Brian Chesters asks about the Playrola.

Very briefly, this is what I know about this neat little toy:

     It is the rarest of the rolmonica-type instruments.

     It was made in the 1930s.

     It uses the same roll as the Play-a-sax, the Clarola, and
     the Melody Player.

Rolls are generally available, usually only through collectors, at about
$10 each. Oftentimes the wooden spool ends are chipped, which usually
doesn't affect the play.

My resource materials are currently packed in preparation for our move
on July 1. If readers wish more information on this line of musical
toys, I will be able to offer that later this summer.

Two unrelated notes:

1) My Netscape has faulted and I apparently lost incoming mail. If
   readers have not received a return message from me in the past two
   weeks, please resend it. Thanks.

2) For those who correspond by land mail and telephone, please note that
   Gina and I are moving on July 1.

        New address (effective July 1, 1997)

        Angelo and Gina Rulli
        4550 Evergreen Dr.
        St.  Paul, MN 55127

        voice 612-407-0101
        fax   612-407-9191

Thanks.