MMD,  I'm sorry but I think a couple contributors greatly exaggerated
some of the negative characteristics of the use of the rubber band on
piano rolls.  In defense of rubber bands, in total they do more good
than harm.  I also have examined and repaired thousands of rolls;
probably in excess of 5000, from every conceivable brand of 88-note
roll, a few Duo-Arts and hundreds of Ampico.  Frankly, if a proper
closure or constricting device had been applied years ago and
throughout the roll's life time it would not have needed repair.

Yes, rubber bands deteriorate but if you find one that has crumbled
simply replace it with a new one.  If you find a roll in your collection
where the rubber band had melted on to the paper this simply means you
haven't played that roll in years!  Rubber bands do not deteriorate in
a couple months.  I don't think I have ever seen a roll that was
destroyed or even seriously damaged by a disintegrating rubber band.

Proper roll care consists of tapping the paper while still loose from
playing against the right flange.  This aligns the paper so that it
will be properly aligned for the next time it is played.  Now it is
important to realize that unless you take the next step that paper is
not going to stay aligned against that right flange.  Tighten the paper
on the roll down to the point where the paper begins to squeak.  This
expresses excess air from between the layers of paper thus preventing
oxidation and the effects of variations in humidity.  Most importantly
with the paper properly aligned and held down in a proper position it
will assume a new set and will play better each time it is replayed.

Now I don't care what kind of holding mechanism you choose, paper,
string, rubber band, Velcro or chewing gum, if you really understand
roll physiology you will use some sort of mechanical device to keep
that paper tight on the roll while it is in storage.  One person asked
what size rubber band to use for 88-note rolls; I use #14 in pound
boxes from Office Depot. They appear to be high quality and you sure
get a lot of rubber bands in a pound.

Regards,
Tom Hutchinson