~-1924 JULY ---

•••••••••••••••• • ••••••••••••••••• • •••••••••••••••••••• The AMICA News Bulletin Automatic Musical Instrument Collectors' Association July/August 1987 Volume 24 • Number 4

...... ' . The AMICA News Bulletin Automatic Musical Instrument Collectors' Association

EDWIN WARD, Publisher 191 Riverview Drive (419) 849-2616 Woodville, Ohio 43469-9745 PUBLICATION DEADLINES FOR 1987 Published by the Automatic Musical Instrument Collectors' Association, a non-profit dub dewted to the restoration, distribution and enj<¥nent of musical For JanuarylFebruary issue ...... December 15 instruments using perforated paper music rolls, AMICA was founded in San For March/April issue February 15 Francisco in 1963. For May/June issue April 15 For July/August issue...... June 15 For September/October issue...... August 15 For NovemberlDecember issue...... October 15

CHAPTER OFFICERS FOUNDING CHAPTER IOWA Pres: Gene McGraw Pres: Rex Fritts Vice Pres: Bill Wherry Vice Pres: Leland Zimmerline Treas: Elmer Klein Sec/Treas: Ed Pousch Rep: Dick Reutlinger Reporter: Al Johnson Sec: Jack & Dianne Edwards ADVERTISING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BOSTON AREA Classified: 1O¢ per word, $3.00 minimum for members. Pres: Jerry Pell Pres: Judy Welsh Non-members may advertise at twice the above rate. Vice Pres: Frank & Shirley Nix Vice Pres: Michael Potash (Publisher's note: It is no longer possible to process an ad for SeclRep: Susan Pell Sec: Bill Koenigsberg $1.50, hence the increase, and new rate for Non-members.) Treas: Pat Hodge Treas: Philip Konop Reporter: Donald Brown • See Bulletin Deadlines on this page. Payment must accompany order. Make checks payable to: TEXAS NORTHERN LIGHTS AMICA INTERNATIONAL. Pres: Richard Tonnesen Pres: Jerrilyn Boehland Vice Pres: Becky Newton Vice Pres: Tom Wurdeman I" • Checks or money orders from advertisers in foreign coun­ Sec/Treas: Janet Tonnesen Sec: Dennis Dahlman tries must be drawn on a U.S. Bank. Rep: Wade Newton Treas: Robert & Katheryn Dumas Reporter: Ruby Ahneman Display Advertising Full Page 7V2"xlO" $100.00 MIDWEST SIERRA-NEVADA Half Page 7V2"x4%" 50.00 Pres: Liz Barnhart Pres: Bob Patton s Vice Pres: Barry Leedy Vice Pres: Richard Riley Quarter Page 3 /e"x4%" 25.00 Sec: Russell & Jeanne Bloss Sec/Treas: Gail Shinn Treas: Alvin Wulfekuhl Reporter: Julie Riley & Bob Patton • Each photograph or half-tone $7.00. Reporter: Margaret Frazer • See Bulletin deadlines on this page. PHILADELPHIA AREA CHICAGO AREA • We recommend display advertisers supply camera-ready Pres: Paul Dietz Pres: Rob Deland copy. Copy that is oversized or undersized will be changed Vice Pres: Dave Charrier Vice Pres: Barry Schultz to correct size at your cost. We can prepare your adver­ Sec: Bob Rosencrans Sec: Fred Plank Treas: Bob Taylor Treas: Joe Pekarek tisement from your suggested layout at cost. Rep: Reporter: Mel Septon • Payment must accompany order. Typesetting, layout or size SOWNY (Southern Ontario, HEART OF AMERICA alteration charges will be billed separately. Make checks Western NY) Pres: Charles Tyler payable to: AMICA INTERNATIONAL. Pres: Gary Lemon Vice Pres: Gerold Koehler Vice Pres: Jim Barley Sec/Treas: Kay Bode • Checks or money orders from advertisers in foreign coun­ Sec: Janie McCleary Reporter: Willa Daniels tries must be drawn on a U.S. bank. Treas: Mike Walter • All ads will appear on the last pages of the Bulletin at the Rep: Stan Aldridge discretion of the publisher. ROCKY MOUNTAIN SOUTHEAST AREA: Publication of business advertising in no way implies AMICA's Pres: Larry Kerecman Pres: Wayne Edmonston Vice Pres: Owanah Wick Vice Pres: Gordon Belcher endorsement of any commercial operation. However, AMICA Rep: Art Reblitz Sec/Treas: David Burke reserves the right to refuse any ad that is not in keeping with Sec: Don Wick Reporter: David Burke AMICA's general standards or if complaints are received in­ Treas: Jere DeBacker dicating that said business does not serve the best interests LADY LIBERTY GATEWAY ~ of the members of AMICA according to its goals and bylaws. Pres: Lenny Finkel Pres: Roger Wiegand Vice Pres: Oliver Vitakis Vice Pres: Deanne Wiley Sec: Michelle Pollitt Sec:rreas: Mary Wilson Single back issues of the Bulletin Treas: John Ellems Reporter: Marilyn McGartland are available from the Publisher Rep: Dennis Valente for $2.00 each. AMICA International

INTERNATIONAL OFFICERS AMICA - 1988 - AMICA PRESIDENT

SILVER ANNIVERSARY PAST PRESIDENT Terry Smythe (204) 832·3982 CONVENTION 55 Rowland Ave., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3J 2N6 VICE PRESIDENT Ron Connor June (501) 636-1749 22-26 Route 4, Rogers, AR 72756 San Francisco, California SECRETARY Mel Septon (312) 679-3455 Hosted by Founding Chapter 9045 North Karlov, Skokie, IL fflJ76 TREASURER Larry Norman (213) 538·9461 • Do you wish to become a member of AMICA? 17700 Avalon Blvd. #295, Carson, CA 90746 Write to Membership Secretary. PUBLISHER Edwin Ward Annual fee for U.S. members $22 (419) 849-2616 Canada and Mexico (air) $28 191 Riverview Drive, Woodville, OH 43469-9745 Other non-U.S. countries (surface) $28 MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY Will Wild and Valerie Anderson New and lapsed members add processing fee. . .. $ 5 New memberships • Has your address changed? (803) 738-1400, Ext. 4468, Home 791·1487 Write to Membership Secretary. P.O. Box 172, Columbia, SC 29202 • Do you have a contribution for the Bulletin? BOARD REPRESENTATIVES All subjects of interest to readers of the Bulletin are en­ Founding Chapter: Phil McCoy couraged and invited by the Publisher. Every attempt will Southern California: Mary Lilien Texas: Bob Smith be made to publish all articles of general interest to AMICA Midwest: Vincent Ricca members at the earliest possible time and at the discretion Phildelphia Area: Bob Rosencrans of the publisher. See Bulletin deadlines on previous page. SOWNY: Jan Drewniak Rocky Mountain: Larry Kerecman Lady Liberty: John DeParis AMICA International News Bulletin Iowa: Alvin Johnson Volume 24 Number 4 July/August 1987 Boston Area: Sanford Libman Northern Lights: Tom Olds Features CONTENTS Sierra-Nevada: Ray Bauer Publishers Thoughts ...... " 87 Chicago Area: Robert W. Taylor Guidelines For Contributors " 87 Heart of America: Ron Bopp Southeast Area: Wayne Edmonston AMICAs Silver Convention Update " 88 Gateway: Del Sewell A Bechstein Adventure...... " 88 Collectors Orchestrions A Repository for Sounds of Past 89 COMMITTEES Nadia Reisenberg Memorabilia " 91 Eubie Blake Collection in Baltimore " 91 TECHNICAL, Harold Malakinian 2345 Forest Trail Dr., Troy, MI 48098 Chauncey Olcott Favorites " 91 Portraits of Musical Celebrities " 92 ARCHNES, Bob Rosencrans Play it Again Paderewski ...... " 93 109 Cumberland Place, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010 How the American Navy Torpedoed Hedy Lamarr 101 PUBUCATIONS, Edwin Ward Piano Rolls: Untapped Technical Resources...... 103 191 Riverview Dr., Woodville, OH 43469-9745 Ralph Rainger Discovered in "International House" ... .. 103 AUDIO-VISUAL, Harold Malakinian I Love My Cross Valves II 104 . 2345 Forest Trail Dr., Troy, MI 48098 Keeping Your Duo-Art Accordions in Tune 104 CONVENTION COORDINATOR, Liz Barnhart Decalomania Depressive...... 105 919 Lantern Glow Trail, Dayton, OH 45431 Felinophone, Model 7...... 105 The (Almost) Perfect Duo-Art 106 AMICA International Bylaws Center Section Pull-out AFFILIATED SOCIETIES - Departments See May/June 1987 issue for addresses AMICA International 85 The Player Piano Group (England) Presidents Comer ...... " 86 The North West Player Piano Association (England) News From the Chapters ...... 94 Netherlands Mechanical Organ Society - KDV Technicalities ...... 104 Australian Collectors of Mechanical Musical Instruments Dutch Pianola Association Rolls and Music ...... 102 Society of Friends of Mechanical Musical Instruments (Germany) People " 91 Classified Ads 108 DISCLAIMER: Acceptance of articles for publication in the AMlCA News Cover: From the Duo-Art Monthly, July, 1924. Contributed by Molly Bulletin does not imply a guarantee of the accuracy of the facts contained Yeckley. in any article, nor an endorsement of an author's recommendation. -85- The President's Corner .... A Message from the President: It is with very deep regret that I find myself in a position / of having to resign as President of AMICA midway through ­ my term. With a feeling of some incompetence but with the help of many of you and a strong Executive Board, I felt we were on our way to formulating strong plans and goals for the Association. However, I find that my health continues to deteriorate and therefore prevents me from giving AMICA "111 %" of my time and effort that. it deserves. I dislike missing the first convention of MBSI and AMICA and was looking forward to it as something new and exciting for all of us. I am positive that Ron Connor will be more than competent in the job, work­ ing with Jim Doheny as our official Parlimentarian and Roberta Cherney as another member of the Bylaws Committee. A draft of our labors will be handed out at the convention. My thoughts are with you; I hope your prayers will be with me. Always for AMICA, Molly Yeckley

./ ./

(Molly Yeckley passed away June 22, 198Z A fitting tribute and memorial will be published in the Sept./Oct. AMICA News Bulletin. She asked that any memorials in her name be to AMICA International Memorial Fund.) Ed.

Rogers, Arkansas, June 19, 1987 Dear AMICAns, By the time you read this, most of you will know that Molly Yeckley had to resign as AMICA President due to health problems. There will also undoubtedly have been a new President selected by theBoard of Directors, as called for in our Bylaws. However, as I write this, I am your acting President, and want to say a few words to you. Molly gave a lot to AMICA during her short time as President. She organized and presided over the very productive Winter Board Meeting, and can claim a lot of credit for the new Bylaws presented to the association, both as a member of the committee, and as an instigator to get the rest of us moving. She continued as an active President until she had to enter the hospital, and then reluctantly resigned, trying to give me time to get a handle on things before the Convention. She even said, from her hospital bed, that she would work up an agenda for the Annual Membership Meeting! Hope she can, but she doesn't have the strength to now. Long before she was President, she was a live-wire member of the association. No one who attended our conventions would have to ask, "Molly Who." She was full of energy and seems to know everyone's name. Molly, we wish you well, and hope """ you will return to us soon. My first reaction to learning, I must act as President, was panic. Then I sat down to write a letter to the Board Members, to inform them of the situation, and as I looked over the list of names, I realized our organization is in good hands. There are many capable people on the Board who can carry out the programs that are under way. I shall try to provide leadership until the Hoard chooses a new President. . Sincerely, Ron Connor -86- Publisher's Thoughts ... As I read over my "just received" Player Piano Group Bulletin are not all piano technicians, but most all of us have a com­ from England, I can't help but notice the similarities between mon interest that makes us potential candidates to contribute -'" our two groups. The officer and committee changes, the social articles for publication. If it is of interest to you, the chances and technical happenings, the interest in preservation and are pretty good that other AMICAns would enjoy your shar­ restoration of the grand old instruments, all sound so very ing it with them. So please consider it a part of being an familiar. Other than the names, it could easily fit into the AMICAn, and forward those iterns of interest to the Publisher, AMICA News Bulletin, and no one would know the difference. so that we can all share the pleasure. Sometimes it can be Even to the appeal for membership involvement in contributing a newspaper or magazine article, or something of a more in­ articles for publication. It seems they too have had recent dividual nature that would be typewritten. I hasten to add that changes in their editorial staff, and are asking for coopera­ it is very helpful if you double-space all typewritten articles. tion in providing newsworthy articles for the P.P.G. Bulletin. And, if photographs are involved, it is a fact of life that black Which brings me to my main thought for the day, and my & white photos reproduce much better than any of the col­ primary reason for this writing. ored ones. Polaroid instant cameras, using black & white film, can be valuable in this regard. However, rather than not in­ The AMICA News Bulletin is the common thread that clude pictures with your article, good colored shots can be touches us all. It is not the Publishers Bulletin, nor is it the enhanced by the printer; but he is limited to the equipment property of the Officers or Board Members. It is YOUR at hand, and can only do so much. Bulletin, the membership and readers. It is for you that AMICA International expends a conSiderable sum of money to print At the risk of being redundant, fm repeating Dorothy and distribute the Bulletin. Of course, this money is a large Bromage's "Guidelines For Contributors~ which has appeared part of the annual dues which we all pay. Therefore, it follows previously in the Bulletin, and even though it is directed primari­ that we all want the best Bulletin that our budget will permit. ly to Chapter Reporters, it is of general interest to all In order to accomplish this goal, year in and year out, we must contributors. Thanks for listening, and keep those articles rely on you, the membership, to contribute to this goal. We coming.

"GUIDELINES FOR CONTRIBUTORS" Dorothy Bromage, Publisher Emeritus The follOWing suggestions are given for the purpose of the controls. (Don't make a black and white print from a making articles and reports turn out the best they can be. First color negative, either.) of all, regarding form of material submitted - please type, Since the whole idea of photos appearing in the bulletin double spaced. If pictures are included, provide captions, also is so that people and objects can be seen by others, it is wise typed, immediately following the article. When I send the to get the best you can in the first place. The printer can do article off to the typesetter, I have the captions typeset also, only so much to improve photos. As you know, the printer and the most convenient format is as just mentioned. The least makes negatives from the photographs, shooting the photos convenient is having to sit down and type the caption onto through a screen that causes a very slight dimming of the pic­ paper from the back of the picture. ture. The screen breaks up the the whole picture into tiny dots. As for pictures, black and white is best, and not that hard Newspapers use a coarse screen, and if you look closely, you to obtain. I have seen excellent results with the use of a can see the individual dots. The printer of the Bulletin uses Polariod or other instant camera and black and white film. a much finer screen. Perhaps chapter treasuries could spring The advantage of instant film is that you know at the time for an instant camera for the chapter reporter's - and other's whether or not you got what you wanted. Also, you can write, - use. in pencil, identifying information you11 need later, right on the Special note to chapter reporters: I believe Bulletin readers back .of the print. For heaven's sake, don't write on the back appreciate as much identification as possible regarding the of any picture with pen. The color transfers to the nearest objects that appear in a picture - especially those that are object - usually another photo. hobby-related. I have a personal bias against photogrciphs that Now, the reason for black and white. In color photographs identify some people and not others. I also tend to edit out there are usually areas of red and green. The printer's camera the menu and the weather report - but not always. Chapter reads these as black. So you never know, with a color photo, reporters are a hard-working and un-thanked lot, and should how it will appear when printed in the Bulletin. Using black be given all the recognition and support possible, both at the and white, the black, white and grey areas are just that on chapter and the International level. I actually do very little cut­ the printed page. Color pictures tend to turn out dark, as if ting, because I figure people have a good reason for including the picture were taken in very low light. the information that's there. Mostly, I correct spelling, syntax If black and white film is not used, but a good color and any other details that might interfere with easyklear picture is available, send it. DO Nor make a black and white reading. print from the color picture, just to be able to send black and Hats off to all contributors. Without you there would be white. Send the color picture and let the PRINTER make the no Bulletin at all. negative from it for the bulletin. They know how to tinker with 87 AMICA's SILVER CONVENTION UPDATE by AU Werolin AMICP;s Big Bash is looking even better! Definite ar­ Let's illustrate, albeit on a sad note. A few weel

A BECHSTEIN ADVENTURE Martin Berkofsky Beviewed by Emmett M. Ford My correspondence and friendship with the pianist, Martin Berkofsky began years ago from our various articles written for music magazines. Mr. Berkofsky has written a revealing and interesting story about the Bechstein pianos (now owned by the Baldwin Piano Company), and his use of a grand in recording for Vox Records. Bechstein used the Welte-Mignon Reproducing Action in its pianos. In the 1800s the Bechstein piano had withstood the onslaught of a Liszt performance, such performances had often demolished grand pianos made in France. Bechstein invited Franz Liszt and Hans von Bulow to visit the factory, and in a test, the piano withstood Liszt's thunderous technique, and he gave his approval of the piano. This resulted in a lasting friendship between Liszt and the house of Bechstein. Prior to World War I, over sixty-six thousand Bechstein grand and upright pianos were sold throughout the world. Mr. Berkof­ sky takes us on a trip through the factory, relating, step by step, the construction of a grand from case, to hammers, to strings, and all other parts of the piana Mr. Berkofsky's article appeared in the 1986 Piano quarterly, Na 133. Interested persons will find it worthwhile to locate this magazine and read the complete, amazing, story.

-88- Collector's orchestrions a respository for sounds of past by Mary Wade Atteberry The Indianapolis Star - Saturday, February 8, 1986. Contributed by Tim Needler moves its head as the music plays, while those on either side of him tap bells with precision timing. It, too, used to play in dance halls. Unlike the other in­ struments which were designed to work off electricity, this one had to be cranked by hand when it was first built. Later, the crank- ing mechanism was removed and power added. . The Steinway reproducing piano, when it isn't being loaned to the symphony, sits to the right of this Mortier and is Corya's pride and joy. It was made in 1923 and is so sophisticated it can reproduce both the notes and the expression of the original masters who cut the paper recordings for it, Corya notes. It is far more spohisticated than player pianos which pro­ vide music without all the nuances, the collector explains. Indeed, watching the keys depress as Ignace Paderewski "plays" a Liszt composition can be somewhat eerie because all of the musicians's feeling comes across as if he were sitting there Franklin Corya's orchestrion collection is housed in lUXUriously at the keyboard. decorated rooms in former farm machinery repair shop. Paderewski was one of many composers who made recor­ dings for the piano, Corya says. GREENSBURG INDIANA - Another of those was George Gershwin, and that's why the Franklin and Margaret Corya raise hogs, com and soybeans Indianapolis Symphony has borrowed Corya's Steinway. The sym· ~<{~ their sprawling farm just north of here. phony is featuring the composer "live" in solo performances At the end of the driveway leading to their door a brick house through the reprodUcing piano. stands tall and solid, and beyond it various farm buildings dot "It takes a special piano to cut a paper recording for one of the brown landscape. these reproducing pianos:' Corya says. It is to one of those buildings that Corya leads his frequent "They could do that (cut paper recordings) in 1920, but they ./ visitiors. It is a nondescript one-story structure where farm can't do that today," he notes. The special recording pianos are machinery was repaired and maintained once upon a time. . no longer around, he explains. That was before Corya became a collector in a big way., Now, a small rear door to the former machinery shop opens into two large rooms lUXuriously carpeted in red and trimmed with rich wood molding. And there, displayed around the perimeter of the rooms against regal red walls are the most massive and ornate music­ making instruments you're likely to see in one place again. Wall­ mounted lights and a chandelier hanging from the ceiling of the larger room illuminate the pieces - some garishly ornate and others beautifully elegant in their workmanship. The quiet, soft-spoken Corya has one of the country's larges~ collections of "orchestrions" - instruments built in the early 19

-90- NADIA REISENBERG MEMORABILIA EUBIE BLAKE COLLECTION TO IPA AT MARYLAND IN BALTIMORE By Emmett M. Ford Contributed by Art Hietala Robert and Alexander Sherman, sons of pianist, The Maryland Historical Society Library, Baltimore, teacher, phonograph, and piano roll artist, Nadia has received the personal and professional archive of Eubie Reisenberg, have given their Mother's collection of Blake (1883-1983), Baltimore-born pianist, composer and manuscripts, papers and memorabilia to the International songwriter. Songs and instrumental pieces in manuscript, Piano Archives at Maryland. including Charleston Rag (1899), form the heart of the The collection was on exhibition in Steinway Hall collection together with extensive documentation of Blake's (February 1986) in New York. At that time the sons' book, collaboration with singer and lyricist Noble Sissie "Nadia Reisenberg: A Musician's Scrapbook" was (1889-1975), Flournoy Miller, Milton Reddie, and others. celebrated at a reception attended by about 150 people. The musical comedy Shuffle Along, presented on Broad­ Robert Sherman is Executive Producer at New York's way in 1921, is represented in correspondence, box office music station WQXR and Alexander Sherman is an IBM records, programs, scores and parts, photographs, and executive. Dr. Joanne Harrar, Director of Libraries at the printed sheet music. Blake's involvement in other produc­ University of Maryland, presented the sons replicas of a tions is similarly documented. Photographs, news clippings, plaque commemorating the gift of the Reisenberg Collec­ and printed ephemera support the collection's primary tion, which will be permanently in the Archives. materials.

CHAUNCEY OLCOTT FAVORITES By Emmett M. Ford

Several AMICAns, browsing through auction lists and romances, with which he was associated, were "Macushla", Ampico catalogs, inquire: What are the "Chauncey Olcott "Paddy Whack", "The Isle O'Dreams", "Terence", and "Ed­ Favorites" and Who is Chauncey Olcott? mund Burke". DUring World War I, he played the part of an Irish soldier in the Red Cross production, "Out There". These The Ampico Rolls are Irish Ballads. One roll of "My Wild were plays in which many well-known Irish songs were in­ Irish Rose" has words, another is Lee Sims paraphrase of the troduced, for example "Mother Machree", "My Wild Irish Rose" ballad. The other Ampico roll is a collection of Irish Ballads (Olcott wrote both words and music) and "A Little Bit of played by Kmita, composed by Olcott. Chauncey Olcott was Heaven". He was a great admirer of the famous tenor, John an actor and singer. His tenor voice and the singing of Irish McCormack, good feelings existed between the two men. Ballads, made him popular with American audiences in the When McCormack was appearing in Ann Arbor on the even­ late 1800's and early 1900's. He was born in Buffalo, New ing following Olcotts' heart seizure, he said to his audience York, July 21, 1860. He made his first public appearance in that he had missed a word in singing "Mother Machree" 1880 at the Academy of Music, in Buffalo, as a ballad singer. because the man who made the song possible was lying ill His first dramatic role was in a play called "Pepita," (The Girl in a hospital. "I have just received word of it and I know the With The Glass Eyes) at the Union Square Theater in New audience will offer a prayer for his recovery." York. Later he appeared in "The Old Homestead" with Den­ Olcott suffered a sudden collapse during a run of "The man Thompson. His first musical stage appearances were in Rivals" (in which he was playing Sir Lucius O'Trigger) in Ann Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, singing Nanki-Poo in "The Arbor in 1925. He never fully recovered, and it ended his Mikado" and Ralph Rackstraw in "Pinafore." public appearances. Thereafter, he divided his time between Chauncey went to London for vocal study with Randeg­ Europe and his home in Saratoga Springs, New York. Death ger. His first London stage appearance was in an Irish role came in Monte Carlo, March 18, 1932. His wife, Margaret in "Mi~s Decima" at the Prince of Wales Theater. His career O'Donovan, and an adopted daughter survived him. His body was largely in sentimental Irish romances, though he made was brought to New York for burial. occasional appearances in revivals. Some of the Irish

-91- From "Portraits of Musical Celebrities"

From the Collection of Sanford Libman

N EW YORK, 1905.

I desire to thank you sincerely for the Steinway which you sent to me and which I used with great pleasure during the entire Metl;opolitan Opera season, New York, of 1905. ,.., '" * * * The proof of what I think of your pianos exists in the fact that three years prior to my arrival in America I purchased in Italy for my persona) use one of your pianos, with which I am really enchanted. ENRICO CARUSO.

-92- Play It. Again, Paderewski - Wall Street Journal, Monday, January 27, 1986 Contributed by Aif Werolin, AI Greco and Bob Taylor (Phila).

pianos. Placed under the piano, the the keys moving magically up and down, you mechanism is a series of air pumps and hoses stare in amazement. that relay impulses from a perforated roll plac­ Despite all this, the reproducing piano ed on a pneumatic cylinder. dropped out of sight in the mid-1930's, hit by ~ Richard Smith, owner of the Piano Ex­ the twin blows of the Depression and improv­ change in Glen Cove, N.Y., is a collector and ed recordings, not to mention talking films. To­ Everyone's leading restorer and enthusiast of these pianos. day, even most musicians have never heard of "We forget," he says, "that before electricity, it. HELD OVER! people had learned everything there was to Larry Kraman didn't forget. He brought know about air and water-pneumatics and the reproducing piano to the attention of Greg LARRY ADLER hydraulics. This instrument is an incredible ap­ Dawson, proprietor of the Ballroom. Four years & plication of pneumatics." You could also say ago, Mr. Dawson acquired a reproducing piano that in some ways the reproducing piano is an for his cabaret, but an eager collector came .THE AMAZING early form of digital computer. along and offered him more money than he PERFORMING What sets it apart from the simple player could refuse. Mr. Dawson then set out to find piano is its ability to convey dynamics. Not another and with Mr. Kraman's help, located only the notes shuck, but the precise impact the Knabe that has lately been playing duets the artist made on the keys - the pressure with Mr. Adler. ~ of the hammer hitting the strings, crescendos, And that is how it is that Mr. Adler shares diminuendos, the lTlQyements of the soft pedal, the stage with the ghosts of Gershwin, all these refinemerits of performance are Rachmaninov and Vincent Youmans. transmitted with uncanny accuracy by the roll Listening to Mr. Adler and his col­ to the automated instrument. laborators, it becomes clear that the reproduc­ Al! the great pianists of the day made ing plano is at its most effective when treated reproducing rolls for Ampico and Duo·Art­ as a solo instrument. Despite the masterful Prokofiev, Paderewski, Rubinstein, and their performances recorded on the rolls, the tem­ rolls have been preserved. pos are set and Mr. Adler constantly has to On Feb. 3, 1920, Ampico staged a con­ adjust to the rhythms of his partners. At one cert at Carnegie Hall with Godowski, Levitzki, point in a rehearsal of "Rhapsody in Blue," Mr. Moiseiwitsch, Ornstein and Rubinstein. Each Adler complained to Mr. Kraman: "George artist performed live, and then a roll of the always moved that passage along much faster~ same piece was played In the words of an Am­ But Mr. Adler was stuck with the roll as it is. pica brochure, the results were "a complete Mr. Adler did get a chance to interact freely , Jack Edwards sent this ad from the Jan. 26, triumph" for the reprodUcing piano. with another live musician· on opening night, when he and the jazz pianist Ellis Larkins im­ J' ·1986 New York Times. Popular composers like Victor Herbert, Vincent Youmans, Richard Rodgers and provised together on such standard tunes as "Body and Soul" and "Time On My Hands." By Edwin Wilson New York George Gershwin also made rolls. Today standing in Mr. Smith's showroom, The main value of the reproducing piano "Fifty years to the day after Larry Adler today is nostalgic. Mr. Adler first played with and George Gershwin performed 'Rhapsody listening to Prokofiev play Rimsky-Korsakovs "Scheherazade" . or Alfred Cortot play a the living George Gershwin at a party where in Blue' together they will perform it together he also teamed up with Cole Porter, Irving again on our great stage." Scriabin etude or Paderewski play Liszt's "Hungarian Rhapsody" on a Duo-Art Steinway Berlin and Vincent Youmans (aU of them also So read the press announcement from the then still in the flesh). Mr. Adler closes his cur­ Ballroom Cabaret. And on opening night, there is both thrilling and ghostly. If you close your eyes and listen to the performances, with their rent show playing"Tha for Two" with Youmans, they were: Larry Adler, the 71-year-old virtuoso, and for a time the audience is transported back playing his harmonica, and, in a manner of nuances, sharp attacks, and muted passages· followed by bright glissandos, you are convinc­ to one of the legendary Tin Pan Alley parties speaking, but really present, the late, great, of 50 years ago. George Gershwin. ed that you are in the presence of the artists. Then, when you look at the empty piano, with This improbable resurrection of a com­ poser dead since 1937 occurred thanks to a r·he Auto'piallo faotorles ill ftew York City, (50th to 52nd Sts.; , forgotten device known as the reproducing faohll the HudsOll, RIver) the I'rc!,st. faotorles· ill the wot'ld piano. This marvel of engineering had its hey­ devoted to'the M:anufacture of P!ayer, ·p"'1l0S excluslYely. day from 1915 to 1935. A marvel of engineer­ ing, the reprodUcing piano is a typically American invention that combines culture and technology. The player piano, which duplicates music in a singsong, music-pupil style, is well known, but almost no one knows about the reproducing piano, which is to the player piano what an ocean liner is to a canoe. In the early decades of the century, phonographs were in a primitive stage and there were no talking films. Recordings were made by performers singing into a large cone, '. and the electrical recording process was not perfected until the late '30's. But the wealthy, who bought Duesenberg and Hispano-Suiza automobiles, also wanted first-class entertain­ ment in their homes, and the reproducing piano filled the gap. Tw@ companies, Duo-Art and Ampico, built special equipment into Steinways, Mason & Hamlins, and other well-known makes of Contributed by Bob Rosencrans -93- ~cm~R:lCmccClilCllic~alac~~r1CE!C~CIlIC&llCmiCllC~ News from the Chapters

CHICAGO CHAPTER As the meeting drew to a close, plans were made for the next Mel Septdn, Reporter meeting which is to be held in May_ February 28th found members of the Chicago Chapter of AMICA traveling to the hinterlands to the home of Wynette and Jim Edwards in Batavia, Illinois. The weather was a bit wet (preferable to snow in February) which necessitated careful negotiation of the winding n.iral roads to the Edwards' lovely horne in this heavily wooded area west of Chicago. The activities started with impromptu playing of Jim's Baldwin Welte, Chickering Ampico and Steck Duo-Art. It is nice to have an example of each major system to make a comparison of ron styles. After this musical appetizer a short business meeting followed, then members gathered around Jim's Steck Duo-Art to hear a live performance by 94 year old Dave Bennett who is the composer of "Bye Bye Blues~ a popular tune of the 1920's. Dave was accompanied by a delightful vocalist Meg Popadoleus who sang several great old tunes. While the evenings activities pro­ Chicago AMICAns listening to Dave and Meg. gressed, ample supplies of wine, cheese, fruit and cookies nourished' the crowd.

HEART OF AMERICA CHAPTER Reporter: Willa Daniels An as yet uncased 69-key 310 pipe "Style 168", handbuilt by Ed Smith of McFarlane, Kansas, generated magnificent sound as well as a lot of interest at Heart of America's summer organ rally at Worlds of Fun in Kansas City, Saturday, J.une 6, 1987. The "168" has six automatic registers - violin, flute, piccolo, trumpet, trombone, and orchestra bells. Fourteen each sax­ ophones, wood trumpets, and stop flutes comprise the baritone. There are eight ranks in the melody, six bass trombones, and three sets (six each) flute bass. It has castanets, triangle, and bass and snare drums, plays a 165 roll, and operates on seven and a half Chicago President Bob DeLand conducts business meeting inches pressure.

94 year old Dave Bennett accompanies Meg Popadoleus Ed Smith's "Style 168" -94- Heart of America members take a back seat to no one in inspired creativity and ingenuity in displaying their mechanical music machines. Ron Bopp's spiffy little Wurlitzer 103 organ made its debut at Six Flags neatly mounted aft on a canopied golf cart ., set off with strings of clear twinkling mini-lights. Mike Hanchett's red, white, and blue stars and stripes circus wagon type enclosure, .J mounted on a shiny red vintage one-ton truck, framed a Han­ chett Calliope. Gerold and Linda's "Koehler's Caliope" rises through the roof of their dignified black CadillCic hearse with American flags parade mounted fore and aft, an animated clown, and other definitely unfunereal ornamentation. Dan Daniels pulls his 49/50 key pink Limonaire on a trailer built to match his 1904 highwheeled Schacht autobuggy.

Gracious hostess Linda Bird and the Bird's 146 North Tonawanda

Dan Davis admiring Paul Morgenroth's Stinson Calliola

Daniel's Hanchett Calliope aboard the "Cotton Blossom"

Tom Hellman roamed the park delighting onlookers with Morgenroths' Hofbauer monkey organ and a spindle-legged buck­ tooth monkey with a maI1iacal glare. Paul and Shirley Morgenroth also brought their beautiful Stinson Calliola, and Galen and lin­ da Bird their 146 North Tonawanda. Mike Hanchett displayed one of his "Otto Accordions", Leonard and Billie Railsback their Harmonipan Hofbauer Gottinger, and Charlie Tyler a selection of rare phonographs and a crowd-pleasing 'Dandn' Rufus:

Ron Bopp's Wurlitzer 103 organ in front of Heart of America's new banner

. Kay and Tom Bode and Leon Switzer reacting to Tom Hellman's monkey's antics. A concerted effort to load all the organs got everyone out of the park by suppertime and .to supper in a bliss-fully air- . "Otto Accordion" and a small Hofbauer amidst cool shade and conditioned hamburger heaven. a splashing fountain -95- Heart of America continued - In the afternoon we visited Avenis Automatic Musical In­ . Sunday morning the group enjoyed brunch at the home of struments of Yesterday. It was great to hear his Hupfeld Phonoliszt Violina play again, enjoy his Peerless Orchestrion, and hear the Galen and Linda Bird before the chapter's'quarterly meeting. recently expanded theater Pipe Organ, which are all part of his Presentation of a special project onwhich Ron Bopp, Ron Con­ fabulous collection. nor;. and Gerold Koehler had been working highlighted the meeting. Upcoming meeting dates and places were set and future organ rallies discussed. The chapter applauded Paul Morgenroth and Gerold Koehler for therr excellent planning and execution of the Six Flag orgaJ'l rally. Members enjoyed Bird's fine collection, which includes a Weber Styria, a Steinway Duo-Art grandpiano, and a coinola.

MIDWEST CHAPTER Reporter: Margaret Frazer On May 2nd, the Midwest Chapter of AMICA started a fun· filled weekend by meeting in Cleveland at Bill Kapp's Piano Com­ pany on Euclid Avenue Everyone enjoyed Bill's antique museum, as well as his modem instruments; from his Stinson Organ to the Seeburg Nickelodeon. Our visit was climaxed with a sump· hJous' brunch. The pastry "was out of this world."

Or

.Vince Aueni's beautiful Hupfeld Phonoliszt Violin

The Stins.on Organ

v­ i

Bill Kapp listening to the orchestra. Peerless Orchestrion with uiolin pipes and link type roIl -96- Midwest Chapter continued - The evening was spent with host Bob Porter at the Marina Towers on Edgewater Drive. Bob had several of his magnificent­ ly restored cars lined up in front of his building for us to "OOOH" and "AHHH" about. A delicious catered dinner was served in the ./ penthouse of his apartment building, and was enjoyed by aU. After dinner a business meeting was held, with Liz Barnhart presiding. Later we adjourned to Bob's apartment to fraternize and listen to his 7' Baldwin Grand and Pianocorder. A truly enjoyable evening.

Our host Robert Porter Sunday morning we "brur..;hed" at the Holiday Inn in Westlake, and then boarded a "Trolley", sans trolley and track, for a scenic The original Encore Banjo at Gorski's, Memories afPasadena. '. tour around the city of Cleveland Our driver had a delightful sense _/ of humor, and gave us the historical details of many interesting attractions about town.'

SOWNY CHAPTER Reporter: Harold Hodgkins February 22nd saw a number of SOWNY AMICAns gather at the Hyatt Regency in Buffalo for a champagne breakfast. The selection of food was appetizing, tempting, wide-ranging and un­ doubtedly fattening, but this latter quality didn't deter anyone pre­ sent from making several refill trips. Afterwhat seemed like sev~ hours of this favorite SOWNY activity, all persons present gathered at Shea's Theatre where other club members had already assembled.

"all aboard" for the trolley. Sunday afternoon ~asspent with Marian and Michael Gor­ ski, at their.beautiful home, which was filled with interesting col­ lections. The Stemway Duo-Art, Regina Corona music box, single Mills Violano Bowfront, and an original Encore Banjo, which brought back memories of the Pasadena Convention, are but a part of their collection.. Down the winding stairs we went to the fun-filled basement, through the "Telephone Booth" door, to Mike's tum of the century "speak easy", with all its memorabilia. It was a pleasure to have the Intemational Secretary Mel Sep- -,; ton ofSkokie, fIIinois, Bob Rosencrans and lee Werkheiser of Phildelphia as guests. Truth of the matter is, these three are now members of Midwest Chapter, as well as their own local chapter. I. r. Ed Group, Nancy Group, Howard and Lori Root, Muriel and But it says something about bur group, when AMICAns will travel Harold Hodgkins, Jim Barley, Garry and Ann Lemon, Janie those distances fora weekend with Midwest Chapter. McCleary, Tom and Mrs. Rosenbusch. -97- SOWNY continued - Besides socializing, enjoying the nice buffet provided, and telling each other which rolls we absolutely cou.ldn't live without, we gathered in another room to witness the perforators in action. Frank Thompson was the expert in this area, describing in detail how rolls were made, and answering the many questibns from r those technically minded. It was a grand experience for those who atttended. The delightful, warm, balmy spring afternoon combined with a real congenial group of AMICAns from both Chapters, made for a meeting long to be remembered. This will be our last meeting 'til fall, but we are looking forward to seeing many familiar faces return to the Minneapolis-St. Paul Convention in July.

PrilJatetable - Jim Barley, Ann and Garry Lemon. At Shea's we were privileged to hear an exciting young artist by the name of Lance wce. Although young in years, Lance has had extensive experience arid recognition, playing at such places as Radio City Music Hall and Carnegie Hall Cinema, as well as other places in the United States and Australia. Presently he is the featured organi!jt .at the. 9Tg~n Grinder in Toronto, Canada. . No one was disappointed as Mr. wce gave the Shea's theatre organ a real workout covering a wide range of musical compos­ tions including popular, classical and favorite oldies.

Clark and Fae Cressman look at one of the new Ampico rolls at Keystone. (A rare picture ofClark & Fae together, since Clark is our Chapter Photographer and thus hardly seen in our photos.)

Gany Lemon, Jim Barley, Harold Hodgkins, Janie McCleary, Ann Lemon, Jan Drewniak, Rick Drewniak, Muriel Hodgkins.

PHILADELPHIA AREA CHAPTER Bob Rosencrans, Reporter Saturday, May 9th was a very special occasion for our Chapter, when we joined members from Lady Liberty Chapter Watching the perforator make a Duo-Art roll. for a visit to Keystone Music Roll Co., Inc. in Bethlehem, Pa. Bob Taylor had announced back last fall that such a get together would take place, as soon as possible, after moving the Powell's Klavier Music Roll cutting operation from California to Pennsylvania. So it was with keen anticipation, that we looked forward to the big date. Rich Groman, who in conjunction' with Bob, operates the facility, acted as co-host for the event. He w~lcomed us, and made a few brief introductory comments. We were then free to browse around the shelves and shelves of new rolls, after which there was to be a demonstration of one of the perforators actually pro­ ducing rolls. We were a\llike kids in a candy store, looking over the many rolls. Over 500 titles have been cut to date, and this is just the beginning as more and more previously unavailable rolls are pro­ duced. A very welcome added feature of the Keystone Music Roll Co. is the presence of newly rebuilt reproducing pianos for each Fran Mayor, Frank Thompson, Alan Lightcap of the three major systems. Neecuess to say, there was much com­ petition between them, as would-be purchasers played rolls. -98- Philadelphia Area Chapter continued - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER Reporter: Susan PeJl It was a hot time in the Old Town Music Hall for 50 Southern California Chapter AMICAns and their guests in EI Segundo, California, March 1st. The Old Town Music Hall is an old movie theatre refurbished with a magnificent Wurlitzer theater organ. Bill Coffman, the owner, specializes in presenting old silent films and early musicals and classics. The night we visited, three hours of non-stop solid entertainment was provided. After a short in­ troduction about the music hall and theatre organ, as well as an introduction to the general public about AMICA, we began with a live performance of the St. l..Duis Rag played by Mr, Coffman on the theatres 9' Boesendorfer concert grand. A short organ con­ cert followed, including a wonderful rendition of an early com­ position called "The Oceana Roll". (this song had significance as it was part of the original music intended to be played as accom- . paniment to "The Gold Rush~ our main feature film that even­ ing.) Mr. Coffman explained the Wurlitzer had been set up to Birds eye view ofsome ofthe demonstration pianos at Keystone. record live performances and demonstrated this ability by play­ ing a duet with himself - "Puttin' On the Ritz" played by Bill Coff­ man on the 9' concert grand and by Bill Coffman on the Wurlitzer both at the same time - a neat trick. Two short subjects were shown an animated short with a very young Ethel Merman singing "Let Me Call You Sweetheart", followed by a film on Jimmy Dorsey's band. Then there was a short sing-along and on to the main feature, which was Charlie Chaplain's great silent film, "The Gold Rush': The live organ accompaniment made for one memorable evening. We wish to thank Mr. Coffman for giving us extra attention and the opportunity to introduce AMICA to the general public. The weekend of-May 2-3, took 42 Southern California AMICAns, their guests, and some sister members of the Music Box Society, in a private chartered bus to Fresno, California. I know you heard it through the grapevine, but there is a lot more to Fresno than raisins. We didn't see Carol Burnett, but we did see many wonderful things, including the magnificent collection Left, view of one-to-one perforator. of Richard and Jackie Duncan. This beautiful collection includes: a rare Hupfeld Phonoliszt Violina, an Aeolian Orchestrelle, a MUis Double Violano, a Nelson-Wiggins "5X~ a Pianola, a Stark-Welte Grand Piano, a Wurlizter "C", a European barrel organ, and assorted music boxes, including a beautiful Regina Changer. The collection is housed in a marvelous music room complete with leaded glass doors. The music room is off the mainhouse, which sits on 2V:! acres of the most beautifully landscaped grounds, com­ plete with ponds, island, ducks, swans, and exotic Koi fish. The garden is truly a sight to see. The Duncans are gracious hosts and we are most fortunate that they generously opened their col­ lection and gardens to us.

Philadelphia Chapter President, Paul Dietz and Jeff Morgan

Richard Duncan, host, on left, shows us his rare Hupfeld Phonoliszt Violina. Shirley and Frank Nix, our tour directorsfuice­ presidents on right.

-99- Southern California Chapter continued - The weekend trip also included a seven·course dinner at a Basque restaurant . the food never stopped. Following this we made a tour of the Kearney·Mansion and Meux House. These two beautiful houses are restored tum·of·the·century homes. We were treated to very informative and interesting tours in both houses. On the way back to Southern California we made a brief stop at Fort Tejon· a civil war outpost. Quite an interesting and diverse weekend.

The DunCan's Mills Double Violano.

.A beautiful Wurlitzer "C~ Also note Regina Changer.

A beautiful Aeolian·Orchestrelle. The beautiful Duncan Water Gardens. There is a waterfall in the background.

- lOO- Southern California Chapter continued

One offour white adult swans on the gorgeous 2Vz acre Duncan The Kearney Mansion. Built in 1900 - Lovingly restored. Water Gardens. There are also three white cygnets and four adult black swans and a bunch of ducks and Koi fish.

6

UNUSUAL USE FOR PLAYER PIANO ROLL. Contributed by Tim Passinault

~.

-101- MISSOURI WALTZ Frederick Knight Logan Review by Emmett M. Ford His life was a long struggle to secure the recognition which finally came to him with the popular "hit" song, the "Missouri Waltz". Frederick Knight Logan wanted to become a composer of serious music and his early days were spent as music director of various theatrical and light opera productions, involv­ ing such personalities as Maude Adams, Leslie Carter and David Belasco.. He abandoned his career to teach and write, living in Oskaloosa, Iowa. Because his early efforts met with polite stlence, he had put the "Missouri Waltz" aside, feeling it unworthy. By chance, a Chicago music publisher, F. J. A. Forster heard it and felt the composition had great promise for popularity. After publication, the sale was so great it guaranteed the financial independence of Mr. Logan.. Mr. Logan's Indian love song, "Pale Moon"' was on the programs of singers Frieda Hempel, Cyrena Van Gordon, Arthur Middleton, Char1es Marshall and others. The "Missouri Waltz" was recorded on every make of piano roll, from 88-note to reproduc- ing, and sold by the thousands. Even today one can find them in second-hand stores and _, auctions, with all indications of their having been played many times. The late Harry S. Truman .--... played it during his campaign for presidency, and during his term in office. Mr. Logan composed a Nocturne, a piano suite, "Four Castilian Sketches" and "Sum­ Frederick Knight Logan mer Showers:' '~le Moon" was recorded by Corrine de Bert and Lee Sims. The Lee Sims version was arranged as a paraphrase on Ampico roll 69303-F.

OCTAVE ETUDE Op 740 No. 5 - Carl Czerny Josef Lhevinne - Welte C2430 Reviewed by Emmett M. Ford Carl (or Karl) Czemy (1791-1857) was an eminent teacher and among his students were Franz Liszt, Th. Dohler and Sigismund Thalberg. Czemy's famous piano studies are still standard preparatory requirements for piano students. The Octave Etude was a favorite of Josef Lhevinne who played itin his recitals with bouyancy and uncanny ease. He was famous for his ability to negotiate octaves. When in Leipzig he visited the studios of Welte & Sons who had two years earlier in­ troduced the world's first commercially successful "player piano." In 1906 Lhevinne made several piano rolls for Welte. Two excellent ones were Scriabin's Nocturne for the Left Hand Op 9 No.2 (Welte 1300) and the Czemy Octave Etude Op 740 No.5 (Welte C 2430). He received $2,500 in royalties from the piano rolls he made for Welte. Hisperformances)~--<­ communicate an infectious joy seldom associated with Czerriy's studies. When Lhevinne returned to America, in 1919, he received $3,000 for testimony and use of the Steinway piano in his recitals.

JOSEF LHEVINNE -102- "PIANO ROLLS: UNTAPPED TECHNICAL RESOURCES" Stephen Husarik - Reviewed by Emmett M. Ford AMICAns who subscribe to the excellent magazine, "The Clavier", or read a copy at their local library, will find AMICAn, .../ Stephen Husarik's excellent article entitled "Piano Rolls: Untapped Technical Resources" in the April, 1986 issue, valuable information. Mr. Husarik teaches piano and music theory at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, Illinois, and with the knowledge of the composer's intent and proper interpretation, has reviewed some Duo-Art piano rolls. The article relates to the way Joseph Hofmann's technical resources were captured on the paper rolls. The deviations from the printed musical score, the artistic license, personal whims and alterations, by the pianist recorded on the rolls. None of which distracts from the listening pleasure of the audience. It is a relief to find someone commenting on roll performances without the usual "knit-picking" and derision of piano rolls often expressed by music critics, instructors, and other individuals. ****************************************************** RESEARCH ON REPRODUCING PIANOS Larry Sitsky, Head of the Department of Composition at the Canberra School of Music, Canberra, Australia, is doing research on reprodUcing pianos. He is desireous of obtaining photocopies of Ampico and Duo-Art Bulletins, some of which he already has in his possession. He is only too willing to reimburse those who might be willing to supply photocopies. You may contact him directly at the Canberra School of Music, G.po. Box 804, Canberra, ACI 2601, Australia. ****************************************************** RALPH RAINGER discovered in Music Box "INTERNATIONAL HOUSE" By Dick Price Ralph Rainger was the professional name used by Ralph Reichenthal who made Ampico rolls, the best of which were made with Edgar Fairchild. My favorite is the 1927 Ziegfeld Follies Selection. Like so many other Broadway musicians, he went to Hollywood where he was music director of the 1933 film International House, a wonderfully silly film I'd seen 15 years ago on a TV late night show. I got it out from the local video store recently and discovered that the Baby Rose Marie segment contains (probably) Rainger at one piano and (most likely) Leo Robin at the other. Does anyone know more WEDDING PRESENT about this? If you've never seen the film, do - We. Fields, PLAYS tOOO TUNES George Bums and Gracie Allen, and Rudie Vallee along with Renders the most beautiful music on a steel comb with a brillaDce and ~~~ic~SSp,~;~eati~~':r~~~:J::~~d~l~thnc~as~~c ~:3~~t:r~ Bella Lugosi make it a delight. Cannot get out of order like the delicate Swiss Bo%. because of the simplicity and massiveness of its movement. Indestructible metal tuDe discs are used, and the boll: runs 30 minutes with each winding, keeping the most accurate time. A wonderful entertainer. which never needS tuning, like a piano, and is always ready to play. Handsomely carved cases, as pictured above, suitable for Weddinx Presents. at same price as plain cases. RoIe. &0....14 to 170. In more elabOrate cases at higher prices, according to style of case. The Orchestral Regina. J;~;i~':rrg~~: ~a':~ ~~;:,::e~ ~~:~y°d:~ear:c~~~e:t fu~~~::l; ~dtp~Wr~·PI;~S.beSe~n~~d~: some illustrated catalogue. REGINA MUSI~BOX CO., Rahway, N: ].

Contributed by Frank Adams -*­ SIGNIFICANT ADJUSTMENT Contributed by Joseph Bella From "Bethesda Gleanings" Nov. '81 The anecdote is told of the late Valdimir de Pachmann, most capricious of pianists, who always fussed over his piano ~tool in full view of the audience. On one memorable occa­ sion he nddled and fumed and called for something to put on top of the stool. It was just too low. When a thick book was handed to him, he tried it and shook his head. Then he carefully tore out a single page, tried it again, smiled happily, and began his first number. -103- Technicalities

I \30 MY CROSS VALVES II By Harold Malakinian, Technicalities Chairman

I recognize Craig Brougher for his "critique" of my cross valve We AMiCAns are indeed fortunate to have knowledgeable article. people in our ranks. My desire as Technicalities Chairman is to A few neighboring AMICAns have had their cross valve plates stimulate the membership to submit articles on their ideas and repair changed during restoration. They were told round hole plates were procedures. A simple double spaced letter will usually do, as the publisher will edit the article. Double spacing is necessary because better. the editor writes notes in between the sentences. My article was written to come to the aid of the cross valve design and was not intended to criticize previous articles written on this By the way, I solicit your comments on my latest effort. My next subject. article is on a home made Duo-Art expression box that doesn't use accordion pneumatics. You will find it elsewhere in the Bulletin.

KEEPING YOUR DUO-ART ACCORDIONS IN TUNE By Harold Malakinian, Technicalities Chairman

length of the accordion string. This closes the knife valve slightly more than the original adjustment resulting in missed notes. The only remedy is to re-adjust the zero level upwards as necessary to match the test roll requirements. As the weather drys out and the leather shrinks, the knife. valve is then pulled open more than needed. Another adjustment is in order. Ifound most people usual­ ly leave the adjustment up, and the piano plays louder than necessary, except in damp weather. Previous articles written on this subject tell of daily re-adjustments by critical owners. To help alleviate this problem, I now cover these accordion pneumatics with thin striking pneumatic cloth. As an added precaution against stretching, I glue a one-inch wide strip of motor cloth to the top and bottom boards of the accordion string. With the bellows extended, I glue a strip on the front and back sides diagonally opposite, as shown in the sketch, keeping the strips Accordion Pneumatics shown slightly collapsed. extended alSo. When all the glue is dry, these strips will add to the strength of the bellows cloth to inhibit stretching affected by One of the problems of the Duo-Art expression box is the the ever constant return spring tension pulling the accordion all too frequent need to re-adjust this device to maintain the lowest pneumatics open. ';.-... possible zero setting. The extended length of accordion bellows is very critical. I first used leather of the original kind when recover­ Your adjustments should now hold much longer than the original ever did. The shrinking of pneumatic cloth is not a fac­ ing these bellows. Even though leather was used on the original tor. Of course, periodic seasonal adjustments may still be accordion pneumatics, I found it was a poor choice. In damp required. weather, the leather stretched, and produced a greater extended

-104- rechnicalities continued - DECALOMANIA DEPRESSIVE By Craig R. Brougher

Ihave been looking for a decal company that produces a con­ and not necessanly for their intrinsic beauty: Decal screeners us­ sistant quality decal. The metallics in American made decals are ed to make decals with foils or "foil paint" and quality gold paint becoming abominable. I find myself hating to remove even the combinations to get a metallic effect. Itwas common also to use cheapest of original decals because they are so superior and glow aluminum foil, over which clear gold coatings were applied to in the light like all decals should do. It is a shame to spend the create a flashy effect. time and money required to refinish a beautiful piano and then slap a new decal on it that looks light brown. . If anyone knows of a conscientious decal maker whose efforts they would like to encourage, I hope they will write the One of my customers wanted a new Knabe soundboard Bulletin, or myself with an address. Another suggestion I might decal. The wood on the newly refinished soundboard was clear make to those familiar with decals, is that a metal foil simulating white spruce and light honey color. When the $60 decal was plac­ decal is often white from the underside. If it looks. tan, then you ed.,it was a pasty tan that only your imagination could pretend know you are about to affix the world's most exorbitantly priced "gold~ In comparison to the beautiful board, coupled with the fact and cheaply made commodity to a fine finish, and it should simply that two original colors were missing as well as the blackoutline, be returned with a little love letter from you, expressing your feel­ the new decal subtracted greatly from the beauty of the piano. ings appropriately. The convenience of the new sticky decals do not make sense I feel that only if we demand quality are we very apt to get to me economically or artistically, and are sold for my convenience it, or to keep it very long.

READERS TECHNICAL INQUIRY - Felinophone - Model 7 - Circa 1875 My problem is this: fm having trouble finding enough cats in the neighborhood with different pitched voices to get the proper sound from my Felinophone. Grizzly old tom-cats seem to have the lowest pitched voices, and young females the highest. They all respond quite well; You would too if you had your tail hit with a hammer! If any reader has had a similar problem, (I know these instruments are quite rare) and came up with a solution, please advise. Sylvester Gato, Teotihuacan, Mexico.

) - • THE (ALMOST) PERFECT DUO-ART By Harold Malakinian, Technicalities Chairman

Some time ago, after carefully restoring my Steinway Duo­ Art grand, I was visited by some fellow AMICAns who were In my system, the main control "valve" is a large pouch similar to that used in the Ampico "E" system, with both upper side and searching for the "perfect" Duo-Art. under side isolated from each other. This air tight membrane is They were interested in roll making and were looking for a normally In the raised position, with vacuum above and, master piano to use to compile some test data. For example: If atmosphere below being ever present. The vacuum that keeps one note is played.at a certain loudness, what expression coding the pouch raised is supplied directly by the pump. The raised would be required to play two notes at this same loudness? Or pouch covers up the opening leading to the pneumatic stack, three notes? Or what ever? The original coders had this infor­ preventing any playing of notes. mation and it made their job easier. The atmosphere is channeled to the underside of the pouch My piano did not respond the same, to the test rolls they through four uncovered bleed holes of varying size. A small used, as did other pianos. Every piano seemed different. Some amount of pump vacuum is also channeled to the underside of passages were reported to be softer and some were louder. So this same pouch. The four bleed holes correspond to the 1-2-4-8 what is "perfect"? Is the Duo-Art expression system all too levels of the Duo-Art expression. The small amount of pump adjustable? I was always suspicious of my piands expression box. vacuum is mixed with the incoming atmosphere and establishes I could see changes in the expression coding on various rolls, as the zero intensity or minimum playing loudness. This is the only they passed over the tracker bar, that my piano did not seem to adjustable item. When all four bleeds are closed to atmosphere, respond to I found that I could change individual expression steps and with pump pressure present under the pouch, as well as over 20% by just re-positioning the connecting levers. I also above, the pouch will drop. This will fully uncover the opening consulted with other AMICAns in my endeavor to obtain the pro­ leading to the stack and allow free flow to the pump. The piano per adjustments. will now be playing at maximum loudness. As can be seen, any combination of covered or uncovered bleed holes will vary the About this time, instead of searching for the "perfect degree of loudness, the same as the accordion pneumatics would adjustment'; I decided to design and build a new Duo-Art expres­ do in the original Duo-Art system, upon receipt of the same signal sion system that did not require, nor even have, adjustments for from the tracker bar. The bleed hole expression steps are expression steps, etc. separated from one another and act independently. When operating, they are added to each other in digital fashion, instead ' The AE~JAN SYSTEM of on each other in analog fashion. Their size is fixed and are/""< The Duo-Art expression system is based on an analog not subject to temperature and humidity changes. This also output with a mechanical regulator. That is, the next expression eliminates errors caused by wear and excessive operating step is built upon the previous one. The output of the expression clearances between linkages that contribute to poor repeatabili- box, to the pneumatic stack, is the sum total of any accordion ty. With the air pressure inside the expression box explained, pneumatics activated at the moment. This pneumatic string pulls we can now go on to air flow. open a control gate called the knife valve. Any error present in the open or closed position of an accordion pneumatic or connecting link, will contribute to the output of the expression box knife valve, as an analog system deals only with the total signal as one. The air pressure inside the expression box is con­ trolled by the accordion pneumtics as explained. The amount of air, or air volume. passing through the expression box is con­ trolled by the regulator pneumatics. These pneumatics are under the same ever changing vacuum as is supplied to the pneumatic stack. The moveable leaf of the regulator pneumatic is connected, internally, to the knife valve and tends to close it. This same leaf is held open by an external regualtor spring. When the vacuum pressure, pre-se!e,cted by the accordion pneumatics drops, through the playing of notes, etc., the regulator spring opens the knife valve and lets in more high pressure vacuum, from the pump, until a balance Is achieved. The fineness ofthis regualtion is dependent on a mechanical spring, subject to improper adjustment and has MALCl!:tAN EXPRESSION BOX limited range. Air flow volume passing through the expression box is Despite all this, the Duo-Art is a well engineered system regulated by the pneumatic stack pressure. Air flow requirements capable of excellent results and startling realism. are produced on demand by the pneumatic stack. When the pressure in the stack drops below incoming pre-selected levels,. through the playing of notes, or valves being open, etc., the system-' The MAL~AN SYSTEM will speed up air flow, from the pump, until a balance between expression box and stack Is obtained. This is the same My expression system is based on digital output to obtain regulation method, for make up air, as in the original Duo-Art. loudness levels. This system is self-regulating with regards to air continued - flow volume and will be explained later.

-106- However, No Limit is set on the amount of makeup air available. MAL~.IAN Kept Secret Recovery of expended air is ongoing and immediate. This design takes advantage of the pump striving to maintain an equilibrium The first public showing was at the 1985 Convention held of air pressure above and below the pouch membrane. The pump here in Detroit, Michigan. My piano was one of the instruments ~ will supply as much vacuum as necessary to keep the pouch on display in the main ballroom We received many favorable com­ stationary for a given pressure. Due to the lightness and flexibili­ ments on the wide range of expression and the smoothness of ty of the pouch membrane, this action is continuous and very the (loudness) level changes. The truth was not revealed until the precise. last day of the convention, at the technicalities meetings. Very few members attended, still fewer understood the many months This feature eliminated the inconsistencies caused by too of research and development that goes into a project like this. much or too little valve travel between individual notes, affecting Upon hearing the truth, some members were disappointed that the air supply. It also allowed the piano to play whisper quiet with the piano was non-original, some were amazed. I still have it in­ no skips or misses. In order to match the original Duo-Art system, stalled in my piano and listen to it almost every day. It's still not two of these units are used. One for Accompaniment and one perfect, there are a few small problems that need attention but, for Theme. A theme valve control box was added between the now I am confident this method will work and is reliable, and war­ pneumatic stack and this expression box. This control box rants further development. At the present time, I am in the pro­ channels this various pressures generated, to the bass or treble cess of designing and building a new, simpler, expression box, side of the stack, as does the original Duo-Art. as this first attempt was largely experiemental and bigger than the original. My intent is to reduce the size down to the original On the whole, it is quite an improvement over what was box, and streamline the makeshift components. Hopefully, originally installed. Fine little crescendos and diminuendos that eliminating all the short comings of levers and links. I never knew existed on often-played rolls, suddenly became noticeable. Changes in loudness levels seem to be more natural The fellow AMICAns who were looking for the "perfect" Duo­ and less mechanical than before. Art reproducing mechanism are, to my knowledge, still looking. I think I am closer now than they are to finding it.

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ADVERTISING Classified: 10<: per word, $3.00 minimum for members. Non­ members may advertise at twice the abo\le rate. AMICA ITEMS FOR SALE (Publisher's note: It is no longer possible to process an ad for AMICA BULLETINS, BOUND ISSUES: 1971, 1972, $1.50, hence the increase, and new rate for Non-members.) 1973 bound Bulletins at $15 each. 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, • See Bulletin Deadlines on this page. Payment must 1978, 1979, 1980bound Bulletins at $18 each. 1981, 1982, 1983 accompany order. Make checks payable to: bound Bulletins at $21 each. 1984, 1985 and 1986 bound AMICA INTERNATIONAL. Bulletins at $24 each. PRICES INCLUDE POSTAGE AND HANDLING. Spiral bound to lie flat. Send order to Mary Lilien, Checks or money orders from advertisers in foreign countries 460 Olympiad Dr., lDs Angles, CA 90043. must be drawn on a U.S. Bank. AMICA TECHNICALITIES BOOKS: Display Advertising Volume I ...... (1969-1971), $9.50 postpaid Full Page 7W'xlO" $100.00 Volume II ...... (1972-1974), $7.50 postpaid Half Page 7~"x4%" 50.00 Volume III ...... (1975-1977), $8.50 postpaid 5 Quarter Page 3 / S"x4%" 25.00 Volume IV ...... (1978-1980), $6.50 postpaid Reprints of interesting technical articles which have appeared in • Each photograph or half-tone $7.00. the AMICA News Bulletin, arranged and indexed into appropriate • See Bulletin deadlines on mast head. categories. Brian Meeder, 1206 Miramonte Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93109. • We recommend display advertisers supply camera-ready copy. Copy that is oversized or undersized will be changed to cor­ -Roll Leaders: Duo-Art, AMPICO and Welte: Excellent replicas. rect size at your cost. We can prepare your advertisement from For order form, see mailing cover of Bulletin or write to Brian your suggested layout at cost. Meeder, 1206 Miramonte Dr., Santa Barbara, CA 93109. Send order to Brian. • Payment must accompany order. Typesetting, layout. or size alteration charges will be billed separately. Make checks AMICA STATIONERY: $3.50 (letter size), $3.20 (note size), payable to: AMICA INTERNATIONAL. including mailing charges. Fine quality stationery with ornate AMICA borders. Each packet contains 25 letters and matching • Checks or money orders from advertisers in foreign countries envelopes. Send orders to Tim Passinault, 105 Hemlock St., must be drawn on a U.S. bank. Munising, MI 49862. All ads will appear on the last pages of the Bulletin at the discre­ AMICA STERLING SILVER PINS: $8.00 each, postpaid. tion of the publisher. Very attractive on your lapel or dress. Send orders to Tim Publication of business advertising in no way implies AMICA's Pa~sinault, 105 Hemlock St., Munising, MI 49862. endorsement of any commercial operation. However, AMICA Please make ALL CHECKS payable to reserves the right to refuse any ad that is not in keeping with AMICA INTERNATIONAL AMICA's general standards or if complaints are received indicating that said business does not serve the best interests of the members of AMICA according to its goals and bylaws.

-107 - *************••••*.**********.***********.************************************************ CL~SSIFIED ****************************************************************************************** ~ FOR SALE STEINWAY DUO-ART GRAND, Model XR, serial 248498. CHICKERING AMPICO, 1926,5'4", Florentine style, restrung, totally rebuilt, refinished, regulated to perfection, outstanding Excellent unrestored condition, $7,500.00 Charles Rue, 7765 Coun­ per­ former. $12,500. 1927,6'5", try Club Rd., Athens, Ohio 45701 (614) 592-3794. STEINWAY "OR" DUO-ART, total restoration underway, to be completed by June. Tape, photos WEBER DUO-ART GRAND, not playirig, needs rebuilding, avaUable. See both during St. Paul July convention. Tim Wheat, 9773 good condition, 160 rolls, 5'8", 1920, $3,500.00. (301) 724-6492. Quincy, Mopls., MN 55434 (612) 574-5972 wkdys, 780-5699 Home. WELTE-MIGNON POOLE 6' GRAND, choice unrestored con­ MASON & HAMLIN AMPICO "A" GRAND PIANO, 6'2", dition. WUI sell as is, or will restore. MASS. (617) 233-1851. Serial No. AAR 33574,1926, mahogany case. Instrument and player mechanism are original, complete and unrestored. Comes with bench NICKELODEANS (2) BUILD-ups, "N roll, coin op. choice con­ & roll cabinet. This size instrument is rare and sound is wonderful. dition (1) $5,000.00 or B/O (2) $4,000.00 or B/O. Mass. (617) Price $9,100.00, BUI Koenigsberg, 77 High Pine Circle, Concord, 233-1851. MA 01742. (617) 369-8523. Antique perforated plano full scale music roll. Themodist, HAINESAMPICO GRAND, 5',1931 with "B"Drawer, 50 rolls Metrostyle, Meloto, Universal, ATC; like new. Popular songs and & bench, $6500.00 (OBO). Larry Brown, 20 Casey Drive, Mid­ classic. Make offer. Time P.O. Box 5263, Katy, TX 77450. dletown, HI 02840 (401) 847-0529. in mahogany 1924 KNABE 5'4" AMPICO "A" GRAND 1928 Marshall & Wendell Louis XV Ampico "A" Grand case. Professionally restored/refinished. John Pearson, 10444 Wood­ with matching bench, mahogany case. Refinished & restrung, player chuck Point, San Diego, CA 92131. (619) 578-5535 evenings. restored, price $10,000. Jerry Goldstein 3530 Bainbridge Avenue, ROLLS: 15 Wurlitzer #150 Band Organ $375. 22 Cecilian Far­ Apt. 21, Bronx, NY 10467. (212) 246-6000 Ext. 244 days, rand piano $110,120 58-Note piano $1,200, 6 Solo-elle $54, 5 Vox 231-8465 evenings. Organo Player Organ $75, 105 Art Echo $1,050,6 Peerless Nickelo­ mint unrestored condition. deon "0" endless $180, 6 Wurlitzer Theatre Orchestra $210, 12 recut SEEBURG MORTUARY ORGAN - Wurlitzer 153 Band Organ - plays great. H Schwab, 1440 Meteor "0" $216, 12 recut"N $216, 36 Red Welte $900, 5 Wilcox & White Artistyle Angelus 65-note piano $40, 12 "G" & "4-X" recut $216. Cir., Pittsburg, PA 15241. (412) 221-6909. INSTRUMENTS: Seeburg MO Piano-Organ Combination (Encyl. pg WANTED 616), 98 pipes, chimes, avg. good orig. playing condo $3,900. Red Welte cabinet-style piano, oak, orig. condo (pg 333 of encyl.), $3,900. SEEBURG KT WITH VIOLIN PIPES (I do not want flute pipes'-"-­ Wayne Edmonston, 2177 Bishop Estates Rd., JacksonvUle, FL (904) or xylophone). Prefer it to be very well restored, or if unrestored, 287-5996. it must be totally complete. I will also consider another make with equal or greater instrumentation, however it must be complete. CHICKERING AMPICO B, 5'4", Serial No. 147275, walnut Charles Hildebrant, Box 52, Oldwick, NJ 08858. (201) 439-2256. finish, good unrestored condition, original ivories, $5,250. KNABE AMPICO A, 5'4", excellent mahogany finish, original unrestored con­ ELECTRIC PLAYER ACTION, complete or parts, from a dition, $4150.Ueuwe DeHaas, 11 Maple Street, Weston, CT 06883. Wurlitzer Player Piano or Dale Lectronic Player. Desire information (203) 544-8750. on same. Herb Merritt 8034 School Road, Cincinnati, OH 45249. (513) 489-0978. FISHER 5'3", 1923 AMPICO, plain case with new black finish. Piano original, Ampico rebuilt. Piano in good condition $6,300.00. WELTE-MIGNON ORGAN ROLLS for 1925 Welte-Mignon Richard Hausken, Morris, IL (815) 942-4915. Organ. The Wagnalls Memorial, 150 E. Columbus St., Lithopolis, OH 43136. (614) 837-4765 (call collect). USED PIANO ROLLS 88 NOTE. Reasonably priced, some classic. Send SASE for revised list. Robert Purdie, 8119 Braes River, Duo-Art Parts, old style 88-note Steinway "AR" pneumatic stack, Houst~n, TX. (713) 777-5344. pneumatic brake from base 20-31-17-20. Also looking for Steinway heavy cast pivot-rods that go up through key-bed, on extreme base ANTIQUE REPRODUCING ROLL SALE - Duo-Art, Welte­ and treble ends, and operate transmission and tempo. Have Am­ Mignon and some Ampico; also a few Thermodist-Metrostyle, pico "B" pump and other Ampico parts for sale. Al Pulis (314) Recordo and 88-note rolls. For a detailed listing of these antique 888-6551. classical and popular rolls, write to: Bill Petruzzi, 11 Thompson Street, Crestwood, New York 10707. Disc and Cylinder Music Boxes Wanted. Also music box parts, discs, or anything music box related. Top prices paid. Arnold TWO UPRIGHT PLAYER PIANOS: Stroud, Shoninger, Levin, 2634 Woodlawn Road, Northbrook, IL 60062. (312) $1,600.00 each. Reconditioned, excellent playing condition. Bench, 564-1587. rolls, motorized. Jack Allison/Komets, 931 Park Ave., Elizabeth, NJ 07208. (201) 354-1584. STEINWAY DUO-ART Louis XV Grand Piano. Restored or unrestored - any condition. David Weber, 10551 Tamara, St. Louis, KURTZMAN, 1920's Player Grand Piano, recorder expression MO 63128. (314)843-5709. system, excellent condition, rolls incl. Asking $4,500. contact J. A. Gray, (703) 893-2900 (weekdays) 442-0714 evenings. ORIGINAL B&W PHOTOS of Seeburg KT Special "on loca­ tion". Shots will be returned - needed for album cover project I'm",--­ PIANO ROLL AUCTIONS. Since 1970, we've been conduc­ working on. Send me shots of YOUR KT Special, also, plus info ting monthly auctions of vintage reproducing and 88-note rolls. We (Serial Nos.) history (if any) of your instrument. Also want G & 4X also issue re-cuts of all types of rolls and produce our own exclusive rolls, original & recut. If anyone would care to lend me their rare original roUs of classic jazz and ragtime performances. We now serve original Clark and/or Automatic & Capitol roll catalogs, I would like many AMICAns, so won't you give us a try for your roll needs? Mike to make reproductions from them. Mark Forer, 759 Gladys Ave., & Fred Schwimmer, Box 145, Hubbard Woods, IL 60093. Long Beach, CA 90804. (213) 434-4744.

-108- Classified WANTED continued - ~Drawer, motor governor, play and re-roU mechanism, & linkage con­ MUSIC BOXES WANTED. Buying disc and cylinder music trol for 1923 KImball Welte-Mignon 5'8" Grand Piano. Les King, boxes, monkey organs, unusual organettes, musical clocks & wat· 112 Chaney, BeUevUJe, MI 48111. ches, mechanical birds, automata, etc. Martin Roenigk, 26 Barton Hill, East Hampton, CT 06424. (203) 267-8682.

BROUGHER RESTORATIONS Reproducers, Nickelodeons and Fine Grand Pianos COMPLETE RESTORATION FACILITIES OWNER OPERATED 19 years of experience in each related field of restoration. CASE AND VENEER REPAIRS FINEST HAND-RUBBED MIRROR FINISHES OR SATIN FINISHES AVAILABLE VOICING AND TONE SPECIALIST Concert Quality Regulation Lowest Prices, Known References, Guaranteed Work. only the worlds fmest known grades ofmaterials are used. WANTED: They are always fresh and continually checked. Hot glue and original materials used ·throughout MUSIC DESK and BENCH for this style Steinway wherever possible Duo-Art art-case grand piano. (Ref. "encyclopedia" p. 301) Craig Brougher ~ Reward for leads on parts and owners of this piano. Will 3500 Claremont Independence, MO pay for pictures. Please contact: Carl Baxter, 1133 So. (816) 254-1693 64052 Clinton Ave., Rochester, NY 14620. Please call collect:

(716) 473-5322. -1- •

TRIPHONOLA - RONISCH UPRIGHT AND CABINET, including seventy-three Triphonola and Ampico "Tn rolls. Fully restored in perfect working order. Inspection invited. Inquires to N. Pratt, 86 Grosvenor Street, Wahroonga N.SW. 2fJ76, Australia. Telephone 010-612-4895303. Heard From the· Piazza ~~

N these summer eve­ strains be heard without previous nings have you ever announcement. Then a waltz like listened to your Am­ ,'Sounds From The Vienna Woods" pico played in the played by Volavy, After· this a house while you sit favorite number like "The Rosary" in the cool darkness or "Forgotten." Follow with a gay of the piazza or out­ popular selection, played for danc­ of-doors living-room 1 Try it some ing, or Godowsky's beautiful record time. Heard from within, the music of "The Last vValtz. " will reach you without the distraction of seeing 'the source from whence it If your guests will let you end the comes, and will take on a new little program, which they probably beauty as all music does when heard won't, bring it to a close with the. in the dark. Sixth Hungarian Rhapsody, played by Levitzki, or the Overture from Here is an interesting observation by "Martha" conducted by Bodanzky. Bishop Hall on music heard in this way. "How sweetly does this music You will find that such music heard sound in this dead season! "In the in this way will "lend the night en­ daytime it would not, it could not so cbantment, " and both yourselves much affect the ear. All harmoni­ ihd your guests will have experi­ ous sounds al'e advanced by a silent encen. a delightful evening. darkness. " If y01l live near the street do not be Surprise your guests sometime by S1l1"pl"ised or offended if you find a putting on a dreamy Chopin Noc­ lMge gathering of passers-by lean­ turne, such as the one in F sharp ing ovel' the gate or enjoying the im­ . played by Leo Ornstein. Let its prompt1l concert fro.m the sidewalk. AMICA BYLAWS Approved JUly, 1987

ARTICLE I NAME Section 1. The name of this organization is "Automatic Musical Instrument Collectors Association International, Inc.", abbreviated as "AMICA", and hereinafter referred to as the Association or AMICA. Section 2. The headquarters of the Association shall be designated by the Board of Directors. Section 3. The corporate seal of the Association shaN be in such form and design as the Board of Directors may select, and it shall include the name of the Association and the year, city, and state of its founding. Section 4. The Association shall be incorporated as a not-for-profit corporation and shall operate as a corporation recognized as such under the provisions of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Section 5. The fiscal year of the Association shall run from January 1 to December 31.

ARTICLE II OBJECTIVES Section 1. The purposes and objectives of the Association shall include: ./ (a) To provide an organization for collectors of automated musical instruments, such as reproducing and player pianos, reproducing and player organs, orchestrions, nickelodeons, and other similar instruments. (b) To promote the acquisition and distribution of instruments, recordings, and technical and historical information concerning these instruments. (c) To encourage the restoration of automatic musical instruments to a condition consistent with the original intent of their manufacture. (d) To discourage the removal of mechanisms from restorable instruments. (e) To acquaint collectors of services and repair possibilities available. (f) To encourage and assist in the production and distribution of recordings, both reissues and new performances. (g) To educate the public about the historical and cultural significance of automatic musical instruments.

ARTICLE III MEMBERSHIP Section 1. Any person who supports the objectives of the Association is eligible for membership. Section 2. The Board of Directors may establish sub-classes of membership, such as founding members, honorary members, or others, as indicated by conditions. Section 3. Application for membership and election to membership shall be in accord with the requirements, qualifica­ tions, and conditions as determined by the Board of Directors. These regulations shall be published to the membership in the official publication at least once in every two-year period, and no changes shall be effective until six months after publication of their proposal. Section 4. Application for, and election to, membership, shall be considered an agreement to comply with the Bylaws < "and Regulations of the Association. Non-compliance with the Bylaws and Regulations shall cause termination of member­ ship. Membership may also be terminated by a written resignation delivered to the Membership Secretary, provided that there is' no outstanding obligation to the Association. Section 5. Membership dues shall be determined by the Board of Directors. ARTICLE IV OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS Section 1. The officers of the Assocation shall be a President, Vice-president, Secretary, and Treasurer. No member may hold more than one office at one time. Officers shall be elected as hereinafter provided and shall serve for'a term / of two years following their election, or until their successors have been duly elected and qualified. Vacancies in any office shall be filled by the Board of Directors. Section 2. There shall be a Board of Directors composed of the President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Secretary, Publisher, Immediate Past President, and one member from each Chapter of the Association elected or designated by that chapter. Each member of the Board shall have one vote; no member shall have more than one vote or represent more than one chapter. The Board of Directors of the Association shall be responsible for setting all policies of the Association and for carrying out all business except as may be otherwise provided in these bylaws. The Board may elect from among its membership an Executive Committee composed of the President, Vice-president, and three other members. This Committee may be authorized to act for the Board in specific matters, but all actions of the committee must be reported promptly to the full Board and entered into their official minutes. Section 3. PRESIDENT. The President shall be the chief executive and chief administrative officer of the Associa­ tion. He shall preside at all meetings of the Association and of the Board of Directors. He shall appoint all committees, except as otherwise provided. He shall be the official representative of the Association at meetings of cooperative and affiliated organizations. He shall perform all other duties as assigned and as normal to this office. Section 4. VICE-PRESIDENT. The Vice-president shall act in the absence or incapacity of the president, shall act to promote liaison between and among the Chapters of the Association, and shall perform all other duties normal to this office. Section 5. SECRETARY. The Secretary shall keep a record of the minutes of all meetings of the Association and the Board of Directors; shall receive and report all business transacted by mail or other method; shall notify all members and all Board members of all regular and special meetings; and shall carry out such other duties as may be assigned by these Bylaws, the Board of Directors, or as normal to this office. Section 6. TREASURER. The Treasurer shall receive all monies due or receivable by the Association, and shall deposit these in accounts as approved by the Board of Directors. He shall prepare and present to the Board a budget covering routine and special expenditures. After approval by the Board, he shall pay any expenditures covered by this budget upon certification by the appropriate officer, committee chairman, or other person that the services or goods have been received. He shall pay other expenditures on specific authorization by the Board. He shall keep a complete and detailed record of the financial books of the Association, and shall present a summary thereof to the Board before each meeting thereof, or at reasonable intervals to be determined by the Board. If it is deemed desirable to have the position of Treasurer bonded, the cost of such bond shall be borne by the Association, and the bond deposited with the Secretary. The Board of Directors shall require an independent audit of the Treasurer's books at the end of each fiscal year, and at the end of any incumbent's term should that occur at other times. Section 7. MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY. The Membership Secretary shall be ex officio chairman of the Member­ ship Committee. This Committee shall (a) prepare and present to the Board of Directors a definition of the requirements, qualifications, and procedures for membership, including the various sub-classes of membership which shall be authoriz­ ed by the Board, with the rights, privileges, and duties of each sub-class; (b) After approval by the Board, prepare and distribute applications for membership: (c) Receive and process all applications for membership. If an application is approved, the applicant's name shall be added to the membership rolls. A list of such approved applicants shall be reported periodically to the Board. If an application is rejected, such action shall be reported to the Board without delay, and the applicant notified that the committee's decision may be appealed to the Board within three months. The Board of Directors may change any action of the committee only by a formal motion and formal vote. (d) The Membership Committee shall maintain an accurate list of the membership rolls and cooperate with the Publisher and Treasurer in such task. Section 8. PUBLISHER. The Publisher shall be ex officio chairman of the Publications Committee. The committee shall be responsible for the publication of the official journal of the Association, and any other publications as authorized by the Board of Directors. Section 9. The President, Vice-president, Secretary, and Treasurer shall be elected by the membership as hereinafter provided, at the annual membership meeting held in even-numbered years. The Membership Secretary and the Publisher shall be elected by the Board of Directors in even-numbered years before or during the annual meeting. The President, on conclusion of the term of office, automatically becomes the Immediate Past President. Section 10. Vacancies in any office except that of Immediate Past President, whether caused by death, disability, resignation, or otherwise, shall be filled by the Board of Directors. ARTICLE V COMMITTEES Section 1. There shall be two standing committees of the Association: Membership and Publications. Section 2. The chairman of these committees and the duties thereof are given in Article IV. Section 3. Special committees may be created by action of the Board of Directors or the membership. Their purpose, composition, and tenure shall be governed by the action creating them. Section 4. All committees are expected to submit at least an annual report in writing to the Board of Directors.

ARTICLE VI CHAPTERS Section 1. The Board of Directors may establish a local or regional Chapter of AMICA on petition received from at least 12 members of the Association. Section 2. A Chapter shall adopt its own bylaws, elect its own officers, select its own members, and hold activities which promote the objectives of AMICA, provided that all bylaws, regulations, and activities are not in conflict with any bylaws, regulations, and policies of the Association: and further provided that all members of the Chapter are members of the Association. Section 3. Each Chapter must designate, or elect, a member of the Chapter to serve on the Board of Directors of AMICA. Each Chapter should hold a minimum of three meetings per year. Each Chapter must regularly report its activities to the Publisher, in no case less than twice a year. Section 4. The Board of Directors may dissolve a Chapter which is delinquent in its responsibilities.

ARTICLE VII MEE"r1NGS Section 1. There shall be an annual membership meeting of the Association, at a time and place to be fixed by the Board of Directors. Notice of such J11eeting shall be sent to all members at least sixty days in advance thereof, preferably by publication in the official journal. The members present shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Section 2. The President may, at his discretion, call a special membership meeting. He shall also call such a meeting on receipt of a written petition signed by a least thirty members, not more than one-third of whom shall be from any single chapter of the Association. Business transacted at such a special meeting shall be limited to that included in the petition or stated by the President, and this agenda must be included in the call for such special meeting. Notice of such special meeting shall be sent by the Secretary to all members at least six weeks before the meeting date. Thirty members shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business scheduled. Section 3. The Board of Directors shall meet at least annually, at the time of the regular membership meeting. Written notice of the time and place of such meeting shall be mailed by the Secretary to each member of the Board at least six weeks before the meeting. A majority of the existing strength of the Board shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Section 4. The President may call a special meeting of the Board of Directors, and shall call such a special meeting on written request from at least five members of the Board. Actions taken at such special meeting shall be limited to the agenda included in the call for the meeting, which shall be sent at least six weeks before the time fixed for the meeting. Section 5. Directors other than officers who are unable to attend any regular or special meeting of the Board of Directors may designate some other member of the Association, other than another Director, to serve as their temporary substitute, with full rights of voting, in their stead. Such authority expires at the adjournment of the meeting. Section 6. In order to facilitate action, the Board may also conduct business by mail, telephone, or other means of communication. All actions taken in this manner must be approved by a majority of the existing strength of the .Board, and shall be formally included in the written minutes of the subsequent Board meeting, and thereby published to the membership.

ARTICLE VIII ELECTIONS Section 1. Nominating Committee: At the annual meeting of the Board of Directors held in a non-election year, the

C Board shall elect a Nominating Committee of seven members. The President shall designate one of these to be Chairman of the Committee. Section 2. The Nominating Committee shall select and nominate at least one member for each office to be filled, and may nominate not more than two candidates for each office. The Committee may solicit suggestions for nominations from the membership in any appropriate manner, including requests in the official publication or by mail. Section 3. Any thirty members, not more than one-third of whom may be from any single chapter, may nominate a member for any office by filing a written petition with the Nominating Committee at least ninety days before the annual r ~~~. . Section 4. All candidates, whether nominated by the committee or by petition, must certify in writing to the Chairman of the Nominating Committee their willingness to serve if elected. Section 5. The Nominating Committee shall prepare a ballot containing the names of all consenting candidates for each office. Election shall be held at the annual meeting, with the Nominating Committee acting as a tellers committee under the direction of the President. If there are two or more candidates for any office, a written ballot shall be required. Section 6. All officers shall take office at the close of the annual membership meeting at which they are elected, and shall serve for a term of approximately two years, until the close of the membership meeting two years later. Section 7. If special conditions make it impossible or impractical to conduct the biennial election in the manner outlined above, the Board of Directors shall have the power to modify the procedures, retaining the spirit of the above requirements, publicizing such modified procedures as expeditously and thoroughly as possible.

ARTICLE IX GENERAL Section 1. Power to appoint, elect, or authorize, implies power to remove or withdraw. Section 2. No salary shall be paid to any officer, director, or member of the organization, except as reimbursement for services actually rendered or for expenses incurred in the operation of the organization. No gain from the operations of the organization shall inure to the benefit of any individual. Section 3. AMICA may acquire property, whether real, personal, or mixed, by purchase, gift, donation, bequest, or otherwise, and may use and dispose of such property in furtherance of the objectives of the Association. Section 4. In the event of dissolution of the organization, and after payment of all just debts, the Board of Directors shall distribute the remaining assets to educational, charitable, or scientific organizations recognized as such under the provisions of IRS Code, paragraph 501 (c)(3). Section 5. In the absence of any bylaw or adopted operating procedure, the generally accepted procedures outlined in the current edition of Roberts' Rules of Order shall govern the conduct of all meetings. Section 6. In the event that any of the forgoing bylaws, or a portion thereof, is found to be illegal, that portion will be struck out with the remaining portions continuing in full effect.

ARTICLE X AMENDMENTS Section 1. Amendments to these bylaws may originate (a) in the Board of Directors; (b) by written petition signed by thirty members and presented to the Board of Directors. .- Section 2. Within three months, the Board of Directors shall consider all suggested amendments and make a recom­ mendation for their adoption or rejection. Section 3. The proposed amendment and the recommendation of the Board shall be sent to all members with (a) a notice that the matter will be voted upon at the next annual membership meeting, or (b) a ballot to be returned to the Secretary within 60 days. In either case, a majority of the votes cast on the proposal shall determine.