Page 23 - CR

Vic Hammett

At the same time, Melbourne’s former
Capitol Theatre 3/15 Wurlitzer organ
was in desperate need of a new home, and Widened proscenium with ex - Capitol organ (John Thiele).
Bert, who truly loved the organ, made
his theatre available and subsidized the
cost of installation. People flocked from all over Melbourne to
hear Lyn, and his friendship and collaboration
Not content with that, the Wards imported a with the equally young and talented Tony
famous English organist to give the opening Fenelon forever changed the way in which
concert after its initial re-opening by the the instrument is presented in this country.
justly famous Adelaide born Horace Weber, Lyn, like England’s Vic Hammett, had two
who had played for all services at St. Peter’s extended seasons at the Dendy console.
Cathedral on his own for some months at 12
years of age. I don’t think that any of those who were
active in installing TOSA(Vic)’s organ ever
Horace had been chosen to open the Capitol paid to watch films at the Dendy. The Wards
organ as its resident and he had closed it in were remarkably generous to anyone who
that magnificent and unique theatre. George was associated with them.
Blackmore FRCO was later followed as the
featured organist in two extended seasons
by the very young American, Lyn Larsen.
(He actually celebrated his 21st Birthday on
stage at the Dendy).

ABOVE and LEFT: Lyn Larsen celebrates his
21 Birthday on stage at the Dendy.
st
An Album recording of Lyn at the Dendy organ.

CINEM AREC ORD 2012 23