Gerald Shaw at the Odeon, Leicester Square, LondonAppointed in 1958 as the resident organist at London’s Odeon Theatre, Leicester Square, Gerald Shaw presided at the 1937 Compton 5-manual which his predecessor had named “The Duchess.” Now, his wonderful playing can be heard on CD for the very first time. A Song of Home Parade of the Tin Soldiers Too Late Now Rio Chambira Chopin – Waltz in A-flat Summertime Belle of the Ball Sicilienne The Man I Love Blue Room The Irish Washerwoman Adios Mexico Serenade to a Wealthy Widow Turn Ye to Me Ritual Fire Dance April in Portugal Chim Chim Cheree Cygnets’ Dance from Swan Lake Falling in Love Again Falling in Love with Love Golden Earrings Whistle Down the Wind Three Coins in a Fountain Tico Tico When You Wish Upon a Star From Russia with Love Love Duet from Madame Butterfly The Carioca Moon River Reviews the Cinema Organ Society Newsletter for December 2005, "When Gerald Shaw arrived at the Odeon Leicester Square in November 1958 it must have been like a breath of fresh air blown through not only the Compton organ but also the whole theatre. Both James Bell and John Howlett (each were fine organists and musicians) had done what was expected of them and played in a, shall we say, more staid way. Gerald somehow made the Odeon organ sound totally different with sometimes outrageous registrations, which worked without being vulgar, and a real entertaining approach to everything he played. He too, like Messers Bell and Howlett was an organist of the highest ability, a standard which he maintained, particularly in his broadcasts which still sound modern today, especially with his equally outrageous and often hilarious announcements. It can truly be said that the Odeon's Compton was made for him and had awaited his arrival to blossom into half of a truly unique and perfect partnership. Back in 1970 Gerald and the Odeon organ were given the accolade of being featured on a Concert Recording LP for issue in the USA only, what they made of the Compton's unique sounds can only be imagined, but the record was an excellent showcase for Gerald's musicianship and technical ability. Don Thompson has arranged with Bill Johnson of Concert Recording to re-release the original tracks from the LP and has added material, which he himself recorded in 1964. It has all been digitally remastered into this CD, which any aspiring cinema organist should listen to for some idea of what can be done with style, panache, and imagination to make a Compton organ sound superb. If you have never heard of Gerald Shaw (and shame on you if you haven't) then do not fail to get this CD." |