATOS) is dedicated to the preservation of a had gotten past the backyard mechanic the Piet van Egmond Rhapsody in Blue CD unique American art form—the theatre mentality of “let’s soup it up!” Isn’t it time with great interest, for I have a particular pipe organ and its music. The membership to do as our mission statement claims, and fondness for transcriptions performed on includes musicians, technicians, and begin to preserve these treasures intact? In classical instruments. Further, I had a enthusiastic listeners—all devoted to the order to learn where you are going, you need minor hand in the production of this CD, preservation and continued enjoyment of to know where you have come from. having supplied biographical informa- what we believe to be a national treasure.”

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The miniscule numbers of totally original theatre organs that preserve the technology, Interested in as well as the tonality, of times past, deserve to be treasured as the benchmarks against ATOS Membership? which all of our current efforts can be judged. —Keith Taylor Please tell your musical, historical and preservationist-minded friends about the Jefferson, Maine American Theatre Organ Society and its work. Encourage them to join the ranks! Contact Jim Merry, ATOS Executive Secretary, P.O. Box 5327, Fullerton, KDKA Kudos California 92838, 714-773-4354 or e-mail [email protected]. By the way, it was a delightful surprise to see the old KDKA Wurlitzer featured Membership Application recently. I used to play that organ when it was installed in that Methodist Church— Name ______within walking distance of where I grew up, in a suburb of Pittsburgh. I grew up Address______Catholic, but I had the nerve to walk into the organist’s office at that church one day City, State______and asked for permission to play it. The Zip/Post Code______nice lady (either shocked by my boldness or admiring my determination) said yes, Phone ______anytime during weekday afternoons. That was during the summer of 1970, after my E-mail______freshman year at Notre Dame. In early May of 1973, a few weeks before Member of ATOS Chapter ______my graduation, George Wright came to Help me contact local chapter Notre Dame to visit with me because of an Renewal Past Member electronic method of pipe-tone generation I had been working on. He offered to set me up in a lab. I declined due to the technical Payment by: Check/Money Order # ______limitations I could see no way around at the MasterCard VISA time—the same thing I told Allen Organ Company when they offered me a job a few Card Number ______weeks later. Now computer speed has caught up to what is necessary to make good Expiration Date______electronic rendition of pipe tones work, Security Code (back of card) ______obviously! George was a good friend for many years Signature ______thereafter (as was Hector Olivera when he lived in Pittsburgh). Date______—Ed Young Tehachapi, California Dues are for 12 months from the date Membership Levels entered and cover one household. Presidents Club...... $1,000 Contributions in excess of regular Benefactor...... $500 Letters to the Editor: Written commentary membership are tax deductible. regarding any aspect of this publication is Patron...... $200 encouraged and should be directed to the Sustaining ...... $100 Editor. Letters may be published in whole or in Send the completed form and Contributing...... $75 part, and the Editorial Office reserves the right your remittance to: Regular ...... $40 to accept, reject, or edit any and all letters. ATOS Membership The opinions expressed in Letters to the Editor (Outside U.S. $15 additional surcharge) are solely those of the author, not those of the P.O. Box 5327 Student...... $25 American Theatre Organ Society. Letters may Fullerton, California 92838 (Age 23 and under with documentation) be submitted to [email protected], or mailed to Jeff Weiler, THEATRE ORGAN Editorial Office, Optional Services 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905, Chicago, First Class Mail U.S. only add ...... $15 Illinois 60616. Airmail Outside U.S.add ...... $35

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ORGANHISTORICALSOCIETY: ALANLAUFMANRESEARCHGRANTS

The Grants—The Organ Historical $1,500); (iii) whether the applicant would provided that sufficient progress is demon- Society is pleased to accept applications for accept a grant if less than the requested strated. Likewise, a grantee may apply for its Alan Laufman Research Grants for 2007. amount is awarded; (iv) a list of other organ- successive grants to fund new research Research grants of up to $1,500 in memory izations to which the applicant has applied projects. Grant recipients are expected to of Alan Laufman, a former President of the or expects to apply for grants to fund the expend their awards within eighteen months Society, are authorized by the National research project and amounts awarded or of receipt. Council of the Society and administered by requested; and (v) publication plans (see the The Society—The Organ Historical a standing committee of the Publications following paragraph). Society is an international organization for Governing Board. These grants are awarded It is expected that an applicant’s re- friends of the organ. The purpose of the for research projects related to the organ in search will result in a manuscript suitable Society is to encourage, promote, and the broadest sense—the instrument’s build- for publication. Each recipient of an Alan further an active interest in the organ and ers, construction, history, styles, repertoire, Laufman Research Grant will be requested its builders, particularly those in North performance practices, and composers from to submit a brief report after the research America; to collect, preserve, evaluate, and all style periods and nationalities. Grants funded by the grant is complete, whether publish detailed historical and technical may be used to cover travel, housing, and or not the manuscript is finished. Once information about organs and organbuilders, other expenses. the manuscript is completed, the recipient particularly those in North America; and to Application Requirements—The is expected to submit it to the Society’s use its good office and influence to have Society encourages all interested persons to Director of Publications to be reviewed significant organs, particularly those in apply, regardless of age, educational following standard procedures for possible North America, preserved in their original background, and nationality. There is no publication in The Tracker or by the OHS condition or carefully restored. The Society application form. Applicants should submit Press. Submitting an application constitutes maintains the American Organ Archives in (a) a cover letter, (b) a curriculum vitae, and an applicant’s agreement to this condition. Princeton, New Jersey, the world’s largest (c) a proposal. At a minimum, the cover Applications may be sent by mail or collection of books and periodicals on the letter should contain the applicant’s name, e-mail. They must be postmarked or organ. More information on the Society is address, phone number, and e-mail address. e-mailed by June 15, 2007, and awards available at www.organsociety.org. The curriculum vitae will summarize the will be announced in early July, 2007. Send applications or inquiries to: applicant’s educational background, train- Alan Laufman Research Grants will not Dr. Christopher S. Anderson ing, and experience relevant to the proposed exceed a total of $1,500 in any year. Within Associate Professor of Sacred Music project, and it should include a list of any that limit, the grant committee determines Perkins School of Theology publications. The proposal, not to exceed the specific amount of each award and the Southern Methodist University 1,000 words, will contain at least the number of recipients. The grant committee P.O. Box 750133 following information: (i) a description of the may elect to withhold awards if satisfac- Dallas, Texas 75275-0133 research project, including a statement of tory applications are not received. In its 214-768-3160; [email protected] objectives, a plan for conducting the deliberations, the committee considers the research, a description of phases of the completeness of the application, the merits research already completed or in progress, of the proposed project and the qualifi- and an estimate of the time required to cations of the applicant to undertake it. A complete the project; (ii) a list of anticipated grantee may receive successive awards for a expenses to be funded by the grant (up to single research project of large scope,

Don’t miss an issue of THEATRE ORGAN Renew your membership on time.

10 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:05 PM Page 11

ATOSMENTOR TECHNICALASSISTANCEPROGRAM

PROGRAM Several years ago, the ATOS Board of chapters in obtaining the best possible Directors initiated a program by which technical advice before embarking on any The ATOS Mentor Program gives a chapters which either own or are totally installation or program of restoration, selected qualifying member of ATOS the responsible for the maintenance of a refurbishment, upgrading, or enlargement. opportunity to participate in a private theatre pipe organ installed, or to be (ATOS Endowment Fund grants are coaching session with an internationally installed, in an essentially public venue available for assistance with the actual work known theatre organ concert artist/educator, can receive advice from a qualified organ involved in these various projects.) Funding to be held during the ATOS Annual technician. The Technical Assistance for this program is budgeted annually by the Convention, to be held this year in New York. Program assists those in need of pro- ATOS Board of Directors. It will be Please note that you must be planning to fessional consultation to better access a provided as long as budgeted funds are attend the 2007 Annual ATOS Convention in technician familiar with high-pressure available during any fiscal year, and will be New York, as no expenses will be provided. theatre instruments. provided to chapters on a first-come, first- To qualify for this opportunity, you must We are all very familiar with instal- served basis. be a member in good standing of ATOS. lations, restorations and improvements The president of any ATOS chapter Please submit an e-mail or letter to Donna which have been compromised due to lack interested in using this service is invited to Parker, ATOS Mentor Program, at the of professional advice up front, often contact the chairman of the ATOS Technical address below. Please provide information wasting much time and money in the Assistance Program, Carlton Smith, to about yourself, including your age, the type process. This program is designed to obtain a copy of the program application of instrument you normally play, and the encourage chapters to seek expert technical and list of guidelines. number of years you have been playing/ advice before attempting costly installation, Carlton Smith, 2175 North Irwin Street, studying the organ, as well as your present maintenance, or upgrading, which might Indianapolis, Indiana 46219, 317-356- playing skills and abilities. We prefer that otherwise be done incorrectly. 1240, [email protected]. you be presently taking organ instruction in Under the terms of this program, ATOS some form or have done so within the past will provide partial payment of the trans- few years. Please also tell us why you would portation costs (currently up to $250) and like to be selected and what you would partial payment (currently up to $250) expect to gain from the session. Include of the fee charged by the professional information about your musical activities, technician. The local chapter is responsible along with any other information about for the remainder of the costs involved. The yourself that you would like to have taken program is not designed to assist with the into account. payment for actual work done by tech- In order to be considered for the 2007 nicians or their assistants, but to help Mentor Program, your application letter/e-mail must be received no later than June 1, 2007. If you are selected, you will be notified no later than June 15, 2007. The preferred method for transmittal is e-mail. If this is not available, ATOSSUMMERCAMP regular mail is acceptable. Please let us know July 20–23, 2007, Wheaton, Illinois if you have any additional questions. ATOS Mentor Program Donna Parker In this inaugural project sponsored by The camp is open to anyone ages P.O. Box 6103 ATOS and co-hosted by our Chicago area 13–30. Additional information can be Aloha, Oregon 97007-0103 chapters, ATOS will provide a unique found in the advertisement on page 47. [email protected] opportunity for young enthusiasts to learn Please contact Michael Cierski at: and study the art of the theatre organ. [email protected] (with “TOSC2007” in Distinguished guest lecturers and experi- the subject line), or call 708-785-4985. enced faculty will cover both the technical and performance aspects of this wonderful instrument.

MAY | JUNE 2007 11 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:05 PM Page 12

WELCOMETONEWATOSMEMBERS ACALLFOR JANUARY 28 TO MARCH 28, 2007 DOCUMENTS

Robert and Carol Abraham, Jim Leach, Granite Bay, California Theatre Organ Installation Indianapolis, Indiana Joseph Lord, Darien, Illinois Document Research Project Charles Anderson, Clifford and Judy Luscher, The ATOS Technical and Education Western Springs, Illinois Sunnyvale, California Committees are jointly requesting the assistance of all ATOS members who have John Bartelstone, New York, New York Bill Lyon, Homer, New York access to original factory organ chamber Donald Brown, Eugene P. McMahon, Brentwood, United Kingdom and contractor blueprints, drawings, Thomaston, Connecticut contracts, photos, specifications and corre- Robert A. Brown, Prairie Creek, Indiana Dr. Roland Miller, San Jose, California spondence. The goal is to acquire historic Frank Cannata, Dennis Morrelly, documents to include in the ever-expanding North Tonawanda, New York New Hyde Park, New York ATOS Archive. This request for documen- Pete Carton, St. Louis, Missouri Hans Muhler, Freehold, New Jersey tation includes all builders of theatre pipe Rich Clayton, Mckinney, Texas Walter R. Murbach, Baden, Switzerland organs. Trey Concilo, Waco, Texas Although a number of original Wurlitzer Dennis Nawracaj, Joliet, Illinois drawings are presently available through Samuel Cook, Joliet, Illinois Greg Owen, Silver Spring, Maryland the Smithsonian Institution, they represent Ron Czaiczynski, Berkley, Michigan James E. Peron, Kirkwood, Pennsylvania less than 10% of the total number Micheal Ferenchiak, Chatham, New Jersey Betty and Bill Russ, Godfrey, Illinois generated by the firm. We are seeking originals, or high-quality copies, of prints Mickey and Victoria Gonzales, Francis J. Smagalla, Pelham, Alabama Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania and documents that do not exist in the Smithsonian Wurlitzer collection. Equally Barbara Harrison, Erica Spackman, Athens, Georgia Bensalem, Pennsylvania important is the acquisition of installation Timothy T. Trotter, Harvard, Illinois blueprints and technical drawings of Taylor Harvey, Salisbury, Maryland Joseph Urich, Palos Park, Illinois Robert-Morton, Barton, Marr & Colton, Robert Kleinschmidt, Carl Werner, Tucson, Arizona Kimball and other theatre organ builders. Yorktown Heights, New York Mary Ann Wooton, Please assist us with this important Anthony Koepfle, Santa Rosa, California Longbridge, Preston, United Kingdom project, before the gnawing tooth of time Charles Kratz, Springfield, Virginia wipes away more of our important history. Robert J. Ylimaki, Moseley, Virginia Kenneth J. Krause, Contact Carlton Smith, Chairman, ATOS Michael Young, Medford, Massachusetts Technical Committee, for further infor- Washington, District of Columbia mation, assistance and coordination, at Marie and Paul Larkin, Wellesley, Massachusetts [email protected] or 317-697-0318. Biff LaTourette, Saint Louis, Missouri Darrell C. Lawler, Birmingham, Alabama OURMEMBERS DESERVE NOTHINGSHORT OFPERFECTION!

MAGAZINES NEEDED If an issue of THEATRE ORGAN goes missing or is received in A search is underway for copies of The Tibia and Theatre Organ published damaged condition, please between 1955 and 1962 to replace issues lost from the ATOS Editor's Files. Copies immediately contact the of other early theatre organ-related periodicals such as The Kinura and The Executive Secretary’s office, Posthorn are also being sought. Please contact Jeff Weiler at [email protected] [email protected]. or at 1845 South Michigan Avenue, #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616. A replacement copy will be cheerfully forwarded.

12 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:06 PM Page 13

CALLFORNOMINATIONSOFATOSOFFICERS

To all ATOS members throughout our airfare or equivalent) and hotel expenses Let me offer a personal challenge to worldwide organization, it is again time to will be made by ATOS for those appointed. those with the talent and ideas to make a request nominations for ATOS President, The path ahead for ATOS is a most difference. This is not just an opportunity; Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary. exciting one indeed. The current board has it is your duty and responsibility to step The process begins with nominations, begun the task of re-energizing and re- forward and help us all. If you think you can and there is no shortage of qualified organizing our group so that we can grow make a difference, come on along. Run for individuals in our organization who have the in every way. Those with experience in the Board and get involved. The real fun is talent and energy to help. If you consider business, marketing, promotions, fund- just beginning! yourself one of those individuals and wish raising, performance production, and —Ken Double, President to be considered for an officer position, your organbuilding technical expertise can all 1201 McDuffie Street #173 participation is most welcome. help make a difference in this time of Houston, TX 77019 As provided in Section 5.2 of the ATOS growth. [email protected] Bylaws, the Board of Directors appoints the ATOS Officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) each year at its annual Board meeting. This year the Board of Directors will have that meeting in New York City on June 30, 2007, beginning at 3:30pm. Any person at least 18 years of age who TO: Members of the American Theatre Organ Society has had continuous ATOS membership for at least the last two years is eligible to seek SUBJECT: Notice of the Annual Membership Meeting appointment as an officer. Candidates for these offices are encouraged to submit The Annual Meeting of the members of the written résumés to the ATOS President, Ken American Theatre Organ Society (ATOS) will be held Double, by June 1, 2007. It is strongly at 8:00am, July 4, 2007, at the Marriott Marquis Times recommended that nominations be sent via “return receipt” or similar mail class if Square, New York City, New York, during the 2007 international. Nominations may also be sent ATOS Annual Convention. digitally; however, the sender MUST verify receipt of the nomination by the ATOS AGENDA: President. Any written materials that are • Approval of the 2006 Annual Membership submitted to the ATOS President by the Meeting Minutes as printed in the above date will be distributed to the Board November/December issue of THEATRE ORGAN of Directors prior to the Board meeting. • Presentation and acceptance of the In addition, any ATOS member may attend Treasurer’s Report the Board meeting in person (at his or her own expense) and nominate at the meeting • Old Business: Report of Board actions during the any eligible candidate for these offices. past year; other status reports, as needed Candidates are expected to present • New Business themselves at their own expense to the Board for a personal interview on June 30, • Announcement of the next Annual 2007 at 3:30pm. Appointment will imme- Membership Meeting diately follow the interview process. • Adjournment Successful candidates must be ready to assume the duties of their office at the AMERICAN THEATRE ORGAN SOCIETY conclusion of the Convention and must also be available to participate in the remainder of the Board meeting following their appoint- ment. Reimbursement of travel (economy

MAY | JUNE 2007 13 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:06 PM Page 14

ATOSCHAPTEROFFICERS

ALABAMA Secretary: Dixie Leis Secretary: Norman A. Andre GREAT SALT LAKE Secretary: James Zehr President: Sabrina Summers 6138 Guilford Drive P.O. Box 686 President: David L. Massey 1527 Sharpe Road RR 1 P.O. Box 1119 New Port Richie, Florida 34655 Westbrook, Connecticut 06498 P.O. Box 17512 Odessa, ON K0H 2H0 Jemison, Alabama 35085 727-375-5860 941-428-7292 Salt Lake City, Utah 84117 Canada 205-688-2357 [email protected] [email protected] 801-278-5244 613-386-3695 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] CENTRAL ILLINOIS CUMBERLAND VALLEY Secretary: Pat Seitz President: Fr. Gus L. Franklin President: Robert Eyer, Jr. Secretary: David L. Park KIWI 1212 South 30th Street 6508 Willow Springs Road 170 Colonial Drive 1252 West 800 North President: Barry Dillon Birmingham, Alabama 35205 Springfield, Illinois 62712 Chambersburg, Pennsylvania 17201 Clinton, Utah 84015 8 Rand Street 205-326-3064 217-585-1770 717-264-7886 801-773-4153 Maddington, Perth 1702 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Western Australia ALAMO Secretary: Tom Williams Secretary: Robert L. Maney GULF COAST Secretary: Veronica Dillon President: George B. Webster 1901 South 14th Street 229 Ellen Avenue President: Dorothy Standley 47 McKean Avenue 7400 Crestway, Suite 820 Springfield, Illinois 62703 State College, Pennsylvania 16801 381 Euclid Street Manurewa, Auckland 1702 San Antonio, Texas 78239 217-528-4994 814-238-2022 Pensacola, Florida 32503 New Zealand [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 904-433-4683 LACROSSE ATLANTA CENTRAL INDIANA DAIRYLAND HILO President: Michael Hengelsberg President: Larry Davis President: Michael Rolfe President: Gary D. Hanson President: Don Baker 1616 Jackson Street P.O. Box 657 1431 North Audubon Road 4353 South 108th Street 73 1427 Kahakea Place La Crosse, Wisconsin 54601 Marietta, Georgia 30061 Indianapolis, Indiana 46219 Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53228 Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 608-784-4976 770-402-8319 317-358-1564 414-529-2711 808-325-0013 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Secretary: Marian Verwiebe Secretary: Thomas M. Robertson Secretary: Bob Hudson Secretary: Gary Bieck Secretary: Duane Dodgson N3412 State Road 16 120 Fairlawn Drive 6852 Wild Cherry Drive N9080 Highway J 73 1427 Kahakea Place LaCrosse, Wisconsin 54601 Carrollton, Georgia 30117 Fishers, Indiana 46038 Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin 53020 Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740 608-796-1472 770-832-6674 317-863-0356 920-876-3061 808-327-1280 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] LAND O' LAKES AUSTRALIA FELIX CENTRAL MINNESOTA OTTER TAIL DELAWARE VALLEY HUDSON MOHAWK President: Terry Kleven President: Robert M. Cornish President: Richard Baker President: Harry Linn, Jr. President: Frank P. Hackert 1173 W Sandhurst Drive 9 Truscott Road, Enfield, 5085 22630 North Swan Lake Road 723 Beechwood Road 1120 Highbridge Road Roseville, Minnesota 55113 South Australia Fergus Falls, Minnesota 56537 Pine Ridge Schenectady, New York 12303 651-489-2074 [email protected] 218-736-3006 Media, Pennsylvania 19063 518-355-4523 [email protected] or Secretary: Brian R. P. Pearson [email protected] 610-566-1764 [email protected] [email protected] Regent 11 Ormonde Avenue, Secretary: Myron Dahle Secretary: Albert J. Derr Secretary: Maude Dunlap Secretary: David Kearn Warradale, 5046 P.O. Box 644 831 Lombardy Drive 1413 Fox Hollow Road 2458 Arlington Avenue East South Australia Battle Lake, Minnesota 56515 Lansdale, Pennsylvania 19446 Schenectady, New York 12309 Maplewood, Minnesota 55119 [email protected] 218-864-5284 215-362-9220 518-377-5970 651-777-5174 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] BINGHAMTON NEW YORK JESSE CRAWFORD President: Paul Stapel CENTRAL OHIO EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS President: Steve Plaggemeyer LONDON AND SOUTH OF 58 Murray Street President: Duane King President: Robert P. Evans 2215 12th Avenue North ENGLAND Binghamton, New York 13905 89 Pincott Street SW 798 Old Warren Road Billings, Montana 59101 President: Ian Ridley 607-773-1495 Pataskala, Ohio 43062 Swansea, Massachusetts 02777 406-248-3171 Holtspur Beaconsfield, [email protected] 614-374-8808 508-674-0276 [email protected] Buckinghamshire, HP9 1DG Secretary: Wilbur Dodge [email protected] [email protected] Secretary: Dr. Edward J Mullins United Kingdom 1 Clarence Street Secretary: Joel Ensign Secretary: Linda Duncan 813 Grand Avenue ridley@atos- Binghamton, New York 13903 4538 C-33 Maize Road 4 School Street Billings, Montana 59102 london.freeserve.co.uk 607-723-1579 Columbus, Ohio 43224 Westborough, Massachusetts 406-259-5555 Secretary: Michael Clemence [email protected] 614-268-4155 01581 [email protected] 7 Parton Close, Wendover, BUCKS 508-366-2091 HP22 6LR BUFFALO AREA CHICAGO AREA [email protected] JOLIET AREA United Kingdom President: Greg Nellist President: John J. Peters President: James Patak 310 Commercial Street 5506 Lincoln Avenue GARDEN STATE 1406 Mandel Avenue LOS ANGELES Medina, New York 14103 Morton Grove, Illinois 60053 President: Edward W. Fritz Westchester, Illinois 60154 President: William J. Campbell 716-798-1928 847-470-0743 40 Mountain Ridge Drive 708-562-8538 1319 North Lotus Place Secretary: Norma Marciniak Secretary: Joseph C. Russo Wayne, New Jersey 07470 [email protected] Anaheim, California 92801 2645 Colvin Boulevard 1949 West School Street 973-694-5173 Secretary: Barbara Petry 414-476-6510 Tonawanda, New York 14150 Chicago, Illinois 60657 [email protected]] 1N480 Swift Road [email protected] 716-694-9158 773-327-1979 Secretary: Marilyn F. Fitz Lombard, Illinois 60148 Secretary: Steven Asimow [email protected] 46 Englewood Road 630-627-3245 624 Ivy Street CHICAGOLAND Clifton, New Jersey 07012 Glendale, California 91204 CEDAR RAPIDS President: Dennis Scott 973-773-9235 KANSAS CITY 818-240-9825 President: Darren M. Ferreter 6448 South Fairfield Avenue [email protected] President: Robert Fray, Jr. 1702 Fox Trail Drive NE Chicago, Illinois 60629 7425 Springfield Street MAGNOLIA Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52402 773-863-4346 GOLDEN STATE Prairie Village, Kansas 66208 President: Dolton W. McAlpin 319-393-4129 [email protected] President: Bert Robinson 816-941-3790 P.O. Box 867 [email protected] Secretary: Lee A. Maloney 143 Willow Street [email protected] Starkville, Mississippi 39759-0867 Secretary: Mark Dean 1300 Buell Avenue Salinas, California 93901 Secretary: Dan Davis [email protected] 831-424-6251 1544 5th Avenue SE Joliet, Illinois 60435 245 SE 131 Road MANASOTA Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52403 815-725-8770 GREAT LAKES Warrensburg, Missouri 64093 President: Charles E. Pierson 319-363-6913 [email protected] President: Joel P. Gary 660-747-5681 7455 Proctor Road [email protected] [email protected] CONNECTICUT VALLEY 345 Logan Street SE, Apt 1A Sarasota, Florida 34241 CENTRAL FLORIDA President: Jon Sibley Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 KINGSTON 941-924-0674 President: Bob L. Logan 384 Middlesex Turnpike 616-304-3749 President: Roy Young [email protected] 6106 Concordia Avenue Higganum, Connecticut 06441 [email protected] RR 4 1000 Lucas Road Secretary: James J. Weisenborne New Port Richey, Florida 34653 860-345-2518 Secretary: Jane Stephenson Odessa, Ontario K0H 2H0 7459 Cabbage Palm Court 727-236-6375 [email protected] or 6936 Youngstown Avenue, Canada Sarasota, Florida 34241 [email protected] [email protected] Hudsonville, Michigan 49426 613-386-7295 941-927-6852 616-669-5677 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

14 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:06 PM Page 15

METROLINA Secretary: Arthur Woodworth PIKES PEAK ROME NEW YORK SOUTHERN JERSEY President: John Apple 600 Coventry Road President: Don Wick President: Arthur Pierce President: Joseph Rementer 4146 Sheridan Drive Kensington, California 94707 15605 Falcon Ridge Court, 339 Nassau Street 594 Fries Mill Road Charlotte, North Carolina 28205 510-524-7452 Colorado Springs, Colorado 80921 Rome, New York 13440 Franklinville, New Jersey 08322 704-567-1066 [email protected] 719-488-9469 315-337-2576 856-694-1471 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] NORTHERN MICHIGAN Secretary: Karen Hite Jacob President: Andy Struble Secretary: John R. Hembrey Secretary: Elizabeth Kay Secretary: Mary Brook 2516 East 5th Street 3585 Lookout Point 1012 Ridgeview Place 110 Longmeadow Drive, 1143 Weymouth Road Charlotte, North Carolina 28204 Traverse City, Michigan 49686 Canon City, Colorado 81212 Syracuse, New York 13205-3028 Vineland, New Jersey 08360 719-269-3465 856-697-0651 MOTOR CITY 231-938-9300 SAN DIEGO President: Thomas Hurst [email protected] PINE TREE President: Jeff Johnson ST. LOUIS 35804 Johnstown Road Secretary: Patricia Richards President: Edith Pennock 3392 Avenuenida Magoria President: Jim Ryan Farmington Hills, Michigan 48335 616 Washington Street 121 Dam Road Escondido, California 92029 5124 Harthlodge Drive 248-477-6660 Traverse City, Michigan 49686 Porter, Maine 04068 760-746-7469 St Louis, Missouri 63129 Secretary: Elaine Mundt 231-263-2042 207-625-3397 [email protected] 314-892-0754 [email protected] [email protected] 16889 West Riverdale Drive OHIO VALLEY Secretary: Marshall E. Gurley, Jr. Detroit, Michigan 48219 President: Joseph L. Hollmann Secretary: Stephen F. Larrabee 8767 Ginger Snap Lane Secretary: Sharon Theurer 313-531-4407 1617 W Belmar Place 21 Rosewood Circle, #5, San Diego, California 92129 4640 Nebraska [email protected] Cincinnati, Ohio 45224 Kennebunk, Maine 04043 858-484-3977 St Louis, Missouri 63111 513-729-0786 860-928-0217 314-752-2432 MOUNT SHASTA [email protected] SANTA BARBARA President: Alan Schoenstein [email protected] President: Diane A. Davis SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY P.O. Box 44 Secretary: Blanche S. Underwood POTOMAC VALLEY 523 Foxen Drive President: Sam Groh McCloud, California 96057 668 Enright Avenue President: Michael W. Hartley Santa Barbara, California 93105 218 Elm Avenue [email protected] Cincinnati, Ohio 45205 17 Whippoorwill Drive 805-687-8130 Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033 Secretary: Dorothea Schoenstein 513-471-2695 Palm Coast, Florida 32164 [email protected] 717-534-2470 386-445-7562 [email protected] P.O. Box 44 ORANGE COUNTY Secretary: Keith Connes McCloud, California 96057 President: Edwin C. Bridgeford Secretary: Kenneth LaCapria 283 Carlo Drive Secretary: Roy Wainwright [email protected] 1530 Evergreen Avenue 12917 Clarion Road Goleta, California 93117 2897 Olde Field Drive Fort Washington, Maryland 20744 805-964-8627 York, Pennsylvania 17404 NEVADA DESERT LIGHTS Fullerton, California 92835 714-529-5594 301-292-6145 [email protected] 717-792-3408 President: Tim Harvey [email protected] [email protected] 1111 Mary Crest Road #J, [email protected] SEQUOIA Henderson, Nevada 89014 Secretary: Judy Merry PUGET SOUND President: Dave Hartman TOLEDO AREA 702-458-5230 2437 Applewood Circle President: Tom Blackwell 38855 Wigwam Street President: Nelda M. Reno [email protected] Fullerton, California 92833 9717 Dayton Avenue North Woodlake, California 93286 4220 Garden Park Drive Secretary: Bob Oelke 714-879-3621 Seattle, Washington 98103 559-564-2297 Toledo, Ohio 43613 P.O. Box 94311 [email protected] 206-778-2724 [email protected] 419-478-5959 [email protected] [email protected] Las Vegas, Nevada 89193 OREGON Secretary: Claude P. Halstead, Jr. 702-436-4302 President: Janeete Nieuwenhuis Secretary: Joani Roughton 7267 Avenue 296 Secretary: Dave Vincent [email protected] P.O. Box 2353 28303 Sound View Drive South, Visalia, California 93277 35850 Booth Vancouver, Washington 98668 #309 559-651-0762 Westland, Michigan 48186 NEW YORK Des Moines, Washington 98198 [email protected] 734-728-3652 President: Bernard Anderson, Jr. 360-896-6970 [email protected] 253-946-4400 136 East Prospect Avenue [email protected] SIERRA VALLEY OF THE SUN Woodbridge, New Jersey 07095 Secretary: Kenneth Keyser President: Craig A. Peterson President: William R. Carr 908-881-1636 5732 SW Multnomah RED RIVER 7800 Laguna Vega Drive 11815 North 77th Drive [email protected] Portland, Oregon 97219 President: Faye Crume Elk Grove, California 95758 Peoria, Arizona 85345 Secretary: Thomas J. Stehle 131 130th Street South 916-682-9699 623-694-1746 ORLANDO Glyndon, Minnesota 56547 [email protected] [email protected] 178 Dunn Drive President: E. Warren Thomas Montgomery, New York 12549 218-498-2874 Secretary: Sherry Clifton Secretary: Madeline LiVolsi 5939 Kendrew Drive [email protected] 845-457-5393 Port Orange, Florida 32127 8200 Sunbonnet Drive 3626 West Vernon Avenue [email protected] 386-761-0592 Secretary: Steve Eneboe Fair Oaks, California 95628 Phoenix, Arizona 85009 [email protected] 118 2nd Avenue West 916-863-6344 602-278-9107 NORTH FLORIDA Sisseton, South Dakota 57262 [email protected] President: Elmer H. Osteen Secretary: Doris B. Ferrar 605-698-4235 WESTERN RESERVE 1981 Parental Home Road 115 Woodland Drive [email protected] SOONER STATE President: Doug Powers Jacksonville, Florida 32216 Leesburg, Florida 34788 President: William Rowland 3323 Belvoir Boulevard 904-724-0694 352-589-7526 RIVER CITY 2100 North 26th Beachwood, Ohio 44122 [email protected] [email protected] President: Robert D. Markworth Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74014 216-283-8080 Secretary: Erle Renwick 13535 North 73rd Plaza 918-355-1562 [email protected] PACKERLAND Omaha, Nebraska 68122 [email protected] 10661 Hearthstone Drive President: Thomas E. McNeely Secretary: Robert D. Moran, Jr. Jacksonville, Florida 32257 402-573-9071 Secretary: Barbara Purtell 3092 West 155th Street 802 Bolles [email protected] 904-268-9537 De Pere, Wisconsin 54115 507 East Broadway Cleveland, Ohio 44111 Secretary: Gerald Pawlak Broken Arrow, Oklahoma 74012 216-521-7269 NORTH TEXAS 920-339-8501 [email protected] 2864 Katelyn Circle 918-251-2245 [email protected] President: Richard Stewart Lincoln, Nebraska 68516 [email protected] 9931 Glen Canyon Drive Secretary: Tim Holz 402-421-1356 WICHITA GREAT PLANES Arlington, Texas 75243 803 Metomen Street [email protected] SOUTH MISSISSIPPI GOLD COAST President: Brett Valliant 214-575-7499 Ripon, Wisconsin 54971 President: John G. DeMajo 723 North Stackman Drive, Apt 9, [email protected] or 920-748-8210 ROCKY MOUNTAIN P.O. Box 2127 Wichita, Kansas 67203 [email protected] [email protected] or President: Jim Burt Hammond, Louisiana 70404 316-838-1166 Secretary: Alan Cavitt [email protected] P.O. Box 297 504-288-2468 [email protected] 914 Green Ridge Drive Durango, Colorado 81302 [email protected] Secretary: Michael Coup PIEDMONT 719-388-2101 Duncanville, Texas 75137 President: Ernest N. Boyd, Jr. Secretary: Bill Hooper 6141 Fairfield Road 972-296-7138 3212 Keswick Road Secretary: Priscilla M. Arthur 3651 Cedar Bend Road, #64A Wichita, Kansas 67204 [email protected] Baltimore, Maryland 21211 8856 East Dartmouth Avenue Mobile, Alabama 36608 316-838-3127 Denver, Colorado 80231 [email protected] [email protected] NORTHERN CALIFORNIA 410-243-0878 [email protected] 303-671-8333 President: Kevin King [email protected] SOUTHEAST TEXAS 2851 Creston Road Secretary: Paul M Abernethy, Jr. President: Floyd T. Broussard Walnut Creek, California 94597 4421 Alamance Church Road 1 Circle East Street 925-256-7436 Liberty, North Carolina 27298 Orange, Texas 77630 [email protected] 336-565-9212 409-886-1609 [email protected]

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Mystery Photos

(ATOS Archive Collection) We’re so pleased by the tremendous interest generated in our regular “From the Archives” column. Readers have solved mysteries by identifying heretofore unknown organists and organ consoles. This time, however, we have a dual mystery to be solved—an unknown theatre contain- ing a fairly intact Robert-Morton organ. Who can tell us more? Please contact the Editor at [email protected].

(ATOS Archive Collection)

Mystery Solved

Peter Crotty called to inform us as to the identity of both the organist and organ console pictured on page 15 of the March/April issue of THEATRE ORGAN. Mr. Crotty said, “That’s Porfilio ‘Pomping’ Villa at the Style 235 Wurlitzer once installed in the Crown Theatre in Pasadena!” Mr. Villa, we understand, played the Hammond organ over the airwaves in Manila in the 1940s. After coming to live in Southern California, he played the organ at the popular Tahitian Restaurant in Pasadena, and presented a single pipe organ concert at the Crown in the early 70s.

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

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Concert Recording quite often the churches couldn’t afford to now a healthy 68, and he loves to travel pay for the finished product. Since he was with his charming wife, Rose. Bill sends e- Reborn already set up for recording and had all the mails to friends with photos of where they The firm of Concert Recording was a equipment, his new interest spurred by have been and also, amusingly, mouth- major influence in the theatre organ world Coffman and Fields found another outlet. watering photos of the plates of food they in the 60s and 70s, and now, 40 years later, He began to produce musical instrument eat in restaurants in various countries. it has a second life. recordings, not only of theatre organs but Cut to the present. Don Thompson, who The company was founded on August 31, also of all kinds of automatic musical made six LPs for Concert Recording in the 1965, by Bill Johnson in Lynwood, instruments. His first release was an LP of late sixties and early seventies, stayed California. Bill was trained as an elec- a Wurlitzer roll player; his second release, in touch with the Johnsons and other tronics engineer and was awarded a of Al Bollington playing Harvey Heck’s friends from that period. In 2005, organist scholarship by the Ford Motor Company, Wurlitzer in Los Angeles, was the start of Tom Sheen had a dinner party at which obtaining a degree at USC in electronics an Organ of the Month club. Over the Thompson and the Johnsons were guests. designing. He worked for several compa- years, he produced and released over 175 During dinner the subject of the master nies, including Monsanto. When Monsanto LPs, some of carousel organs and other tapes of those old LPs came up, and Bill shut down its California Division, Bill was automatic musical instruments, with the was asked what had happened to them. He asked to stay on in an “occupational majority on theatre organs. Bill did every- exclaimed: “I still have them all, stored in consultant deferral,” which meant that he thing himself, every step of the process: order, in my warehouse!” was available, on a retainer, to answer recording, editing, mastering and even Don Thompson said that these would be phone calls from the company’s remaining designing the LP covers. items of great interest to collectors, since California customers. This left a lot of time As time went on he was wearing down, many of the organists were now dead and on his hands, and that’s when he started the and the income from the theatre organ many, if not most, of the organs had been recording business, more as a hobby than recordings never really paid for the time removed, destroyed, or altered beyond anything else. and effort involved; it was really a labor of recognition. Those master tapes would, in Bill Johnson had an interest in music love. What did pay for the expenses were fact, be archival treasures. and was taking piano lessons. He met the orders from electronic organ manufac- Don asked about the possibility of re- another of the teacher’s students, Bill Field. turers, who would buy the LPs in quantity releasing some of them as CDs using his Field, being aware of Johnson’s electronic to promote their products and to be sold by own CD company, Pipe Organ Presenta- engineering background, asked him to help their staff artists at concerts and events, tions. All agreed that would be a great idea, on the electrical engineering involved such as the Asilomar electronic organ and thus the project began. in the maintenance of the Wurlitzer in the festival. The first two CDs using this archival Los Angeles Theatre. That’s what initially As the sales of theatre organ LPs de- material were of John Seng at Mundelein; spurred Bill Johnson’s interest in theatre clined (they were never really a success), they really are archival treasures, since organs. He went on to work on a Wurlitzer Bill started NAAM (National Association of John’s genius will never be heard live again, which was owned by Bill Coffman and Bill Awareness in Music), a publication for and the Mundelein organ is today a pale Field. At that time, the Wurlitzer was electronic enthusiasts which contained a shadow of its former self. Next came CDs in a woodcarving shop, a large warehouse- record in each issue. The name was a of Gerald Shaw at the Odeon Leicester type building that was owned by Bill play on a national organization which still Square; Bob van Camp at the Atlanta Fox Field’s uncle. Field was allowed to in- exists, called the National Association of (as a fundraiser for the Fox Foundation); a stall the Wurlitzer there, and it became Music Merchants. His experience being CD compilation of 14 British organists at known in Los Angeles organ circles as “The primarily in electronics, Johnson and a 13 famous British organs, Those Were The Woodcarver Wurlitzer.” Later it was friend he helped put through college Days; Douglas Reeve at the Dome Brighton; enlarged and transferred to Old Town Music devised a propane gas detector, which soon Gerald Shaw and George Blackmore at the Hall in El Segundo. Bill Field at that time became a detector for all kinds of gases. Regal, Marble Arch, London (Europe’s was playing a Robert-Morton organ at a They began marketing this, but they had to largest theatre organ); Billy Nalle at roller rink in Southgate, near Lynwood. He temporarily close down and move the Rochester and Detroit; Arnold Loxam at the later bought that instrument from the rink business because of the relocation of a Odeon, Leeds (released for Arnold’s 90th owners and had to continue playing his job freeway. Others jumped on the bandwagon, birthday); Tom Hazleton at the former on a Hammond! Bill Coffman played in and companies like First Alert became Buddy Cole organ and at the Redwood City lounges on Hammond organs, principally in huge competitors, so Bill eventually retired. Wurlitzer; and the latest, Ann Leaf at the Los Angeles’ southern suburbs. When he was younger, he had a 12-rank Los Angeles Theatre and the Senate, In Bill Johnson’s spare time, he created Estey straight organ at home; now he has a Detroit. There are other future CDs in the the recording company and spent quite a bit three-manual electronic instrument as well pipeline, including ones by Ena Baga, Don of time and effort recording church choirs. as his 6' grand piano, and he enjoys playing Baker, George Blackmore, Al Bollington, Unfortunately, that didn’t pan out, because and impressing relatives and friends. He’s Jackie Brown, Del Castillo, Robinson

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Please send your items of interest to the Editor.

Cleaver, Lee Erwin, Gus Farney, Larry in the basement of the residential-zoned They managed to persuade the dealer to Ferrari, Bill Floyd, Reginald Foort, Roger property. The manufacturing was the fab- remove one from another vehicle in stock, Garrett, Vic Hammett, Jack Helyer, rication of Christmas nativity scenes that and they were on their way. Jim Melander, Buddy Nolan, Frank were sold to such fashionable department With the car problem delays, they had Olsen, Bryan Rodwell, Eddie Weaver, the stores as Marshall Fields in Chicago. The a late start on their trip. By the time they Blackpool organists Reginald Dixon, danger was deemed to be the storage of got past the Hammond and Gary, Indiana Watson Holmes and Horace Finch, and broomcorn used in the thatched roof of the congestion, they ran into the dreaded “lake many others. manger. The Wenks had a cousin who effect snow” at Michigan City. By the time For Thompson, as it was for Bill resided near Levering, and since “Pop” they crossed into Michigan, US31 was Johnson, it’s really a labor of love, since the Wenk had retired from work at the Thor getting very bad and was down to one lane number of organ fans who buy organ CDs Tool Company, they decided to move north in spots. Soon it was apparent many cars has precipitously declined. As he winds to be near their only relative outside the following them were blowing horns and down his concert career and performs his country of Hungary. flashing lights at them. They found a spot time-consuming job as Director of Music at Pete had worked as a photography tech- to pull the slow-moving truck over so a large church, Thompson fills his spare nician at a lithograph printing company. followers could pass them, only to be time working in his recording studio on the This was a handy position for a theatre informed a mattress and some furniture had production of these archival CDs, really organ enthusiast when historical photos of fallen off the truck miles back. They went enjoying hearing all his old friends in all theatres became available to be copied. back and recovered the lost items and their glory. Pete shared a lot of images he had acquired, headed north again. Not long after, they saw Details of Pipe Organ Presentations may and he was equally generous in copying behind them the red flashing lights of the be found in THEATRE ORGAN’s “Shop- images I had located or borrowed to copy. Berrien Cty Sheriff Police. The Deputy was ping for Recordings.” During the late 1950s we teamed up to not happy with the rear lighting of the truck, restore several Chicago area theatre organs and they were ordered off the road until it to playing condition, including the Kimball was corrected to minimum Michigan stan- Tribute to Peter Wenk organ in the North Center Theatre on the dards; it didn’t matter that it met Illinois north side. Due to worse deterioration than rules. By now the snow was monumental, Born November 26, 1937 Died January 6, 2007 first discovered, that turned into quite a bit and the Studebaker became stuck in a of releathering work on Pete’s kitchen table. drift; it had to be abandoned until the next Peter Wenk passed away due to compli- Our reward was hearing it at a midnight morning. Pete told of spending a cold night cations of cancer in his esophagus on concert for an American Guild of Organists installing additional lights on the truck in January 6, 2007 at age 70. event played by John Muri, one of the most a motel parking lot and of a special hearing I first met Pete Wenk in 1957 when we talented artists of the time. The opening by a Justice of the Peace in a hardware store both lived in Chicago; we both subscribed number, “Overture to Eugene Onegin,” for his lighting infraction. to a magazine related to the hobby of theatre brought cheers from the classical music- The next morning they were up early. At pipe organ music. About that time Pete oriented group. a local restaurant, they inquired about bought the remains of a 1920s Wurlitzer The story of Pete and Pop Wenk moving towing services to recover the Studebaker pipe organ from the Embassy Theatre in to Michigan would have made an en- from the snow drift. A guy at the counter Chicago. The intent was to install it in his tertaining motion picture. They bought a announced he was a state snow plow driver, home someday to enjoy its special kind of used flatbed plumbing supply truck, and he offered to help them get it free as a music. The project proved to be larger than something big and capable of carrying all favor. The end result was that he did get it he anticipated. In 1959, when he and his their furniture and tools in one trip. They pushed out onto the road, but not before the widowed father decided to move from the also bought a brand-new 1959 Studebaker snow plow blade had damaged the rear city to Levering, Michigan, most of it was Lark station wagon, which was loaded to bumper and tailgate enough to require sold to other pipe organ hobbyists. max for the excursion. The day they were replacement later. The move to northern Michigan was ready to leave, the Studebaker developed Not many friendships last over a span of prompted by harassment from city fire an engine problem that was found to be a 50 years. I’ll miss our phone calls and dept inspectors who were informed by a cracked carburetor casting. The dealer letters in the future. disgruntled tenant of their two-flat building explained since it was a brand-new model, —John Shanahan that they were doing “light manufacturing” no spare parts were yet on hand to repair it.

“Not many friendships last over a span of 50 years.”

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20 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:07 PM Page 21

Wurlitzer Rarities Terry Hochmuth of Ft. Lauderdale sent in an intriguing series of photos. We are shown a 24-note Wurlitzer Treble Chest (a rarity in itself), but the internal construction is highly unusual. Terry writes; “As you can see, it is totally original—I have a suspicion that it very well may be early Hope-Jones; check the pallet spring action, as well as the way that the lead wires from the magnets go down through that wooden barrier strip. The windings of the magnets are that typical Hope-Jones olive green. Perhaps someone swapped out the ‘)(‘ [half-moon] magnets at some time. I do not know the history of the chest; I found it on eBay, and the fellow I bought it from said that he thought it came out of ‘some big Wurlitzer in Philadelphia’ (his words). Who knows? Note the strange spacing of the toe holes on one side of the chest—#12 is not in the normal ‘position’ as on the other side.”

Can anyone provide any insight or further documentation?

Please contact the Editor.

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At Home with Linc Pero WURLITZER OPUS 1584

In April, 1981, I purchased a 2/7 under a new name. A mouse click or two quite nice for a home installation; there is Wurlitzer from the Waldo Congregational enables any one of the stored profiles. actually a slight reverberation. Church in Brockton, Massachusetts. The My organist friends each have their own A unique and wonderful feature of the church was being closed and, after the last profile for piston settings, some having mixing chamber is the panel in the center, benediction, the crew began removal. Ship- special modifications. As an example, one opposite the shades, that will hinge down to ping tags on cables and markings in the organist has the “unison off” changed to reveal a basement window. In the summer I chests and console indicated it came from Tibia 5 1/3. Another has all combination lower the panel, open the cellar window, and the Liberty Theatre, Rochester, New York, pistons set to function as generals. Of just let the organ play all the great tracks Opus 1584, Style EX (two chambers), course, if one needed more pistons, one which have been recorded by friends and shipped February 26, 1927. Judd Walton’s could always configure a few keys at one end visitors. It’s wonderful, hearing the sound of book listed this instrument as junked, so in of a manual to serve as additional pistons a Wurlitzer outside while enjoying cocktails 1982 I wrote to the late Lloyd Klos of instead of playing their respective notes. on the lawn with friends. Rochester to inform him that this organ had At times I play the organ like a radio— With the console at one end of the living indeed not been junked. He wrote a news turn it on and let it play all afternoon! The room and the tone opening at the other, note in the THEATRE ORGAN to that effect. system was very easy to install, versatile, loudness was about ideal, but the sound The organ was stored at my parents’ and trouble free. It’s wonderful and worth lacked clear definition. After putting heads home in Taunton, Massachusetts for restora- every penny. together with friends, it was decided to try tion as time would permit. Since I was living The console is located in a 16' by 32' adding angled cantilevered glass panels at and working in New York City at the living room. The two chambers, a regulator the ceiling above the tone opening to reflect time, progress was slow. I did not get into room, and a mixing chamber/tone chute are sound down the length of the room, in full restoration mode until I moved to directly below the living room in the particular the easily-lost higher frequencies. Providence, Rhode Island in 1986. There I basement. The shades open into the mixing It worked! No bad seats in the house, organ purchased a home in 1993 where the organ chamber and face angled baffles backed by bench included. The glass panels are barely could be installed. The original traps and a concrete wall, below one end of the living noticeable and quite nice-looking. Glass most of the percussions were not included room. An 18" by 13' opening is cut out of surfaces applied to the angled panels below with the church installation, but I later the hardwood floor, hinged to be opened and the tone opening improved the organ’s obtained Wurlitzer replacements for all of closed, much like the footlights on a stage. presence further, to such an extent that them to make the organ complete and all Closed, it’s impossible to tell that an opening removing drapes or upholstery makes the Wurlitzer. exists. overall sound seem a bit too brilliant. After new leather, new valves and stems, The basement was essentially unused The blower used at the church was a two- and complete restoration of the console space, having headroom of only 7 1/2'. The horsepower, single-phase Spencer which I (including the pneumatic on and off two chambers are faced with doubled 5/8" installed under the cellar stairwell. The machines), I opted for the versatility of the sheetrock glued together and insulation original as specified by the factory would Rickman relay system. It provides a capture between the studs. Angled baffles forming a have been three horsepower. With its combination action, transposer, couplers, tone chute are of doubled 3/4" particle percussions back again and some additional unison off, general cancel, record/playback board, glued together and factory-faced with unification, the organ became under- and so on. The software allows experiment- Formica for stiffness. They span the width winded. I obtained a larger blower (five- ing with best-effect unification and stop of the mixing chamber, the tone opening, horsepower Spencer) and had the modified configuration, choices such as taking Solo and the shades. They’re extremely heavy, motor rewound to its original three-phase mutations from the Flute versus the Tibia, and we found them very necessary for specification. (Incidentally, the two- setting the crescendo sequence for the projection of bass up into the listening area. horsepower blower is for sale.) smoothest effect, etc., all stored as the With such a low ceiling, some expensive A friend who has helped me with many organ’s “General” profile. mitering and horizontal mounting of pipes details and finer points of the organ It also permits each organist to his/her was inevitable. I cannot emphasize enough installation helped conquer the blower as own profile(s) containing his/her own com- how important is it that the chamber be well. The cellar has no bulkhead entrance, binations and stop configurations (within the SOLID for the best results acoustically. I’m and this blower has been the only organ resources available). A new organist profile also lucky to have a house with hardwood component that would not fit through the inherits the existing “General” setup, which floors and walls constructed of solid hard doors. Fortunately, the blower shell could be can subsequently be modified and saved plaster on metal lath. The acoustics are shortened about 3" with no harm done, and

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in such a way that you would never notice. A Variable Frequency Drive is used to power the five-horsepower motor by electronically generating true three-phase power from the single-phase power line. It also controls speed, acceleration, and deceleration of the motor. There is no power surge when the blower starts, while at shutdown the drive decelerates the motor over a 40-second period to prevent regula- tors from dropping suddenly. At that point, it applies gentle braking for a couple of seconds, bringing the fans to a complete stop. There is a side benefit to this: since the Wurlitzer organ, opus 1584 Main Chamber: Diapason, Violin, Violin blower is decelerating under power, Celeste, Concert Flute restarting the motor while still spinning cannot cause “grinding” or slipping of phases. The motor simply accelerates back up to speed. A five-horsepower blower is much more than the organ requires. The variable drive is set to run the motor at 1600 RPM which maintains minimum static pressure at about 16", playing large chords with tremulants and full regis- trations. That’s about 50% above the 10" regulated pressure, as recommended for happy tremulants. It was well worth the investment. The organ has plenty of wind, and I save on the electric bill besides. Power consumption is Solo Chamber: Vox Humana, Tibia Reservoir room about equivalent to a three-horsepower Clausa, Trumpet blower, as is performance, heat, and noise. The main windline has a muffler box just after the blower which does an outstanding job quieting turbulence. In the listening area, it’s so quiet you wouldn’t know the blower is running. Winding is in metal duct between the blower and the regulator trunk, thin-wall PVC elsewhere, since it’s very durable and easy to work with. The pipework is in excellent condition, but tonal finishing makes the difference between a musical instrument and a very large collection of rather interesting parts.

It’s a must-do once the dust has settled. Opening in living room floor— Blower room: 5-hp Spencer Orgoblo, Over the last several years, the organ has mixing chamber below powered by variable frequency drive been regulated and voiced. The great success of my home instal- lation would not have been realized but for the help of many dear friends who, on more than one occasion, I bribed with food and vodka! All are welcomed to visit and play the organ, anytime. —Linc Pero 74 Edgewood Blvd. Providence, Rhode Island 02905 401-467-7688

Mixing Chamber: Shutter frames installed Variable speed drive (Photos H. Lincoln Pero Collection) with actions on the exterior.

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BY BILL IRWIN

You know the old saying about “good Measure 1 of the excerpt reharmonized: can use the ninth chord substitution for a intentions.” Well, my good intentions about Note the correct C major seventh chord, but minor, or minor sixth chord. devoting my entire article to developing the with a repetitive melody, I felt it wasn’t Measure 4, the original chord of A7th, reharmonization of the initial excerpt that interesting with just one chord, so I added only applies to two of the four melody notes. appeared in Part 2 of this series are being the ninth step on the third beat to create the The note Eb is the flatted fifth step, and the modified: I just received a request from a C major 9th chord to maintain interest in note Bb is the flatted ninth step of the A reader who has asked for a particular the accompanying harmony. Measure 2, the chord. The correct chords are shown above subject to be discussed. My articles are melody note B is the flatted fifth step of the the melody notes. You can either choose to meant to educate, motivate, and inspire my F scale, which mandates the use of the change the left hand chords on every beat, readers who are interested in learning and F7b5, or simply omit the note C (the fifth or simply omit the fifth and ninth steps of doing, who are not satisfied with just being step) in the left hand to avoid the clash. The the A chords and use the interval of (left to a listener. When a listener develops a best sound would be an F9th chord, right) the two notes, G and C#, plus the root, knowledgeable ear for one or more facets of omitting the fifth step. C. The melody note A in the bass. That is called a “tri-tone” the music, it enhances listening to the D will create the F13th chord. What I did accompaniment.” (See the Simply Irwin music and, quite often, results in the was to look ahead to see a return to C major Series, using the tri-tone accompaniment aspiring student applying the new musical in the third measure. A simple substitution throughout.) thoughts into his or her playing. for C major is the relative minor and look- alike for C6, Am7. In diatonic progression, Reader’s Suggestions Reharmonizing the First Four E7 precedes Am7. The last melody note Reader Dick Dengate’s suggestions for in the second measure is D, part of the subjects include changing keys in a song Measures of the Excerpt E7 chord. Not only is the root of the E7th When you first look at a lead sheet or and modulating between songs in a medley. chord a half-step away from the F chord Although I planned to stay with one subject melody line with chord symbols, I suggest (chromatic movement), but modifying you get in the habit of looking at the chord in this new series, I feel compelled to the E7th to E7b9 will resemble the F respond to anyone who shows interest in my symbol, then looking at the notes of the Dim chord, making it an even smoother melody to determine what numbered steps articles. Here are some thoughts about the transition. two suggestions. of the chord or scale (on which the chord is In measure 3, I’ve used the substitution built) are being used. of the relative minor seventh chord, Am7, In measure 1, the indicated chord is C instead of the original C Major, moving to Changing Keys in a Song major. I use the term, indicated, because F9b5 on the third beat. Did you ask “Why There is a great difference in changing the printed chord symbol is not always F9(b5)?” In my mind, I simply modified the keys during the performance of the same correct. In this example, if you’ve studied Am7 to Am7(b5), which resembles Cm6. song and choosing how to modulate between modern keyboard harmony, you would know The substitution for any minor sixth chord is different keys in a medley of tunes. Why instantly that the melody note “B” is the the ninth chord built on the following root would you want to go to the trouble of natural seventh step of the C scale. There- around the Circle of Chords, or the fourth changing keys during the performance of fore, the correct C major chord would be C interval above the root. Examples: Cm6 = a tune? Because it adds a “lift” to the major seventh (C, E, G, B). When using the F9th; Dm6 = G9; Fm6 = Bb9th; etc. When performance. The act of changing the key major seventh chord, I suggest you omit the using sheet music or a fake book, look for stimulates the interest of the listeners. root in the left hand and play it in the pedal. examples or musical situations in which you Just as you change registration to maintain

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interest and stimulate the ears of the playing the actual melody with easily under- rolled with a Harp setting, use Vibraharp listeners, changing the key, generally to a stood accompanying harmonies), people will and pyramid the seventh chord, either up or higher key during the performance of the tend to hum along with you. When you down , using arpeggios making use of the same tune, will also add interest to the change keys, you just might lose them as sustained sound. performance. you have interrupted their participation in (3) I like to use diminished chord pro- If you are performing a solo, you are free the music you’re playing. It’s quite natural to gressions to move from any key to any other to roam between any number of keys. Any change keys for a repeat of the chorus. You key. It always works smoothly. The two spice you lend to your performance must be can do this with no modulation, especially diminished chord progressions in modern added with discretion, otherwise you may easy when there are pick-up notes. To give keyboard harmony are (a) I , I dim, IIm7, overdo it and the result may be that your your music a lift, change the key by moving V7. The other progression is I, I# dim, IIm7, audience begins to listen to the key changes, up (to the right) in short intervals, such as a V7. In the key of C, the two progressions the registration changes, the overdone dy- half step, a minor third interval (one and a would be: C, Cdim, Dm7, G7, and C, C#dim, namics, etc., and stop listening to the music. half/steps), or a fourth interval. An example Dm7, G7. (See “Diminished Chord Magic” When professional organists try to impress would be moving from the key of C to the in the Magic Study series, originally other professional organists with elaborate key of F. I wouldn’t bother changing keys in published by Hal Leonard Publishing, now runs, fills, difficult rhythms, too many the same tune until you perform the tune available from Bill Irwin Music. E-mail registration changes, etc., they may lose the very well. address: [email protected].) The Rule: attention of the traditional listeners who There will always be a common diminished appreciate a beautiful melody and pretty Modulating Between Songs chord between two keys. For example, key chords. Have you heard the tune “Tea for of C to key of Eb. C dim, is physically the Two” with the main theme played over and in a Medley same as Eb dim. Modulation: C, Cdim=Eb over again as the player changes keys (1) The easiest modulation is no modu- dim. Fm7, Bb7.to Eb. After playing the moving, perhaps, chromatically, up and lation at all! Simply end the tune you’re common diminished chord, play the IIm7 in down? That’s a fair example of possibly playing and start playing the new tune in the the new key, followed by the V7 in the new overdoing the key changes. new key. If the new tune has a pick-up key, and you have changed keys smoothly. I suggest that you consider changing the (think “Fascination”), play the pick-up in It always works. Until our next session, key when you repeat the main theme in the the new key. bye now. standard AABA form. That’s the basic 32- (2) At the end of a tune, insert the V7 Contact me at: [email protected]; measure structure generally used for the chord of the new key. Example: Original key 480-380-5250; fax 480-219-8974; 7864 popular old standards. Remember, when is C. New key is F. At the end of the key of East Natal Avenue, Mesa, Arizona 85209- you’re playing commercially (defined as C, play the C7 chord in any manner—solid, 6161.

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FundraisingBY DOUG POWERS 101: Planning a Strategy and Producing a Benefit Concert

This segment of the fundraising Setting the Stage Assessment series will offer one chapter’s experi- ence with not only a specific fund- During 2004, our chapter began a slow I’m sure we would all agree that just raising event but with the process that process of revitalization. While we are still because certain conclusions and opinions went into the planning and overall struggling with this today, I believe it is have prevailed for some time, this does not strategies leading up to a special safe to say our ability to support our mission necessarily provide a basis for planning and concert. This article takes the position of presenting and preserving the theatre decision-making. Yet so many organizations that fundraising is the result of a plan, pipe organ is stronger now than it has proceed with policies or objectives that are been in quite some time. I offer a few doomed from the start since they just don’t and not the other way around. In pieces of background in order to provide have the support of the stakeholders or order to develop impetus toward a relative comparison of our chapter’s those in control of the resources. So why developing a chapter project of any situation as it might compare with yours: should a small, essentially social, club significance, those responsible for the Our membership had declined every year operate with the same level of ignorance? work must be involved and motivated. for some time, the energy in the chapter was For the first time ever, a chapter member- This effort takes planning and devel- weakening and, while not in immediate ship survey was created that sought answers opment, with a dedicated group. peril, the future of the Wurlitzer in the about the collective mood, the strength of Therein lies the first hurdle to over- Grays Armory was not as strong as it support for our mission, methods in which come developing a cohesive team. had been for the previous 30 years. we might move into the 21st century, and The Western Reserve Theatre Organ Our direction and goals had become murky, what level of active involvement each Society is located in Cleveland and the incentives for active involvement member was willing to offer. Ideas regarding northeast Ohio. Our chapter has nu- were stale, and our treasury was stagnant. our concert series, marketing and fund- merous years of pride and enjoyment Relationships with some chapter area raising, leadership, and organ ownership in maintaining and presenting public theatre organ venues had weakened due to were also included. concerts on a 3/15 Wurlitzer we various misunderstandings, questionable installed in the Cleveland Grays communications, and an unintentional Results Armory. It is important to note that this decline in chapter support of those instru- instrument is not the property of ments. So, what did we do? While some or The responses were analyzed and pre- WRTOS, Inc. but belongs to the even all of the following steps may not be sented at our chapter’s annual meeting in 2004. Some conclusions were predictable; Cleveland Grays (a non-profit historical appropriate for your chapter, these are the others were surprises. The point is that we and educational organization that general stages we have gone through thus far. now had an actual baseline of concerns honors American military history). Throughout the past few decades, our treasury was blessed with modest increases as significant theatre organ Left to right: WRTOS benefit components were donated and then ticket (Courtesy of Doug Powers) sold. We also were able to achieve Ralph Wolf (seated) and moderate increases in our savings by Rob Richards, Concert crowd, Wurlitzer console prudent management of resources, as (Photos by Tom Rathburn) would any responsible organization.

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and recommendations from our members. Marketing Committee With the support of our chapter members Rather than relying on preconceived no- and the establishment of a new board of tions, we had the beginning of a roadmap With a reinvigorated look at our situ- directors, we sought the donation of a with genuine grist for the mill. This led our ation, new challenges began to take shape. theatre pipe organ and searched appropriate chapter to ramp up a bit of risk-taking and It looked like we needed to try some new venues in which an installation and a somewhat more aggressive approach concert ideas, develop a more diverse relationship could be built. WRTOS did try toward our future. It also identified a few audience, improve relationships with nearby a similar project many years ago with a new ideas, as well as individuals who were venues and, above all, include chapter Kimball theatre organ but, due to several willing to get more involved, and a handful members who were willing to be part of the difficult scenarios, that project never ended of those who were willing to make donations team. In time, we formed a new marketing in a successful placement and, sadly, the but did not want to do any hands-on work. committee that would become a crucial part organ was sold. In 2005 and 2006, we This allowed us to start the process of of the planning for our chapter. The issue of experienced similar frustration. However, targeting a more systematic approach in fundraising has become linked to the goals this time we were successful. The difference setting goals and in managing the chapter. If we are developing. Having a reason to was probably attributable to a combination your chapter has not conducted a member increase our treasury and add new members of timing, new contacts, and luck, with an survey, I would recommend you consider the (the human resource) provided fresh emphasis on the latter. Last summer, with a idea as one that could help open doors incentives and an updated raison d’être not lot of teamwork and some negotiation, our previously thought to be sealed shut! felt in our group in many years. Regular chapter was able to secure an agreement One of the most important results had to meetings led to brainstorming and open with the trustees at the Cleveland Masonic do with organ ownership. As mentioned, the discussion. Some shared workload (along Auditorium and Performing Arts Center 3/15 Wurlitzer in the Cleveland Grays with a table of snacks) did wonders for this (PAC). At the same time, we were in the Armory does not belong to WRTOS, Inc. committee’s ability to forge ahead with running for the receipt of a donation of one While we enjoy a cordial and constructive a more novel approach. While we still of two significant Wurlitzers. Indeed, during relationship with the Grays, we have had struggle with issues, and there are certain the late summer of 2006, we became the concerns about spending tens of thousands challenges ahead, we now have a resource fortunate recipient of a four-manual, 28- of dollars in rebuilding and maintaining an built from membership support, board rank instrument. Once the time came to instrument that does not belong to us. leadership, and motivated theatre organ bring the organ to Cleveland, we were Transfer of ownership and other negotiations supporters. thrilled at the huge level of support and with the Grays were met with friendly physical effort given by many of our dialogue, but we were unsuccessful. This, Early Signs members, all of whom were excited about along with a clear mandate from our It is not the intent of this article to the upcoming project. It is unlikely that any membership, set the mood for a plan to keep dissect the details of our past three years of this would have happened had we not this organ in concert-ready condition, but of regenerative efforts, but to underscore started working together on a survival plan not to perform a major restoration. Indeed, the point that a strategy of growth and a few years earlier. we have spent serious money on main- development for our chapter began with a tenance and repair, and we will continue to systematic approach. We worked on How Funds do so. But, due in part to our membership identifying how the membership felt about Were Increased survey results, we now knew that we would things, what they liked, what changes were need to seek out another organ to call our needed, and so on. Once that was achieved, There were three major factors in this own and a cause for which we would direct a broad visionary outlook blossomed into area. Shortly after the membership survey major resources (many of which we had yet measurable and real goals, and methods. was completed, our chapter was given a to build!). So now what do we do? As a result of a lot of teamwork, our two-manual, seven-rank Wurlitzer. The membership grew over 18%, and our instrument was not an original opus, but was treasury was raised over 50% since this a hybrid of parts from different organs. Our strategy began. original intent was to augment and rebuild

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this organ and install it at a location Where: In choosing a place for this of gratitude to this pair of top-notch appropriate for its size and likely use. When concert, the theme of the event directed the entertainers; our efforts would not have the 4/28 Wurlitzer donation became a location, the style of promotion, and what been so fruitful without their generosity and likelihood, we decided to sell the parts of we would do differently compared with our wonderful support. the smaller organ. This brought in a few usual public concerts. The first thing that Who (the audience): It was obvious to us thousand dollars. The second source of was needed was a reason to catch the that within our 900-name concert mailing raising money was our benefit concert held attention of our potential patrons. First of list, we could rely only a fraction of those to last summer. The third was related in that all, that meant having it at a different venue, remit the four-fold ticket price. So, we knew several extra donations were received as a particularly since we were looking to raise a different approach was needed to attract part of that production. The benefit concert money to help support the installation of a others. Considering the uniqueness of was another idea from our marketing chapter-owned instrument in a location holding a concert in the Aveni home with a committee. Once we had a tangible goal in other than the Grays Armory. While not world-class instrument, the glamour of the sight, along with a renewed interest in every chapter has access to an upscale location, the top class musicians, the investing effort in the chapter’s future, we location housing a magnificent theatre inclusion of a professionally catered pre- decided to take another risk. This is that pipe organ, our choice was made simple concert cocktail hour and dessert at story: when Mr. and Mrs. Vince Aveni graciously intermission, we were out to include a fresh allowed us the use of their magnificent group of future patrons. Certainly each of us Benefit Concert— residential music room and their 4/60 invited persons we knew who we felt would Wurlitzer. Clearly, an alternate choice might enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, as Step By Step have been to work out an arrangement with well as individuals known to support the Budget: We knew this would be no one of the local theatres with an instrument arts and music organizations. We also were ordinary public concert production. The capable of providing a concert. Once we able to obtain the mailing list for members fact is that this turned out to be the most had the venue, the next challenge was to of three local chapters of the American expensive concert (and, therefore, another arrange an artist. Guild of Organists, and several individuals significant risk) we had ever undertaken. Who (the artist): There were two parts to belonging to the Music Box Society and the The collective feeling was this endeavor was the “who.” First was what organist(s) would Automated Musical Instrument Collectors worth the risk. We also knew that certain we engage and how much would this cost? Association. We also approached music components would be more expensive. In all honesty, since many of the pieces of schools and certain businesses in the music While our regular concert series tickets are this puzzle wound up being more expensive industry. This all took time and some sleuth $10 and $12, this was a different occasion, relative to other concerts, had we added the work by many. But as a result, we added as we were clearly looking to make money typical cost of hiring an artist, our “benefit” nearly 300 names to the 200 we selected this time! A somewhat arbitrary ticket price would have been less attractive as a fund- from our regular concert mailing list. of $50 was, therefore, set. We attached raiser. But fortune smiled on us, as we were When: This decision was more depend- dollar values to the planned pieces as able to engage extraordinary talent by not ent on the availability of the artists and described below before committing to the one, but two very generous artists who the home owners along with anticipated actual concert, and we felt we could adjust agreed to waive their artist fees for our weather conditions. It turned out that the the ticket price if prudent. However, we benefit concert. We were thrilled when middle of July suited everyone’s availability. kept that arbitrary price. Rob Richards and Ralph Wolf came to It was done on a Wednesday evening rather What: The key to the entire event circled Cleveland (we paid travel expenses) to help than a weekend for two reasons: First, the around the excitement of establishing a us with this exciting event. Clearly, in order artists had commitments during weekends world-class theatre pipe organ installation for you to recreate a benefit concert such as and asking them to give up a paying gig was in a public venue in Cleveland, and the this, you would need to engage someone not appropriate. Secondly, we felt the value in supporting an historic musical willing to work with you at a discounted novelty of a weekday concert might attract asset unlike anything seen in our area. or donated fee. With patience, a well- more attention. Much excitement centered on that goal. developed plan, and a professional ap- Promotion: Once again, due to the Support of this project would assist this proach, this may not be difficult to unique style of this event, we decided that accomplishment, and much more. For replicate. I would personally not ask a the usual concert flyer would not cut it. So some, this was an important cause. For professional musician to consider such an a far more classy and professional looking others, the chance to see the venue and arrangement without a convincing cause, invitation, with a return card and pre- experience an unusual (for them) type of and I would not recommend you seek the addressed envelope, was designed by one entertainment was an effective lure. same kind of arrangement unless you have of our members. We used off-the-shelf high- a strong plan in place. We owe a good deal grade paper and envelopes of an ivory color.

“A large part of the turnaround our chapter seems to be making has resulted from developing a committed team willing to work together, with the ultimate goal of keeping the theatre pipe organ in the public eye.”

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The copying was done at a local Kinko’s up on an easel for all to see, and WRTOS other methods of raising money are all on rather than having it done by a higher-cost members stood by to engage conversation the agenda. We still have a challenge ahead printer. The cost of this mailing was much and answer questions. with our current Wurlitzer project; again higher than for a typical concert promotion. Result: The net result yielded ten new with the assessment, collaboration, and But, again, presenting the upscale image members that night and, while our planning, we have done together, the and the need to differentiate a worthwhile expenses soared to an all-time high, we excitement is growing in our chapter. It all cause was essential to the effort. netted a total of $5,000. That was not sprang from a strategy created by the We also took advantage of this event only from ticket sales but from several decision to develop a serious self- to redesign our chapter’s promotional donations. Most donations were under assessment and the willingness to take brochure, which is nothing more than a $100, but a few were higher; one reached some risks. We are even considering the single piece of standard laser copy paper $1,000. The reward turned out to be well production of another benefit concert. A made into a tri-fold, with black and white worth the risk. large part of the turnaround our chapter text and images. The use of color and a seems to be making has resulted from high-quality paper was considered, but it Epilogue developing a committed team willing to was simply too expensive. As the guests work together, with the ultimate goal of arrived, they were given a brochure and Since our benefit concert, we produced keeping the theatre pipe organ in the chapter membership form, along with a one other public concert at the Grays public eye of the Western Reserve for warm welcome and thank you. During the Armory. We performed another WRTOS several more decades. May we offer you the intermission, the donor of the Wurlitzer first by combining a swing band with Ron best wishes with your own chapter gave a short presentation highlighting Reseigh at the Wurlitzer. Swing dance fundraising! salient pieces of the organ’s history and its clubs and other dance organizations were owners. He also provided the crowd with a included in our mailing, and we featured warm message of gratitude that the an open dance floor. Attendance was better Doug Powers is president of WRTOS, Inc. and is than average, and we actually made a small the crew chief of the chapter’s 4/28 Wurlitzer instrument would be used in a manner project. He is on the Board of Directors of ATOS benefiting both the local community and profit. More surplus organ parts have sold, and heads up the ATOS Strategic Planning the theatre organ world. That presentation and we have officially begun work on Committee. was followed by an equally brief restoration and installation of our chapter “commercial” for WRTOS, where we Wurlitzer. Our next goal is to create a offered a discounted membership fee to formal fundraising committee to further the those interested. A large color poster of the work started by the Board and our console of the newly donated organ was set marketing committee. Grants, gifts, and

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An Organist on the

“My Blue Heaven,” Eddie Dunstedter, organist

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e Cover BY RICHARD SKLENAR Collecting Sheet Music

It’s strange how doors are opened for us. Some 20 years ago, on my 40th birthday, I received a large envelope in the mail crammed with sheet music from the 1920s, all with pictures of organists on the covers. That very pleasant surprise was the begin- ning of a hobby which continues to this day.

“River of My Dreams,” Irma Glen, organist

“Calico Capers,” Joe Brite, organist

(From the Simanski, Sklenar, and Weiler Collections)

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The envelope came from California from from the group is Milton Charles, organist, very racy drawing) captured the George I the late David Junchen, organbuilder, organ Tivoli Theatre, Chicago, shown in full cover knew, especially where he said just what I architect, organ voicer, and all-around good on the front of “Chicago (That Toddlin’ should reply in my “passionate thank you guy who well knew the power of doors Town).” I don’t know how David had note.” Some of the music bore his signature. opening. We had known each other from his accumulated this archive, but in kindness, Some was stamped “Jesse Crawford.” I was time living in the Chicago area. He had he passed it on to me. thrilled. moved to California to install the Reginald After David went to California, he and Collecting sheet music of all types is a Foort five-manual Möller (which had been George Wright became friends. I’m sure popular hobby. As with many other pursuits, shipped back to the United States several their razor-sharp intellects helped sustain collecting has been made easier with years earlier) in the Pasadena Civic the friendship. They talked on the phone Internet resources like eBay for on-line Auditorium, ride his motorcycle, and con- and saw each other for brunch occasionally. auctions or to find information. tinue his organ company. I knew George from dealing with him for his Folks knew how to entertain themselves The envelope held a treasure trove of 40 Chicago Theatre show on July 4, 1977 and in the days before radio or television, and pieces of music, one for each of my 40 years. his direct-to-disc recording later that year many amateur musicians kept a bench full It ranged from James F. Cassidy shown at the made at that instrument. At some point, of sheet music to play. Sheet music was sold Wurlitzer console of the State-Lake Theatre, David told George about my birthday gift. in huge quantities (sometimes millions of Chicago, to Alex Taylor, believed to be at Shortly thereafter, another envelope arrived pieces of a single title), so it is still plentiful the Shea’s Buffalo console, to Alexander in my mailbox with more organist sheet enough to keep the prices down. Most titles Schreiner on the same cover but shown at music. This gift was from George Wright sold online are in the $5 to $15 range, and the Capitol, Salt Lake City. My prize piece himself. His note (written on paper with a even with rising prices there are still some

“I-I-Boy,” Eddie Dunstedter, organist

“So Blue,” Mrs. Jesse Crawford, organist

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good deals yet to be found. Antique stores and-white portraits inserted into a space in There are sheet music collector clubs for have less 1920s music these days, and their the illustration. the truly obsessed, though I know of no club prices have escalated to the same range. Performers who were associated with the so specialized as to be for those who collect Gone are the days of $1 bargain discoveries. original musical presentations were often only organist covers. Sheet music is usually collected based shown on the cover. You might find one with If you are a sheet music collector, you upon the illustration on the cover. The his picture and the line “Successfully Intro- should be concerned about preserving your covers were colorful and eye catching. I duced by Jesse Crawford.” Savvy music items. The paper on which it was printed have never discovered any name graphic publishers tapped into local markets by was frequently highly acidic and might be artists who created organist cover art. featuring photos of local organ stars, band turning brown or brittle. Sleeving each piece Nonetheless, the illustrations were often leaders, or singers inserted into the stock in acid-free archival-safe polyethylene quite good. Styles changed considerably, so illustration. “In a Little Spanish Town” was sleeves (not just any plastic) is a good idea. covers are quite recognizable as to the wildly popular and was “Featured by …” a This prevents damage in handling and decade when printed. Most of the more score of organists from Harold Ramsey to storage and helps prevent acid migration to popular illustrations for general collectors Eddie Larhman to Helen Crawford to Jesse other pieces. Reputable suppliers of are of musical stars, historical events, or and Helen together. archival materials include Gaylord Bros. pretty women. For me, the prize is an Autographed music commands a higher (gaylord.com) and Light Impressions organist seated at a recognizable console. A price to general sheet music collectors, but (LightImpressionsDirect.com). glamour shot of the player, not at a console, who—except the readers of THEATRE Indexing your collection so that it is is more often the case. A few covers feature ORGAN—cares about the signature of searchable by title, organist, composer, year, an organist full frame; some feature cameo- George Wright? etc., is also a good idea and easily done style portraits; most have rectangular black- using a spreadsheet or database. You might

“Genevie,” W. Remington Welch, organist

“When You Play With the Heart of a Girl,” J. Gibbs Spring, organist

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even include scanned thumbnail images. Rink. Greg started his collection of sheet Helen Wyant cover for a cheap price on the That way, you can see if you already have a music in the late 1970s. very same day that Greg lost it on an eBay copy of England’s Florence DeJong, “The His first acquisition featured Iris Vining, auction. Greg has spent as much as $15 for Ace Lady Organist,” in your collection of popular West Coast organist, who played the a piece he really wanted and as little as 49 female organ stars. When it comes time Granada Theatre, San Francisco, among cents for an organist cover found in an odd to move your collection along (the ATOS other places. That cover remains his favorite lot of music he bought for $10. Archive is a good repository), the recipient piece. A lot of other women show up in his A recent search of eBay under “organist” will better appreciate what they have if it is collection, but he notes that men organists yielded 95 hits, with five of those being indexed and identified instead of just being outnumber women 5 to 1, reflecting the organist sheet music. They ranged from stuffed into a box. actual numbers in the heyday. Larry Larson, 1935 NBC organist, for a bid I now have about 100 pieces of organist Greg went online to collect, mostly on of $3.50 (which, coincidentally, I have), to sheet music. I consider my collection to be eBay, about five years ago, and this is where Albert Hay Malotte (with a pretty girl modest. When compared to that of Greg he gets most of his new material. The illustration) for a $13 bid, to Bill Dalton Simanski, it’s downright puny. He has a Internet is a boon to find specific covers, but pictured in a great 3/4 shot from the left of monumental collection of over 500 pieces with it comes a concentration of competitive the Grand Theatre, Columbus, Ohio organ with more than 200 organists represented. buyers. Haunting antique stores where you for an $8.49 bid. Greg is a long-time ATOS member and had almost no competition is now almost The earliest piece in Greg’s collection is organbuilder in Chicagoland. He has a 3/11 over. Weboth agree that you should frequent from 1921, with Jesse Crawford at the hybrid underway and almost playable at his local antique malls if you seek local Chicago Theatre. He has only seen one Burlington, Wisconsin retreat. I caught up organists and go online if you seek a broader piece earlier, that being from 1918. The with him recently at his home where this geographic range. Through his regular latest in Greg’s collection is from the 1950s, young grandfather was cooking pot roast. dealings with eBay sellers, Greg now has an autographed sheet signed by Banks His earliest theatre organ exposure was “pickers” who notify him when his wants are Kennedy. Other signed pieces are by Arsene hearing Leon Berry play live at the Hub available. One of them offered the same

“Tonight You Belong to Me,” Warren Yates, Jr., organist

“Baby Face,” Edna Sellers, organist

“I Know What It Means to Be Sorry,” C. Sharpe Minor, organist

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Siegel inscribed to organist Ethwell “Eddie” Gateway Theatre/Copernicus Center for in the wilds of claustrophobic junque stores. Hanson, and four others signed by Siegel. Silent Film Society of Chicago movies. My interests also include collecting railroad Two-manual consoles rarely are seen on Greg and I both recognize that there memorabilia, Fiesta Ware, yearbooks from pieces of music where the organist is shown is some historic merit to collecting this high schools and colleges, and things about at a console. Simanski has only two pieces; material, not just the joy which collecting local interurbans, so I have lots of other I have two of the Wurlitzer at the Imperial provides. The covers with the photos of the material for which to look. My pleasure in Theatre, Augusta, Georgia. We both have organists at the console may be the only organist sheet music now mostly comes from music with Lew White and Emil Velazco record of that organ which exists. reviewing my collection, being reminded of shown at the five-manual Kimball console Greg Simanski is still collecting sheet David Junchen and his wonderful laugh, or of the Roxy Theatre, New York City, but music but has other interests to help fill his realizing that George Wright considered me none of the other five-manual installations. time, including that pipe organ of his and to be a friend. Arthur Gutow played the five-manual caring for an elderly relative. He is now Wurlitzer at the Michigan Theatre, Detroit, limiting himself to new names not already but sheet music covers depict him only at found in his collection, but the hunt will be what is apparently the Capitol, Detroit, a on if he hears that Jesse Crawford posed at Richard Sklenar lives in Berwyn, Illinois and has four-manual instrument (even though the the five-manual Marbro organ for a “So been an ATOS member since 1965. He was chairman of CATOE when it hosted the caption says Michigan Theatre). Blue” cover, music based on a theme by largest-ever ATOS convention in 1977. He has Greg decided to share his collection by Mrs. Jesse Crawford. served two terms on the ATOS Board of creating a portable display for the last ATOS My interest in sheet music has waned in Directors and was briefly the ATOS Executive Secretary. Since1995 he has been executive convention in Milwaukee. There are seven recent years, and I am no longer on the hunt director of the Theatre Historical Society of panels, each displaying 25 covers. One for a better version of Edna or Preston America, founded by the late Ben M. Hall, the panel features all female organists. It’s quite Sellers, pictured alone or together. I no legendary early ATOS personality. He may be an eye-catching show and was very popular longer feel the lure of the hunt as searching reached at [email protected]. when he also showed it in the lobby of the online isn’t the same as stalking the quarry

“I Don’t Believe You,” Barth Wright, organist

“Us and Company,” Jesse, Helen and daughter Jessie Crawford

“Somewhere in France with You,” Florence DeJong, organist

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Samuel A. Cooper

Photo of Samuel A. Cooper seated at the console of the Robert Morton organ at the Lowe’s Oriental Theatre, Brooklyn, New York (1928). Postcard dated May 12, 1943 from RKO Keiths Theatre to my father to play for a contest. Upper left: Membership card, Theatrical Mutual Associations, dated July 17, 1924. Upper right: Local 802 union card dated 1926

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ORGANIST My father, Samuel A. Cooper, was an organist, supplying background music for the silent movies. He told me that his organ teacher was named Richardson, but I have no further information about his teacher. While living in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, he played in movie/vaudeville houses, first as a pianist, and then as an organist, beginning in 1919 or 1920. He was 14 years old when he started, and he rode to the theatre on his bicycle. The truant officer would occasionally come into the theatre. Someone on the staff would alert my father, and he would hide behind the organ console. By age 16 he was more or less supporting the family, and he was able to purchase a Krakauer baby grand piano for the apartment. All the public schools in New York City had Krakauer pianos, and my father simply assumed that this was the best piano to buy. His father took him to buy him a suit, while he still had the money, because he had no idea how long my father’s job would last. I don’t know when he became a staff organist for the Lowe’s circuit, but he was working in Loew’s theatres until about 1930 or 1931. He supplied the background music for the silent movies, and then was off during the vaudeville acts when the house orchestra took over. Many of the musicians played the horses. My father would stand in the wings with the latest track results, catch the eye of each man, and signal him with a “thumbs up” or “thumbs down” for his horse. (The musicians presumably had one eye on the music and one eye on my father.) There also was a lot of poker playing backstage between shows. I recall my mother saying that my father always stated the time of day up to the exact minute; he was used to the precise timing of the movie being shown which, in turn, dictated his playing schedule. He had an opportunity to meet and talk with many vaudeville performers. In talking about the Ritz Brothers, he said they were three zany guys, offstage as well as onstage. He claimed that he never played on an organ where every stop was working; every instrument he played on had something wrong with it. If the organ developed a cipher, he would disguise it by playing around it, switching to another key, etc. (He had absolute pitch.) Afterward, he would climb up into the organ loft and stuff paper into the pipe until it was fixed. In the late 1920s he used a theme song, “Sing, You Sinners” (words and music by Sam Coslow and W. Frank Harling). Talkies came out in 1920, forcing many organists out. My father managed to stay on, possibly until 1930 or 1931, performing in between showings. He then became a successful piano teacher. Shortly after World War II began, he returned to the theatre, performing on weekends. He would rehearse his program at home the night before, on that same Krakauer Grand, trying out his arrangements and interpretations on my mother and me. He began at RKO Keiths, in Flushing, New York. He performed between showings of the movie, with a mix of patriotic songs and the popular songs of the day. I saw him play there, and I can still hear how he played “Off We Go Into the Wild Blue Yonder.” I also remember him playing “By the Light of the Silvery Moon,” “My Blue Heaven,” “Harvest Moon,” and more. The organ was on a hydraulic lift, and it was quite a sight watching it go up and down. Later, in 1945 or 1946, he did the same type of program at the RKO Prospect, in Brooklyn, New York. I saw him play there frequently. At the Prospect, I observed him turning on the power, cupping his ear to the left and to the right (I found out that this was to make sure the swells (All accompanying material and photos: Sheldon Cooper Collection) were working), and hitting one low note to make sure air was going

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through. The words to the songs were on glass slides, projected on the screen (no bouncing ball). The slides were obtained from a supplier named Harry Blair. His company was based in the theatre district and may have been called Cosmopolitan Studios. My father also played in the Lowe’s Oriental, the Lowe’s 46th Street Theatre and the Leader Theatre. The Prospect was the last theatre where he played. I have three photos (one tinted) of my father seated at the console of the Robert Morton at the Oriental Theatre. I’m told that the tinted portrait was on an easel outside the theatre with his name underneath. This photo hung on the wall in our house, and I saw it every day. In reproducing it for this article, I cropped it for possibly closer scrutiny of the keyboard and stops. It is the same photo used for the article appearing in Jacobs Orchestra Monthly, July, 1929. I have no information on any of the other instruments on which my father played. When my father returned to the organ after a ten-year hiatus, in the early 1940s, Ad from RKO Prospect showing I distinctly recall him singing out loud, Samuel A. Cooper as organist. while putting on his tuxedo, “There’s No Based on the year of release of Business like Show Business.” the movies advertised, this was September, 1945 The Oriental remained open as a movie house at least up to the late 1950s. While at a movie there, I went up front and saw something under a large cover at the left of the stage. Looking closer, I saw the pedal board. The instrument was, therefore, in place as of that time. In the late 1960s I visited the Keiths before opening time and asked to see the console. It was there, but I could not turn it on. A little over three years ago, the New York Times reported on a major project to refurbish the theatre, but there was no mention of the organ. —Sheldon Cooper, Melville, New York

Letter and envelope from Jessie Crawford urging all organists unite for publishing an article or advertisement creating public awareness of theatre organists.

38 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 2:57 PM Page 39

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MAY | JUNE 2007 39 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 2:57 PM Page 40 AGrand Tour A Preview of the Grand Organ Tour 2007—Part III A Convention to Top Them All

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

It is now less than 60 days until the long- Eddington. We will recreate the magical MONDAY, JULY 2 awaited ATOS 2007 annual convention in days when theatre organs reigned in Para- United States Military Academy— New York City, the cultural, financial and dise. After our July Fourth daytime concerts, West Point. music capital of the United States! It your evening will be free for holiday The great pipe organ first promises to be one of the most memorable festivities. You may participate in the played in 1911, and now boasts one of the ATOS conventions of all time. The essence optional Circle Lines boat tour to view the largest consoles ever built. It was first of an ATOS convention is great organs and Fourth of July fireworks or see them from installed as Möller Opus 1200 with three great organists, and we have them in any of the legendary towers and sky-top manuals and 38 ranks. It has since grown abundance. restaurants in New York City. phenomenally to four manuals and 346 In March we previewed our Preglow and ranks, including a Tibia Clausa and Tibia Marriott Marquis Afterglow events in Atlantic City and Celeste, two Echo Vox Humanas, a unique Philadelphia. four-rank Vox Humana division, 48 string- Hotel, Times Square But the one event our members keep voiced ranks, and six 32-foot stops including This convention will provide an unprece- asking about—and with good reason—is our Bombard, Ophicleide, Basson, and Dulzian. dented opportunity for us to stay in the Big potential experience at the famed Radio City Scott Foppiano will preside at the mas- Apple, the world’s most exciting city. Our Music Hall in Rockefeller Center. Registra- sive keydesk. Following the concert, we will headquarters is the Marriott Marquis Hotel tion fees alone could not cover the costs have lunch (on your own) on the grounds or at the Crossroads of the World, Times involved in a show at Radio City Music Hall, in the adjacent town of West Point. You may Square. From this base of operations we will and we are working with two marketing dine in or tour the Thayer Hotel on the Post. enjoy our Grand Tour of Mid-Atlantic States’ organizations to recruit sponsors for this Remember that you must carry photo theatre and orchestral pipe organs that many proposed gala event; we’ve lined up a identification to gain admission to USMA of you have been waiting years to hear. famous entertainer. We propose a splendid due to the enhanced security measures of Early registration proceeds apace, with night of theatre organ music along with a recent times. We will be required to present almost 100 members signed up in the first famous Broadway star. Unfortunately, at passenger rosters for each vehicle prior to few days of registration in January. About press time for this magazine, we don’t yet departure. Each ID must match a name on 75% enrolled in all events, including our know the answer. Nevertheless, for all of the the list. This necessary formality will take a Preglow tour to view Atlantic City’s monstrous convention attendees who wish to see it, we few additional minutes before we enter the seven-manual Midmer-Losh convention hall will provide time for tours of that Art Deco campus. organ, plus the Circle Lines New York citadel of show business. Radio City Music As a special treat, we will provide an Harbor Cruise for Fourth of July fireworks, Hall is not to be missed. optional-cost tour of the Post chapel, a small and our pilgrimage to Philadelphia for the private facility for staff and faculty who live Afterglow concert on the Wanamaker Organ BIG OPENING NIGHT, nearby. It houses a rare Æolian-Skinner at the Grand Court in Macy’s department SUNDAY, JULY 1 organ, originally from Rockefeller Center store. It’s no wonder that registration is studio 3-B. During the two-hour lunch brisk. We have features that nearly every If we cannot lock in necessary funding for interval, those willing to give up 45 minutes member has been waiting for years to see Radio City Music Hall, we will move our of lunch time will hear a brief program on or hear. Take note: some of the events opening gala to another fine venue, such as this unusual instrument. This is a limited (especially the Circle Lines Cruise) have the Trenton War Memorial or the Lafayette capacity event and is likely to sell out. If you capacity limits and are likely to sell out. Theatre in Suffern, New York. No matter are interested, register now. Middletown Paramount Theatre. In January we highlighted the renovated where we present our opening concert former Loew’s Paradise Bronx and our plans Sunday evening, July 1, it will be an event After lunch we continue to the Paramount in for an exciting July Fourth holiday concert worth hearing. Our featured organist is Walt Middletown, New York, where we will hear there with Simon Gledhill and Jelani Strony. winners of the 2007 ATOS Young Organist

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Contest, and a concert by 2006 winner instrument was installed in 1975, and restora- memorate the country’s 231st birthday. A Donnie Rankin, on the Style H Wurlitzer, tion work has recently been completed. splendid way to see this—and more—is to enlarged to 12 ranks, with a three-manual Chaminade High School. Later, we’ll sign up for the optional Circle Lines boat French console. NYTOS restored and in- travel to Long Island to enjoy a concert by cruise which circumnavigates the harbor stalled the organ, adding an English Post David Gray, energetic and engaging Young and the fabled Statue of Liberty. Horn and Wurlitzer Salicional. Organist contest winner from Scotland. The Lafayette Theatre, Suffern, New York. instrument is a 3/15 hybrid consisting FINAL DAY, We conclude New York State Day at Suffern, of nine Austin ranks, supplemented by at the beautiful Lafayette Theatre, which Wurlitzer Tibia and Vox Humana, and a THURSDAY, JULY 5 houses the Ben Hall Memorial Wurlitzer, Robert-Morton Post Horn, Kinura and On our final day we enjoy a free morning long associated with the late and famed Diaphone, and played from a Robert-Morton in New York City for museums, walks in author of The Best Remaining Seats. Here console. The instrument resides in the audi- Central Park, or sights in Times Square. We we’ll see the classic silent film Steamboat torium of this Catholic boys’ high school, and will run bus service to lower Manhattan Bill, Jr. starring Buster Keaton, accom- is maintained by faculty member, Brother throughout the morning so that you can panied by Clark Wilson. Bob Lahey. Students appreciate the organ, lunch on your own near the hotel or any- and it is put to regular use. where you like downtown. After lunch, we TUESDAY, JULY 3 will gather at the original Dutch and British WEDNESDAY, JULY 4 section of the old city, the Wall Street area, Tuesday takes us to Trenton, New Jersey where we will attend a concert at the Trinity and Mineola, New York on Long Island. The ATOS annual membership meeting Church. Following the concert we all are in- Trenton War Memorial Auditorium. at the Marriott Marquis Hotel begins the day. vited to a reception sponsored by the church. We’ll be hearing the unique and jazzy Dan Immediately after the meeting, we will bus to Trinity Church, Wall Street. We will Bellomy at the 3/16 Möller organ, Opus the Paradise Theatre in the Bronx to hear a hear a new instrument that has been 5198. The organ was originally installed in concert on an Allen organ especially in- temporarily installed after damage to the 1928 in Trenton’s Lincoln Theatre, owned by stalled for the convention. Simon Gledhill historic pipe organ resulting from the the National State Bank of Trenton. The begins the musical portion of our day. Lunch September 11, 2001 tragedies. The digital theatre was slated for demolition in 1974. on your own is scheduled at nearby venues, organ, a Marshall & Ogletree, is an amazing After Charlie Balogh and Bill Hartig sug- and then we return to the Paradise for an synthesizer with electronic samples of the gested to bank officers that the instrument afternoon with Jelani Eddington. world’s best organ stops. The organ will be be saved, the theatre owner made plans to July Fourth festivities will fill out the day programmed with theatrical voices espe- save and move the organ. Now called the and evening, with opportunity for all to enjoy cially for our concert featuring Cameron Patriots Theatre, Garden State notes that the the myriad activities of New York City and Carpenter. see the great fireworks display to com-

SPECIAL NEW YORK ATTRACTIONS Touted as the world's largest fireworks display, Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Spectacular has become an American symbol of Independence Day. Every year Macy's provides tens of thousands of aerial shells and other fireworks to help New York City celebrate the Fourth of July in spectacular fashion. Multiple barges take to the East River to shoot off the fireworks, and the New York Fire Department usually adds to the festivities by blasting colored water into the air from fire boats. Over a thousand shells are fired every minute. In 2006 new shells were added from around the globe, as well as Macy's signature "Golden Mile" with its awe- inspiring explosion of gold. A total of five fireworks barges are strategically located across New York City at the traditional East River and South Street Seaport locations. The Macy's fireworks also in- clude a special tribute to Lady Liberty, from a barge located between Ellis and Liberty Islands in New York Harbor.

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That provides a spectacular final concert Philadelphia for the truly grand finale to a week of great music. The evening closes in the GRAND COURT of the former with our annual ATOS awards program and Wanamaker Department Store, now Macy’s. banquet (an optional ticket is required for Peter Richard Conte will perform at the the banquet; the awards after the dinner are largest operating pipe organ in the world, open to all). with its wonderful orchestral divisions, Please remember that our convention including 100 ranks of strings. It’s a six- schedule continues to be altered and fine- manual, 469-rank instrument. tuned. We continue to work to improve the Plan now to attend. This is the ATOS line-up. We promise you will be delighted convention of a lifetime. It’s the convention with the results. YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS. All events and artists are subject to OPTIONAL DAYS ADD change without notice. TO EXCITEMENT What could top all the musical events happening from Sunday through Thursday? We start with a visit to see the world’s largest pipe organ: the Midmer-Losh in the Atlantic City Municipal Auditorium, now called Boardwalk Hall. This will be offered as a Preglow excursion to the Grand Organ Tour. Remember, this is a tour, not a con- cert, since the giant 449-rank organ is not playable. It’s the world’s only seven-manual console. After the tour, there will be time for a lunch on Atlantic City’s famed Board- walk, and perhaps an hour or two of slot machine, roulette, or other gaming action at a nearby casino, where we will board buses for a late afternoon return to Manhattan. When the Grand Tour convention is over, the fun doesn’t stop. Stay another day and participate in our Afterglow. We travel to

Top: Trinity Church. Above: Chaminade High School console. Inset: Trenton War Memorial console. THE ORGANISTS

Dan Bellomy Cameron Carpenter Jelani Eddington Scott Foppiano Simon Gledhill

David Gray Donnie Rankin Ron Rhode Walt Strony Clark Wilson

NOTE: The New York Theatre Organ Society is not involved in the organization, sponsorship, or running of the convention, except it is making the organs that are owned and maintained by NYTOS at the Paramount in Middletown, New York, and the Lafayette Theatre in Suffern, New York, available to convention participants for concert perfor-mances. They have asked us to let you know.

42 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/13/07 12:00 PM Page 43

CONVENTION SCHEDULE Morning Mid-day Afternoon Evening 8:00–10:00am 10:00am–2:00pm 2:00–6:00pm 6:00–11:00pm

Optional Preglow Member Forums & No-Host Opening Cocktail (Venue TBA) Atlantic City, New Jersey Lectures Reception Opening Concert Gala Boardwalk Hall Tour Marriott Marquis Hotel Marriott Marquis Hotel Walt Strony Seven-manial Midmer-Losh JULY 1

SUNDAY Convention Opening Registration Desk

Registration Desk U.S. Military Academy— Middletown, New York Dinner (on your own) West Point, Cadet Chapel Paramount Theatre Suffern, New York Möller Wurlitzer Lafayette Theatre Scott Foppiano Young Artists & Wurlitzer Lunch (on your own) at Donnie Rankin Clark Wilson, with JULY 2

MONDAY Thayer & Optional Tour of Silent Film Post Chapel

Registration Desk Trenton, New Jersey Mineola, New York Free Evening in New Trenton War Memorial Chaminade High School York, the Crossroads Möller 3/25 Austin-Morton of the World Dan Bellomy David Gray Lunch (on your own) JULY 3 TUESDAY

ATOS Annual Meeting Bronx Paradise Bronx Paradise Fourth of July Fireworks Marriott Marquis Hotel Allen Allen Optional Circle Line Simon Gledhill Jelani Eddinton Boat Cruise JULY 4 WEDNESDAY

Free Morning in the City Buses Load at 12:30pm Trinity Church, Wall Street Marriott Marquis After Early Lunch (on Marshall & Ogletree Ballroom your own) Cameron Carpenter Awards & (optional) Banquet JULY 5 THURSDAY

Optional Afterglow Board Buses Bus to Philadelphia Philadelphia, Dinner Downtown Pennsylvania (on your own) Wanamaker/Macy’s Peter Conte JULY 6 FRIDAY

All events, artists and venues subject to change without notice.

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Simon Gledhill in New Zealand— A KIWI’S DREAM REALISED! BY JAMES DUNCAN

Simon Gledhill seated at the console of the 3/15 (mostly) Wurlitzer organ of Auckland’s Hollywood Theatre on October 29, 2006 (Photo by J.W. Parker)

Greetings to you from across the miles: much as I wanted to know, despite his offer Kelsall, with Chris Powell still continuing to Auckland, New Zealand. When last we were to play for me recordings of that organ. make regular visits every second year. featured within these pages, it was thanks to On one particular evening, I noted an LP As you’d guess with my background, my Jelani Eddington’s in-depth look at the New cover on John’s stereo which pictured a enjoyment of the theatre organ was rooted Zealand theatre organ scene in the July/ striking young man seated at the console of firmly in the Blackpool Style. I did enjoy our August 2004 issue of THEATRE ORGAN. a Wurlitzer organ, and I commented to John, other visiting artists, but I always returned to You may recall that the organ at Auck- “Do young people our age play these that “other” style for true listening pleasure. land’s Hollywood Theatre was the ex- things?” Under great protest from me, he The same could be said for our Auckland Auckland Regent Theatre’s Wurlitzer pipe played a track which he promised I would theatre organ audiences, as proved by the organ, now in the care and ownership of the love—and I did! This was like no other large numbers who turned out when one of Wurlitzer Organ Trust of Auckland (WOTA). organ I had ever heard, playing lively music the “Blackpool Boys” was in town. At that time it was well into a major that I knew and recognised, and WOW!… Then in 1996, Jelani Eddington from the refurbishment and upgrade, taking the this organ had a xylophone, glockenspiel, U.S.A. made his first visit, and a firm, life- original Model F 2/8 instrument to one of and cymbals. I was hooked. The organist? time friendship was established. During that three manuals, utilising a restored three- Britain’s Robert Wolfe at the Thursford 3/19 visit, he introduced me to recordings of the manual console of the same vintage (1926) Wurlitzer—the LP, Can’t Stop the Music. likes of George Wright and Jesse Crawford. and design as the very tired two-manual one, Obviously this very soon brought me into He explained to me what they were trying to and included the enhancing of the organ contact with the Hollywood Wurlitzer, and achieve in their music and, more impor- with the addition of a further seven ranks. thus began my love affair with this instru- tantly, with a good instrument how it really Our story now takes the reader on a very ment, in spite of the fact that, to this day, I could take on the role of an orchestra. Thus, personal journey, one that sees a dream of still can’t read or play a note of music. In the my musical tastes began to broaden. It was the writer being realised. To explain, I need late 1980s, John Parker moved to Sydney to around this time that I struck up contact, first to give you some background. I must set up his own organbuilding business and through letters, with the late Paul Gutcher admit at the outset that, until 1984, I had no take on the installation of the ex-Sydney in the U.K., who began to aid my musical perception of organ music as “entertain- Capitol Theatre Wurlitzer organ in the Orion growth with cassettes of some of the U.K.’s ment”—the organ being confined, in my Centre, under contract to the New South theatre organists. Among these, the icing on mind, to churches and town halls, and Wales Division of the Theatre Organ Society the cake was a recording of a concert Simon playing music that was “heavy,” classical of Australia (TOSA). Upon John’s departure, Gledhill gave at the 1991 American Theatre and, for me, absolutely no fun at all. I do, I took on the organisation of the concerts for Organ Society convention, on the mag- however, admit to a strong affection for the the small organ club at the Hollywood. nificent Page organ of the Embassy Theatre great music of the British dance bands of the In 1989, Robert Wolfe made the first of in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This really was 1920s and 30s. Another passion, street three tours of Australia and New Zealand, something else—it triggered musical tramways, brought me into contact with John and I had the pleasure of looking after him emotions I never thought I had—the great Parker, Auckland organbuilder, now resi- during his visits here—suffice to say, it was beauty and power of a well-voiced and dent in Sydney, Australia. John also worked great to hear him and his lively style on our regulated theatre organ in full cry really was as a volunteer on the tramway at Auckland’s Wurlitzer. “Down Under” audiences had something to behold. Museum of Transport & Technology. Our never seen this type of playing before and, By this time the Hollywood Wurlitzer had musical tastes were very much the same, and with its great entertainment value, our been sold by its private owner to a newly this saw us spending Friday evenings audience numbers took on a growth spurt, formed charitable trust, of which I was one of together listening to his large collection of particularly evident whenever Robert was in the nine founding trustees. We had realised vintage recordings. town. With Robert having established a that we were taking on a very tired old lady I knew that John had been involved with viable market for the “Blackpool Style,” as it who was going to require much time and the installation of a Wurlitzer organ in an became known here, we were then treated to money spent on her, and after much cajoling Auckland suburban cinema, but that was as Nicholas Martin, Chris Powell and Phil from yours truly, the trust climbed out of the

44 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:09 PM Page 45

“the organ’s OK for us, isn’t it?” rut apparent lack of interest by some organ By the time Jelani’s 2004 Down Under that seems to befall so many like organ- caretakers, who responded to polite sug- tour took place, still more had been done, isations. Stirred on by recordings of Jelani gestions for improvements with “We think and other visiting organists were starting to Eddington, and that fabulous Simon it’s fine—take it or leave it!” Simon’s chatter internationally about the state of the Gledhill concert, we established a program viewpoint in the interview was “Thanks— Hollywood Wurlitzer and the forward- of refurbishment and improvement for the I’ll leave it!” and he foresaw being choosier thinking attitude of the Trust in its presen- Hollywood Wurlitzer that would transform about which venues he would play in future. tations to the public—no longer “concerts,” it to an organ worthy of the Wurlitzer name. I completely understood and sym- but SHOWS! Entertainment! Fun! All to a Jelani Eddington returned to our shores pathised with Simon’s reasoning. In fact, very high standard. in 1997 and convinced me to fly back to the when I review some of our early archive Meanwhile, during another visit to U.S.A. with him and attend the annual recordings at the time the trust took over the Australia, Simon Gledhill had both Neil ATOS convention, once again being held in Hollywood Wurlitzer, I shudder at what I Jensen and John Parker “in his ear” about Indiana. Now I was really growing musically hear—stalling tremulants, dead notes and, giving the Hollywood a visit. Then in and appreciating the artistry of the great as the organist adds more ranks, instead of late 2005, John Fuhrmann in Perth, who names being featured, hearing some fine a building of blended powerful sound, the organises Down Under concert tours of Wurlitzers, Bartons, and Pages, including organ is just screaming. How did the likes Australia and New Zealand for overseas that instrument that had so tugged my of Robert, Jelani and others, at that dark theatre organists, phoned me with a heart-strings, the 4/16 Page of the Embassy period of our organ’s life, ever enjoy proposal that brought a lump to my throat. Theatre in Fort Wayne—and who was presenting a concert on it? They must have He was inviting Simon Gledhill to come to presiding at the console? Simon Gledhill. been so understanding, and knowing that Perth in October, 2006, to perform a special I was to make another trip to an Indiana- plans were in place for improvement, celebration concert to mark the 25th hosted ATOS convention in 2001. By this accepted things as they were. anniversary of the Wurlitzer in Karrinyup stage I had established great friendships By now well established in Sydney, John Community Centre. Simon had told John with some of the American artists who had Parker still maintained his affection for the that he didn’t have time on this occasion to visited Auckland in concert, such as Ken Hollywood Wurlitzer, and with the inception make a complete Australian tour, but very Double and Jim Riggs. On this occasion of the trust in 1993, worked with us to plan much wanted to visit Auckland, if the I was to hear Simon Gledhill at the the upgrade project. Melbourne organist Wurlitzer Organ Trust would like him to Barton organ of the Warren High School John Atwell, along with others who had play at the Hollywood! Well, I’m sure you Performing Arts Centre. It was now played the organ at that time, had great can guess the answer to that—a resounding cemented in my mind that, somehow in my input on what additions should be made and “YES, please!” lifetime, I wanted our audience at the where “wrinkles” in the organ’s voicing When news of the impending visit Hollywood to experience Simon’s artistry on needed ironing out. John Parker made was broken to those involved with the our Wurlitzer organ. By this time, with the countless trips across the Tasman to spend Hollywood, all parties went into orbit. regular visits of some of the U.S.A.’s greats, days in the Hollywood chambers with our John Parker offered to come over for the Auckland audiences, like me, were really own technician Mat Mathew, installing the weekend, at his own expense, to make sure enjoying other playing styles just as much new ranks as they were delivered, blending all was right and ready with the organ. With as the Blackpool Style. existing ranks, re-voicing, etc. Upon hear- only two concerts in Simon’s tour, costs were Around this time, I also had the pleasure ing of Simon Gledhill’s Australian tours, I higher than usual, and we were thrilled of reading an article in Britain’s Cinema mentioned to John my dream that maybe when the Auckland City Council awarded Organ, the journal of The Cinema Organ one day, when our project was complete, the Trust a grant towards the cost of Society, penned I think by editor John Simon might want to come and play at bringing Simon over. It is interesting to note Leeming, recounting an interview with the Hollywood—an idea that John fully that the city council has taken quite an Simon Gledhill whilst on a train between supported. interest in our Wurlitzer presentations over concert venues in Europe. This very telling In 2003 Jelani Eddington came back to the last year or so; back in March, 2006 interview reinforced in my mind what we Auckland for a holiday and, of course, to they fully funded a show featuring John were trying to achieve at the Hollywood perform a concert on an instrument that Atwell along with Greg Ward, a local here in Auckland. Simon expressed his bore no resemblance to the tired old lady he singer/entertainer. frustration at spending long hours preparing had worked with in 1996–97. I was thrilled During the preceding months we had, a program for a concert, only to find that he with his overwhelmingly positive feedback quite unwittingly, prepared the perfect had to fight to overcome failings in the on what had been done thus far. Upon his build-up to Simon’s visit, with the con- organ’s action, copious dead notes, and an return to the U.S.A., he penned a highly cert presentations by U.S. organists Mark unmusical overall sound. He commented complimentary letter to the Trust, stating Herman and Rob Richards. 2006 has been that this did nothing to improve his that we had far exceeded his expectations, a phenomenal year in the Hollywood reputation, or the perception people might having followed its progress through our Wurlitzer’s 23-year history, with record have when hearing a theatre organ for the newsletter Pipes & Percussion. numbers regularly attending our show. The first time. Adding to this frustration was an organ console is now projected onto the big

MAY | JUNE 2007 45 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:10 PM Page 46

James Duncan of the Wurlitzer Organ Trust With regular watering, it will grow! Rob Richards brought a touch of Disney of Auckland with Simon Gledhill (Photo by Steve Mac) magic to Auckland’s Hollywood in August, (Photo by J.W. Parker) 2006 (Photo courtesy of Rob Richards)

screen through a video projection plant, Ride,” Noël Coward’s “If Love Were All,” grand old dame of the picture palace era, enabling patrons in all seats to visually from the 1970s, “Up, Up and Away,” and, built in 1929, has been very sensitively enjoy the artist’s music-making skills. Both for the classically-minded, Mozart’s restored, complete with the Eberson-style Mark and Rob had played to over 250 Overture to The Marriage of Figaro. sky, stars and clouds—but unfortunately people, and each had generously extended After the concert, John Parker made a not its Wurlitzer organ. Simon also ex- a personal invitation to his audience to posting to both UK internet theatre organ pressed interest in our cathedrals, and the attend Simon’s concert on October 29. chat groups—“UK Cinema Organ” and Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral was the My stomach was knotted the first day “Second Touch”—with the following one I chose to visit. Here we were in time I took Simon down to the Hollywood to comments: “The organ held together well to catch the organbuilders completing enable him to get acquainted with the due to a mild day—warm with rain, and tuning of the Harrison & Harrison organ, organ and set up the pistons with his the chorus reeds holding fast till the end and as one of them is a regular attendee at sounds. But within minutes all fears were of the programme, albeit the Kinura and our Wurlitzer shows, he recognised me gone, as he worked his way round the stop- Orchestral Oboe going a bit wider. Wewere straight away. Before long Simon was rail, exploring the various ranks—he fortunate that concert organiser James exploring the various sounds on this seemed well pleased with the organ, and it Duncan had twisted Simon’s arm (gently!) magnificent pipe organ. was obvious that he was having fun as he into performing his infamous ‘Beatles The week passed by all too quickly, the ran through some of his program. Fantasia,’ and this was wildly appreciated concert came and went, and sadly we bade Finally this milestone in the Hollywood by the audience—not to mention Simon’s Simon goodbye as he departed back to Wurlitzer’s life dawned…wet and miser- encore—an incredibly hectic ‘Tiger Britain. It is our fervent wish to welcome able, with heavy showers. In fact, during Rag’—but more in the Torch genre as him back should he ever venture this way my introduction to Simon at the start of the opposed to Blackpool!” again—and, as if never satisfied, I’m show, having given a background to the Simon’s very appropriate second encore working on another goal to be realised in events that brought us to that moment and was “You Made Me Love You,” which saw November, 2007, when the Hollywood with the rain beating a tattoo on the roof, I him and the console safely back down in Wurlitzer achieves 25 years of entertaining stated: “The angels are weeping with joy!” to the pit. Simon and I then adjourned to Auckland in this theatre. Who I am I now The console then rose with Cole Porter’s the foyer, where the commendations came cajoling to come Down Under? Robert “It’s De-Lovely”—a great opener to what thick and fast. As usual, there were a few Wolfe! And won’t he ever notice a change became an unbelievable afternoon of music. first-timers in the audience, and several in the old Hollywood box of whistles— Sitting in the wings with John Parker, made a point of speaking with Simon about complete, I should add, with Great to Solo who had come over for the weekend to the amazing musical experience they had couplers at those “funny” pitches. prepare and tune the organ, we both could just had. Meanwhile, over at the ticket box, Post Script: The Hollywood Wurlitzer hardly believe that one of the theatre organ a queue developed with people eager to upgrade project itself is now almost world’s most highly acclaimed performers book tickets to the next and final show complete. Back in February, 2006 the was actually seated at our Wurlitzer, for 2006. final rank of the planned additions, the thrilling an audience of just over 270! However, it was not all Tibias and Orchestral Oboe, was installed, bringing Simon’s program contained something tremulants for Simon, as this was his first the rank count to 15. for everybody, including selections from trip to New Zealand, and we crammed in If you ever venture our way, please the shows Guys & Dolls and The King and plenty of sight-seeing in Auckland and the make contact, as we would love to welcome I; Eric Coates’ “In A Country Lane,” one of environs, including a visit to Auckland’s you to a place where dreams really do Sidney Torch’s compositions, “Going For a recently re-opened Civic Theatre. This come true!!

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SaveSave the the dates! dates! Make Make plans plans to to join join us us this this summer summer for for the the first first

JulyATOS 20-23, 2007 Theatre Organ AdventureWheaton, Illinois

The ATOS Theatre Organ Adventure provides young enthusiasts the opportunity to study and learn the art of the theatre pipe organ through lectures, master classes, and private instruction.

Wheaton-Fox Studio Robert Morton Theatre Pipe Organ

The primary instructor for the Theatre Organ Adventure will be Jonas Nordwall, with teaching assistance from Donna Parker, Jeff Weiler, and Jelani Eddington. The majority of the classes and sessions will take place at the 4/26 Robert Morton theatre organ at the Wheaton-Fox Studio.

Other featured instruments include the 4/27 Barton at the Rialto Square Theatre in Joilet, Illinois and the 5/80 Wurlitzer at the Sanfilippo Victorian Palace in Barrington, Illinois.

Jonas Nordwall Donna Parker Jeff Weiler Jelani Eddington

The ATOS Theatre Organ Adventure is open to all participants up to 25 years of age. Registration per student is $250.00 (including all tuition, Themeals ATOS and transportation Theatre Organ to Adventureand from the is venues open to during all participants the event). upSpecial to 25 accommodations years of age. Registration are being made per studentfor out-of-town is $250.00 students (including to stay allat tuition, meals and transportation to and from the venues during the event). Special accommodations are being made for out-of-town the conveniently-located Holiday Inn in Carol Stream, Illinois. For more information, please contact ATOS Summer Camp Committee students to stay at the conveniently-located Holiday Inn in Carol Stream, Illinois. For more information, please contact ATOS Summer Chairperson, Michael Cierski at 708/785-4985 or at [email protected], or visit us online at www.atos.org. Camp Committee Chairperson, Michael Cierski at 708-785-4985 or at [email protected], or visit us online at www.atos.org. VisitVisit usus atat www.atos.orgwww.atos.org forfor complete complete programprogram details! details! ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:10 PM Page 48

The SHASKAN Wurlitzer BY MIKE FOLEY Solo chamber

In 1958, most theatre organs still lived In about 1960, George had Patchell and his in their original homes. George Shaskan crew add the eight ranks from Opus 2074 was a wealthy stockbroker in Manhattan; (Greenwich Connecticut Pickwick). Most in 1949, he bought a 20-acre (circa 1926) of the sounds represented fine musical English manor house in North Stamford, additions, but the now-crowded installation Connecticut. In 1958, he hired Bill Patchell lost its classy look, and repair access of Malden, Massachusetts to find and install was compromised. Regardless, we seldom a Wurlitzer. Mrs. Shaskan would have thought of that when listening to the second nothing to do with such a contraption in the Tibia, Vox and Violins. George had Schopps main residence, so George had the guest build a Post Horn, which was a crowning house redesigned into an organ studio, with sound that we admittedly used too much. chamber space and central air (a rare thing I remember the fabulous parties that in Connecticut residences at the time). Its often included New York society, and some stucco exterior didn’t remotely match the days just spent there with George and our flavor of the overall grounds, but its pond- mutual and great friend, Everett Bassett. side setting with lots of glass and high On occasion, professional organists— ceilings worked. So did the organ. It was including Rosa Rio and Billy Nalle—came Opus 2112, the Balaban 2 from the Strand by and made things sound so special. A in Providence, Rhode Island. The console very young Lyn Larsen called, but sadly we was lost in the 1938 flood, but the organ never got together. We sometimes spent George Shaskan’s 3/22 Wurlitzer with Kimball console was new enough to need little more than weeks “employed” by George to recon- cleaning. George purchased and used the dition or repair things. Evenings were spent big three-manual Kimball console from the dining, drinking and playing the Wurlitzer; Mark Strand in Brooklyn, New York. we thought it was heaven on earth—and it In a time when most home theatre was. In 1961, Mrs. Shaskan developed organs were being “born-again” into a tangle heart trouble and became one of the first in of 2-by-4s and flex hose ducting, this history to undergo open heart surgery at (Photos Mike Foley Collection) installation was wonderfully professional. Johns Hopkins. She continued to lead a

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remarkably high-quality life, or at least her switch was first pushed. On a final walk- I purchased it from Connecticut Valley warm and elegant demeanor had us believe through, I recall how foreign the studio Theatre Organ Society in 1995, and gath- that. She died suddenly at home on Friday, appeared. The chambers were empty tombs; ered and inventoried all the parts. Ensuing December 13, 1963, and everything started all there was to remind us of so many special years and attempts to sell and install it went to change. days and moments was the outline of the nowhere, and I finally sold all for a modest George had great trouble with the loss. console’s frame pressed forever into the tile sum to Terry Klevin, who planned to install He remained at Stamford. A few years later, floor. it at the Mound Theatre in St. Paul. I think the main house nearly burned to the ground. Despite all the excitement at Connecticut it still sits awaiting a home. Despite a fabulous rebuild of both house and Valley Chapter for our new acquisition and The chamber photos here are of the lifestyle, nothing was ever the same. I its potential homes, it was somehow never original 1958 installation. Looking back, think it was in 1969 that George retired re-installed. Storage is never kind to a pipe this story is probably similar to others, but to Scottsdale and gave the organ to the organ, and by the mid-90s so much dam- one cannot help but recognize the very Connecticut Theatre Organ Society. Para- age had occurred that prospects of even professional installation at a time so early in dise lost; it had been only 11 years since the reassembling all the parts were remote. ATOS history.

Clockwise from top left: George Shaskan at his 3/22 Wurlitzer Rosa Rio at the Shaskan (then 3/14) organ in 1960 Solo chamber percussions Shaskan’s organ studio building (1959) The main chamber metal Diaphones were large scale

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

Clemens Center DTOS Wurlitzer unchanged from its inception back in Undergoes Renovation Restoration News 1928. Those directly involved in the Over the period of the next two years, In an attempt to accelerate the restoration include Ken Holden and Elmira, New York’s Clemens Center for the restoration of the famous Detroit Fisher Stephen Warner with the Holden firm, Performing Arts will undergo a major Theatre 4/34 Wurlitzer, two Michigan and Ed Corey, Joe Granger and Scott renovation. The building opened in 1925 organ firms have joined forces. Scott Smith with Smith’s company. Save for as Keeney’s Theatre, with a three-manual, Smith Pipe Organs of Lansing and those portions of the organ temporarily 20-rank Marr & Colton pipe organ. The Holden Pipe Organs of Ferndale have removed for shop restoration, the organ instrument was installed in three chambers, been engaged to restore the iconic pipe remains playable and accessible, and it including Main, Solo, and Echo and was organ back to full operation over the next continues to be used for concerts. featured in an article in the Summer, 1963 few years. Opus 1953, a one-of-a-kind —Michigan OrgaNewService issue of THEATRE ORGAN. Wurlitzer organ, is owned by the Detroit Joe Granger assists Scott Smith in the In late February, nearly the entire Theatre Organ Society and has been reinstallation of chest secondary instrument was removed for restoration by a installed in Detroit’s Senate Theatre pneumatics in the Foundation crew supervised by David Peckham, who since 1963, where it remains essentially Chamber of the DTOS Wurlitzer (Photo by Stephen Warner) serves as the theatre’s resident organist and curator of the organ. Among those involved in the removal were Larry Chace, Barry Lesher, Scott Smith, Cathy Ponzi (David’s fiancée) and Lauren Peckham (David’s father and member of the organ’s original restoration and maintenance crew in the 1960s). At the time of removal, the instrument had grown to four manuals, 22 ranks, replete with one of the few working Echo divisions remaining in a theatre organ today. The instrument was used for David Peckham’s 1994 compact disc recording, Electro-Pneumatic Action, which has been periodically featured on Public Radio International’s Pipe Dreams. Restoration will be performed by L. A. Peckham & Son Pipe Organs, taking place in an abandoned convent in Horseheads, New York. When reinstalled at the Clemens Center, a major repremiere of the completed instru- ment is planned. At that time, the organ will be the subject of a major feature article in THEATRE ORGAN. —New York OrgaNewService

LEATHER SUPPLY HOUSE QUALITY LEATHERS for Musical Instruments-Clocks-Organs

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THE STORY OF THE MIGHTY WURLITZER IS ALMOST HISTORY.

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

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

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

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

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

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REVIEWS

WURLITZER providing accompaniment to silent screen A REGAL AFFAIR catastrophes. The bad theatre organists had Kalevi Kiviniemi Plays the only limited resources with which to afflict George Blackmore & Gerald Shaw, Wurlitzer Theatre Pipe Organ at the their listeners, but Mr. Kiviniemi has the Odeon (Ex-Regal), Marble Arch, Sanfilippo Victorian Palace, vast power of the Sanfilippo organ to unleash London, 4/36 Christie Barrington Hills, Illinois against the beleaguered inhabitants of Jericho. This new CD from Pipe Organ Presen- It is regrettable that on a recording There is no rest for the battle-weary, for tations showcases one of England’s most entitled Wurlitzer that the very first sounds immediately following the tumult is an notable cinema organs. The organ in the you hear are not Wurlitzer at all, but are improvisation on Gershwin’s “Summertime” Regal, Marble Arch, built in 1928, was very fine reeds built for this organ by containing some of the most senseless jazz Europe’s largest theatre instrument. Quentin A. R. Schopp’s. Not in its entire history did riffs ever encountered by mankind. Sadly, Maclean, who was the first resident organist, Wurlitzer ever produce chorus reed tone like these riffs are played on tremmed tibias, thus was given a free hand in its design. For silent that, and one wonders whether the Truth in causing sounds not unlike the moans of the picture accompaniment, there were many Advertising law is being properly enforced mortally wounded defenders of Jericho. softer voices and a large assortment of sound as it applies to sound recordings. There is a bit of grace in the last two effects (Wind Howl, Thunder Sheet, Crock- From the first notes of the recording, selections: In both “Crying in the Chapel” ery Smash, Slap in the Face, and Cock Crow Finnish organist Kalevi Kiviniemi is obvi- and the “West Side Story” medley, we are were some of the more unusual attachments). ously over his head in the enormous treated to the good laugh we deserve after For solo work, there were plenty of classical resources of the Sanfilippo studio organ at hearing the previous 50-odd minutes of and theatrical ranks. The meowing tibias, Barrington, Illinois. It is possible to produce music. smooth strings, pungent color reeds, full glorious music on this monumental organ, The stylish and expensively produced Carillon of 32 notes, exceptionally fine but to do so requires a sensitivity to the booklet contains notes in both Finnish and percussions and traps, and snarling Fanfare repertoire and a familiarity with the enter- English, so I presume the disc to be in- Trumpet made for a sound quite unique and tainment-organ idiom that Mr. Kiviniemi tended for distribution in Finland as well as recognizable on the many recordings made simply does not have. English-speaking countries. by Maclean, Sidney Torch, and Reginald Like many crossovers from the classical Selections are: “The Magnificent Seven,” Foort in the early 1930s. Although the organ organ, Kiviniemi has an undisciplined “Charisse,” “Titina,” “Eternally,” “Bombay,” was laid out in a rather unorthodox fascination with the clangers and bangers “Czardas,” “Song of India,” “Hungarian arrangement (the Tibia and Vox, as well as and can’t keep his mitts off the traps Dance #5,” “Valse Lente,” “In a Monastery most of the percussions, were confined to the controls. He seems determined on the Garden,” “Bridge Over Troubled Water,” Solo manual, and all divisions were divided greatest possible use of the formidable “Improvisation on the Battle of Jericho,” clearly between Chambers A and B), it percussion division in every selection, “Summertime,” “Mendelsshow,” “Inspector produced a wide variety of ensembles. completely without regard to its appropri- Gadget,” “Crying In The Chapel,” and “West All 36 ranks were packed into two chambers ateness to the music. In addition to his Side Story Fantasy.” on the right side of the auditorium, while heavy-handed, lead-footed misconception of This CD (FUGA-9217) is available from the Carillon occupied the chamber on the the repertoire, he shows himself to be in Fuga, Helsinki, Finland. Fuga indicated to left side. desperate need of a metronome. THEATRE ORGAN that the cost for the CD, This CD compilation showcases the The disc opens with Elmer Bernstein’s including shipping and handling, is talents of George Blackmore (1921–1994) spectacular score to The Magnificent Seven. approximately $34.70 USD. For additional and Gerald Shaw (1911–1974). It fell to It’s great music, well suited to the organ, but information, please go to www.fuga.fi. —Stanley D. Hightower in this rendition (I use this word in its root meaning: “to rend” is “to tear apart”), the music is rent asunder by missed notes, unsteady rhythm, and the ungodly clatter of castanets. After this dreadful opening, things get somewhat better, with a few undistinguished ballads and material including “Song of India,” which, for instance, is less suscep- tible to abuse. Then, however, we come to an improvisation which is Mr. Kiviniemi’s Dante-esque vision of the “Battle of Jericho.” This inferno of blaring trumpets, thunderous bass drums, and earth-shaking 32s is every bad theatre organist’s attempt at

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Blackmore to make the final recording on some time in the 1940s, and it was never the organ before it was removed prior to the repaired, so Ernest Hart, who was assisting theatre’s demolition in 1964. He had never during the recording session, climbed up played it before, but with only one short into the chamber and rang the bells by hand. rehearsal he recorded an entire LP in only With this in mind, the performance is rather three hours, and it was released in the US in halting at times, and some of the bells 1967 as Regal Memories on the Concert clunked rather than rang, but at least one Recording label. The listener has the advan- can hear them in “high fidelity.” tage of hearing the organ in a reverberant “A Stitch in Time” is a cheery British pop acoustic, as all of the seats and furnishings tune of the early 1960s, and George plays it had already been removed from the theatre with gusto. Lots of reiterating Orchestra before the recording was made. The organ is Bells and a walloping pedal marking the in perfect tune and sounds out in grand beat add to the fun. Adios ambles along style, with only the occasional dead note on Tibias, with Marimba Harp and Glock- belying its age and impending doom. enspiel comments throughout. The middle George Blackmore begins the proceed- section is given over to the substantial “Frenesi” is presented with block chords ings with a rather straightforward version of chorus reeds (Tuba Sonora and Trumpet), on untremmed Tuba and Diapason, and the “Around the Marble Arch,” a British pop while the Fanfare Trumpet “cha-cha-chas” Fanfare comments are never far away. tune of the early 30s that became a salute to around it. It’s ballad time again with “Try a “Maria, My Own” is pretty much based on the theatre’s location and Sidney Torch’s first Little Tenderness,” which features many of the Jesse Crawford arrangement. Gerald 78 issued from the Regal itself in 1933. the same registrations used in “Moonlight Shaw, however, does not have the New York “Don’t Bring Lulu” is taken at a fast pace, Becomes You.” The second chorus gets a Paramount Studio Wurlitzer at his disposal, opening with the Fanfare Trumpet before slightly swingy treatment in the George and the registrations are decidedly different moving into a softer first chorus. The Shearing manner. from those that Crawford used. “Granada” is Trumpet returns to bark out the melody in Sibelius’ “Finlandia,” played here in played with maximum drama and bravura, the second chorus, while the third roars right the H. A. Fricker transcription, is the big while “Estrellita” is given a very sensitive along on full organ. “In a Clock Store” was a concert piece. Played with lots of drama, it orchestral treatment, with some of the descriptive piece frequently played by features many of the previously unheard smooth reeds featured. organists of the Golden Era, and it tick tocks classical voices. George Blackmore ends his “Musetta’s Waltz” is well played, if a bit along here with the obligatory wood block Regal contribution with a pretty version of rushed here and there, and pretty much setting the pace. One has the opportunity “Memories of You.” Once again, delicate by the book. Gerald Shaw finishes the CD to hear the realistic Orchestral Flute, flutes, strings, and diapasons carry most with a virtuosic performance of the “Gypsy Chrysoglott, Glockenspiel, and Chimes in of the tune, building to a majestic full Dance” from Bizet’s Carmen. Impeccable some of the softer passages. Listen for the organ close. fingerwork throughout proves that he was “whump” of the pistons and shades opening Gerald Shaw is on for the second half as accomplished a pianist as he was an right before the full organ ending. of the CD. His selections were recorded organist. “The Parade of the Sunbeams,” com- approximately six to eight years before We are grateful to Don Thompson and posed by Quentin Maclean in the mid- George Blackmore’s. The recorded sound is Pipe Organ Presentations for making these 1930s, is a charming tribute to the Regal’s not quite as bright as on the Blackmore cuts, long-ago recordings of the Marble Arch first organist. Color reeds and soft stops and the acoustic in noticeably drier. He was available to us once again. It will be a worthy carry the melody along, with the Tuba the Regal’s organist for five years (1953–58), addition to any fan of this monument of Sonora coming in here and there. Richard and his familiarity with the organ is quite British organbuilding. Rodgers’ “Carousel Waltz” provides a trip evident. While a full ten years older than Available at $17, plus $3 shipping and through the organ’s different tonalities both Blackmore, he is a stronger technician and handling, from Pipe Organ Presentations, solid and soft. One is struck by the more adventurous player, delving more fully 68022 Grandview Avenue, Cathedral City, refinement of the ensembles throughout. into swing and jazz textures. Unlike many of California 92234-2318, www.pipeorgan “Moonlight Becomes You” is the first ballad his contemporaries, he had a good grasp of presentations.com. we hear, and a pretty one it is. One would the US-oriented “lyric” style. His first two —Lew Williams expect lots of Tibia and Vox in such a tune, medleys, consisting of the hits of George but George Blackmore chooses some Gershwin and Irving Berlin, amply display pleasant String-Flute combinations, alter- his strong command of the organ and its Compact discs, cassettes, videos, books, and music to be reviewed should be sent to the nating with smooth reeds. The crystalline resources. Chords are cleanly and snappily Editor, Jeff Weiler, 1845 South Michigan Glockenspiel sprinkles moon dust through- executed, and modulations are smoothly and Avenue #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616. Items out. In “The Bells of St. Mary’s,” the fabled logically handled. He also delights in sassy must be received three months prior to the Carillon is heard for the first time in about rides on the Fanfare Trumpet. issue date in which the review will appear. 20 years. The motor which powered it failed

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Atlanta: John McCall at the McKoon Allen Atlanta: Larry Davis (l), Dick and Audrey Weber, and (Photo by Elbert Field) Bob Fountain (Photo by Rick McGee)

ATLANTA CHAPTER The curator and restoration coordinator, CENTRAL INDIANA Atlanta, Georgia—On Sunday, January 21, Kevin Cartwright, was first up with a brief talk Indianapolis, Indiana—The members of the chapter member and up-and-coming organist about the restoration project. He played a Central Indiana Chapter extend our greetings. John McCall performed his first concert at the period classical march to demonstrate the We’re well into another year of exciting events. Newnan, Georgia residence of Elsie and Bob Austin’s capacity for this type of work. Next The home of Tim Needler was the setting for McKoon. Located in their great room is an was Bruce Wynn, Trinity’s organist/choirmaster our January meeting. Everyone enjoys Hoosier Allen 317 with a satin ebony console and who performed a few classical blockbusters. hospitality, especially when we have the great speakers located high in the room. Miss Elsie Last up was chapter member Rick McGee who companionship of fellow CIC-ATOS members recently suffered a heart attack, and she is on demonstrated the instrument’s adaptability to in attendance. Justin Nimmo provided enjoy- the road to great recovery. Being the trouper theatrical and orchestral/film music. Larry able musical selections. she is, even this could not prevent her hosting Davis manned the piano as he and Rick February took us to the Hedback Theatre the event (she did agree to let others take over performed several duets based on anthem and the stylings of another longtime member, the kitchen and such). arrangements of well-known hymn tunes. A Tom Nichols. The chapter also wishes to thank After a very brief business meeting, host Bob reception followed, and tours of the Universal Michael Fellenzer, who has been the CIC- McKoon introduced John McCall. The program chests and chambers were conducted. Several ATOS treasurer for many years, for his years of featured a variety of tunes, and even a bit of a in attendance took advantage of the chance to dedication and service. Michael is currently fashion show. First, the coat came off…starting play the vintage instrument. the vice president of ATOS, and he retains a to get serious! Then, after a few more The console for the Page being installed at seat on the CIC board. selections, the tie came off. John was warned Stephenson High School, Stone Mountain, We also want to thank the many mem- this is where it stopped. The program Georgia, is in final stages of preparation for bers who have volunteered hundreds and concluded with a tribute to Everett Nourse and painting. When the shell returns, the hundreds of hours on various organ restoration Tiny James. Return engagements are expected! ornamentation will be detailed, and then, at projects. Currently, Manual High School in Larry Davis writes, “On January 22, Bob long last, console reassembly can begin. Indianapolis has undertaken a massive organ Fountain, Rick McGee and I drove to the top —Rick McGee renovation which required the removal and of a mountain in north Georgia to present the Larry Davis, President storage of the majority of pipework from the chapter Lifetime Achievement Award to Dick 770-428-4091, [email protected] three-manual, 26-rank Wurlitzer. We are and Audrey Weber. The afternoon was a feast looking forward to having this organ back in of memories, stories, and books of photos. operation sometime this year. We extend Mr. Weber presented us with CDs for the thanks to organ restorer Carlton Smith and the chapter archive of Bob Van Camp, Hector chapter members who assisted him. Olivera, Jay Mitchell, and others playing For information regarding season tickets or Winifred, their Wurlitzer organ.” general information, please visit www.cicatos.org. February 18 found us at Trinity United —Bob Hudson Methodist Church, located in downtown Mike Rolfe, President Atlanta. Austin Organ Company Opus 362 317-358-1564, [email protected] was built in 1912. It has three manuals and 41 ranks. This is the last remaining orchestral organ built by the Austin Organ Company in its original location in Atlanta, and it is the oldest playing pipe organ in the city. In 2006, Trinity United Methodist Church began restoration of the organ to its 1912 specifications.

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The deadline for receipt of Chapter News items by the Editor is the FIRST of the month TWO months prior to the THEATRE ORGAN publication date (that’s the first of every odd- numbered month). Please note that ATOS policy prohibits inclusion of music titles played at programs or menu items served at chapter functions. Text may be edited for space and clarity. Due to space considerations, please submit a maximum of 250 words of text. Submission as a Microsoft Word file attached to an e-mail (to [email protected]) is our first preference; second is text in an e-mail; finally, typewritten hard copy may be sent via postal mail to the Editor (address on Masthead). Please submit a maximum of two photos (300 dpi resolution minimum), preferably sent as a .jpg file attached to an e-mail. Photos may be sent to the Editor via postal mail; they will not be returned. IMPORTANT: Please name your text file with your chapter name, and name your photos with your chapter name followed by the numerals one or two. Your text MUST include your chapter name and principal city/state of operation; your chapter correspondent’s name; and the name, telephone number, and e-mail address of your chapter’s president. A caption and appropriate credit to the photographer MUST be included with photos; please put this information at the end of your text document.

Delaware Valley: Wayne Zimmerman at the Rodgers 340 at Penn State (Photo by Dick Auchincloss)

CENTRAL OHIO DAIRYLAND DELAWARE VALLEY Columbus, Ohio—Thanks to the dedicated Racine/Milwaukee, Wisconsin—Dairyland Media, Pennsylvania—Last November, efforts of our president, Duane King, and began the new year Saturday, January 13, with Penn State presented a well-attended silent all the help he received in October and a delightful morning social at the beautiful movie at the Sutherland Auditorium on November of 2006, the Central Ohio chapter Oriental Theatre in Milwaukee. We were the Penn State Abington campus near was able to host several concerts on our three- guests of the Kimball Theatre Organ Society Philadelphia. At the Rodgers 340 console manual, 16-rank Wurlitzer 260. Presently our which owns the 3/39 organ. The organ accompanying the 1923 production Safety organ’s home is the Thomas Worthington High continues to grow under the tonal direction of Last, starring Harold Lloyd, was our own School, in the Hottenroth Center for the Clark Wilson, and a 32' Wood Diaphone is Wayne Zimmerman. As usual, Wayne did Performing Arts, in Worthington Ohio. We being installed. Our organist, Ron Reseigh, a masterful job, using much of his own were proud to host the very popular Bob stall musician at the Organ Piper Restaurant, music to heighten the various moods. Ralston, from the Lawrence Welk Show, to admitted that he is not a morning person. He Dr. Moylan C. Mills of Penn State provided a “tickle the keys” once again, after eight years. could have fooled us, though, with his toe- very informative lecture on the film and It has been a rather grueling fight to get the tapping music. He used all the resources of its star. Wurlitzer up to par, and there is still a lot of the organ, and played for an hour. Next, a Many thanks go to Penn State, Dr. Mills, work to be done. backstage tour and a look at the blower room and Wayne Zimmerman for a marvelous show. Thanks to Clark Wilson for helping Duane were available. Then we enjoyed a potluck —Dick Auchincloss acquire the Z-tronics system, which has and open console. It was fun to be with our Harry Linn, Jr., President enabled the Mighty Wurlitzer to sound like the friends from KTOS and, as a result, we plan to 610-566-1764 grand theatre organ that it is. Bob Ralston’s do more events together in the future. concert was on November 10, and we were Our February social was a Valentine’s Day really thankful that the organ had no major party held on the 11th at Silents Please in problems; thanks to a close friend of our Racine, owned by Paul Grant. Silents Please chapter, the blower was rebuilt in time for is a mini-theatre which also sells items related Bob’s concert. to silent films and theatre organs. It also Our October concert featured Tom Hoehn, contains a three-manual Kimball console most from Clearwater, Florida. He was one of our recently installed at the Organ Piper restau- featured artists that day. Also performing was rant. Our guest artist was Dennis Scott; he Nathan Baker, a 15-year-old student and played love songs, among other things, and chapter member who started the concert on a held a “name that tune” contest. Thanks to good note. Tom Hoehn was back for an encore Paul for opening his interesting facility to us, performance in April. We are looking forward and to Dennis for putting us into the to a summer filled with concerts. Valentine’s mood a few days early. —Duane King, President —Sandy Knuth 614-374-8808, [email protected] Gary Hanson, President 414-529-1177, [email protected]

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Reginald Foort at Stoneham (Linder Archives) Brett Valliant (Photo byAndy Dolph)

EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS honestly. He was forthright, clear, and offered GARDEN STATE Wellesley, Massachusetts—The Eastern us a look at his vision for ATOS. Everyone in Trenton, New Jersey—January means Massachusetts Chapter presented the annual attendance felt that our beloved organization is budget time for GSTOS, and members met at “Young Organist’s Concert” at Babson College headed in a positive direction. the City of Rahway’s Senior Citizen Center to on January 13, 2007. Life member Charlie After the Town Meeting, Ken held forth at authorize funding for our ongoing projects, Briggs once again sponsored this much- the console of our cherished Wurlitzer for over anticipated concerts, and other member anticipated annual event. Charlie believes that an hour. His playing is heartfelt and very, very events. This is the location for the installation the future of the theatre organ lies in the hands musical, with a touch of humor. Ken’s music of the Rainbow Room Wurlitzer where Mike of the young performers, and he puts his reflects his personality. Fox and his small crew continue to work on beliefs into action by sponsoring these Recently, the EMCATOS Board of Directors restoring this historic instrument. concerts. voted to contribute the amount necessary for Newark Symphony Hall was the site of our Brett Valliant, the featured organist, gave the restoration of the tremulants in the Hatch February event. We gathered for a brief his audience a concert to remember. We had Memorial Wurlitzer installed in the Stoneham, meeting and a private concert by Ralph not heard this very talented young man before; Massachusetts town hall. This two-manual, Ringstad on the 3/15 Griffith Beach theatre we were astounded at his console skill, 14-rank instrument was our original “club pipe organ. The instrument was restored demeanor, and rapport with the audience. organ” and was used by EMCATOS to present several years ago by an eight-person crew Brett offered music for just about everyone’s concerts and events for the first 17 years of our headed up by Bob Martin. It is now maintain- taste. His chosen selections ranged from history. Francis J. Cronin broadcast the organ ed by a crew of three Garden State members. popular to light classical. The encore was not for many years over the Yankee Network in For this event, a novel idea was suggested by the usual barnburner one hears at a traditional New England. Theatre organ greats such as vice president Michael Cipolletti: members theatre organ concert. but rather a softly Reginald Foort, Leonard MacClain, Ann Leaf, were only to be admitted if they brought a Dick Leibert, Don Baker, Ray Bohr, and Tom registered and melodic offeringa perfect guest. It was a no-fee but very beneficial way to end an outstanding evening of music. Hazleton have all presided at the console of admission price. Non-members who accom- The audience gave Brett a much-deserved this wonderful instrument. panied members got to enjoy the concert, standing ovation. Brett’s concert was so well Phil Kelsall headlined our next concert chamber tour, open console, and an interesting received that we’ve invited him back to weekend on May 5 and 6, 2007. On Sunday, guided tour of the theatre, including an perform next fall at the Shanklin Music Hall. June 3, Clark Wilson performed at the Shanklin underground tunnel used as a speakeasy On January 28, 2007 we were pleased to Music Hall, These two events rounded out our during Prohibition. The initiative brought out welcome ATOS President Ken Double to concert season. Our 2007–2008 concert season a number of people who had never attended a Babson for our monthly social. Before our is almost finalized; more on that at a later date. theatre organ event before, including at least regular social began, Ken moderated an ATOS —Bob Evans, President one young family with children who were Town Meeting. Members and guests were 508 674 0276, [email protected] mesmerized by every aspect of the day. encouraged to bring their questions, concerns, and suggestions to the meeting, and they did. Mr. Double listened intently to everyone and answered each question completely and

Haveyourememberedthe ATOS Endowment Fund inyourwillortrust?

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Garden State: The Newark Symphony Hall console Garden State: Connie and Harold Vaughan Hudson Mohawk: (Photo by Bob Martin) dance while Paul Jacyk plays at the Martin Member Carl Hackert home during Automatic Musical Collectors’ (Photo by Norene Grose) Association day (Photo by Cathy Martin) In late February, the local Lady Liberty HUDSON-MOHAWK CHAPTER on February 20 we heard Charles Jones and chapter of the Automatic Musical Instrument Schenectady, New York—The Hudson- Dr. Carl Waldron. Collectors’ Association invited GSTOS mem- Mohawk Chapter held two general meetings Ned Spain, who now divides his time bers to join them in an afternoon of music at during the winter season and continued between upstate New York and Florida, will Bob and Cathy Martin’s home. Ralph Ringstad a full schedule of free noontime concerts. perform a concert in the spring at Shell Point played a mini-concert on the 3/24 Griffith Our December meeting was a festive retirement community in Fort Myers, Florida. Beach, accompanied a short silent film, and Christmas supper organized by member Dick The center has a three-manual Allen elec- then played music for dancing. The enter- Calderwood and held in the hospitality room of tronic. Avery Tunningley continues his tainment and refreshments were followed by Proctors Theatre, Schenectady. Dinner music entertaining silent film series at the Union open console for organists from both groups. was provided by Bob Frederick at a vintage Presbyterian Church in Schenectady, on Members of both AMICA and the Garden upright piano. Later, the group reconvened the first Friday of each month, ably as- State Theatre Organ Society enjoyed learning downstairs in the theatre for open console. sisted by chanteuse Bubbles LaRue. Carl about the other group, and membership Another holiday-themed meeting occurred on Hackert joined Juan Cardona and about 50 brochures were exchanged, which will February 19. This general meeting consisted Poughkeepsie area music students and undoubtedly further enrich both groups. of a short program of Valentine’s Day music teachers in a joint meeting at the Bardovon —Catherine Martin presented by Carl Hackert, followed by open Opera House hosted by NYTOS’ John Edward W. Fritz, President console and light refreshments. Vanderlee on February 24. The program 973-694-5173, The free noontime organ series presented featured Juan at the Wurlitzer, Carl at the [email protected] by MVP Gold, the Hudson-Mohawk Chapter, chapter’s Allen organ, and the Bardovon’s and Proctors Theatre continues to draw an grand piano. It was great to see so many young appreciative audience. The November 15 organ and piano students showing an interest concert featured Peter Themistoklies and in the theatre organ. Congratulations to the Lonnie Kulick. In December, an ever-popular teachers for making this event a success. A holiday concert featured Carl Hackert, Ned sad note, longtime chapter member and Spain, and Greg Klingler, as well as vocalists Sergeant-at-Arms Don Wheatley passed away and Catherine Hackert and the Glens Falls this winter. He will be greatly missed. High School Strolling String ensemble. Over —Norene Grose 1,000 attended. On January 16, we presented Frank Hackert, President William Hubert and Claudia Bracaliello, and 518-355-4523 www.atos.org Articles and Features Added Regularly Calendar of Events and Submissions Theatre Organ Locator

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Jesse Crawford: Jesse Crawford’s 111th birthday cake, Jesse Crawford: Chapter president Steve decorated with poinsettias (Photo by Ed Mullins) Plaggemeyer played happy birthday to Jesse on the Gulbransen electronic organ (Photo by Ed Mullins) JESSE CRAWFORD Upon further investigation, archivist Ed KINGSTON Billings, Montana—The annual corporate Mullins found that a free short (2 minutes, 58 Ontario, Canada—The Kingston Chapter meeting, election of officers, and Jesse seconds) preview of the interview is available held a Valentine’s Day themed potluck supper Crawford birthday party was held on Sunday, on the Internet at www.britishpathe.com; and open console on Sunday, February 11. December 10, 2006, in Billings. The 2006 search for “Jesse Crawford.” Although the Although the weather was pretty cold and officers were re-elected for 2007: Steve preview is free, you need to add it to your blustery, with a fresh layer of snow that Plaggemeyer, president; Ms. Bertie Newton, basket, and then proceed to checkout. They morning, about 30 people braved the roads vice president, and Ed Mullins, secretary- ask for your country of residence, your e-mail and turned out for the event. During open treasurer. New members Norman Wade and address, and your postal address. In about a console, our more seasoned organists, Jim Mike Henry from Missoula attended the minute they will e-mail you, and you can then Hopkins, Frank Pratt, and Gilles Bruyère (who meeting. A delicious poinsettia-decorated cake download and view the film on your computer. drove 240 miles to join us), treated us to some inscribed “Happy Birthday Jesse 111” was This is not the complete interview that we fine tunes on our 3/28 Kimball. Our youngest served, à la mode. We sang happy birthday to viewed at Jesse Crawford’s 111t birthday member, Audrey Robinson, took a turn; not to Jesse, accompanied by Steve Plaggemeyer at celebration, but it will give you an opportunity be left out, her younger sister Hayley (8 years the Gulbransen electronic organ. to hear Crawford speak, at age 37. old) finally got a try. Audrey and her friend Charter member John W. Landon was —Ed Mullins also performed an oboe and violin duet. scheduled to give a lecture, “Jesse Crawford, Steve Plaggemeyer, President We have been fortunate to have a little Poet of the Organ,” during the 2006 ATOS 406-248-3171 publicity on our local TV cable station Annual Convention in Tampa, Florida. He was recently. Roy Young, our president, did an unable to present the lecture due to moving excellent job of explaining what a theatre back to Lexington, Kentucky. Part of his organ is, what the Kingston chapter does, and program was to exhibit a DVD of a newsreel how to get involved. Ken Sigsworth, a long- made in 1933 by British Pathe, Ltd., at the standing member, and Audrey Robinson were Empire Theatre, Liecester Square, London, also interviewed and demonstrated the organ. England. Thanks to Dr. Landon, we watched Our eldest member, Winifrea, in her 91st year, the video at the party. was featured on another cable TV program. The newsreel was an interview with Jesse Not only does she drive 60 miles every Friday Crawford filmed and recorded at the Empire to practice on the Kimball, she teaches organ Theatre Wurlitzer. In the interview, Crawford one day a week, and on Mondays she teaches demonstrates some of the effects used to a fitness class. What an inspiration! accompany silent pictures. He also plays a Frank Pratt, one of the three co-founders of ballad, “My Wishing Song,” that he recorded the Kingston chapter, has written a book for “His Master’s Voice” (HMV B-4435) on his chronicling the installation of the Kimball in visit to England, with the lyrics super-imposed Kingston. All proceeds from book sales go on the screen. directly to the chapter for the preservation of the Kimball. Thanks, Frank. Simon Gledhill played our last concert of the season on May 4. —Helen Robinson Roy Young, President 613-386-7295, [email protected]

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London: Byron at Woking London: Kevin at The State Theatre (Photo by David Coles) (Photo by Ian Ridley)

LAND O’ LAKES LONDON AND SOUTH LOS ANGELES Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota/Hudson, OF ENGLAND Los Angeles, California—Our annual Wisconsin—Dave Wickerham continued the Woking, Surrey—In January, Byron Jones, holiday party and election was held at the Phipps Center’s 2006–07 Organ Series on popularly known as “The Welsh Wizard,” home of Ken and Janice Rosen in December. January 13. Dave played a superb concert and started off our concert season at Woking. Ken has the Pig and Whistle Wurlitzer accompanied two Laurel and Hardy silent Byron is well known on the organ scene on installed in a large studio. Bob Kambeitz, comedies; the audience was enthusiastic. It both pipes and electronics. To add a new Wayne Flottman, and Diana Stoney were was also great to see Dave’s family in dimension to this concert, we invited him to elected to the board. In January, Bill Campbell attendance. bring his exciting Windows XP2-controlled was elected president and Bob Kambeitz, vice On February 14, Harvey Gustafson accom- “Wersi” electronic organ. He played the president. Re-elected were Steve Asimow, panied Greta Garbo’s 1926 silent Flesh and largest part of the concert on our 3/19 secretary, and Jim Dawson, treasurer. Wayne the Devil at the mighty WCCO Radio Wurlitzer Wurlitzer, with an excursion to the “Wersi” in Flottman was re-appointed program director, at the Heights Theatre for an audience of 300. each half; judging by comments in the and Diana Stoney was appointed promotion We look forward to more spectacular events at interval, the different range of sounds and publicity director. the Heights as attendance continues to grow. provided certainly enthralled the audience. Another Wurlitzer Weekend is now history. Progress continues on the organ. The crew Byron gave us a lovely programme of music We got off to a good start with the screening of has been working on rebuilding a six-rank played with great flair on both instruments; of On the Rocks, starring Gloria Swanson and Wurlitzer chest, which will be the first chest particular note were some popular ballads Rudolph Valentino, at the Orpheum Theatre in the Main division. All the secondary from that well-known Welsh composer, Ivor in downtown Los Angeles. Bob Salisbury did pneumatics have been installed in the chest Novello. It was obvious from the audience’s a superb job in providing the accompaniment. frame, and the crew has moved on to refacing lengthy applause that they had spent a very LATOS member Shirley Obert provided walk- the pallets and getting ready to install the enjoyable evening. in music at the original installation Wurlitzer. primaries. We are also working hard to get the At The State Theatre Kilburn on February 4, John Koerber and his crew prepared the combination action working on the console. we had a young man from Blackpool to organ, with an assist from professional Donald Barton of Barton Player Piano will entertain us, and entertain us he did. Kevin organbuilder Tom DeLay. present the seventh annual fundraiser for the Grunill has been a regular in Blackpool at Saturday morning, a faithful crowd found its organ as part of his Piano Roll Flea Market both the North Pier and Tower Ballroom for way to the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood to and customer appreciation event on March 24. some years. He has a lively personality and a hear Rob Richards and Ralph Wolf. These two Karl Eilers will present a mini-concert and lively style, but he also knows how to get the are always entertaining—even at an early accompany a short silent film, followed by best out of an instrument for the slow numbers hour. A special thanks to General Manager Ed Flying Down to Rio starring Fred Astaire and as well. The Wurlitzer at The State Theatre is Collins and Kevin Frawley, Operations Ginger Rogers. Don has restored the player a particular favourite of his, and his rapport Manager, for hosting Wurlitzer Weekend once action for the organ’s upright piano, and we with the instrument certainly gave us a lovely again. hope to have that playing for the show. concert. We all enjoyed a wide-ranging While not an official Wurlitzer Weekend —Kim Crisler programme to suit all tastes, coupled with a event, some attendees later were present at Terry Kleven, President fine display of musicianship. His performance Australian Tony Fenelon’s annual concert at 651-489-2074, [email protected] was very well received by one of our biggest San Sylmar. audiences at this venue for some time. The South Pasadena High School Wurlitzer- —Ian Ridley, President Crotty Organ made its first Wurlitzer Weekend appearance Saturday night. The incomparable +44 1494 674944 Jelani Eddington was at the console; he also [email protected] delighted the audience with several piano solos at the school’s wonderful nine-foot Knabe.

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Los Angeles: Wurlitzer Weekend Marquee Manasota: Dave Wickerham (Photo by John Koerber) (Photo by George Milburn)

This year’s event included the Paramount MANASOTA NEW YORK Iceland Ice Rink. Chris Gorsuch was the Sarasota Florida—Manasota Theatre Organ New York, New York—January 16 was an organist, and skilled he is. The organ sounded Society met for its monthly meeting on exciting evening in New York City; more than fantastic. Program director Wayne Flottman February 18; the house was almost packed. 200 organ enthusiasts gathered at Radio City feared he might be tarred and feathered for We enjoyed a superb theatre organ concert by Music Hall for the New York chapter’s third scheduling an event in such a cold venue, but the multi-talented Dave Wickerham. Dave is annual “90 Musical Minutes” program with the not one complaint was heard. Maybe it was the not only a fine organist, he is genuinely a great Radio City 4/58 Grand Wurlitzer. Our featured good music and the good food, or perhaps it guy. Thanks for the afternoon, Dave. artists were Music Hall staff organists Trent was the warm hospitality of our hosts, the The meeting opened with John Fischer Johnson and Bob Maidhof, with staff organist Zamboni Family, and their rink manager, Mike greeting the approximately 450 attendees. Ronnie Grauman joining in for a surprise twin- Peterson, that kept the audience content. John gave some background of the Tyson console Wurlitzer grand finale. NYTOS vice- Then we were off to Plummer Auditorium in Forker 4/32 Wurlitzer, explaining how it has chairman John Valentino served as master of Orange County. ATOS president Ken Double been enlarged since it was first installed at the ceremonies, introducing Trent Johnson, who was the afternoon’s organist. As usual for Florida Theatre in Jacksonville. Today it is opened the concert with two selections that Wurlitzer Weekend, our partners in Orange truly one of the finest Wurlitzers in the world. demonstrated the classical and orchestral side County arranged something extra for the Our own Norm Arnold is the curator, and he of the organ. A selection of light classics, pop audience. This year it was trumpeter Skip keeps it in first-class condition. standards and marches rounded out Trent’s half Stine who played with the Harry James band After we adjourned, some of us went north of the program. We then heard Bob Maidhof, for many years. Ken did a superb job of about 15 miles to Bill Dickerson’s Roaring whose choice of music, as well as his arrange- accompanying him. The program also included 20’s restaurant for some great pizza and ments and registrations, showed off the more the Laurel and Hardy comedy, Finishing another dose of theatre organ music with theatrical side of the organ. Classics from the Touches, a great conclusion to the official Dwight Thomas at their four-manual Wurlitzer. big band era by Glenn Miller and Ray Noble, Wurlitzer Weekend schedule. Visit their website, www.roaring20spizza.com. along with a variety of Broadway show tunes, A number of attendees made a trip to El Also, please visit the Manasota chapter made up much of Bob’s program. All too soon, Segundo to hear Ron Rhode on Sunday website at www.MTOS.us. it was time to announce the closing medley. Up evening. Ron got his professional concert start —Chaz Bender until this point, both artists had used only the at Old Town Music Hall over 30 years ago. His Chuck Pierson, President left console on the 51st Street side of the vast program of toe-tappers provided a great after- 941-924-0674, [email protected] auditorium. Suddenly, to the surprise and glow. delight of all, the curtains opened and out rode Mark your calendars. Planning for Wurlitzer the 50th Street side console, with staff organist Weekend in January of 2008 is already Ronnie Grauman on the Howard seat, joining underway. Bob (as she had for many of the “Christmas —Wayne Flottman Spectacular” shows) in playing four-hand Bill Campbell, President arrangements of the music from a popular [email protected] Disney Broadway production. Their twin console finale brought the audience to its feet with cheers and bravos as Bob and Ronnie walked to the center of the great stage to take their bows. Many thanks to John Valentino for all his efforts in arranging this wonderful evening at Radio City. Thanks also to Richard Bishop, the organ’s curator, and to Allan France, Tom Stehle, Bob Welch and Dave

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New York: John Baratta at the New York Military Academy 4/33 Möller accompanies saxophone student Michael Hayden (Photo by Tom Stehle)

Kopp for their production assistance. We are ORANGE COUNTY PIKES PEAK also grateful to Radio City Tour Department Fullerton, California—Once again we Colorado Springs, Colorado—Our December staff members Kathy Roseman and Gus teamed up with the Los Angeles Theatre Sack Lunch Serenades were lower in Matsukawa for all their help in making this Organ Society in mid-January to present attendance, due to snow. The December 21 program possible. Wurlitzer Weekend. On Sunday afternoon, Sack Lunch was canceled, the first cancella- On February 24 the chapter sponsored a January 15, OCTOS proudly presented ATOS tion in twelve years of Sack Lunches. Even so, Mid-Hudson organ crawl, with open console President Ken Double in concert at Plummer a number of brave souls came to the historic programs on the chapter’s 2/10 Mighty Auditorium. His program was both varied City Auditorium for the other programs. Wurlitzer at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House and well-received; it included a Laurel and Our 13th year of the programs began on in Poughkeepsie, and at the New York Military Hardy silent film and several numbers with May 3. It was the 200th Sack Lunch Serenade, Academy 4/33 Möller in Cornwall-on-Hudson. professional trumpet soloist Skip Stine. and it featured the City Auditorium’s 3/8 John Vanderlee, who organized the morning Several officers of OCTOS and LATOS held a Mighty Wurlitzer, along with a short silent program at the Bardavon, also set up our Allen luncheon meeting with Ken and several film. The two house organists are Tom O’Boyle digital touring organ on the Bardavon stage. national officers as Wurlitzer Weekend was and Bob Lillie, who have played the majority The morning opened with a short demo concert getting underway; we discussed ways the of programs for the last twelve years. by Juan Cardona, Jr. at the Wurlitzer, followed national organization and the local chapters This year, we will again have a number of by a slide presentation on the history of the could work together to further the cause of the guest artists. DeLoy Goeglein from Lakewood, Bardavon, the oldest continuously operating theatre organ. Colorado was our first guest artist on May 17, theatre in New York State. Organist Carl In April the popular local organist Gene followed by Mark Herman from Chicago, Hackert then played a mini demo concert on Roberson returned to play for us at Plummer. Illinois on June 21. ATOS President, Ken the Allen. It was encouraging to see so many The event was co-sponsored by the Orange Double will be our guest artist on July 12; Jim young, talented organ students on hand County chapter of the American Guild of Calm from Denver will perform on July 19; to take their turns at open console. From Organists. Dave Wickerham, who has delighted us with Poughkeepsie, the activities moved about 20 —Steuart Goodwin his performances in the past, will be here miles south to Cornwall-on-Hudson, where Ed Bridgeford, President on August 9; and on August 16, the AGO members had an opportunity to play the New 714 529-5594, [email protected] members from Colorado Springs will regale us, York Military Academy 4/33 Möller. NYTOS as they do annually, with music they can’t play members and guests, young, old, and in in church. between, took their turns playing open console The PPATOS is raising funds for a saxo- at the big Möller. Organist John Baratta closed phone rank for the club organ (3/20, mostly the afternoon with a short concert, demon- Wurlitzer); the saxophone rank was in the strating both the classical and the theatrical specifications but was not purchased due to sides of the versatile NYMA organ. Thanks to lack of funds. This rank will complete this John Vanderlee and the Bardavon crew and wonderful instrument. Donations are grate- staff, and to Tom Stehle and the Military fully accepted. Academy administration, for helping to make PPATOS may be found online at http://theatre this delightful day’s activities possible. Special organs.com/ppatos/. Friends of the Historic thanks to organ teachers John Baratta and Colorado Springs City Auditorium are at Larry Hazard for encouraging so many of their www.historiconline.org. With mutual site young students to attend and participate. links, it’s easy to find the schedule and to read —Tom Stehle history about the Auditorium and the organ. David Kopp, Chairman —Robert C. (Bob) Lillie 201-818-9950 Owanah Wick, President [email protected] 719-488-9469, [email protected]

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River City: Jeanne Sabatka at Masonic Manor River City: Shirley Shainholtz at her residence (Photo by Jerry Pawlak) in Omaha (Photo by Jerry Pawlak)

PUGET SOUND RIVER CITY The Markworth residence Kimball was Seattle, Washington—Puget Sound Chapter Omaha, Nebraska—The RCTOS January featured at the American Guild of Organists celebrated Valentine’s Day with an afternoon meeting was held at Masonic Manor in Omaha. Lincoln Regional Convention, “Winds on the at West Seattle’s Kenyon Hall. “The Hall” is There were thoughts of canceling the meeting Prairie.” Jonas Nordwall performed two famous in these parts for its regular weekend as the area had received seven inches of new concerts for the AGO regional convention on vaudeville-type shows, featuring clowns, snow the morning of the meeting. Although Thursday, June 21. In addition, Jonas gave a jugglers, singers, instrumentalists, skits, top- many chapter members were unable to attend public concert at the Markworth home on notch piano, and yes, Wurlitzer theatre organ the meeting, Masonic Manor’s residents, who Saturday, June 23, 2007. For information music and silent movies. are invited to attend this annual meeting at regarding the public concert, contact Bob Featured at both the grand piano and the their facility, filled the meeting room. Markworth at [email protected] or Wurlitzer was the multi-talented pianist/enter- The short business meeting was conducted Jerry Pawlak at [email protected] (402- tainer/story teller Lou Magor. Lou had the by chapter vice president Jeanne Sabatka, who 421-1356). audience in the palm of his hand with his was also the guest artist for the event. George —Jerry Pawlak entertaining stories and outstanding perform- Rice, a wonderful organist, pianist, and long- Bob Markworth, President ances of a variety of music. A highly time chapter member, started the afternoon’s 402-573-9071, [email protected] accomplished musician, Lou’s background program performing Scott Joplin selections at includes serving as musical director and the Masonic Manor’s concert grand piano. accompanist for Broadway legend Mary Martin Then Jeanne performed her magic at the Conn and as director of the San Francisco Boys organ. Also included in the afternoon’s Chorus. Since 1990 Lou has been a Seattle program were Milo Karasek, vocals by Frank musical fixture, conducting the Seattle Bach Sabatka, and Jerry Pawlak’s accompaniment Choir and teaching Kindermusik, all while for Jeanne on some selections. The program masterminding the weekly shows at Kenyon was great fun, and the residents of the facility Hall. were most complimentary to the performing The Valentine’s Day celebration included artists and grateful that they didn’t have to an old-fashioned ice cream social and open travel to attend. console. Member and accomplished organist Shirley An interesting history of The Hall, complete Shainholtz hosted the February monthly with color photos, can be viewed at www.pstos. meeting at her new home in Omaha. Shirley is org/instruments/wa/seattle/kenyon-hall.htm. self-taught, and she is a very entertaining —Jo Ann Evans piano and organ artist. After the usual Tom Blackwell, President business meeting conducted by president Bob 206-784-9203, [email protected] Markworth, Shirley performed at the Lowery organ, which is soon to be replaced. Shirley played some good old-fashioned entertaining selections which were well received by RCTOS members. Open console followed the program, after which a large group drove to a nearby restaurant to complete the afternoon’s social event.

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ROCKY MOUNTAIN SIERRA SOONER STATE Denver, Colorado—Our scheduled January Sacramento, California—Rosemary Bailey Tulsa, Oklahoma—The Sooner State social, “Everyone’s a Musician,” was canceled was our artist for January. She kicked off 2007 chapter’s January meeting was canceled due due to one of a series of heavy snowstorms that for us by playing on both the chapter’s 3/13 to winter’s snow and ice and the closing of our has plagued our region for the last few months. George Seaver Memorial Wurlitzer and a usual meeting place, the Tulsa Technology This club social has been re-scheduled. Roland Atelier which was provided by Music Center in Broken Arrow. So, in February we Fortunately, there was a temporary break in Exchange. We were again joined by many presented our January program: a 1926 silent the weather to allow us to enjoy “Pipes and persons who regularly attend Music Exchange film, The Black Pirate, starring Douglas Stripes” on Sunday, February 11. The Denver functions. Rosemary’s concert included a wide Fairbanks. Our president, Bill Rowland, Paramount’s Mighty Wurlitzer, with its dual selection of jazz standards, Broadway tunes, supplied an improvised accompaniment at the consoles, joined forces with the Colorado and ballads. Her chord progressions, strongly Robert-Morton pipe organ. National Guard’s 40-piece 101st Army Band’s influenced by her jazz background, added a Prior to the film, we elected officers for the Concert Ensemble and their nine-piece special spice which delighted those present. next two years: Bill Rowland was re-elected Dixieland group for a spectacular afternoon of Thanks again to Karen Cuneo of Music president; new member Don Sandkuhl is our enjoyable and inspiring music at this free Exchange for bringing Rosemary to the first vice president; Jim Embrey, second vice admission event. Sacramento area. president; and Joyce Hatchett, treasurer. The 101st Army Band consists of citizen- February was another concert on the Sierra The film was fabulous, and we counted soldiers who come from as far away as chapter’s 3/13 George Seaver Memorial about 250 people in the audience. You had Montrose and Scottsbluff, Nebraska to train Wurlitzer in Fair Oaks. Jerry Nagano was our to remind yourself to listen to the intensively each month at Buckley Air Force artist. He has been presenting theatre organ accompaniment, as it blended so well with the Bass. Chapter members Bob Castle, Jim Calm, concerts and accompanying silent films since screen action. It was truly an excellent and DeLoy Geoglein were featured at the he was a youth taking lessons from Gaylord meeting! consoles. Carter. Jerry gave us more traditional theatre —Dorothy Smith The theatre pipe organ performing as both organ stylings on his selections which included Bill Rowland, President an ensemble and a solo instrument amazed marches, show tunes, and ballads. It has been 918-355-1562 and delighted both organ fans and first-time several years since Jerry has entertained us. listeners alike. Several in the audience joined Let’s not wait so long next time! the chapter! —Pete McCluer The event was sponsored by Kroenke Sports Craig Peterson, President Charities (Kroenke Sports owns the Para- 916-682-9699, [email protected] mount), Live Nation (booking agent for the Paramount), and the Rocky Mountain chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society. Attendance was just under 1,000, including ten busloads of senior citizens and a number of others who came via vans from their living community. —Priscilla Arthur Jim Burt, President 970-385-9490, [email protected]

MAY | JUNE 2007 63 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:16 PM Page 64

Valley of the Sun: Shirley Long, Myrra Johnson, Eric Fricke, Joanne Harris and Katie Johnston (Photo by Madge Hinchcliffe)

SOUTHERN JERSEY SUSQUEHANNA VALLEY VALLEY OF THE SUN Franklinville, New Jersey—Our involve- York, Pennsylvania—Susquehanna Valley Phoenix, Arizona—We started the new ment with the 3/8 Kimball in the Pitman chapter member Don Kinnier presented a year off with our January 7 Silent Sundays Broadway Theatre gets deeper and deeper. workshop, “Theatre Organ Registration presentation of the 1917 Douglas Fairbanks The management has broadened its enter- Techniques,” at the November meeting. Using film, Wild and Woolly. Ron Rhode accom- tainment fare to include live musical the Capitol Theatre’s 20-rank Wurlitzer, Don panied the film at the Orpheum Theatre, productions, in addition to first-run movies. showed a number of favorite and “life-saving” as well as playing a 30-minute pre-show The first musical is Gypsy, staged on Friday, registration settings he and others often use. organ program. Saturday and Sunday for four weekends. Our Member Bob Lilarose (Bobby Raye) The Valley of the Sun was cold, wet, and organists play a half-hour prelude and presented a workshop at the February windy on January 21, but everyone was warm intermission for each show. There will be five meeting entitled “Embellishing Simple and friendly at our meeting inside the more musicals presented throughout the Tunes.” Using three familiar standard tunes Orpheum. Chapter member Don Story year. Of course, we continue to play movie in lead-sheet form, he explained and presented a program of “not totally obscure” overtures on movie days. demonstrated introduction-building, all numbers on the Wurlitzer. Don has a Our work on the Cinnaminson High School kinds of fill-ins, counter melodies, and reputation for challenging us with “name that 3/16 Wurlitzer continues. We have almost rhythmic enhancements. Bob’s presentation tune.” That afternoon, we heard some completed the improvements in the left pipe will be available in DVD form to members. familiar Harry Warren tunes, some music chamber. We have relocated the tremulants The Capitol Theatre continues to generate from the movies, and a couple of songs that for better access and provided better wind large audiences at the Sunday movie shows. were actually less than 30 years old! A few lines and wiring to the trap assembly These are both classics (Casablanca) and chapter members participated in open equipment. The right chamber will be the current movies (The Queen was an absolute console after Don’s program. next target of our improvement work. sell-out). More and more chapter members Sunday, February 11, it was the ladies’ Meanwhile, we will provide assistance are getting involved playing the Capitol turn, as we gathered at the home of Bill, with ushering and ticket-taking duties for the Theatre’s Mighty Wurlitzer before movies. It’s Nancy and Eric Fricke. Chapter members Dickinson Theatre Organ Society in a terrific way to improve your skills and get Shirley Long, Joanne Harris, Myrra Johnson Wilmington, Delaware. The help is needed your act together―to plan and play a half and Katie Johnston each took a turn at the because their audience is always huge, hour program on a fine instrument before a Fricke’s Allen organ. Playing mostly ballads, almost completely filling the auditorium. large audience. the ladies also offered several songs appro- —Fred Oltmann Glen Hough and Ken Sanders were priate for the upcoming Valentine holiday. Joseph Rementer, President organists for the five showings of Tony and They all thanked Eric for his assistance in 856-694-1471 Tina’s Wedding presented at the Capitol to registrations. We truly appreciate the Frickes sold-out audiences during the Valentine’s for their gracious hospitality. Day week. Work continues on the Wurlitzer at the March saw joint outings with Harrisburg Phoenix College Auditorium. We plan to AGO chapter at Hershey Theatre’s Æolian- have it playing this spring. This will give us Skinner and with the Free State (Maryland) another venue for chapter meetings and Theatre Organ Society meeting at Rice public programs. The college would also like Auditorium in Catonsville. to add theatre organ classes to its curriculum. —Roy Wainwright, Secretary —Madeline LiVolsi Sam Groh, President Bill Carr, President 717-534-2470, [email protected] 623-694-1746, [email protected]

64 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:16 PM Page 65

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MAY | JUNE 2007 65 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:16 PM Page 66

Theatre Organ Programs and Performances

ALASKA Paramount Theatre—2025 Broadway, Oakland, Colorado Springs City Auditorium—221 East 510-465-6400 (4/27W). Public tours on first and third State Office Building—333 Willoughby Avenue, Kiowa Street, Colorado Springs, 719-488-9469 Saturdays at 10:00am. Movie overtures, Thursdays Juneau, 907-465-5689 (2/8K). Organ concerts (3/8 W). Sacklunch Serenade: weekly free at 6:30pm. www.paramounttheatre.com Friday at 12:00 noon. www.pstos.org/instruments/ noontime concert each Thursday from 12:00 noon to 1:00pm, with silent short, performed by ak/juneau/state-bldg.htm Stanford Theatre—221 University Avenue, Palo local and guest artists. Alto, 650-324-3700 (3/21W). Organ played before www.theatreorgans.com/PPATOS ALABAMA and after the 7:30pm movie by David Hegarty, Alabama Theatre—1817 3rd Avenue North, Jerry Nagano, or Bill Taylor. Call ahead to verify Holiday Hills Ballroom—2000 West 92nd Avenue, Birmingham, 205-252-2262 (4/29W). the theatre is open for the evening. Federal Heights, 303-466-3330 (4/33GW4Q). www.AlabamaTheatre.com Sunday, May 20, 2:00pm, Bev Bucci and Friends; Towe Auto Museum—2200 Front Street, Sunday, June 24, 2:00pm, Old Time Radio Hour; Sacramento, 916-442-6802 (3/16W). Sunday ARIZONA Sunday and Monday, July 15 and 16, 2:00pm, concerts, 2:00pm; free with museum admission. Seeing (and Hearing) Double with Ken Double; Organ Stop Pizza—1149 East Southern Avenue, Sunday, May 18, 8:00pm, Ron Rhode accom- Sunday, September 23, 2:00pm, Frankly Perko Mesa, 480-813-5700 (4/74W). Winter organ hours: panying the 1923 silent film The Covered Wagon. with Frank Perko; Sunday, November 18, 2:00pm, Sunday through Thursday, 4:30pm to 9:00pm, www.toweautomuseum.org Friday and Saturday, 4:30pm to 10:00pm. Got Gospel? With Ed Wagner. www.RMCATOS.org Summer organ hours: Sunday through Thursday, CALIFORNIA (SOUTH) Joel’s Organ Barn—Southeast of Kiowa, 719-488- 5:30pm to 9:00pm, Friday and Saturday, 5:30pm Arlington Theatre—1317 State Street, Santa 9469 (4/38H). to 10:00pm. Charlie Balogh, Lew Williams. Barbara, 805-963-4408 (4/27RM). All concerts on www.organstoppizza.com Mt. St. Francis—7665 Assisi Heights, Colorado Saturdays, 11:00am. http://members.cox.net/sbtos/ Springs, 719-488-9469. Orpheum Theatre—203 West Adams, Phoenix, Avalon Casino Theatre—One Casino Way, 602-252-9678 (3/30W). www.silentsundays.com Paramount Theatre—Glenarm and 16th Street Catalina Island, 310-510-2414 (4/16P). Friday and Mall, Denver, 303-446-3330 (4/20W). CALIFORNIA (NORTH) Saturday, 6:15pm, pre-show concert, John Tusak. www.RMCATOS.org. www.visitcatalina.org Bella Roma Pizza—4040 Alhambra Avenue, Martinez, 925-228-4935 (3/16W). Tuesday through El Capitan Theatre—6838 Hollywood Boulevard, CONNECTICUT Thursday and Sunday, 6:00pm to 9:00pm; Friday Los Angeles, 800-DISNEY6 (4/37W). Organ played Thomaston Opera House—158 Main Street, and Saturday, 6:00pm to 10:00pm. Tuesday, for weekend intermissions and special showings. Thomaston, 203-426-2443 (3/15MC). Wednesday, Saturday, Dave Moreno; Thursday, House Organist: Rob Richards; Staff Organists: www.ThomastonOperaHouse.org Bob Reichert; Friday and Sunday, Kevin King. John Ledwon and Ed Vodicka. www.elcapitantickets.com DELAWARE Berkeley Community Theatre—1930 Alston Way, Dickinson High School—1801 Milltown Road, Berkeley, 510-632-9177 (4/33W). Sunday, May 20, Nethercutt Collection—15200 Bledsoe Street, Wilmington, 302-995-2603 (3/66K). Concerts at 2:30pm, Jonas Nordwall. Sylmar, 818-367-2251 (4/74W). Guided tours twice 8:00pm unless otherwise noted. Saturday, June 9, www.theatreorgans.com/norcal a day, Tuesday through Saturday, at 10:00am and 1:30pm. Free admission by reservation. Chris Elliott. www.geocities/com/dtoskimball or Bob Hope Theatre (Former Fox California)—242 Organ is played at the end of each tour. Organ www.dtoskimball.org Main Street, Stockton, 209-337-4673 (4/21 RM). concerts on Fridays at 8:00pm, Saturdays at Organ played monthly for classic and silent 2:00pm and 8:00pm. Reservations required in FLORIDA movies and for special occasions and public advance. Grace Baptist Church—8000 Bee Ridge Road, tours. Sarasota, 941-922-2044 (4/32W). For concert Old Town Music Hall—140 Richmond Street, El schedule, please visit our website. www.mtos.us Castro Theatre—429 Castro, San Francisco, 415- Segundo, 310-322-2592 (4/26W). Bill Field at the 621-6120 (4/21W). Intermissions played nightly by Wurlitzer. www.otmh.org The Kirk of Dunedin—2686 Bayshore Boulevard, David Hegarty, Warren Lubich. July 14 and 15, Dunedin, 813-733-5475 (4/100H). Dennis James; film titles to be announced (San Orpheum Theatre—842 South Broadway, Los www.kirkorgan.com Francisco Silent Film Festival). Angeles, 310-329-1455 (3/14W). Saturday, 11:30am; organ is featured as part of the guided Polk Theatre—127 South Florida Avenue, Fox Theatre—308 West Main Street, Visalia, 559- tour of theatre. www.laorpheum.com Lakeland, 863-682-7553 (3/11RM). Movie 625-1369 (4/24 W). Thirty-minute organ prelude, overtures: 7:45pm Friday and Saturday, 1:45pm with guest organist, to frequent classic movies. Plummer Auditorium—201 East Chapman, Sunday. Johnnie June Carter, Bob Courtney, www.foxvisalia.org Fullerton, 714-671-1300 (4/36W). www.octos.org Sandy Hobbis, and Heidi Lenker. Grand Lake Theatre—3200 Grand Avenue, San Gabriel Civic Auditorium—320 South Mission Roaring 20’s Pizza and Pipes—6750 US Highway Oakland, 510-452-3556 (3/18W). Intermissions: Drive, San Gabriel, 888-LATOS22 (3/17W). 301, Ellenton, 941-723-1733 (4/41W). Sunday Friday, Warren Lubich; Saturday, Kevin King. www.latos.org through Thursday evenings: Open 4:30pm to Harmony Wynelands—9291 East Harney Lane, Spreckels Organ Pavilion—Balboa Park, San 9:00pm; organ performance: 5:00pm-9:00pm. Lodi, 209-369-4184 (3/15 RM). Tasting room open Diego, 619-702-8138 (4/73A). All concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings: Open 4:30pm to Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 11:00am to Sunday afternoons at 2:00pm, unless otherwise 10:00pm; organ performance: 5:00pm to 5:00pm, or by appointment. Bob Hartzell, live noted. Carol Williams and guests. August 20, 10:00pm. Saturday and Sunday afternoons: and recorded performances. 8:15pm, Dennis James, Laurel & Hardy Festival. open 12:00 noon to 2:30pm; organ perfor- www.harmonywynelands.com www.serve.com/sosorgan mance: 12:30pm to 2:30pm. Wednesday, Friday, Saturday afternoons, Sunday evenings, and Johnson’s Alexander Valley Winery—8333 Trinity Presbyterian Church—3092 Kenwood, alternating Mondays: Dwight Thomas. Tuesday, Highway 128, Healdsburg, 707-433-2319 Spring Valley (San Diego), 619-286-9979 (4/24W). Thursday, Saturday evenings, Sunday afternoons, (3/10RM). Daily, in tasting room, from 10:00am to www.theatreorgans.com/ca/tossd/TOSSD/ and alternating Mondays: Bill Vlasak. 5:00pm. TOSSD.html www.roaring20spizza.com Kautz Vineyards and Winery—1894 Six Mile Road, COLORADO Tampa Theatre—711 Franklin Street, Tampa, 813- Murphys, 209-728-1251 (3/15RM). Winery tours; Avalon Theatre—645 Main Street, Grand 274-8981 (3/14W). Movie overtures: Bob Baker, Bill theatre pipe organ. Junction, 970-242-2188 (Electronic). Brusick, Bob Courtney, Sandy Hobbis, Richard www.ironstonevineyards.com/main.html www.gjsymphony.org Frank, and Bob Logan. www.tampatheatre.org

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Codes used in listing: A=Austin, B=Barton, C=Compton, The deadline for receiving Around the Circuit listings for the July/August issue of CHR=Christie, E=Estey, GB=Griffith Beach, H=Hybrid, K=Kimball, THEATRE ORGAN is May 15. M=Möller, MC=Marr and Colton, P=Page RM=Robert-Morton, Send information for inclusion to: W=Wurlitzer. Example: (4/19W) = 4 manual, 19 rank Wurlitzer Vern Bickel. P.O. Box 3885, Clearlake, California 95422-3885 Schedules subject to change. Voice/Fax 707-994-4436, [email protected]

HAWAII KANSAS Heights Theatre—3951 Central Avenue NE, Palace Theatre—38 Haili, Hilo, 808-934-7010 Century II Civic Center—225 West Douglas, Columbia Heights, 763-789-4992 (4/11W). Movie (4/8RM). Weekend movies, pre-show entertain- Wichita, 316-838 3127 (4/38W). Saturday, May 5, overtures every Friday and Saturday. ment: Bob Alder. www.hilopalace.org 7:00pm, Dave Wickerham. Minnesota State University, Moorhead—1104 7th www.nyparamountwurlitzer.org Avenue, South Moorhead, 701-237-0477 (3/7H). ILLINOIS Lloyd Collins, Steve Eneboe, Lance Johnson Arcada Theatre—105 East Main Street, MAINE and Dave Knudtson. St. Charles, 630-845-8900 (3/16GMC). Organ Merrill Auditorium—389 Congress Street, Port- E-mail: [email protected] interludes Friday and Saturday nights. http:// land, 207-883-9525 (5/107A). All concerts on onestientertainment.com/arcada/arcada.htm Tuesdays at 7:30pm, unless otherwise noted. MISSOURI www.foko.org Beggar’s Pizza—3524 Ridge Road, Lansing, Fox Theatre—527 Grand Boulevard North, St. Louis, 314-534-1678 (4/36W). Theatre tours at 708-418-3500 (3/14B). Tuesday 6:00pm to 9:00pm, MARYLAND Saturday and Sunday 3:00pm to 7:00pm: 10:30am with Stan Kann at the organ. Glenn Tallar. Rice Auditorium—Stoddard Street, Catonsville, www.fabulousfox.com 410-592-9322 (2/8M). www.beggarspizza.com/loca_lansing.php Jones Auditorium—College of the Ozarks, Point www.theatreorgans.com/md/freestate Coronado Theatre—314 North Main, Rockford, Lookout, college public relations 417-331-6411 815-547-8544 (4/17B). MASSACHUSETTS ext. 2212 (3/15W). www.centreevents.com/Coronado Knight Auditorium, Babson College—Wellesley Missouri Theatre—203 South 9th Street, Lincoln Theatre—103 East Main Street, Belleville, Avenue, Wellesley, 508-674-0276 (4/18W). Columbia, 573-875-0600 (2/8RM). Schedule to be 618-233-0018 (3/15H). Organ plays movie Sunday, May 6, 2:30pm, Phil Kelsall. announced. E-mail: [email protected] www.emcatos.com overtures: Friday, David Stephens; Saturday, NEW JERSEY volunteers. www.lincolntheatre-belleville.com The Shanklin Music Hall—130 Sandy Pond Road, Broadway Theatre—43 South Broadway, Pitman, Groton, 508-674-0276 (4/34W). Saturday, May 5, Rialto Square Theatre—102 North Chicago Street, 856-589-7519 (3/8K). Joliet, 815-726-6600 (4/27B). Organ pre-shows 7:30pm, Phil Kelsall; Sunday, June 3, 2:30pm, and intermissions: Jim Patak or Sam Yacono. Clark Wilson with short silent feature. The Music Hall at Northlandz—Route 202 South, Theatre tours with Jim Patak at the console. www.emcatos.com Flemington, 908-982-4022 (5/39W). Organ played several times daily; call for exact times. Bruce Tivoli Theatre—5021 Highland Avenue, Downers MICHIGAN Conway, Harry Ley, Bruce Williams. Grove, 630-968-0219 (3/10W). Theatre organ Crystal Theatre—304 Superior Avenue, Crystal Newton Theatre—234 Spring Street, Newton, interludes on Friday and Saturday, Freddy Arnish. Falls, 906-875-3208 (3/21M). E-mail: [email protected] www.classiccinemas.com 973-579-9993 (2/4E). Friday evening intermissions, Fox Theatre—2211 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, John Baratta. Virginia Theatre—203 West Park Street, 313-471-3200 (4/36W and 3/12M). Lobby organ Champaign, 217-356-9063 (2/8W). Organ played Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Auditorium— played for 45 minutes prior to selected shows. 27 Pilgrim Pathway, Ocean Grove, 732-775-0035 prior to monthly film series, Champaign-Urbana Call theatre for dates and times. Theatre Company performances, and many (4/154 Hope-Jones + Hybrid). Concerts by other live shows throughout the year. Warren Grand Ledge Opera House—121 South Bridge Dr. Gordon Turk. www.oceangrove.org York, organist. www.thevirginia.org Street, Grand Ledge, 888-333-POPS (3/20B). State Theatre—11 Livingston Avenue, New www.lto-pops.org York Theatre—150 North York Road, Elmhurst, 630- Brunswick, 732-246-7469 (electronic). 834-0675 (2/7B). Michigan Theatre—603 East Liberty, Ann Arbor, Symphony Hall—1040 Broad Street, Newark, 973- 616-668-8397 (3/13B). Wednesday through 256-5480 (3/15GB). Used for special events. INDIANA Sunday intermissions (times vary). Henry Aldridge, www.gstos.org Embassy Theatre—125 West Jefferson, Fort Director; Steven Ball, Staff Organist; Newton Trenton War Memorial—West Lafayette Street at Wayne, 260-424-6287 (4/16P). October 27, Bates, Wade Bray, John Lauter, Stephen Warner. Wilson, Trenton, 732-741-4045 (3/16M). 8:00pm, Dennis James plus the Fort Wayne The Mole Hole—150 West Michigan Avenue, www.gstos.org Philharmonic, Phantom of the Opera. Marshall, 616-781-5923 (2/6 B/K). Organ daily, www.EmbassyCentre.org Scott Smith, recorded artist. Union County Arts Center—1601 Irving Street, Rahway, 732-499-8226 (2/7W). www.ucac.org Long Center for the Performing Arts—111 North Public Museum of Grand Rapids Meijer Theatre— 6th, Lafayette, 765-589-8474 (3/21W). 272 Pearl Street NW, Grand Rapids, 616-459-4253 NEW YORK www.cicatos.org (3/30W). Tours by appointment, and ATOS guests Auditorium Center—885 East Main, Rochester, welcome to hear organ weekly at noon on Manual High School—2405 Madison Avenue, 585-544-6595 (4/23W). Sunday, May 6, 2:30pm, Thursdays. Story time slide program during school Indianapolis, 317-356-3561 (3/26W). Jerry Nagano. year. Organ played on Sundays, 1:00pm to www.cicatos.org http://theatreorgans.com/rochestr/ 3:00pm. Paramount Theatre—1124 Meridian, Anderson, Bardavon 1869 Opera House—35 Market Street, Redford Theatre—17360 Lahser Road, Detroit, 800-523-4658 (3/12P). www.parathea.org Poughkeepsie, 914-473-2072 (2/8W). Organ 313-531-4407 (3/10B). Movie overtures, Fridays at played before selected movies. Call or check Warren Center—9500 East Sixteenth Street, 7:30pm, Saturdays at 1:30pm and 7:30pm. Guest the website for details. www.bardavon.org Indianapolis, 317-295-8121 (3/18B). organists: Steven Ball, Gus Borman, David www.cicatos.org Calendine, Jennifer Candea, Gil Francis, John Capitol Theatre—220 West Dominick Street, Lauter, Tony O’Brien, Sharron Patterson. Rome, 315-337-2576 (3/7M). Silent film programs IOWA http://redfordtheatre.com in 35mm (all shows start at 7:00pm). North Iowa Area Community College—Mason www.theatreorgans.com/ny/rome City, 641-422-4354 (electronic). Senate Theatre—6424 Michigan Avenue, Detroit, 313-894-4100 (4/36W). All concerts start at The Clemens Center—207 Clemens Center Orpheum Theatre—528 Pierce Street, Sioux City, 3:00pm. Parkway, Elmira, 800-724-8191 (4/20MC). 712-279-4850 (3/22W). www.OrpheumLive.com www.clemenscenter.com Paramount Theatre—123 3rd Avenue, Cedar MINNESOTA Empire Theatre—581 State Fair Boulevard, Rapids, 319-393-4129 (3/12W). Center For The Arts—124 Lincoln Avenue West, Syracuse, 315-451-4943 (3/11W). All concerts start Fergus Falls, 218-736-5453 (3/12W). at 7:30pm unless stated otherwise. www.fergusarts.org www.jrjunction.com/estmim

MAY | JUNE 2007 67 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:17 PM Page 68

Theatre Organ Programs and Performances

Lafayette Theatre—Lafayette Avenue, Suffern, Palace Theatre—605 Market Avenue North, Roxy Theatre—2004 Main Street, Northampton, 845-369-8234 (2/11W). Earle Seeley. Saturday, Canton, 330-454-8171 (3/12Kilgen). Frequent pre- 610-262-7699 (2/6W). Organ is played 6:30pm to 11:00am, Jeff Barker. Saturday evenings and show and intermission use, occasional concert. 7:00pm and intermissions. Henry Thomas. Sunday before matinee, John Baratta. www.cantonpalacetheatre.org//content/view/ www.Roxytheaternorthampton.com 29/65/ Long Island University—385 Flatbush Extension, Strand-Capitol PAC—50 North George Street, Brooklyn (4/26W). Organ undergoing repairs. Palace Theatre—Cleveland’s Playhouse Square, York, 717-846-1111 (3/20W). 1515 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, 216-771-1771 www.strandcapitol.org Middletown Paramount Theatre—19 South Street, (3/15K). Organ pre-shows for summer film series Middletown, 845-346-4195 (3/12W). Pre-show and special events. RHODE ISLAND music, concerts and silent films presented by the http://playhousesquare.brinkster.net/cinema/ New York Chapter of ATOS and the Middletown Stadium PAC—28 Monument Square, Woon- Paramount Theatre. www.nytos.org Palace Theatre—617 Broadway, Lorain, 440-245- socket, 401-762-4545 (2/10W). Wednesday, 2323 (3/10W). Occasional pre-show and inter- May 9, 10:00am, A Tribute to Our Land. Coffee Proctor’s Theatre—432 State Street, Schenectady, mission use, and special events. concert with Jack Cook at the Wurlitzer and 518-346-8204 (3/18W). Noon concert series, www.lorainpalace.org guest artists; Sunday, September 9, 3:00pm, The Tuesdays, unless stated otherwise. Music’s Always There with Jack and friends www.proctors.org Palace Theatre—276 West Center Street, Marion, presenting an organ concert and variety show. 740-383-2101 (3/10W). Occasional pre-show and Riviera Theatre and Performing Arts Center—67 www.stadiumtheatre.com special events. Webster Street, North Tonawanda, 716-692-2413, www.marionpalace.org/index.html?home.php~b fax 716-692-0364 (3/18W). All concerts start at SOUTH CAROLINA 7:30pm. Tickets are $10.00. Wednesday, May 16, Renaissance Theatre—138 Park Avenue, Recital Hall—School of Music, 813 Assembly David Nelson; Wednesday, June 6, R. Jelani Mansfield, 419-522-2726 (3/20W). Frequent use, Street, Columbia, 803-777-3214 (2/36D). Eddington; Wednesday, July 11, Mark Herman; including free summer concert series. Wednesday, August 1, Ken Double; Wednesday, www.culture.ohio.gov/project.asp?proj=renaissance TENNESSEE September 5, Byron Jones; Wednesday, October 3, The Paramount Center for the Arts—518 State Chris Gorsuch; Wednesday, November 7, Donna OKLAHOMA Street, Bristol, 423-274-8920 (3/11+W). Parker; Wednesday, December 5, Dave Coleman Theatre—103 North Main Street, Miami. www.theparamountcenter.com Wickerham. 918-540-2425 (3/12W). Tennessee Theatre—604 South Gay Street, Shea’s Buffalo Theatre—646 Main Street, Buffalo, Tulsa Technology Center—129th E Ave (Olive) Knoxville, 865-684-1200 (3/16W). Organ played 716-684-8414 (4/28W). www.theatre organs.com and 111th Street, Tulsa, 918-355-1562 (3/13RM). before movies throughout the year and at free /ny/buffaloarea/sheas/concert.htm Third Friday of each month, programs and open First Monday concerts, the first Monday of every console. members.aol.com/SoonerStateATOS month at 12:00 noon. Subject to cancellation NORTH CAROLINA due to other scheduled events. Carolina Theatre—310 South Green Street, OREGON www.tennesseetheatre.com Greensboro, 336-333-2600 (3/6H-electronic). Bijou Theatre—1624 NE Highway 101, Lincoln City, Organ played before and after the Carolina 541-994-8255 (electronic). Silent film series on TEXAS Classic Film Series. www.carolinatheatre.com Wednesdays at 1:00pm. www.cinemalovers.com Jefferson Theatre—345 Fannin, Beaumont, 409- 835-5483 (3/8 RM). Organ played occasionally NORTH DAKOTA Elsinore Theatre—170 High Street SE, Salem, 503- before shows and for concerts. 375-3574 (3/25W). Silent film programs start Fargo Theatre—314 North Broadway, Fargo, 701- www.jeffersontheatre.org Wednesdays at 7:00pm. Rick Parks, organist. 239-8385 (4/21W). Organ plays Friday, Saturday, www.elsinoretheatre.com McKinney Performing Arts Center—111 North and Sunday evenings, before and between Tennessee Street, McKinney, 972-547-2650 performances. Short organ concerts: Lance PENNSYLVANIA (3/17W). www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org Johnson, Steve Eneboe and Tyler Engberg. www.fargotheatre.org Keswick Theatre—Easton Road and Keswick Meyerson Symphony Center—3201 Flora Street, Avenue, Glenside, 610-659-1323 (3/19M). Musical Dallas (4/84F). OHIO overtures before live shows. House organists: Barbara Fesmire, Michael Xavier Lundy, Bernie Akron Civic Theatre—182 South Main Street, UTAH McGorrey. www.keswicktheatre.com Akron, 330-253-2488 (3/19W). www.akroncivic.com Capitol Theatre—200 South 50 West Street, Salt Keystone Oaks High School—1000 Kelton Lake City, 801-355-2787 (2/11W). Grays Armory—1234 Bolivar Road, Cleveland, Avenue, Pittsburgh, 412-921-8558 (3/19W). All www.slco.org/fi/facilities/capitol/capitol.html 440-338-5233 (3/15W). Spring and fall public concerts on Saturdays at 7:30pm. concerts, occasional special events. Call for The Organ Loft—3331 South Edison Street, Salt www.aol.com/wurli2/ concert dates and ticket info (home of WRTOS). Lake City, 801-485-9265 (5/36W). www.theatreorgans.com/clevelan.arm Longwood Gardens—Kennett Square, 610- www.organloftslc.com 388-1000 (4/146 Aeolian). Organ undergoing The Historic Ohio Theatre—3114 Lagrange Street, Peery’s Egyptian Theatre—2415 Washington restoration. Toledo, 419-241-6785 (4/11MC). Organ pre-show Boulevard, Ogden, 801-395-3200 (3/24W). Silent for movies (6:30pm to 7:00pm). Macy’s—13th and Market, Philadelphia (6/469H). films; entrance and exit music at some other Regular daily 45-minute recitals: Monday- programs. www.peerysegyptiantheater.com Hottenroth Center for the Performing Arts—300 Saturday, 12:00 noon; Monday, Tuesday, Dublin-Granville Road, Worthington, 614-670- Thursday, Saturday, 5:30pm: Wednesday, Friday, VIRGINIA 4487 or 614-486-6043 (3/16W). 7:00pm. Visitors are welcome to tour the console Byrd Theatre—2908 West Carey, Richmond, 804- Masonic Auditorium and Performing Arts Center— area (Floor Two) and meet the staff following the 353-9911 (4/17W). Overtures Saturdays, 7:15pm 3615 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, 216-432-2370 daily concerts. Special concerts (free admission): and 9:30pm, Bob Gulledge. (4/28W). Organ is currently being installed by Tom Hazleton Memorial Concert: because of WRTOS, Inc. the transition to Macy’s, this concert will be held WASHINGTON www.aasrcleveland.org/tour/aud1-ljpg.htm at a date to be determined. Wanamaker Organ Everett Theatre—2911 Colby, Everett, 425-258- Day on June 9: Watch for details to come 6766 (3/16K). www.everetttheatre.org Ohio Theatre—55 East State Street, Columbus, regarding our annual day-long music festival. 614-469-1045 (4/34RM). Organ overtures and Kenyon Hall—7904 35th Avenue SW, Seattle, 206- www.wanamakerorgan.com intermissions. www.capa.com 937-3613 (2/10W). Saturday and Sunday, 2:00pm, silent film. Call to verify schedule.

68 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:17 PM Page 69

Lincoln Theatre Center—712 South 1st Street, Mt. Orpheum Theatre—380 Military Road, Cremorne, Fentham Hall—Marsh Lane, Hampton-in-Arden, Vernon (Style D W). Organ played Friday through NSW, (02) 9908-4344 (3/15W). Saturday night, Solihull, 011-44-0-1564-794778 (3/11C). All con- Tuesday before the film. www.lincolntheater.org Sunday afternoon, intermissions, Neil Jensen. certs on Sundays at 3:00pm. www.cos-centralandwales.co.uk Mt. Baker Theatre—106 North Commercial, AUSTRIA Bellingham (2/12W). Second Sunday monthly, Kilburn State Theatre—197-199 Kilburn, High 2:00pm, open console. Konzerthaus—Lothringerstrasse 20, Vienna, (+43-1) Road, Kilburn, London (4/16W). www.atos- 242 00-0 (5/113R). Thursday, May 14, 8:00pm, london.co.uk Paramount Theatre—911 Pine Street, Seattle, 206- Dennis James, Phantom of the Opera. 467-5510 (4/20W). May 7, 7:00pm, Dennis James, New Victoria Centre—High Street, Howden-le- Why Worry and Hot Water; Monday, May 21, CANADA Wear, Crook, County Durham, 011-44-0-1388- 7:00pm, Dennis James, The Kid Brother and Casa Loma—1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, Ontario, 762467 (3/18W). Concerts on Saturdays at Speedy; Friday, May 25, 7:00pm, Dennis James, 416-421-0918 (4/19W). All concerts on Monday at 7:00pm and Sundays at 2:30pm. May 12 and 13, The Freshman and For Heaven’s Sake. 8:00pm. www.theatreorgans.com/toronto John Mann; June 9, Francis Jackson “In Classical www.theparamount.com Mood”; August 11, Youth at the Console; Church of the Redeemer—89 Kirkpatrick Street, September 8 and 9, Trevor Bolshaw, October 13, Washington Center for the Performing Arts—512 Kingston, Ontario, 613-544-5095 (3/28K). [KTOS Donald MacKenzie, Film Night; November 10 Washington Street SE, Olympia, 360-753-8586 c/o John Robson, 412-217 Bath Road, Kingston, and 11, Iain Flitcroft; December 15 and 16, Chris (3/25W). www.washingtoncenter.org Ontario, Canada. K7M 2X7.] Friday, May 4, Simon Powell, Gala Christmas Concert. Gledhill, The Silver Lining. All concerts 8:00pm www.theatreorgans.com/uk/netoa WASHINGTON, D.C. unless otherwise stated. National Gallery of Art-East Building—6th Street E-mail: [email protected] Ossett Town Hall—Market Place, Ossett, and Constitution Avenue NW, 202-842-6272 Wakefield, West Yorkshire, 011-44-0-1132-705885 (electronic). Saturday, May 5, 4:00pm, Dennis Uptown Theatre—612 8th Avenue SW, Calgary, (3/13C). All concerts on Sundays at 2:30pm. Alberta. 403-543-5115 (GW-4). the netherlands James, Seventh Heaven. Peterborough Regional College—Eastfield Road, Geref—Jeugdgebouw, Burg. V. Esstraat 34, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, 011-44-0-1733- WISCONSIN Pernis, 018-1623195 (3/6 Compton). 262800 (2/11W). www.ptops.ptops-wurlitzer.co.uk DePere Cinema—100 North George Street, Kunkels Street Organ Museum—Kuppersweg 3, DePere, 920-339-8501 (electronic). The Ritz Ballroom—73 Bradford Road, Brighouse, Haarlem (3/11 Compton). Ready September. West Yorkshire, 011-44-0-274 589939 (3/10W). All Lakeshore Cinema—1112 Washington Street, Theatre ‘Aan de Schie’—Stadserf 1, Schiedam, concerts on Sundays at 2:30pm. All dances on Manitowoc, 920-339-8501 (electronic). 010-4263957 (3/11 Standaart). Saturdays at 7:45pm. www.cosnorth.co.uk www.packerlandtos.tripod.com www.xs4all.nl/~janhuls/Pagina-EN/NOF-intro- St. Albans Organ Museum—320 Camp Road, Organ Piper Music Palace—4353 South 108th E.htm Street Albans, Hertfordshire, 011-44-0-1727- Street, Greenfield (Milwaukee), 414-529-1177 Theatre ‘de Meenthe’—Stationsplein 1, Steenwijk, 851557 (3/12W). (3/27H). Organ hours: Tuesday 5:30pm to 9:00pm, 052-1515537 (4/29 Strunk). www.stalbansorganmuseum.org.uk Wednesday 5:30pm to 10:00pm with live band, http://home.wanadoo.nl/tomk/website_peter/ Thursday 5:30pm to 9:00pm, Friday 5:00pm to St. John Vianney RC Church—Clayhall, 1 Stone- web/index.html 9:45pm, Saturday 12:30pm to 9:45pm, Sunday leigh Road, Ilford, Essex, 011-44-0-1525-872356 12:30pm to 8:45pm. Ron Reseigh, Ralph Conn, Tuschinski Theatre—Reguliersbreestraat 26, Am- (3/7C). www.cinema-organs.org.uk and Dean Rosko. sterdam, 020-6951439 (4/10 Strunk/Wurlitzer). Singing Hills Golf Course—Albourne near Oriental Theatre—2230 North Farwell Avenue, NEW ZEALAND Brighton, 011-44-0-1903-261972 (3/19W). All Milwaukee, 414-276-8711 (3/39K). http://theatre concerts at 3:00pm. organs.com/wi/milwaukee/orientaltheatre/ Hollywood Cinema—20 St. Georges Road, Avondale Auckland (+64 9) 525-7067 (3/15 Thomas Peacocke Community College—The Phipps Center for the Arts—109 Locust Street, mostly Wurlitzer). Sunday, June 10, 2:00pm, Tony Grove, Rye, East Sussex, 011-44-0-1424-444058 Hudson, 715-386-8409 (3/16W). www.ThePhipps.org Fenelon; Sunday, August 5, 2:00pm, David (2/6W). All concerts on Sundays at 2:30pm, Peckham; Sunday, October 7, 2:00pm, Dave except the May 2007 Weekend. Saturday, AUSTRALIA Wickerham; Sunday, November 4, 2:00pm, May 5, 2:30pm, President’s Weekend, Len Capri Theatre—141 Goodwood Road, Good- Robert Wolfe—Celebrating the Hollywood Rawle; 7:00pm, Nigel Ogden; May 6, 10:30am, wood, SA, (08) 8272 1177 (4/29H). Organ used Wurlitzer’s 25th year of music-making at the Chris Powell; 2:30pm, Presidents’ Concert, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Hollywood Cinema. Len Rawle, John Mann, Janet Dowsett, Chris www.theatreorgans.com/wota Powell; September 23, 2:30pm, Nicholas Martin; Dendy Cinema—26 Church Street, Brighton, VIC, October 21, 2:30pm, John Mann; November 18, (03) 9781 5349 (3/15W). Organ before films, UNITED KINGDOM 2:30pm, Michael Wooldridge; December 2, Saturday evenings. 2:30pm, Jean Martyn. The Assembly Hall—Stoke Abbot Road, www.geocities.com/ryewurlitzer Her Majesty’s Theatre—17 Lydiard Street, South, Worthing, Sussex, 011-44-0-1903-206206 (3/23W). Ballarat, VIC, (03) 5333 2181 (3/8C). All concerts on Sundays at 3:00pm, unless noted Town Hall—Victoria Road, Portslade, Sussex, John Leckie Music Centre—25 Melvista Avenue, otherwise. Dances Saturday, 7:15pm. 011-44-0-1293-844788 (3/20C). www.organfax.co.uk/clubs/southcoast-tos.html Nedlands, WA, (08) 9276-6668 (3/12C). The Barry Memorial Hall—7 Gladstone Road, au.geocities.com/tosa_wa/index.html Barry, South Glamorgan (4/15CHR). www.atos- Woking Leisure Centre—Woking Park, Kingfield Karrinyup Center—Perth, WA, (61) 9447-9837 london.co.uk Road, Woking, Surrey (3/17W). www.atos-london.co.uk (3/21W). All concerts on Sundays at 2:00pm. The Burtey Fen Collection—3 Burtey Fen Lane, Malvern Town Hall—Glenferrie Road and High Pinchbeck, Spalding, Lincs, 011-44-0-1775 766081 Street, Malvern, VIC, (03) 9781 5349 (3/16C). (3/12C) (2/8W). www.burteyfen.co.uk Marrickville Town Hall—Corner Marrickville and Civic Hall—North Street, Wolverhampton, West Petersham Roads, Marrickville, NSW, (02) 9629 Midlands 011-44-0-1902-552121 (4/44C). Friday 2257 (2/11W). www.tosa.net.au noontime concerts 12:00 noon to 12:30pm before the tea dance. Steve Tovey or Cameron Orion Centre—155 Beamish Street, Campsie, Lloyd. Concerts Saturdays at 2:00pm. NSW, (02) 9629 2257 (3/17W). www.tosa.net.au http://geocities.com/comptonplus/civic_hall.html

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Restoration • Consultation • Installation

Scott Smith Pipe Organs 1494 Lake Lansing Road • Lansing, Michigan • 48912 Telephone 517- 485-5421

[email protected]

Tuning • Maintenance • Cleaning The OHS Catalog SHEET MUSIC N BOOKS N RECORDINGS

TTThheatreeatre Organ Recordings FFFeaturingeaturingeaturing John Atwell • Steven Ball • Charles Balogh • Knight Barnett Keith Beckingham • Don Bellomy • George Blackmore Jason Bratton • Jackie Brown • Gaylord Carter • Robinson Cleaver Peter Conte • John Cook • Jesse Crawford • Rick Cucchi Carlo Curley • Ronald Curtis • William Davies • Reginald Dixon Ken Double • Jelani Eddington • Chris Elliott • Lee Erwin • Bob Eyer Tony Fenelon • Rusty Ferracone • Horace Finch • Paul Fitzgerald Reginald Foort • Scott Foppiano • Virgil Fox • John Giacchi Simon Gledhill • David Hamilton • Tom Hazleton • Ryan Heggie Mark Herman • Dick Hyman • Neil Jensen • Kevin King • Don Kinnier Lyn Larsen • Ann Leaf • John Ledwon • Arnold Loxam • Lance Luce Charles Lynch • Donald Mackenzie • Quentin MacLain • Kylie Mallett Chris McPhee • Jerry Mendelsson • Billy Nalle • Jonas Nordwall David Peckham • Robert Plimpton • Chris Powell • Bob Ralston Len Rawle • Douglas Reeve • Ron Rhode • Rob Richards • Jim Riggs Bryan Rodwell • Jim Roseveare • Bob Salisbury • Josef Seal Hubert Selby • John Seng • Gerald Shaw • Patti Simon • Walt Strony Tommy Stark • Don Thompson • Ray Thornley • Sidney Torch POPS Piet van Egmond • Brett Valliant • Dave Wickerham on Carol Williams • Lew Williams • Clark Wilson • Ty Woodward PIPES George Wright • Brend Wurzenrainer central Indiana chapter The OHS Catalog features over 4,000 titles. 2007 concert Series Contact us about including yours! Indianapolis E-mail: [email protected] Jelani Eddington March 25, 2:30, Hedback Theatre Order online: http://www.ohscatalog.org Richard Hills Shipping to U.S. addresses is $4.00 for your entire order. June 3, 2:30, Warren PAC Shipping outside U.S. is $4.00 plus postage charged to your VISA or Ken Double MasterCard; specify airmail or surface. September 9, 2:30, Warren PAC donna Parker Organ Historical Society October 21, 2:30, Hedback Theatre P. O. Box 26811 • Richmond, VA 23261 For tickets or more information: Open Monday-Friday 9:30am - 5:00pm ET www.cicatos.com Telephone (804)353-9226 [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] 317-345-8121

70 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:17 PM Page 71

ADVERTISING

RATES SIZES COLOR BLACK & WHITE SIZE WIDTH HEIGHT SIZES 1ISSUE 1ISSUE 3 ISSUES 6 ISSUES Full Page 7 3⁄4"103⁄8" each Consecutive Consecutive Full Page with 1⁄8'' bleed 9" 11 5⁄8" issue each issue each issue 2/3 Page vertical 4 3⁄4"97⁄8" Outside Back Cover $1,275 2/3 Page horizontal 7 1⁄4"65⁄8" Inside Front Cover $1,050 1/2 Page vertical 4 3⁄4"71⁄2" Inside Back Cover $950 1/2 Page horizontal 7 1⁄4" 5" Full Page $1,000 $425 $400 $375 1/3 Page (1 column) 2 1⁄4"97⁄8" 2/3 Page $700 $300 $275 $250 1/3 Page (2 columns) 4 3⁄4" 4 7⁄8" 1/2 Page $500 $280 $260 $240 1/3 Page (3 columns) 7 1⁄4"31⁄4" 1/3 Page $400 $200 $190 $180 1/4 Page (1 column) 2 1⁄4"71⁄4" 1/4 Page $300 $180 $170 $160 1/4 Page (2 columns) 4 3⁄4"33⁄4" 1/6 Page $250 $150 $140 $130 1/4 Page (3 columns) 7 1⁄4"21⁄2" Outer Wrap $475 $450 $425 1/6 Page (1 column) 2 1⁄4"47⁄8" Stitch In $275 $265 $255 1/6 Page (2 columns) 4 3⁄4"17⁄8" CONTRACT ADS Single ProCard vertical 2 1⁄4"31⁄2" ProCards are for six issues only. COLOR BLACK & Single ProCard horizontal 3 1⁄2" 2'' No cancellations or refunds. WHITE Double ProCard 31⁄2" 4'' Single ProCard (horizontal or vertical) $650 $275 Trim Size of THEATRE ORGAN is 8 3⁄4" x 11 3⁄8" Double ProCard $1,300 $495

Consecutive issue prices are based on the ad supplied when the order is placed. A different same-sized ad may be substituted during contract time at no extra charge; if you ask us to change the copy, you will be billed at $75.00 per hour. Multi-issue discount rates for color ads are available; contact the Editor or his 1/2 page 2/3 page Administrative Assistant for specific pricing. vertical 1/3 page horizontal 2 col. DEADLINES—Deadline for placing ads is the 1st of each even month prior to the publication release date. For example: ads are due April 1 for the May/June issue. Cancellations, substitutions, and changes must adhere to the same deadline. CLASSIFIED ADS—75¢ per word for ATOS members; $1.00 per word for non- members. $10.00 minimum. Not counted as words: a, and, the, &. Phone numbers are counted as one word, as are hyphenated words. All classified ads 1/3 2/3 page must be submitted PRE-PAID to avoid a $10.00 handling/billing charge. PRE- pg. PAID charge of $15.00 to have a THEATRE ORGAN showing your ad sent to 1/4 vertical pg. 1 col. your mailing address. Deadline for placing ads is the 1st of each even month 1/3 page 1 col. 1/4 page (February, April, June, August, October and December). Make check payable to 3 col. 2 col. ATOS and send to: Jeff Weiler, THEATRE ORGAN Editor, American Theatre Organ Society, 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905, Chicago, Illinois 60616. Word counts may be verified in advance by e-mailing Joanne, the Editorial Office Administrative Assistant, at [email protected]. DISPLAY AD SPECIFICATIONS—Electronic files are preferred to ensure the best possible quality. Accepted formats include high-resolution pdf, sgl. double vert. QuarkXPress, Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop on Mac or PC platforms. ProCard Pro- Illustrator files should be saved in EPS or native format with all fonts turned to 1/6 Card outlines (include any embedded scans). Files sent must be in native format pg. 1/4 page 3 col. 1 col. 1/6 page sgl. hor. sgl. hor. including all fonts and support files. 2 col. ProCard ProCard Scanned images should be saved as EPS or TIF (CMYK only, no RGB) with minimum 300 dpi resolution (minimum of 600 dpi if item contains type) for 150 lpi output. If Photoshop document, save as CMYK or grayscale EPS with vector Ads will incur additional charges if files are in other formats than listed, data option checked. do not comply to specs, are not correctly sized or are incomplete. Advertiser, Supply all fonts used (screen and printer). Avoid mixing Type 1 and Truetype upon notification and prior approval, will be billed at prevailing rates. fonts in the same document. A printed proof or a PDF proof must accompany ad. Media accepted CONTACT & SUBMISSIONS—For ad placement, questions or submis- includes Zip 100, 250, CD or DVD. Files less than 5 megabytes can be submitted sions, contact Jeff Weiler, Editor, at [email protected]; or Jeff’s Administrative by e-mail. Assistant, Joanne, at 773-878-7817 or [email protected].

MAY | JUNE 2007 71 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 3:17 PM Page 72

FORSALE WANTED ADVERTISERINDEX Allen Organs...... BC AMICA...... 65 ORGAN LESSONS ON VIDEOCASSETTE: LAURELANDHARDYSHORTFILMS. Arndt Organ Supply Co...... 70 PART I: Manual & Pedal Technique, 32 Must be silents, with sub-titles. Call Bob ATOS Summer Camp...... 47 Audio Arts ...... 70 minutes, $29.95. PART II: Registration, 56 Lewis, 630-530-4638. 05/07 minutes, $29.95. PART III: Hymn Ball, Steven ...... 29 CICATOS: K. Double recording; Accompaniment, 85 minutes, $29.95. Buy Pops on Pipes...... 65, 70 all three together for special price of $84.95. CLASSIFIED ads—75¢ per word for ATOS Cole, Susan: “Pop” Organ Concerts...... 6 Go to www.allenorgan.com to order, or write members; $1.00 per word for non-members. Crome Organ Co...... 39 to: ALLEN ORGAN COMPANY LLC, P.O. $10.00 minimum. Not counted as words: a, Diapason ...... 65 Box 36, Macungie, Pennsylvania 18062- and, the, &. Phone numbers are counted as Digital Toy Counter ...... 20 0036, or phone 610-966-2202. ++ one word, as are hyphenated words. All Eddington, Jelani: New recordings; classified ads must be submitted PRE-PAID recordings; OrganMP3.com; CUSTOM ESTATE, WITH COMPLETELY to avoid a $10.00 handling/billing charge. concerts...... 2, 6, 20, 50 RESTORED 4/22 THEATRE PIPE ORGAN. PRE-PAID charge of $15.00 to have a Foppiano, Scott ...... 57 This peaceful, 27 acre jewel of Northern THEATRE ORGAN showing your ad sent to Herman, Mark ...... 20 Kann, Stan ...... 20 California includes a very large main your mailing address. Deadline for placing League of Historic American Theatres...... 65 residence designed for the organ and for ads is the FIRST of each even month (February, April, June, August, October and Leather Supply House ...... 50 entertaining, plus a second home and Michael’s Music Service...... 25 December). Make check payable to ATOS beautifully landscaped grounds with water Music Box Society ...... 65 and send to: Jeff Weiler, THEATRE ORGAN features. For more information, please call Organ Historical Society ...... 65, 70 Editor, American Theatre Organ Society, 530-873-2582. 05/07 Parker, Donna...... 6 1845 South Michigan Avenue #1905, Pipe Organ Percussions ...... 25 Chicago, Illinois 60616. Word counts may be WURLITZER STYLE E, Ralston, Bob...... 39 2/7, Opus 779, no toy verified in advance by e-mailing Joanne, counter, no rectifier. In storage; buyer to Rogers, Fr. Andrew...... 6 the Editorial Office Administrative Assistant, Smith, Scott...... 70 move. $8,000. 715-386-9538. 05/07 at [email protected]. Strony, Walt ...... 17 University of Oklahoma...... 6 Walker Theatre Organs...... IFC Weiler, Jeff...... 6 White Blower Mfg., Inc...... 6 Wilson, Clark ...... 20 Wurlitzer Book ...... 51 Zollman Pipe Organ Services ...... 29

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

72 THEATREORGAN ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 2:51 PM Page 2 ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 2:52 PM Page 73 ATOS Marketplace Prices listed INCLUDE shipping within U.S.A. THEWURLITZERPIPEORGAN–ANILLUSTRATED HISTORY — This long-awaited complete history of the Wurlitzer theatre organ by David Junchen is an essential reference book for every theatre organ enthusiast. With 800 pages of interesting facts, photos and appendices, each volume is sequentially numbered corresponding to the Wurlitzer organ opus list. Fabulous photos, informative tables and lists of long-forgotten Wurlitzer information…an absolute must! $140.00 WURLITZERCONSOLEARTPRINTS — Whether you attach them to your workshop walls or frame them, these prints of 12 original factory photos of spectacular consoles are a must for your collection of theatre organ memorabilia. Each one is 11" wide and 14" high, printed on heavy card stock, suitable for framing. $20.00 WURLITZER FACTORY TOUR — This video is a copy of a vintage newsreel showing various portions of the Wurlitzer factory and the actual construction of Wurlitzer pipe organs. Includes visits to the pipe shop, voicing rooms, console, cable-making departments and many other sections of the North Tonawanda factory. $24.00 ATOS 50TH ANNIVERSARY BOOK — Published in hardcover and softcover editions, this 150-page book is an absolute must for all theatre organ aficionados. Text and pictures cover the first 50 years of the American Theatre Organ Society’s history. Contains many historic photos, quotes, and informative tidbits, including photos of the first meeting of the organization. Hardcover: $35.00. Softcover: $15.00. THEATRE ORGAN BINDERS — Here is the best way to store your past issues of THEATRE ORGAN (through July/August 2006). Holds up to two full years of magazines. Includes metal wires to attach your journals to the binder. Black finish with gold lettering. Pouch on spine for identification information. $14.00 DECAL — Help promote ATOS; put these decals every- where! Three-inch self-stick adhesive back with red, gold and black printing. $1.00 LAPEL PIN — Show your support of the theatre organ by wearing this American Theatre Organ Society lapel pin. Approximately one-half inch in diameter. Bronze color with embossed lettering makes for a distinctive look. $2.50 BACK ISSUES — Complete your collection of THEATRE ORGAN. Quantities are limited. $6.00

An ATOS Marketplace order form is printed on the mailing cover of each issue of THEATRE ORGAN. The prices listed above are postpaid for all orders shipped within the U.S.A. See the order form for additional shipping charges on items sent outside of the U.S.A. VISA and MasterCard are accepted. If you have any questions, please contact John Ledwon, ATOS Marketplace Manager, at [email protected] or 818-889-8894. ATOS MayJun 49-3 J 4/6/07 2:51 PM Page 74

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

How about a dramatic Let us build white and gold Fox Package? Or something in black and one especially silver? Black and gold? White and silver? Sorry— for you! no pink and black…yet!

What about sound? Do you want a Unit Orchestra with patented Quantum™ Technology—including Acoustic Portrait™ ? www.allenorgan.com Do you desire stop-by-stop 150 Locust Street, P.O. Box 36 and note-by-note voicing? Macungie, PA 18062-0036 USA Maybe both a theatre and Phone: 610-966-2202 a classical spec instead of Fax: 610-965-3098 four-voicing capability? E-mail: [email protected]

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