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Details of the Odeon Wurlitzer are as follows:
The Wurlitzer pipe organ in the Odeon (ex Paramount) Manchester was shipped to this country from America on the 14th July, 1930. Job No. 2120, the instrument was known as a Publix No.1 model and was designed by the famous American organist, Jesse Crawford, who later played it in person when he visited Manchester in the thirties. The only one of it's kind to be installed outside America, it was at the time of the recording the largest theatre pipe organ remaining in any European Theatre. The organ was opened on October 6th 1930 with Charles Smart at the console, since when it has been played and broadcast by many famous organists. Apart from a series of 78 r.p.m. records made by Henry Croudson in it's early years, this is the first solo record to be issued of this wonderful instrument. The organ was cleaned in 1947 when the Solo Vox Humana rank was replaced by an English Horn, and as it exists to-day there are 20 ranks (sets) of pipes installed in two huge chambers (rooms) on either side of the theatre proscenium arch. The organ possesses the usual traps and percussions and has an unenclosed Master Xylophone and upright piano, which is featured on this recording. In 1969 Robin Richmond christened the Odeon, Manchester organ "The Queen" Wurlitzer and we are sure you will agree that she sounds her regal best under the hands of two capable musicians who present for your enjoyment a selection of well-loved melodies.
Details of the Gaumont Wurlitzer are as follows:
The 4 Manual, 14 unit Wulitzer organ in the Gaumont, Manchester was installed in 1935 and was made famous throughout the country through the broadcasts of the late Stanley Tudor who was organist for many years. This instrument has become known as the "Tudor Rose" of Manchester. In January, 1974 the theatre closed following a memorable farewell organ concert when well over 500 people were turned away after every seat in the house was filled. The organ was purchased by the LTOT and in due course will be re-installed in a new home. Meanwhile at the time of writing (September, 1974) the instrument is in store.
Tracks Include: Eric Lord - Getting Sentimental Over You, Sentimental Journey, How am I to Know, Love in Bloom, Memories of You, I'll Get By, I Left My Heart in San Francisco.
Noel Briggs - Dambusters March, That's a Plenty, That Naughty Waltz, Band Call: String of Pearls, Skyliner, Bedtime for Drums. Quicksteppin Round.
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