Reg Smith wrote:

> Has anyone had experience recovering the bellows on an "orchestral" type
> cylinder music box

I restore about 4 of these harmonium devices a year for James Brady in
Indianapolis.  I've written a article about  restoration process on my
web site.  As far as leather for the bellows goes,  Don't use anything
other leather.  I use a grey kid skin that I get at Tandy Leather.
Pipe organ places carry it but you'll pay twice as much and you won't
be able to select the leather yourself which is the most important!
You want thin but NO pinholes.  Hold it up to the light.  The section
running down the center of the pelt is the best quality.  If you have
some of original ribs, replace them with cardboard of the same thickness,
never heavier file folder or light weight tagboard is best.  Use hide
glue only.  I keep some baby powder handy to keep the glue from smearing.
I also put it on my hands to keep oils staining the leather and its
easier to handle.   Another important thing is to check that reed chest.
Of the 17 or so units I've worked on, they have all had major chest
problems.   Looks can be very deceiving.  The slightest delamination
or crack in the core of the chest will greatly reduce tone quality
and pressure retainment which is very crucial on this kind of device.

If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact me.

Brian Thornton

Short Mtn. Music Works
109 N. Cannon St.
Woodbury TN 37190
615-563-5814
http://www.mindspring.com/~goatboy/smmw.htm