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Wurlitzer Organ- Keith Humble Centre for Music

Location

Geelong College, Aphrasia Street,, NEWTOWN VIC 3220 - Property No B6291

File Number

B6291

Level

National

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B6291 Wurlizer Organ
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B6291 Wurlizer Organ
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B6291 Wurlizer Organ

Statement of Significance

What is significant? The pipe organ built in 1921 was among the earliest examples of the work of the distinguished American firm of Wurlitzer to be exported to Australia; it was the firm's opus number 388. Built as a demonstration model with seven ranks of pipes, it was located in two homes in Sydney owned by W.G. Crowle before its installation at 'Montana' the Esplanade, Drumcondra which was theresidence of manufacturing pharmacist Oswald C. Hearne in 1928. Here it was widely used for fund-raising concerts and visited by notable musicians such as Dr A.E. Floyd, William McKie and R.E.V. Church and for broadcasts. It is significant that it was built for domestic use, rather than specifically for a theatre, which was unique in Australia.
How is it significant? The organ is significant for historic, aesthetic and technical reasons at a regional level.
Why is it significant? The pipe organ at Geelong College is significant for the following reasons:
. It was among the earliest examples of a Wurlitzer organ exported to Australia;
. It was the first Wurlitzer organ exported to Australia to have the firm's signature 'horseshoe' style console; . It was built for domestic use - this is reflected in the voicing and choice of ranks;
. The Wurlitzer firm was pre-eminent internationally in the construction of theatre organs in the second and third decades of the 20th century;
. All of the original pipework, console and windchests remain substantially intact;
. It retains the original player mechanism, thought to be the only one of its type remaining in Australia;
.The overall sound has considerable character and distinction and is aided by a sympathetic acoustic,more resonant than its previous domestic location.
Classifed: 20/11/1992
Revised: 15/04/1992 & 27/09/2010

Group