In regard to Bob Taylor's question on Band Organs on Independence Day
(MMD 030704), I have played my 165 Stinson organ and Cozatt calliope
for several years on this great American holiday at various town
celebrations, always with good receptions and invitations to return.

The last two years I  have played at the Enon (that's "None" spelled
backwards!), Ohio, July 3rd fireworks, presented by the Enon VFW.
This is known locally as an outstanding display in magnitude and length
for a small town organization, and it's attendance is always good.

I was hoping to test the recent theory expressed on MMD concerning
whether those who thought the organ too loud really knew any of the
songs being played, but then tried a new format.  I wound the roll
by hand past all the songs I thought would be unfamiliar to the locals,
sticking to "Sidewalks of New York", "Let Me Call You Sweetheart",
etc., and had no complaints from anyone.  I also found any march was
enjoyed.

The only comment was about "Boston Commandery", which is the march
version of the song "Onward Christian Soldiers".  A rather strange
looking individual with a beer can tied to his hat wanted to know
why I was "only playing church organ music for the 4th of July
celebration."

I think the real answer to not creating problems with the locals is
_not_ to play continuously, but give them a five minute rest between
songs.  This also works fine for hand winding past unfamiliar songs.
The movement of the directors head and arm also delights the younger
children but the teen-age viewers still don't hang around the organ
very long.

I hope to visit with MMD people at the Marietta, Ohio, organ rally
this week, where we will unveil the 52-key Gasparini organ, "The
Gypsy Queen," for the first time since her rebuilding.

Best of luck,
Jim Welty