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MMD > Archives > August 1997 > 1997.08.07 > 08Prev  Next


Preserve the Mechanical Music Now!
By Andy Taylor

"Profits???  What's that??"   I enjoyed Mr. Bullock's comments on this.

I can't think of one instance where I have made any significant amount of
money either arranging music or restoring player-pianos.

I have over $3000  in my "arranging/copying" piano.  I built it simply
because I had the idea in my head for a long time.  I was inspired by the
QRS marking piano.  I don't plan to recoup the investment other than with
my own personal enjoyment.

But the main product still remains the paper roll which the Tonnesen's
provide.  I really admire these people.  They are very reasonable, the
rolls track great, and the holes are sharp and clean.  I haven't dealt
with Play-Rite but I do have some of their rolls.

My responsibility is to create the file in such a way that the perforator
will punch the roll they way I intended it to.  If it doesn't, It is my
fault.

Mainly, I built the piano to help me edit my files before they go to the
perforator.  Sometimes a MIDI file sounds great on the sound card, but
when played on the piano it leaves something to be desired.  There are
hundreds of variables to contend with.  I want my arrangements to be the
best they can be, within the limits of my ability.

Do it for preservation, Do it for fun and enjoyment and the love of the
hobby.  But if you do it for big money, "Good Luck."  If this was 1924
the case might be different.

Robbie pointed out the possibility of counterfeit MIDI copies, and he is
right.  I have seen more than one copy of QRS files here and there.

Human beings have the natural tendency to avoid spending money.  That is
why I will not copy anything that is owned by anyone else.

Andy Taylor


(Message sent Thu 7 Aug 1997, 13:44:46 GMT, from time zone GMT-0400.)

Key Words in Subject:  Mechanical, Music, Now, Preserve

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