I recently "rescued" a Bush & Lane Cecilian upright (case style 22
as pictured in the Encyclopedia) from a local Goodwill store. At
first glance, this piano looked like a standard pumper-player, but
on further examination, it appears this may have been a factory
electrification or vintage retrofit, either by the factory, or
a very good tinkerer.
There are no extra holes anywhere indicating that the pedals were
removed, and the lower doors are professionally sealed from the
inside. The pump is run by one electric motor, the roll mechanism by
another. The spoolbox is fitted with two small lights and a switch,
and there are a number of solenoids that may constitute an electric
rewind. The expression buttons are well worn, indicating that this
piano got a lot of use before being retired.
My question: Has anyone come across an upright Cecilian that may
have left the factory as an electrified player? I've read the many
interesting articles on the Cecilian, and can't tell if any of the
specific pianos mentioned were electrified, or pumpers. If anyone has
any literature or information that might be helpful, I'd appreciate
the help.
Bob Kern
Chicago suburbs, Illinois
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