Regarding the Steampunk Tone, um, thing, I would think that the type
of connector would tell the most about its use.

In case this might help, there is a group with a monthly publication
called "Horns and Whistles".  Their interest is largely in horns
such as are found on the Great Lakes freight ships, air horns on
locomotives, antique factory whistles, etc.

That would seem pretty far from mechanical music but, in many cases,
they work at assigned frequencies, e.g., all Amtrak locomotives sound
alike.  I can pass along the address for "Horns and Whistles" to anyone
who's interested.

Jack Mindy

 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/20/08/26/200826_001735_IMG_2773.jpg
 
 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/20/08/26/200826_001735_IMG_2774.jpg
 
 [ https://www.mmdigest.com/Attachments/20/08/26/200826_001735_IMG_2775.jpg
 

 [ The photo shows the "blow pipe" is equipped with two ports for
 [ rubber tubing of probably around 3/16" diameter.  One port is for
 [ the air supply, the other possibly connects to a water column
 [ pressure gage.  But how would the air density (relative humidity
 [ and temperature) have been controlled?  -- Robbie