While there were over 7,000 theatre organs installed between 1915 and 1933, fewer than 40 remain in their original homes. The Valley of the Sun Chapter of the American Theatre Organ Society (VOTS-ATOS) was formed to help preserve and maintain a few of these amazing instruments in the Phoenix area. Since its inception, VOTS has purchased, restored, and placed into regular use the 3/30 Wurlitzer at the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix.

It is our mission to educate and enhance knowledge of the Theatre Pipe Organ, promote their use, maintenance and performance; as well as generate opportunities for the many talented members of VOTS to play different gigs for $$, teach organ and/or piano, and help us build VOTS-ATOS into the premier Theatre Organ resource in Central Arizona. I would encourage you to become a member; or rejoin if you're a past member! After all, membership is easy and fun, helps support the expensive care and restoration of this incredible truly American art form. In 2026, we hope to offer more venues to play at, more open member board meetings with open console at member's homes where Theatre Organs are in place - there's some real exciting news on this front - concerts by members, films, social gatherings, and learning experiences for our members. Please consider getting involved or just becoming a member.

I guarantee once you have your own theatre organ experience, you will be hooked!

Respectfully,
Richard S Hockett, MBA
President, VOTS-ATOS