I am involved in a research project, the subject being Francois Nicole,
the maker of early key-wind overture music boxes. These boxes are known
as rigid notation, square-pattern cylinder or graphic notation boxes.
To date I have managed to locate 21 such boxes throughout Europe and
the USA. The information which I would like to receive from readers of
MMD on this type of cylinder music box is as follows:
- the length and diameter of the cylinder,
- whether a grooved ring is attached to the LHS of the cylinder,
- the number of teeth in the comb,
- makers name on the bedplate, the comb or the governor cock
or even the absence of a name,
- serial number if available,
- dimensions and description of the case,
- the number of overtures or airs the box plays,
- also identification of the music if possible.
I have published one article for MBSGB, Vol. 21 No. 3, and two articles
for the MBSI, Vol. 44 No. 1 and Vol. 45 No. 1.
Also if any reader has an early Freres Nicole box with serial number
below 14000 any information as listed above would be appreciated.
Any information given will be treated with absolute confidence.
Many thanks for any help which may be given to help this research.
Roy Ison
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