In addition to my interests in mechanical music, my other passion is
local history.  For a little over 15 years, I have been associated with
a local museum operated by the Arlington Historical Society, here in
Arlington, Texas.

About twelve years ago, the museum was given Heyser upright player
piano with a Starr player action.  The donor had never worked on pianos
before, but got the player action going, just enough to make it play.
I don't think he did anything to the piano itself.  Nonetheless, the
piano gets quite a bit of play, and has done remarkably well, given
it's condition.

Now for the problem:  The piano is developing more and more problems,
ranging from a jerky air motor, to just being harder and harder to
play.  I would like to see this piano restored properly, for several
reasons.

First, as-is, visitors get a less-then-favorable impression of what a
player piano should sound like.  Secondly, several local musicians have
expressed an interest in holding recitals at the museum, but, upon
hearing our piano, have gone elsewhere.

The biggest impedance in getting this piano in shape is cost.  The
museum simply does not have the money.

Can anyone suggest a way this problem can be rectified?

Bryan S. Cather