Mechanical Music Digest  Archives
You Are Not Logged In Login/Get New Account
Please Log In. Accounts are free!
Logged In users are granted additional features including a more current version of the Archives and a simplified process for submitting articles.
Home Archives Calendar Gallery Store Links Info
MMD > Archives > May 1997 > 1997.05.05 > 08Prev  Next


Orchestrion Builder's Manual
By Nancy Fratti

This an answer for Damon Atchison who asked about the
Orchestrion Builder's Manual.

While I'm sure Craig Brougher, author of the book, will
be answering your inquiry, let me tell you that it was published
in 1992 by the above author (not in the teens, unless there
was another one!).

There are 16 chapters and 11 appendices.  Chapter/Appendices
titles include:

Chapters:
    Philosophy of Orchestrion Building
    Case and Piano Modifications & Preparation
    Modifying or Building a Player Stack
    Coin Mechanisms and Electrical Systems
    Pumps, Regulators and Reservoirs
    Deciding on a Spool-Frame
    Valves & Pouch Cutouts
    Designing Expression Regulators
    Lock and Cancel Systems
    Multiplexing
    Designing & Building Percussion Instruments
    Building a Xylophone
    Automating an Accordion
    Pipe Chests
    Building Mandolin Rails

Appendices:
    Sealing Wood and Leather
    Shellac
    Curing & Stabilizing Wood
    Tips on using Hide Glue
    Selecting Leather
    The Piano Lid Orchestrion
    Testing Components
    Timesaving Suggestions
    Xylophone Scales
    Dual Pouch Regulator
    Trackerbar Scales

WHEW!   There's lots of information here!

The book came in 2 formats: Softcover and Looseleaf binder.
The binder is my book of choice as it will lay flat for easy reference.
The binder also comes with a list of sources for items mentioned
in the book.   The Softcover sells for $50.00, the binder for $60.00
plus postage.

I currently have 2 Softcover and 5 Binder books in stock.  I believe
Craig told me he wouldn't be publishing any more, but don't
quote me on that.....

I believe this is the only book written on the subject of Orchestrion
repair/building.

Nancy Fratti
MusicBoxLady@Juno.com


(Message sent Mon 5 May 1997, 14:17:01 GMT, from time zone GMT-0400.)

Key Words in Subject:  Builder's, Manual, Orchestrion

Home    Archives    Calendar    Gallery    Store    Links    Info   


Enter text below to search the MMD Website with Google



CONTACT FORM: Click HERE to write to the editor, or to post a message about Mechanical Musical Instruments to the MMD

Unless otherwise noted, all opinions are those of the individual authors and may not represent those of the editors. Compilation copyright 1995-2024 by Jody Kravitz.

Please read our Republication Policy before copying information from or creating links to this web site.

Click HERE to contact the webmaster regarding problems with the website.

Please support publication of the MMD by donating online

Please Support Publication of the MMD with your Generous Donation

Pay via PayPal

No PayPal account required

                                     
Translate This Page