The Story Behind Les Paul Artifacts At The Mahwah Museum

MAHWAH, NJ — Ever wanted some additional context for the Les Paul items that are on display at the Mahwah Museum? Look no further than an upcoming event scheduled for Jan. 15 at 11 a.m.

The presentation will discuss the artifacts from Les Paul's home studios which are on display at this museum. The unique collection, not seen anywhere else, is on long term loan from the Les Paul Foundation, the museum said.

Special Attention will be given to the "Octopus," the "Monster," the Sound on Sound machine (Ampex 300), and the Wally Jones Mixer. Sean McClowry, Associate Professor of Music Industry at the College Of Saint Rose, will go through the music made on each of these machines, the origins of the machines, they way they function, and the dates that Les used them.

McClowry teaches courses in record production, analog recording, songwriting & composition, music business, and double bass. He is active as a music producer, composer, songwriter, and performing artist in both popular and classical music worlds.

Specializing in historic methods of recording and music production, his area of research is Les Paul and Mary Ford, their groundbreaking recordings, and technical advancements as recording artists.

He also spends lots of time restoring and using vintage recording equipment, including record cutters and Ampex reel to reel tape machines. His work with this medium is part academic, and part obsession.

He is currently working on a book about Les Paul.

Registration is required, and open now, the museum said. The event will be presented in a hybrid format and people can register to attend either virtually or in-person.

Due to the continued impact of COVID-19, in-person attendance will be capped at 25 people and masks will be required.