Around lunchtime on Saturday, 12th June, the decision of the AMPS Anniversary ‘Do’ committee not to rely on good weather, was totally vindicated. Pinewood Studios’ magnificent gardens and terraces were tempting but far too risky to be incorporated into the evening’s plans. As the guests arrived around 730 they were ushered into the bar area where, with a glass of Pimms in hand, there was plenty of opportunity to socialise and meet old and new members. As dinner was called, the event moved into what is normally the splendidly dignified Pinewood restaurant but this evening was laid out with large tastefully decorated tables. Following an excellent three course meal, Chairman Peter Hodges started off the serious business of the evening by thanking everyone for attending. He extended a particular welcome to invited guests representing the other organisations within the Cine Guilds Of Great Britain, and from the BKSTS, plus the evening’s guest of honour, Sir Sydney Samuelson. Greetings received from Geoff Labram, Ron Garson, Rycote and Mike Le Mare were read out and then Peter asked Sir Sydney to propose a toast to AMPS. This he did with considerable style drawing attention to the achievement of building the Association to such a position in a relatively short period do time and in particular, the efforts of those who made it happen so. He then went on to relate a number of stories about what sound meant to him and challenging anyone in the audience to admit that they had been handling film sound equipment earlier than he had - as a rewind boy in his local cinema in 1939 being allowed to start the gramophone in the interval! Praise was given for the AMPS Newsletter which Sir Sydney said he read cover-to-cover and enjoyed its easy to read style, paying tribute to Bob Allen as editor, someone who he had known for over 45 years. The role of the backroom boys (and girls), amongst which he included himself, was mentioned and how they will probably never receive public recognition for their contribution to the completed film. This used to be particularly true of the sound dept. but that, he felt, was all changing as there had been giant steps in the perception of sound by cinema goers the world over. | Concluding with another toast to AMPS, Sir Sydney was asked to draw the lucky ticket number and start the raffle draw, with the lucky winners carrying off prizes such a TV and an original artwork by Harry Hutchings. A return to more serious matters was called for as Peter announced the decision of the AMPS Council to award a series of AMPS Fellowships to commemorate the anniversary. Honorary Fellowships were awarded to Stefan Kudelski and Ray Dolby for their contributions to the cinema sound. Neither were present to receive their fellowships and these were accepted on their behalf by Derek Jones from Nagra and John lies from Dolby, the latter reading a message of acceptance from Dr. Dolby. (Full citations page 10). Two AMPS members who had been very active in the formation and development of the Association were to be awarded unbeknown to them. Hugh Strain was the first Chairman of AMPS and the first fellowship to be announced but unfortunately was working in Ireland so the awarding of the certificate was delayed. The other Fellowship award went to Graham Hartstone who was present. A popular winner with the audience, the Council had managed to keep the award secret from a very surprised Graham, something he commented on in acceptance. A bouquet was presented to Graham’s assistant, Helen Wells, in recognition for her help with the AMPS film shows. The AMPS birthday cake - an incredible technical achievement - was ceremoniously cut to great applause. AMPS’ Secretary Bob Allen proposed a vote of thanks to Sir Sydney, and then as the only existing AMPS Fellow, he welcomed the two new Fellows to keep him company! With the more formal side of the evening completed, the floor was given over to dancing to a live band, while those who still wanted to talk retired to the bar area. Enthusiastic celebrations continued until after 1 AM when the party wound down, with everyone feeling that AMPS 10th Anniversary had been quite properly recognised. What’s the next one to celebrate? KSA |
