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MMD > Archives > December 2001 > 2001.12.02 > 03Prev  Next


Obermeier Imperiola Player Piano
By John Collier

A relative just gave me a player piano rather than leave it in the
house he just sold.  He got the piano with his house purchase some
12 years ago because it was too heavy to move. So I now have it.
It is an "Obermeier Imperiola" player piano.

Cast in the top of the metal sound board above the strings are the
words "Piano Forte-Fabrk Berlin".  The number 29712 is stenciled on
the sound board at the top right in block numerals.  This number is
also burned into wood on the left side slightly above the keyboard,
and the initials "R W" are burned in the wood about 1-1/2 inch above
the number 29712.  I suspect that this is the serial number of the
piano.

On the left side of the player mechanism where it attached to the
frame by a thumb screw is a statement in English on how to remove part
of the player mechanism.  Since the statement is in English the player
mechanism may not be German.  There are no other manufacturer's name on
the player that I can find without taking off something.  Someone has
printed the words rewind, forward and pedals under the appropriate
switch.

It appears to have been restored because it has new clear plastic hoses
throughout, with a national hardware-lumber dealer price tags still on
the tubing.  It is a duo foot pump system which still makes the roll go
forward and also rewinds.  It just does not cause the keys to play.
I suspect a leak somewhere.

Does anyone know anything about this German piano and a web site that
might give me more details about it, and maybe how to trouble shoot the
problem and get it working again?  And also if it would by worth my
time and money to try to get it working again.  All parts appear to be
in the piano. I would appreciate any comments on this piano.  Thanks
very much

John Collier


(Message sent Mon 3 Dec 2001, 02:52:50 GMT, from time zone GMT-0500.)

Key Words in Subject:  Imperiola, Obermeier, Piano, Player

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