I mostly agree with Lester Hawksby.  I think there may be more of
a fascination with younger groups because they weren't aware this
technology existed.

In the past few years I have given a talk about mechanical music at
UC Berkeley and Sacramento State.  I've also participated in some of
the Stanford player piano events.  So I've seen some of that engagement
first hand from younger people.  But older students have a familiarity
with the topic and often have a story to tell about their experience
with the instruments.

So, many younger students find the topic interesting.  Not enough to go
out and buy an instrument, but there is a genuine interest that you see
in the light in their eyes and in their thoughtful questions.

The talks also help educate the educators.  The Sacramento State
teacher is now featuring the noted US Music piano roll arranger, Mae
Brown, in her "Women making music in the 20th Century" course.  I just
received a call to give the talk again, so that is another indicator
of interest.

Paul Johnson