Almost on a whim, and certainly as a last-minute arrangement, I attended the CLPGS October meeting in Great Malvern as a shiny new member - very green to the whole subject of gramophones and phonographs. Can I say to anyone thinking of joining this society - the oldest of it's kind anywhere in the world - don't think about it ! Just join ! It's an incredible society and it needs the support of members to remain so.
The Great Malvern event was an absolutely fantastic weekend at every level. I was made to feel incredibly welcome by members and the committee, and the lectures, the location, the catering and the social events were outstanding. As a younger guy, I was simply blown away by the depth of knowledge held within this vibrant and learned society. I cannot thank everyone enough for their advice, their geniality and their infectious enthusiasm. For quite a number of years, I have pondered the idea of owning and using a gramophone, and a visit to the Musical Museum in Brentford three years ago refreshed my interest. But at my stage in life (with very young children), and with the difficulties of acquiring a machine, I simply 'sat' on the idea for a while. I'm now very glad I've signed up !! The quality of the presentations at this October meet was inspiring, and for that alone, the weekend was very worthwhile attending. But now that I have been both kindly and ably assisted in the purchase of gramophones (yes, plural.....that was a shock for my wife !), I'm very pleased with these beautiful and melodious museum pieces (as are in fact my family). They bring fun and warmth to a household, and I hope, that in time, they instil a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for these wonderful mechanical inventions in my own young boys.
Thank you again,
Paul
The Great Malvern event was an absolutely fantastic weekend at every level. I was made to feel incredibly welcome by members and the committee, and the lectures, the location, the catering and the social events were outstanding. As a younger guy, I was simply blown away by the depth of knowledge held within this vibrant and learned society. I cannot thank everyone enough for their advice, their geniality and their infectious enthusiasm. For quite a number of years, I have pondered the idea of owning and using a gramophone, and a visit to the Musical Museum in Brentford three years ago refreshed my interest. But at my stage in life (with very young children), and with the difficulties of acquiring a machine, I simply 'sat' on the idea for a while. I'm now very glad I've signed up !! The quality of the presentations at this October meet was inspiring, and for that alone, the weekend was very worthwhile attending. But now that I have been both kindly and ably assisted in the purchase of gramophones (yes, plural.....that was a shock for my wife !), I'm very pleased with these beautiful and melodious museum pieces (as are in fact my family). They bring fun and warmth to a household, and I hope, that in time, they instil a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for these wonderful mechanical inventions in my own young boys.
Thank you again,
Paul