Music studio of our residence in Richmond, VA.

More information, photos and specifications here

The theatre organ is a uniquely American invention. The instrument was developed for the purpose of accompanying silent films during the first quarter of the 20th Century. When it was rendered "obsolete" in 1929 by the event of talking pictures, many theatre organs sat abandoned in theatres, and others were removed and transplanted into the burgeoning Radio broadcasting industry. Sadly, of the more than ten thousand instruments built in the heyday of motion picture palaces, only a few hundred remain in existence, and fewer than thirty remain as unaltered installations in their original homes. In the 1950's, thanks to the introduction of High Fidelity recording, there was a rebirth of interest in the theatre organ and its unique musical style. As we mark the hundredth anniversary of the invention of this fantastic musical machine, many folks who appreciate it are departing this life. Again, as in the 1950's, there is a movement underway to introduce new generations to the wonderful sounds it can produce.

As part of our quest to preserve the industrial and technological history of America, the DeMajo Family has added an authentic Wurlitzer theatre organ to our collection of American historical artifacts. The organ has been made 100% playable and it is kept in playing condition at all times. This portion of our web site is devoted to the organ and to information about this and other theatre organs. We hope that you will enjoy the site.

What does a theatre organ sound like? Find out here
"I'll Follow My Secret Heart" - played by John DeMajo

Other music samples by John DeMajo
"Dancing In The Dark "
"Tea For Two"
"A Sunday Kind Of Love"
"The One I Love"
"Louise"
"Who Can I Turn To"
"Moonlight On The River"
"The Midnight Fire Alarm"
"Roses Of Picardy "

Recreation, by John DeMajo, of the lead-in to 1940's radio program "One Man's Family"

See John DeMajo's live performance at the Byrd Theatre in Richmond, VA.

A view of the organ pipe chamber which is located in a converted bedroom on the third floor of the residence, just above the music studio where the console resides.

From The Shop