As I look at the various comments about archival music roll scanning,
I find that many articles have such pertinent meaning that I would not
be surprised to see them reprinted in other publications which can
reach a larger audience.  I emphasize this point not to insult the MMD,
but merely to point out the scope and interest these articles have.

It is good to read of such positive and hopeful intentions in the
world of mechanical music, in a style and lucidity not unlike real
music.  I sincerely believe that many articles in the MMD have some
of the most interesting reading that even a layman would appreciate.

Normally I would be embarrassed at writing such an e-mail, but I feel
that the writers and articles represented in the MMD warrant more
appreciation.  I have enjoyed the recent articles, and I believe the
advice to collectors fills a definitive need, but especially to those
who find themselves within the realm of gravitation.  Indeed, the MMD
offers scholarly ideas of so many different authors that they have
helped me to strengthen ideas which are my own.

I have been especially interested in the articles about fundamental
piano technique.  Adam Ramet's article on the pedal technique of Fats
Waller is alone worth a subscription.  Nothing trite or dry there.
However, each article is exhilarating, and after reading them I have
the same amount of pleasure and stimulus that I have after attending
a summer course.

I have enjoyed mechanical music since before I was old enough to read
the articles, and have been reading them now for over six years.  I have
reread many articles, biographies and stories several times over for
helpful inspiration and information until I know them by heart.  It is
from such articles that we glean a little knowledge of what others
experience that enables us to solve our problems better.

I find many articles to be instructive, informative and even entertaining.
We are fortunate that such great minds can express their thoughts and
ideas so well by the written word, which is of great inspirational
value.  Would it be possible to persuade musicians to contribute their
ideas to the forum more often?

I hope that more of such articles appear for it could do a lot to help
people, not only in music, but in other things as well.

Nathan Bello