Howdy:¶
My brother Rob Rhodes has suggested that I get my name on your
Automatic Musical Instruments news mailing list, which I would
like to do at this time.

I have been a piano technician (R.P.T. - Piano Technicians Guild)
here in Victoria, BC for the past twenty years, specializing in
antique piano and player piano restorations. The climate here is
quite favourable for the preservation of wooden furniture and
instruments, and the city itself has a strong musical tradition.
Hence, we have a lot of good older pianos, including many elegant
19th-century European grands. There are several good Ampico and
Duo-Art grands (one Steinway), as well as the usual array of
functioning and de-funct upright pumpers.

I play alto and soprano saxophone with The Belvedere
Broadcasters, Canada's first authentic 1920's dance orchestra.
We're playing original arrangements for eleven pieces from the
collection of the band-leader, Greg Sumner, who is also a
_serious_ collector of 20's dance and jazz 78's. I am also a
long-time _serious_ collector of early operatic 78's and
cylinders.

I hope this serves as a sketchy introduction. I would be happy
where appropriate to contribute short notes to your publication
if I have some worthwhile technical info to offer. My first
experience with player pianos goes back to 1956, when brother Rob
spread the parts to his Weber Ampico out all over the living room
floor.  Just can't get away from 'em...

Cheers

--Doug Rhodes