I have subscribed to this list and Jody asked me to send this note.
I love music.  I have no musical aptitude.  I have worked with tools
and machines since I was a boy.  Unfortunately I have less aptitude for
that than I'd like.  Anyway, machines that make 'real' music seems an
appropriate interest to me.

Over the holidays I witnessed an impromptu recital on a poorly tuned
Steinway upright, by a lady, bless her, who hadn't played for many
years.  It was wonderful.  I decided to try to acquire a piano and one
of those machines that roll up to it and 'play' it.  That's why I
joined this list.  A brief search on the net -- isn't that true
progress? -- showed me I've much to learn.  So I'm looking forward to
lurking here for awhile.  I'm not especially shy, so I'll pipe up if I
see something I'd like to ask about.  But I'd prefer to listen for
awhile.

Thanks for participating in this activity.  It represents a high form
of connectivity via the internet, not heretofore possible, and who
knows what will evolve from here?

danz

 [ Welcome aboard, Richard.  Watch the ads in your local newspaper for
 [ player pianos; they're no larger than a non-player, and you can have
 [ fun pumping the music!  We have lots of members here with experience
 [ and advice when you're ready.  Write again!  -- Robbie