I will not duplicate the many sentiments already expressed regarding
the many benefits of AMICA membership but I do take issue with
statements that infer collecting and enjoying reproducing pianos is
somehow in the realm of the wealthy.

Has anyone looked at current prices of coin-operated pianos,
orchestrions, quality music boxes, band organs, Mills Violanos,
jukeboxes, or even cylinder phonographs lately?  In most cases these
instruments and machines in original condition sell for MUCH more than
reproducing pianos.  The cost of full professional restoration is
expensive for any and all of the above instruments, but the selection
and quality of music in the home with a reproducing piano surpasses, in
my opinion, all of the other instruments and machines.

I have purchased "expensive" reproducing pianos for these prices:

  Knabe Ampico upright                    $200
  Marshall & Wendell Ampico "B" Grand     $1500
  Kimball Welte-Mignon upright            $400
  Weber Duo-Art upright                   $350
  Steinway Duo-Art Grand                  $4500
  Hamilton Welte-Mignon upright           $50

Some of these instruments I have restored with patience, tolerance,
and a few supplies; some have been restored by professionals.  AMICA
members have always been very helpful in my restoration work (Art
Reblitz' book has been very helpful in my education, too!) and in
obtaining magnificent music on reproducing pianos rolls.

I have been an AMICA member since 1975 and it is well worth the minimal
cost.  The quality of the publications and reprints is extraordinary.

The cost of my piano collection?  Are these prices from 1965?  No!
Nearly all of these reproducing pianos were purchased in the past six
years.  I know that "expensive" is a relative term, but I believe that
reproducing pianos are some of the greatest bargains around.

Mike Kukral