I am restoring my first player piano.  It is a Seybold, serial
number 26741, with a Pratt-Read Model F single-valve stack mechanism.

Although I have no music knowledge, I have learned a great deal
from this endeavor.  I had a technician come in and evaluate its
restorability and he found the unit to be sound, no cracks, bad pins,
etc.  I bought it from a friend for $300.

I have read Arthur Reblitz's books through several times.  They were
excellent but I do have some questions.

1.  The only source I have found for parts and supplies is the Player
Piano Company in Kansas.  Are there other sources out there?

2.  A local, professional restorer advised me to use a sponge neoprene
for gasket material instead of leather suede.  What do the readers
think?

3.  It seems my piano is mostly original and the pouches were made with
a material that is white, uniform in appearance, and thin like tissue.
I ordered zephyr skin from the Player Piano Co., but what they sent is
different and heavier.  Reblitz also recommend against zephyr skin.
What would be a better alternate?

Finally, I would appreciate hearing from anyone who can tell me
something about this history of my piano.  Thanks again!

Dave Spenner