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Don Simmons (1927-1985)
Portland, OR
 
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Don at the Oaks Park Wurlitzer
 
Don started playing pipe organ in 1949. He was the popular resident organist at Oaks Park Roller Rink from 1962 until his death in 1985. He was 57.
 
In addition to his rink duties, Don concertized frequently around the Northwest, including several visits to Seattle.
 
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At the Portland Paramount Wurlitzer, c.1963
 

Don at the Oaks Park Wurlitzer

Recordings by Don Simmons
 
Click for a larger version of this image (8K)Don Simmons: A Session With Simmons - 1966. Don Simmons' second jazz-style LP. Oaks Park Rink, 4/18 Wurlitzer. Portland, Oregon. Gamba Records D-102-S
Click for a larger version of this image (4K)Don Simmons: Swingin' Pipes - mode 1960's. Oaks Park Rink, 4/18 Wurlitzer. Portland, Oregon. Sound Productions, Gamba Records D-103 Stereo
Click for a larger version of this image (21K) Don Simmons Plays the Organ Grinder Wurlitzer Pipe Organ - Sound Productions # DS OG (stereo). Organ Grinder Restaurant, 4/42 Wurlitzer. Portland, Oregon.
Don Simmons: Big Band Jazz - 1965. Featuring Don at the Oaks Park Wurlitzer, Portland Oregon "Playing a sensational jazz style on the Wurlitzer 4/18 Pipe Organ". Gamba Records D-1015 stereo.
 
Don also recorded a number of 45 RPM records on the Hammond organ for use by skating rinks that did not have a live organist.


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