Recently, a friend sent me a photo of some multi-mitered metal organ
pipes that he intended using in a decorative façade in a new music
room he was setting up for his Allen theater organ.  He told me that
he had removed them about twenty years ago from an instrument in the
orchestra pit of a soon-to-be-razed theater.  When I asked for more
information, he stated that they had come from what appeared to be a
large upright piano.

He recalls that he saw no side cabinets.  Markings indicate that the
Pipes are a part of a "62 scale cello," stamped "J.H. Bolton".  There
Are eleven pipes (C-B, but missing F).  The C pipe measures about 48
inches from the toe to the top of the first miter joint.

After doing a quick look at various photoplayers in Dave Bowers'
"Encyclopedia Of Automatic Musical Instruments," I thought they might
approximate the metal Fotoplayer pipes illustrated on page 377; however
they could be from several other manufacturers that listed cellos in
their specs. Anyway, I asked the owner whether, if a restorer were
interested, he would  be willing to part with them.  He said he would.
He also said he "might have a few other pipes" as well, but did not
elaborate.  I have no personal interest in the pipes, and would be
happy to forward inquiries to him.

I'm asking Robbie to post a photo of the pipes in the MMD website
Gallery.

Also, if anyone might be able to provide any enlightenment about these
pipes from the limited information above or from the photo, please let
me know.

Herb Crandell

  [ Robbie will be away for the next five days or so, playing with the 
  [ Titanic Jazz Band at the Dixieland Monterey [Calif.] Jazz Festival.
  [ Your photo will be added to the Gallery on his return.
  [ -- Relief Editor