I have a standard Google search for the word Ampico and the following
popped up in my feed.

The Otago Daily Times in New Zealand publishes a section called "100
years ago today", containing items from the paper at that time.  100
years ago today, on 27 Feb 1919, the Times published the following:

  Automatic piano

  Messrs C. Begg and Co. have installed in their piano saloon,
  Princes Street, an automatic piano, the "Ampico", that plays by
  itself, and will give demonstrations to all who may be interested.

  The "Ampico" reproduces the exact duplication of the world's greatest
  pianists' individual interpretation of the works of the greatest
  composers, by means of a master roll.  The motive power is
  electricity, and whatever the current is available the instrument
  can be used.

  The "Ampico" requires no attention beyond the insertion of the music
  roll.  The piece plays itself to the set time with such expression,
  light, and shade as may be desired, and when the piece comes to an
  end it is automatically rewound and begins again.

  By means of the records, one may at a moment's notice provide the
  best of music for an impromptu dance, without human effort, attention,
  or guidance.

I wonder what kind of piano?  I wonder where it shipped from?  I wonder
if it's still exists and where?

I find it interesting that there was a specific "Piano Saloon" in town.
Which town?  It's not specified -- could be Dunedin or Queenstown or
any of several in the Otago region.  Any Kiwis on the list want to
speculate?

Ann Donoghue
Fort Collins, Colorado

 [ Source of "100 years ago today":
 [ https://www.odt.co.nz/opinion/100-years-ago/fishing-industry-advocated 
 [ A long article about Chas. Begg & Co., of Dunedin, is at
 [ http://nzetc.victoria.ac.nz/tm/scholarly/tei-Cyc04Cycl-t1-body1-d2-d22-d7.html 
 [ -- Robbie