This WurliTzer Theatre organ was originally installed in the Broadway Theatre (July 1926). R Bollinger purchased & installed it in Oaks Skating Rink (1955).
When The Oaks opened in 1905, live bands played for skaters. Next a WurliTzer Carousel Band Organ was used. Around 1921, a Wood Pipe Organ was installed.
Many rinks closed due in the disco era. Businesses survive on repeat business. Skaters who learned to appreciate the organ & dance skating skate for a lifetime with their family.
That organ is amazing and entering that rink is like stepping into a time machine. I loved every minute I spent there.
soylentteal 1 year ago
Gary Russell: Make some more recording/videos like this.
rto340century 1 year ago
thats a pal of myne! gary russel! he's a cool dude, i used to work sundays and see him alot, really good player and really cool guy
enjoiboy24 2 years ago
This is great! Please upload more!
roslundb 3 years ago
This WurliTzer Theatre organ was originally installed in the Broadway Theatre (July 1926). R Bollinger purchased & installed it in Oaks Skating Rink (1955).
When The Oaks opened in 1905, live bands played for skaters. Next a WurliTzer Carousel Band Organ was used. Around 1921, a Wood Pipe Organ was installed.
Many rinks closed due in the disco era. Businesses survive on repeat business. Skaters who learned to appreciate the organ & dance skating skate for a lifetime with their family.
applessgrape 3 years ago
Theater Organs are the best of all insturments. Please post a longer segment
bdogolddave 3 years ago
i do not miss working there one bit.
screwdupflip 3 years ago
I agree completely. Modern Punk Rock/hip-hop/rap (notice it includes "rap", much like "crap") musicians have no musical talent.
m4dan 4 years ago
But this one's in a rink... so wouldn't that make it a roller rink organ?
SnyderToeStops 4 years ago
Just a correction the organ isn't a Wurlitzer Band organ It's a Wurlitzer Theatre Organ
jvollmar 4 years ago