Presto

ARE DOING T H I N G S
A MERRY CHRISTMAS
AND
A HAPPY PRDSPERQUS
NEW YEAR
TO
ALL MUSIC MERCHANTS
FROM
PRESTO MUSIC TIMES
FRANK O. WILKING. .
FRANK O. WILKING'S PIANO FESTIVAL GAVE
THE DRAMATIC CLIMAX TO "MUSIC WEEK"
AT NEW YORK WORLD'S FAIR
The "Court of Peace" in the Flushing Meadows, New York
World's Fair, resounded with the stirring strains of eighty
pianos played by 160 musicians of various ages under the di-
rection of Frank O. Wilking, well known music dealer of
Indianapolis, Indiana. This was such an outstanding achieve-
ment that it received exceptional publicity in the newspapers
of New York City and elsewhere. This notable musical event
took place during the week of September 23rd which the Fair
Authorities had designated as "Music Week". During the
entire week the Fair was given over to music. Every day
there were concerts by outstanding bands, orchestras, and
soloists. On September 24th Mr. Wilking distinguished him-
self by leading the 160 musicians, many of whom were ama-
teurs, with such finesse and vigor as to receive enthusiastic
acclaim. It was a rather monumental task to bring so many
instruments and players together under short notice and carry
on rehearsals under many difficulties. But overcoming these
handicaps, Mr. Wilking gave a finished concert.
.,
When the Directors of the Fair were planning this event
they were facing the big problem of assembling such a large
number of fine pianos. Arrangements were made' between
the Story & Clark Piano Company through the cooperation of
their Eastern Sales Manager, William H. Bowles, who demon-
strated his resourcefulness by working out all the complicated
details in a most efficient manner.
Among those present was Edward F. Story, Treasurer of
the Story & Clark Piano Company. Mr. Story received many
most enthusiastic congratulations on the success of the whole
affair which was not only a triumph for his Company and for
Mr. Wilking, but also a splendid service to the piano industry
and a fine contribution to musical culture. Such an outstand-
ing festival means more interest in that instrument of millions,
the piano, without which no American home is really com-
plete.
THE NATIONAL MUSIC MERCHANT'S NEWS
The October number of the News was interesting and full
of good items for Music Merchants. It had some forceful
articles relating to the unfair and unethical practices indulged
in by some individuals and firms. The NAMM is taking vig-
orous steps to eliminate these practices. Presto Music Times
congratulates NAMM on its stand and wishes to state that it
joins in this commendable crusade.
MR. WILKING LEADING THE MASSED PLAYERS:
DEOKMHIOIt, l!>40
l'AUK ELEVEN
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