Enthusiasts over the globe are familiar with Coulson Conn and
his interest in disc musical boxes. His numerous well-researched
articles and talks on this subject illuminated this varied segment
of mechanical music. Coulson's enthusiastic demonstrations in his
private collection were an unforgettable entertainment. I know
they introduced many to the wondrous variety of the disc box.
Coulson's other big hobby interest was the operettas of Gilbert
& Sullivan. He would often perform in three or four productions a
year, and continued this pace for decades. His tenor voice was much
desired by choral groups, but his enthusiasm and work ethic (vital
to under-funded amateur theater) were even more important. Naturally,
"G&S" memorabilia was well-represented in his collection and research.
The intersection of these two interests was evident in Coulson's
delighted expression as he switched on a large Polyphon disc musical
box playing a song from "H.M.S. Pinafore."
Philip Jamison
West Chester, Pennsylvania
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