ATOS 2017 Convention, Day 3

Today was day three of the ATOS Tampa Florida Convention with a full day of meetings and performances. It began for those interested in maintenance and repair techniques attending a Technical Seminar on the repair and adjustment of keyboards. Since organists must utilize the keyboard to perform, it is critical to properly maintain them. The tools and techniques for their care were presented by Allen Miller.

The conventioneers traveled a block away to the Amalie Arena, home of the Tampa Bay Lighting hockey team. A wonderfully modern sports facility, it contains the 5-manual Walker digital theatre organ. ATOS Convention attendees were welcomed by the Arena's Vice-President of Game Presentation, John Franzone, who introduced the facility and its unique musical environment. Richard Hills then provided all with another of his carefully arranged programs that demonstrated the unique nature of the organ. Ken Double also introduced some of the instruments sonic capabilities. Hearing sounds of a theatre organ in such a modern 21,000 seat facility was a most unusual event and enjoyed by all. Every sound from the softest flutes and strings to full organ and event thunder were part of the event and many thanks were heard by attendees.

Attendees returned to the hotel for the Annual ATOS Membership Meeting. The day ended with a trip to Lakeland, FL, and the historic Polk Theatre where Clark Wilson accompanied the silent film "Steamboat Bill Jr." Clark provided all with one of his carefully constructed set of period tunes.

~Richard Neidich

Read About Day Four