I was impressed by Craig Brougher's comparison of the modern electronic
players and older pneumatic instruments.  My opinion of the former is
influenced by a visit to Butlin's Grand Hotel in London some years ago.

As I entered the lounge I was pleasantly surprised to hear the tinkling
sounds of a piano coming from within.  However, the playing seemed an
uncoordinated mixture of rubato and staccato, wholly unnatural, so I
sought out the pianist with some interest.

There was no pianist!  A medium sized grand piano was stuttering away
to itself quite happily for the _benefit_ of the residents.  Pleasant
music, but excruciatingly played.  I awaited the arrival of the live
pianist, and then watched as he withdrew the inevitable floppy disk.

He sat down and proceeded to play some equally indifferent tunes, but
at least the piano sounded as though it was being played by a musician,
rather than like Victor Borge on practice day.  (Sorry folks; Borge
was great, and much missed.)

Where was the fault?  The instrument?  The technology?  Or my ear?

 [ I'd say it lies with the owner of the establishment!  ;-)  -- Robbie

Give me a good pneumatic pumper every time for response and the pure
pleasure of playing and listening.  There are not many joys to compare
with the sound of Mendelssohn's Rondo Capriccioso being pedalled with
gusto!

Roger Waring
Solihull
England