Hi all,

Some time ago I got some "Solostyle Artist Record" rolls off eBay. They
appear to be manufactured by Autopiano in New York.  The rolls feature
Rhythmodik/Ampico artists such as Malvin M. Franklin, Marguerite Volavy,
Howard Brockway, etc., and appear to be relatively true records of the
performances, with little or no editing.  Interestingly, no sustain
perforations are used; instead the notes are extended.

The real prize is a roll of "Row Row Row," played by none other than
George Botsford (of "Black and White Rag" and "Grizzly Bear" fame) and
Albert Gumble!  Until I saw this roll I had no idea either of these
famous pop composers ever made any piano rolls.  It's a fantastic
lively performance that, like the rest of the rolls, appears to be a
relatively genuine hand-played recording: the perforations, even within
chords and note clusters, don't all line up evenly.  When listening, you
do get the feeling of two very real pianists.

What I'd like to know is the Autopiano Company's relationship with
Rhythmodik/Ampico, and whether anyone is aware of any other rolls
recorded by Botsford.

I will send a scan of the label and a MIDI scan of the roll for the MMD
Archives.

Robert Perry
Auckland, NZ