I acquired a Leabarjan about two years ago from a friend. Mine is
only set for the 88-note holes. I used to use a set put out by QRS
from a book called Ori-thematic. My landlord at the time made the
machine. It works kind of like the Leabarjan in a way. There is
a scale but I have to use a triangle to find the notes and write the
length with a pencil. Since it is "eye balling" I have to proof the
roll on the piano and correct any errors. The Leabarjan would be more
accurate and save some time in proofing.
My system takes about 26 hours (year hours!) to make a 3-minute tune.
I learned from the beginning that I would only make rolls of tunes
I cannot get. I have 11 rolls I have finished since the 1980's. Some
rags, Joplin's Treemonisha Overture, a couple tunes from the 1906 San
Francisco Earthquake, and some Spanish dances. Each of mine are
originals but with the Leabarjan (if I ever get into it) I can make
four rolls at one time. Good luck. It's fun and an quite
accomplishment of dedication.
Augie Gonzales in San Jose, Calif.
|