To all lovers of mechanical music and in particular, player pianos:

Other than sharing the joy of the music and machines that play it --
plus working hard for the groups and associations such as MBSI, AMICA,
COAA, to promote and expose the interest -- what can be done to keep
things alive?

I am disturbed that player pianos are being sent to landfill, after
they were offered free for the taking -- and that was the last choice.
In yesterday's Digest, Philip Jamison wrote, "Lauters were great
players and are well worth restoring.  She indicates she will take
$150."  Not really what you can call a high price.

What really shines a bright light on this is musical toys such as the
Pianolodeon, which never fails to bring at least $150.00 on eBay!

'Tis a sad fact that a toy, a make-believe player piano, is of greater
value than the real thing.

Player pianos have more going for them now than ever before: good
parts supply, plenty of rolls, new and re-cuts, and now, MIDI is
becoming more common and affordable for those so inclined; and yet,
all this considered, more instruments are being destroyed than are
saved and restored.

Look ahead a few years and this is a most disturbing thought, because
the fewer players that survive translates into parts and material
suppliers, roll makers, etc., also closing up shop, due to lack of
market for products and services.

What can we do?

Musically,
Ken Vinen, Stratford, Ontario, Canada