The Gary Klechowitz 2/11 Wurlitzer
Console of Gary Klechowitz's 2/11 Wurlitzer, originally installed at the Sheboygan Theatre.
Since the early 2000s, Gary Klechowitz has been preparing to install a theater organ in his home.
In 2007, he discovered that a two-manual gold gesso console was available. This console originated from Wurlitzer Opus 1828, which was a 1928 Wurlitzer 2/7 "Style E" organ installed in the Sheboygan Theatre, now known as the Weill Center in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.
With a console in hand, Gary began his search for pipes and parts. He started by looking for a Wurlitzer Glockenspiel and a Tibia Clausa. Shortly after, he acquired a relatively rare Wurlitzer residence-scale Clarinet, a Kinura, and an impressive Kimball Tuba Horn, known for its powerful sound. Additionally, Gary needed a few other components, including a blower, xylophone, chrysoglott, and other mechanisms to complete the organ.
He realized that one person cannot do everything alone. Gary received assistance from Rob Riley, a member of the Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society, whose expertise brought the organ to life. DTOS members Al Gruling, Duane Austin, and Gary Bieck also provided essential support in completing the project.
Since then, DTOS has enjoyed numerous social events at Gary K's home, featuring the delightful sounds of this fun Wurlitzer instrument!
In 2007, he discovered that a two-manual gold gesso console was available. This console originated from Wurlitzer Opus 1828, which was a 1928 Wurlitzer 2/7 "Style E" organ installed in the Sheboygan Theatre, now known as the Weill Center in Sheboygan, Wisconsin.
With a console in hand, Gary began his search for pipes and parts. He started by looking for a Wurlitzer Glockenspiel and a Tibia Clausa. Shortly after, he acquired a relatively rare Wurlitzer residence-scale Clarinet, a Kinura, and an impressive Kimball Tuba Horn, known for its powerful sound. Additionally, Gary needed a few other components, including a blower, xylophone, chrysoglott, and other mechanisms to complete the organ.
He realized that one person cannot do everything alone. Gary received assistance from Rob Riley, a member of the Land of Lincoln Theatre Organ Society, whose expertise brought the organ to life. DTOS members Al Gruling, Duane Austin, and Gary Bieck also provided essential support in completing the project.
Since then, DTOS has enjoyed numerous social events at Gary K's home, featuring the delightful sounds of this fun Wurlitzer instrument!
A view inside the chamber.
Specifications
16’ Bourdon – 8’ Concert Flute - 97 pipes
8’ Tibia Clausa - 85 pipes
8’ Open Diapason - 73 pipes
8’ Violin - 73 pipes
8’ Viole d'Orchetre - 73 pipes
8’ Viol Celeste - 61 pipes
8’ Tuba - 61 pipes
8’ Trumpet - 49 pipes
8’ Clarinet - 61 pipes
8’ Vox Humana - 61 pipes
8’ Kinura - 61 pipes
Chrysoglott
Xylophone
Glockenspiel
All standard traps
8’ Tibia Clausa - 85 pipes
8’ Open Diapason - 73 pipes
8’ Violin - 73 pipes
8’ Viole d'Orchetre - 73 pipes
8’ Viol Celeste - 61 pipes
8’ Tuba - 61 pipes
8’ Trumpet - 49 pipes
8’ Clarinet - 61 pipes
8’ Vox Humana - 61 pipes
8’ Kinura - 61 pipes
Chrysoglott
Xylophone
Glockenspiel
All standard traps