Andy Taylor's posting on Ragtime Kits reminds me of a debt to readers of
MMD.  Last fall I asked about the Ragtime kits and received many helpful
comments and suggestions, pro and con.  In the end, I bought their video
tape and decided, "yes, I could do it."  However, there was a risk in
damaging a great piano, and if I didn't get it done between Christmas and
New Years, my wife would not be very amused because it would probably sit
until summer.

About the time I began to think those advising against the kit had a
point, a reputable local piano dealer (who has a mechanical music
collection that is unbelievable) advertised a Schiller player with
Standard action that has a rebuilt stack.  We bought it - what a good
move.  Not a perfect piano, case is checked varnish and some adjustments
will be needed.  But, we are having a barrel of fun with it.  And
(regarding the cost of players) the price was $300 less than the basic
Ragtime kit.  We are SO happy we did this.  (Oh, and it came with 25
Play-Rite new rolls!!!  We have added a number of other Play Rite and QRS
rolls.)

Now, the question.  Does anyone out there in MMD land know anything about
the Schiller Piano Company of Oregon, Illinois?  Our piano is serial
number #72260.

An added bonus to the whole operation; our wonderful Price and Teeple
upright is still "intact."  I really was afraid of butchering it.  And,
Marcia (my wife, who got me into this hobby in the first place) is getting
used to two pianos in the dining room.

Thanks again to everyone for the help.

Bob Ebert