RICK COOLEY MEMORIES
The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Co. Ltd
had the great pleasure to have been selected to do the restoration work on all of the various automated musical instruments that Mr Cooley purchased from various people around the USA and also had the pleasure of traveling to Europe on many occasions to arrange for shipping of instruments he had purchased back to our shops for restoration.
Rick was a true gentleman and friend and to list all of the adventures we had together would take 100 or more pages.
I have posted a few of the many projects below that I hope you will find interesting. Ron Schmuck
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The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Co. Ltd
had the great pleasure to have been selected to do the restoration work on all of the various automated musical instruments that Mr Cooley purchased from various people around the USA and also had the pleasure of traveling to Europe on many occasions to arrange for shipping of instruments he had purchased back to our shops for restoration.
Rick was a true gentleman and friend and to list all of the adventures we had together would take 100 or more pages.
I have posted a few of the many projects below that I hope you will find interesting. Ron Schmuck
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Gasparini 83-Key Fairground Organ with Midi System
- THE LARGEST REMAINING GASPARINI IN THE WORLD -
The restoration of this wonderful organ is now complete. This is the largest Gasparini in the United States and perhaps surviving in the entire world..First, the entire original 83-key barrel organ was carefully restored to original playing condition. Then a key-matching MIDI system was installed to beautifully perform over 50 melodies, "on command". The originality of this magnificent organ has been preserved The nine-tune wooden barrel performs vintage tunes just by adjusting to its original position.
The facade was beautifully restored, including the massive top gallery. Gold leaf (expensive) was used throughout the facade to highlight its elegance. In addition,the case was extensively restored to replace "dry rot" and reinforce all sections to original sturdiness.
This is the largest key band organ that the GREAT Gasparini Company ever produced. Contact us NOW to own this RARE one-of-a-kind organ
This Item is #189 on the "Availibility and Price List".
- THE LARGEST REMAINING GASPARINI IN THE WORLD -
The restoration of this wonderful organ is now complete. This is the largest Gasparini in the United States and perhaps surviving in the entire world..First, the entire original 83-key barrel organ was carefully restored to original playing condition. Then a key-matching MIDI system was installed to beautifully perform over 50 melodies, "on command". The originality of this magnificent organ has been preserved The nine-tune wooden barrel performs vintage tunes just by adjusting to its original position.
The facade was beautifully restored, including the massive top gallery. Gold leaf (expensive) was used throughout the facade to highlight its elegance. In addition,the case was extensively restored to replace "dry rot" and reinforce all sections to original sturdiness.
This is the largest key band organ that the GREAT Gasparini Company ever produced. Contact us NOW to own this RARE one-of-a-kind organ
This Item is #189 on the "Availibility and Price List".
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Limonaire 60 Key Organ
Height: 2 metres, Width: 3 metres
This is one of only 3 of this model which was ever built. This instrument is from the private collection of world-renowned builder / restorer, Arthur Prinsen of Belgium. It's music is unmatched by any organ of equal size. Nearly 800 meters of new book music are included with this instrument.With the export laws throughout Europe and its current currency strength, it may be difficult and more costly to purchase and export an organ of this quality in the foreseeable future. The conversion to the EURO years ago, virtually eliminated the chance to find a "bargain" anywhere in Europe.
This instrument was completely restored in Europe to pristine playing condition. With the recent addition of additional new recuts, the organ has over 700 meters of new music books. The organ with over 145 pipes will give you years of flawless musical pleasure.
Inventory Item #206 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Height: 2 metres, Width: 3 metres
This is one of only 3 of this model which was ever built. This instrument is from the private collection of world-renowned builder / restorer, Arthur Prinsen of Belgium. It's music is unmatched by any organ of equal size. Nearly 800 meters of new book music are included with this instrument.With the export laws throughout Europe and its current currency strength, it may be difficult and more costly to purchase and export an organ of this quality in the foreseeable future. The conversion to the EURO years ago, virtually eliminated the chance to find a "bargain" anywhere in Europe.
This instrument was completely restored in Europe to pristine playing condition. With the recent addition of additional new recuts, the organ has over 700 meters of new music books. The organ with over 145 pipes will give you years of flawless musical pleasure.
Inventory Item #206 on the "Availibility and Price List".
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65-key Bruder (with MIDI)
This is a wonderful Bruder Band Organ with incredible capabilities.1. It comes with a "large quantify" of playable 54-key book music.
2. A 100-tune PELL HARMONIST II system has been installed and the organ "arranged" to give 65-key performances. An almost "infinite" supply of MIDI music for this MIDI system is available from PELL ORGANS in England.
This organ received a 100 points restoration by our 5th generation restorer in Canada, who has been on "retainers" for us for 10 years.
This is a rare find in this condition and at this price. Compare with any other Bruder organ in this restored condition and at this price.
Inventory Item #57 on the "Availibility and Price List".
This is a wonderful Bruder Band Organ with incredible capabilities.1. It comes with a "large quantify" of playable 54-key book music.
2. A 100-tune PELL HARMONIST II system has been installed and the organ "arranged" to give 65-key performances. An almost "infinite" supply of MIDI music for this MIDI system is available from PELL ORGANS in England.
This organ received a 100 points restoration by our 5th generation restorer in Canada, who has been on "retainers" for us for 10 years.
This is a rare find in this condition and at this price. Compare with any other Bruder organ in this restored condition and at this price.
Inventory Item #57 on the "Availibility and Price List".
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67-KEY DUTCH STREET ORGAN MONIQUE
MAGNIFICENT - RARE WITH CART
This magnificent, rare 67-key Dutch Street Organ, 'MONIQUE', has been magnificently restored. It is still "registered" in Holland, its original originIt comes with 14 original cardboard music books, a full midi system with 25 Dutch-arranged melodies and an original, antique street cart , straight from the streets of Amsterdam, Netherlands.
There are currently restrictions against removing many such art treasures from Europe. Therefore, such instruments might become difficult to find in the United States in the future.
This organ has received a 100+ points, museum-quality restoration in the shops of Ronald Schmuck of Canada. The facade has been completely restored with $4,000 in gold and silver leaf used in the decorations.
A wonderful MIDI system has been added with 25 Dutch tunes (and more are available from Holland for just a few pennies). In addition, there are 14 of the 67-key books of wonderful Dutch music provided for the book reader, with more available, if interested.
Five automated figures from Europe have been added to the instrument, i.e., a "Dutch" conductor in the center, bell ringers on the right and left of center, and two wonderful drummers, (shown below, in front of the snare drum and the bass drum). This significantly increases the value and "eye catching" appeal of this instrument. Since it was originally used with a large Dutch cart from Holland, one will be included with the instrument when it sells.
The following provenance is provided for your review:
The organ was produced in the shops of Jan Roos (now deceased), Netherlands, in the early to mid 1900's. It was acquired by Walter Bellm's Museum in Florida from Hathaway and Bowers in the late 1960's. It remained there until the museum closed in 1997, after which it went to a local collector. From there , it came to our Shoppe needing a complete restoration.
The instrument measures: 9-1/2 feet high, 12 feet wide and 3-4 feet deep. We have already received much interest in this rare, Dutch organ.
If there is interest in this wonderful instrument, move quickly as it will surely sell before the upcoming summer season.
Inventory Item #211 on the
"Availability and Price List".
MAGNIFICENT - RARE WITH CART
This magnificent, rare 67-key Dutch Street Organ, 'MONIQUE', has been magnificently restored. It is still "registered" in Holland, its original originIt comes with 14 original cardboard music books, a full midi system with 25 Dutch-arranged melodies and an original, antique street cart , straight from the streets of Amsterdam, Netherlands.
There are currently restrictions against removing many such art treasures from Europe. Therefore, such instruments might become difficult to find in the United States in the future.
This organ has received a 100+ points, museum-quality restoration in the shops of Ronald Schmuck of Canada. The facade has been completely restored with $4,000 in gold and silver leaf used in the decorations.
A wonderful MIDI system has been added with 25 Dutch tunes (and more are available from Holland for just a few pennies). In addition, there are 14 of the 67-key books of wonderful Dutch music provided for the book reader, with more available, if interested.
Five automated figures from Europe have been added to the instrument, i.e., a "Dutch" conductor in the center, bell ringers on the right and left of center, and two wonderful drummers, (shown below, in front of the snare drum and the bass drum). This significantly increases the value and "eye catching" appeal of this instrument. Since it was originally used with a large Dutch cart from Holland, one will be included with the instrument when it sells.
The following provenance is provided for your review:
The organ was produced in the shops of Jan Roos (now deceased), Netherlands, in the early to mid 1900's. It was acquired by Walter Bellm's Museum in Florida from Hathaway and Bowers in the late 1960's. It remained there until the museum closed in 1997, after which it went to a local collector. From there , it came to our Shoppe needing a complete restoration.
The instrument measures: 9-1/2 feet high, 12 feet wide and 3-4 feet deep. We have already received much interest in this rare, Dutch organ.
If there is interest in this wonderful instrument, move quickly as it will surely sell before the upcoming summer season.
Inventory Item #211 on the
"Availability and Price List".
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"CLARA MARIE" DUTCH STREET ORGAN
WITH MIDI SYSTEM AND FIVE
LARGE CARVED, ANIMATED FIGURES
Click Here to see and hear a 15 second 3 segment video of this machine.
As most collectors already know, most original, antique Dutch Street Organs are registered with the Dutch government. These Art Treasures can not be legally exported from the Netherlands.
Therefore, our Shoppe commissioned famous builders in Holland to create a magnificent 62-key Dutch Street Organ (styled after the Carl Frie organs with Limonaire scale). It features FIVE LARGE "antique", Dutch-carved, original articulating figures. (See pictures below.) Each of the figures is programmed to move independently, i.e. the left drummer follows the bass drum; the right drummer follows the snare; the middle conductor establishes the tempo; while the bell ringers (together and separately) add bell flavor throughout the music. Just watching these five figures independently "perform" is a real treat.
The registered name of this wonderful organ is the "CLARA MARIE", in memory of the owners' mothers. )
The organ builders are the latest of family builders, going back for five generations. For over 100 years, this family has produced some of the finest organs, in the Dutch tradition, ever produced. Their shop in Holland have been visited several times and they are truly magnificent builders. Large groups of street organ collectors from the US have marveled over the detailed work and wonderful sound. Using only proven, age-old techniques, the emerging Dutch Street Organs, with pure Dutch sounds, are incredible. (Click on the Dutch Street Organ Center, USA at the bottom of this page, for further information about these wonderful builders / restorers.)
We have decided to offer this magnificent organ with a MIDI system and blower instead of leather covered pumps, a book reader and expensive books. Thus,we can provide a magnificent organ with five spectacular, antique "moving" figures and facade at a fraction of the usual high price for Dutch-made instruments. (If both systems are desired, a book reader with books can be added at extra cost.)
The organ comes with over 120 wonderful, fully arranged melodies. Most are well known traditional Dutch tunes with popular tunes and some classical. There are hundreds of additional tunes available at just pennies a tune. This organ is reliable, a solid performer and will run consistently "forever" !!!! What more could you ask, eh?
To really enhance the performance of this instrument, a rank of: trombones , brass trumpets (see pictures), wIde range tuned metal-bar glock and more. In addition, side-wing extensions (both sides) filled with an additional rank of huge pipes are included.
The instrument's Ruth-style facade was the model for the "CLARA MARIE" measuring a massive 16 feet wide and 8 feet high. The sounds from this instrument are traditionally Dutch as it plays both "older" and more modern music. It's performance of "Bugler's Holiday" is simply spectacular.
The interior is walnut and loaded with percussion, pipes and all the usual extras. The organ is fully "registered" to call for the appropriate pipes, glock and percussion; The expression is spectacular.
To finish off the organ, the facade is furnished with FIVE hand-carved, ca. 1940's wooden traditional Dutch organ figures. These figures are HUGE, ranging from 32 inches to 42 inches high.The center of the facade hosts the traditional organ director. On each side of the conductor are the bell ringers. On the far left and right are drum "beaters" who keep rhythm with the wonderful beat of the music.
The "CLARA MARIE" organ arrived from Holland in May 2006 and is performing wonderfully in our Delaware inventory. You must see and hear this wonderful organ to believe your eyes and ears. Once auditioned, this instrument should go very fast ; we have already had major interest from serious organ collectors.
For those seriously interested in possible purchase of the "CLARA MARIE", there is CD recording available for your review and return. ) Or if you want a CD for your collection, contact us at cotps@aol.com. The CDs are available at $20 each (includes shipping in the US.).
Click Here to see and hear a 15 second 3 segment video of this machine.
Inventory Item #310 on the "Availability and Price List".
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AUTHENIC 41-KEY DUTCH STREET ORGAN
WITH ORIGINAL CART AND MIDI SYSTEM
Always wanted a Dutch Street Organ with original cart? Historical organ prices too expensive to consider? Tired of carrying "tons" of book music and / or rolls around from rally to rally or room to room in your collection? Here is the perfect answer to your search at a wonderful, low price!We represent fifth-generation Dutch Organ builders in the Netherlands. Our Shoppe has purchased three wonderful organs from these master Dutch Organ builders; the "Three Roses" Dutch Organ (now producing wonderful music near a New Hampshire motel), the "Clara Marie" (now in our showroom in Delaware) and the 41-key "QUEEN - - - - - - - - -" (in our small music display room).
The "QUEEN - - - - - - -" is a wonderfully sized organ measuring only 7 feet wide, 6-3/4 feet high (without cart) and about 2-1/2 feet deep. The cart measures about 2-1/2 feet deep, almost 1-1/2 feet high and 8-1/4 feet long. Organ on cart as pictured... 8 feet high.
SPECIFICATIONS:
(For those not familiar with MIDI systems, this organ does NOT produce synthetic music but provides exactly the same Dutch pipe music you would hear using book music or paper rolls.
This Item is #374 on the
"Availibility and Price List".
WITH ORIGINAL CART AND MIDI SYSTEM
Always wanted a Dutch Street Organ with original cart? Historical organ prices too expensive to consider? Tired of carrying "tons" of book music and / or rolls around from rally to rally or room to room in your collection? Here is the perfect answer to your search at a wonderful, low price!We represent fifth-generation Dutch Organ builders in the Netherlands. Our Shoppe has purchased three wonderful organs from these master Dutch Organ builders; the "Three Roses" Dutch Organ (now producing wonderful music near a New Hampshire motel), the "Clara Marie" (now in our showroom in Delaware) and the 41-key "QUEEN - - - - - - - - -" (in our small music display room).
The "QUEEN - - - - - - -" is a wonderfully sized organ measuring only 7 feet wide, 6-3/4 feet high (without cart) and about 2-1/2 feet deep. The cart measures about 2-1/2 feet deep, almost 1-1/2 feet high and 8-1/4 feet long. Organ on cart as pictured... 8 feet high.
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Wonderful, pure "Dutch sound"
- Full, weather organ/cart cover
- 41- key organ with midi system and blower.
- 110-volt power supply and motor.
- 40 marches, waltz, fox-trot and other melodies. (More music available at low cost.)
- Pipes:
- 10 stopped accompaniment....
- 18 melody
- 36 Bourdon
- 36 Violins
- 6 ground basses, 16' equivalent
- 6 stopped "helpers" , 8' equiv.
- Percussion / Conductor:
- Brass shell Bass Drum
- Brass shell Snare Drum
- Brilliant brass cymbal
- Includes a large animated "conductor with Dutch dress.
(For those not familiar with MIDI systems, this organ does NOT produce synthetic music but provides exactly the same Dutch pipe music you would hear using book music or paper rolls.
This Item is #374 on the
"Availibility and Price List".
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86-Key DUWYN Dance Organ
Our recent addition to inventory is one of the largest dance organ produced by Robert Duwyn, ca.1913. Duwyn, formally a shop foreman with Mortier, produced only two of these fine organ, in this size, before he died in 1931.More than one hour of excellent condition original book music is provided. More is readily available in Europe. The facade is not original but was faithfully reproduced from the only other original 86-key Duwyn organ. This Germany master craftsman produced an absolute museum piece with hard woods and hand crafted inlays throughout the piece.
The statue in the center of this wonderful instrument is absolutely of ORIGINAL origin. The ones used on Duwyn organs were produced in Paris by a locally-famous artisan. By chance, we found the exact musical-musical theme piece in a "high class" auction of such works. The statue name and maker are on the instrument at the statue.
This is loaded with eight different ranks of pipes, each controlled with registers. The featured instrument is a HUGE, orchestrion accordion, when adds great musical balance to this instrument.
This instrument must be heard to be believed. A personal inspection and listening session is required before purchase should be considered. It will be worth your time.
Inventory Item #152 on the "Availibility and Price List" - Dance Organs and Large Organs
Serious inquiries only.
Go to COTPS Homepage
Our recent addition to inventory is one of the largest dance organ produced by Robert Duwyn, ca.1913. Duwyn, formally a shop foreman with Mortier, produced only two of these fine organ, in this size, before he died in 1931.More than one hour of excellent condition original book music is provided. More is readily available in Europe. The facade is not original but was faithfully reproduced from the only other original 86-key Duwyn organ. This Germany master craftsman produced an absolute museum piece with hard woods and hand crafted inlays throughout the piece.
The statue in the center of this wonderful instrument is absolutely of ORIGINAL origin. The ones used on Duwyn organs were produced in Paris by a locally-famous artisan. By chance, we found the exact musical-musical theme piece in a "high class" auction of such works. The statue name and maker are on the instrument at the statue.
This is loaded with eight different ranks of pipes, each controlled with registers. The featured instrument is a HUGE, orchestrion accordion, when adds great musical balance to this instrument.
This instrument must be heard to be believed. A personal inspection and listening session is required before purchase should be considered. It will be worth your time.
Inventory Item #152 on the "Availibility and Price List" - Dance Organs and Large Organs
Serious inquiries only.
Go to COTPS Homepage
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Gavioli Concert Orchestrion 101 Key
Only One Was Ever Produced
The only Concert Orchestrion ever produced by the famous builder, Gavioli & Cie, Paris, France, is now in our inventory and ready for purchase by a museum or top-end collector. Gavioli is known world wide for its magnificent fair ground organs, band organs and crank organs but little was known about its Concert Orchestrion, until recently.
Just before the turn of the century (ca. 1898), Gavioli produced a large self-contained classical 101-key book playing Concert Orchestrion. Gavioli envied the "popular organs of the "day" produced by Welte. Therefore, he studied the Welte organs in the Black Forest of Germany and decided he could produce the "largest and best" concert orchestrion ever built.
Gavioli had a vision of producing 13 of these fine instruments (expanded range Weltes), for installation in the walls of large homes in France or with cabinets requested by the buyers. It has now been confirmed by a world's authority that instrument design was based on a Welte 6 Orchestrion with range and features up to a Welte 10, the largest produced by Welte. THIS IS THE ONLY ONE IN EXISTENCE AROUND THE WORLD, produced by Gavioli in 1898.
This first instrument was placed in a magnificent case with "gold" filigree, over 252 metal and wooden pipes, lots of carvings, a 90-key book playing mechanism, a rank of exposed facade pipes and a keyboard with 11 pull stops for manual playing. Twenty-one classical "Gavioliphone" organ books, dated December 3, 1900, were produced and are in "like new" condition today.
After producing this first concert orchestrion, Gavioli decided against his plans for the production of 12 more instruments. Production costs for this high quality instruments were above the turn-of-the-century market so no more were ever produced by Gavioli. Perhaps Welte "objected" to the "copy cat" design with his friend Gavioli Sr.??
Actual Recordings
Play Tune 1
476Kb - 1:56 min
Play Tune 2
588KB - 2:25 min
Our instrument contains more than 10 ranks of pipes including:
Melody (6 ranks w/ 25 pipes per rank)
* Stopped Accompaniment
* Metal cello
* Wooden Cello bass pipes
* Two other Stopped Ranks
Counter Melody
* Two ranks of pipes on Counter Melody
Bass
* 12 Open Bass wooden pipes.
Percussion
* (e.g. brass shell snare, tympani, bass drum, cymbal, block and triangle).
Pipes
* There are a total of 243 playing pipes and 9 facade pipes -252 total.
Ten Automatic Registers
1. Gambe Bass I
2. Gamba Bass II
3. Voix Celeste Basses
4. Forte
5. Expression
6. Gambe Dessus
7. Voix Celeste Dessus
8. Bourdon Dessus
9. Flute Douce
10. Hautbois
and a range of 66 notes on this instrument to "flavor" the music. A "famous" Style 6 WELTE has only 7 registers and a range of 54 notes. This instrument's range likely competes with the Style 10 WELTE .... (extremely rare.) (Precise listing of components is available on request.)
Recently obtained historical information shows this instrument was likely used as a "demonstrator" in the Gavioli office / factory in Paris, France, at the turn of the 20th century. As business slowed, Gavioli focused on their worldwide sales of fine band and fairground organs and less on their new adventure into the Concert Orchestrion market. "Gavioli & Cie" became "Gavioli S.A." in 1904, confirming that the Gavioli we now own was produced before that time. Recent information confirms that this instrument was designed after the Welte orchestrions and is declared as "the most important mechanical instrument during the 20th century" in an upcoming, authoritative book on "orchestrions".
This orchestrion is a magnificent 12-1/2 foot high instrument, which includes a wonderful carved gallery. At the center top of it's 10 foot high main case, in brass inlay, is "Gavioli & Cie" and underneath is "Paris." Its history after the turn of the century and its "disappearance" from the Gavioli factory were recently clarified. The instrument was shipped to a collector in Italy and returned to France just before WWII, where it remained until 1999. At that time, most items in this French collection were offered to buyers all over the world.
The Gavioli Orchestrion is totally original and complete. Overall, it measures approximately 12-1/2 feet high, over 6 feet wide and about 5 feet deep. It weighs about 1,500 pounds (uncrated and assembled). There are 21 original classical music 90-key books for the instrument. In addition, more classical books will be produced in Europe in the Spring of 2007 by Arthur Prinsen, world-renowned music arranger and producer. IN ADDITION, the Gavioli has a non-obtrusive 100-key MIDI Welte player installed along with several hundred original "Concert Welte" midi melodies for SPECTACULAR, ORIGINAL PERFORMANCES.
The organ has received a "100 points + historical restoration" in the wonderful shops of a well-known fourth qeneration international restorer; one of the finest restorers in the world, with over 80 years of family operation and experience.
This one-of-a-kind, confirmed "historically significant" orchestrion deserves only the finest collection or museum. Its absence from Europe will be sorely missed. It's return to its "birthplace" in Paris, France, is doubtful.
Acknowledgments: I wish to express my sincere appreciation to those who furnished historical knowledge on this important Gavioli instrument, particularly Arthur Ord-Hume of Europe.
If you want to see more pictures of this rare instrument click on Show the Pictures.
Inventory Item #186 on the "Availability and Price List" - Orchestrions and Large Organs
Updated September 8, 2007
Only One Was Ever Produced
The only Concert Orchestrion ever produced by the famous builder, Gavioli & Cie, Paris, France, is now in our inventory and ready for purchase by a museum or top-end collector. Gavioli is known world wide for its magnificent fair ground organs, band organs and crank organs but little was known about its Concert Orchestrion, until recently.
Just before the turn of the century (ca. 1898), Gavioli produced a large self-contained classical 101-key book playing Concert Orchestrion. Gavioli envied the "popular organs of the "day" produced by Welte. Therefore, he studied the Welte organs in the Black Forest of Germany and decided he could produce the "largest and best" concert orchestrion ever built.
Gavioli had a vision of producing 13 of these fine instruments (expanded range Weltes), for installation in the walls of large homes in France or with cabinets requested by the buyers. It has now been confirmed by a world's authority that instrument design was based on a Welte 6 Orchestrion with range and features up to a Welte 10, the largest produced by Welte. THIS IS THE ONLY ONE IN EXISTENCE AROUND THE WORLD, produced by Gavioli in 1898.
This first instrument was placed in a magnificent case with "gold" filigree, over 252 metal and wooden pipes, lots of carvings, a 90-key book playing mechanism, a rank of exposed facade pipes and a keyboard with 11 pull stops for manual playing. Twenty-one classical "Gavioliphone" organ books, dated December 3, 1900, were produced and are in "like new" condition today.
After producing this first concert orchestrion, Gavioli decided against his plans for the production of 12 more instruments. Production costs for this high quality instruments were above the turn-of-the-century market so no more were ever produced by Gavioli. Perhaps Welte "objected" to the "copy cat" design with his friend Gavioli Sr.??
Actual Recordings
Play Tune 1
476Kb - 1:56 min
Play Tune 2
588KB - 2:25 min
Our instrument contains more than 10 ranks of pipes including:
Melody (6 ranks w/ 25 pipes per rank)
* Stopped Accompaniment
* Metal cello
* Wooden Cello bass pipes
* Two other Stopped Ranks
Counter Melody
* Two ranks of pipes on Counter Melody
Bass
* 12 Open Bass wooden pipes.
Percussion
* (e.g. brass shell snare, tympani, bass drum, cymbal, block and triangle).
Pipes
* There are a total of 243 playing pipes and 9 facade pipes -252 total.
Ten Automatic Registers
1. Gambe Bass I
2. Gamba Bass II
3. Voix Celeste Basses
4. Forte
5. Expression
6. Gambe Dessus
7. Voix Celeste Dessus
8. Bourdon Dessus
9. Flute Douce
10. Hautbois
and a range of 66 notes on this instrument to "flavor" the music. A "famous" Style 6 WELTE has only 7 registers and a range of 54 notes. This instrument's range likely competes with the Style 10 WELTE .... (extremely rare.) (Precise listing of components is available on request.)
Recently obtained historical information shows this instrument was likely used as a "demonstrator" in the Gavioli office / factory in Paris, France, at the turn of the 20th century. As business slowed, Gavioli focused on their worldwide sales of fine band and fairground organs and less on their new adventure into the Concert Orchestrion market. "Gavioli & Cie" became "Gavioli S.A." in 1904, confirming that the Gavioli we now own was produced before that time. Recent information confirms that this instrument was designed after the Welte orchestrions and is declared as "the most important mechanical instrument during the 20th century" in an upcoming, authoritative book on "orchestrions".
This orchestrion is a magnificent 12-1/2 foot high instrument, which includes a wonderful carved gallery. At the center top of it's 10 foot high main case, in brass inlay, is "Gavioli & Cie" and underneath is "Paris." Its history after the turn of the century and its "disappearance" from the Gavioli factory were recently clarified. The instrument was shipped to a collector in Italy and returned to France just before WWII, where it remained until 1999. At that time, most items in this French collection were offered to buyers all over the world.
The Gavioli Orchestrion is totally original and complete. Overall, it measures approximately 12-1/2 feet high, over 6 feet wide and about 5 feet deep. It weighs about 1,500 pounds (uncrated and assembled). There are 21 original classical music 90-key books for the instrument. In addition, more classical books will be produced in Europe in the Spring of 2007 by Arthur Prinsen, world-renowned music arranger and producer. IN ADDITION, the Gavioli has a non-obtrusive 100-key MIDI Welte player installed along with several hundred original "Concert Welte" midi melodies for SPECTACULAR, ORIGINAL PERFORMANCES.
The organ has received a "100 points + historical restoration" in the wonderful shops of a well-known fourth qeneration international restorer; one of the finest restorers in the world, with over 80 years of family operation and experience.
This one-of-a-kind, confirmed "historically significant" orchestrion deserves only the finest collection or museum. Its absence from Europe will be sorely missed. It's return to its "birthplace" in Paris, France, is doubtful.
Acknowledgments: I wish to express my sincere appreciation to those who furnished historical knowledge on this important Gavioli instrument, particularly Arthur Ord-Hume of Europe.
If you want to see more pictures of this rare instrument click on Show the Pictures.
Inventory Item #186 on the "Availability and Price List" - Orchestrions and Large Organs
Updated September 8, 2007
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Unified Reproduco Theater OrganWhat a magnificent organ from the past! The soothing sounds from this wonderful instrument made it perfect for "background, elevator music" in large estates, funeral homes or "roaring"performances for silent movies . Few of these instruments were ever produced and fewer remain today, NONE IN THIS WONDERFUL COMPLETE AND RESTORED CONDITION. Since very few of the original rolls are available today and no recutting projects are planned,, this instrument has been expanded to play a wide variety of available rolls as well as the original Unified Reproduco rolls, as discussed below.A. When conversion/restoration is completed, the instrument will play "O," "OS" and "NOS" new, recut rolls interchangeably through a sliding connector to give you full capabilities. Additional recut music rolls are readily available.
B. In addition to three large ranks of pipes and a set of original Deagan chimes in the organ side chest, a large Barton "silent movie house" Toy Counter will be installed to include:
1. Model "A" horn.
2. Bird whistle.
3. Siren.
4. Chinese drum.
5. Horse hooves (castanets)
6. Triangle.
7. Rhythm cymbal.
8. Crash cymbal.
9. Boat whistle.
10. Bass drum with single stroke and tymphany dual beaters
11. Snare drum with dual beaters for single stroke or snare drum "rolls."
12. Door bells
13. An alarm horn
and many other sound effects. For those familiar with the versatile "O," "OS" and "NOS" rolls, you know what a musical treat is in store for you.
C. The Unified horseshoe "theater organ style" console will be changed to allow operation of all toy counter effects, from the console. The large, powerful blower will allow the organ to fill your home or small theater (maybe even large theater) with the most wonderful music of the era.
This is Item #208 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated December 29, 2005
B. In addition to three large ranks of pipes and a set of original Deagan chimes in the organ side chest, a large Barton "silent movie house" Toy Counter will be installed to include:
1. Model "A" horn.
2. Bird whistle.
3. Siren.
4. Chinese drum.
5. Horse hooves (castanets)
6. Triangle.
7. Rhythm cymbal.
8. Crash cymbal.
9. Boat whistle.
10. Bass drum with single stroke and tymphany dual beaters
11. Snare drum with dual beaters for single stroke or snare drum "rolls."
12. Door bells
13. An alarm horn
and many other sound effects. For those familiar with the versatile "O," "OS" and "NOS" rolls, you know what a musical treat is in store for you.
C. The Unified horseshoe "theater organ style" console will be changed to allow operation of all toy counter effects, from the console. The large, powerful blower will allow the organ to fill your home or small theater (maybe even large theater) with the most wonderful music of the era.
This is Item #208 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated December 29, 2005
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Blessing 3-Figure Automaton (Robot) Band - One-of-a-Kind
Have you ever searched for "just the right piece" to top off your private collection or for a world-class museum of mechanical music? The Automaton Band is just such a piece. According to Bower's "Encyclopedia of Automatic Musical Instruments", the Band was produced by the German Blessing family who built some of the finest instruments in the world during their "hey day" (ca. 1823-1920's).
The Automaton Band was imported from Germany to the United States in 1950. It was used as part of a traveling, mechanical music display, from Washington D.C. to Maine, until 1968. A 1957 New York newspaper article shows the Band performing outside the Smithsonian Institute in Washington in Trailer 7 of 7 used by the owner Bob Gillam.
The Band performed wonderfully in Walt Bellm's "Music and Cars of Yesterday" from 1972 to 1995 when we acquired this one-of-a-kind piece*. Walt Bellm sold his museum and the remainder of his world-class mechanical musical items in 1997.
Beginning in 1997, the Band was restored in Canada, by Ronald Schmuck, who returned the piece to museum-quality condition (as shown above). The Band's "Beer Garden" enclosure measures 18 feet wide (from street light base to street light base) and 12 feet high (to the top of the turn-of-the-century musical motif art glass filled with cut-glass "jewels"). The band is about 6 feet deep. The street lights are fully functional; adjustable intensity back lighting was added to highlight the three Blessing figures and the beautiful three-piece art glass on top. The Band disassembles into 40 easy-to-handle and ship sections which will pass through standard (double) doors.
This rare Band has three "larger than life" figures, each (if standing) would measure almost 7 feet high. The standing , male accordionist "plays" the 41 note keyboard on his full-size instrument. The female piano player has a beautifully restored 1924 Stroud player piano on which she performs. The drummer actually plays the snare drum, bass drum and rhythm cymbal. When appropriate for the music, he also "plays" an Indian block, triangle and large "crash" cymbal. Each automaton figure has up to 12 elements of movement including eyes, head, eye brows, lips and chest (drummer), both arms and both hands, both feet (drummer) and upper body sway (accordionist).
The Band performs with lightening speed from either custom paper rolls or the MIDI system that was installed during the 1997 restoration. Seven hours of magnificent custom music was produced by Stephen Kent Goodman to maximize the musical and mechanical movement capability of this rare, one-of-a-kind musical automaton. The tunes include music from countries all over the world to includeaGermany, Switzerland, France, other European countries, South America and, of course, from the United States. Additional custom music for any country is available from Stephen Goodman, should a buyer desire other specific melodies.
The movements of the three figures are very life-like. Everyone who sees the figures when they move and "look" straight at them is amazed. The comedy routines with the three figures interacting are outrageous. The drummer actually plays the drums superbly and often whistles along with the melody. (The drummer has 16 flute pipes in his chest.) As he puckers his lips and pushes out his chest(as if breathing), he produces beautiful melodies to accompany the accordion, piano and drums.
The drummer is usually the "trouble maker" by flirting with all the girls and setting the tempo for every tune. Sometimes he insists on fast-tempo music while the others wish to play slower music. The comedy routines are extremely funny without disrupting the beautiful arrangements.
A professional 30-minute videotape of the Band is now available. The selling price including mailing is $25 each in the U.S. and $35 each outside the U.S. The performances of the Band are impossible to describe but the video will assist your imagination.
If you want to see pictures of the Band which were taken before and at various stages during the restoration process. Click on Show the Pictures There are also some additional pictures in this page showing what the Band looked like in the 1950s.
Contact our Shoppe if there might be any interest in this piece.
Inventory Item #149 on the "Availibility and Price List" - Orchestrions and Automata
Updated January 1, 2006
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Rare Frati Sarasate Orchestrion
Do you know where there is another rare Frati full Orchestrion like this? This piece came from Europe in the early 1970's and awaited restoration until we acquired it several years ago. This piece has now been restored to be a FULL orchestrion, complete with bass drum (with tymphany beaters, snare drum, triangle, wood block, castanets, rosewood xylophone, three ranks of pipes (flute, clarinet, violin) 13 note bells, piano (of course) and much more.The colorful silver and golden glass panels were restored to their original beauty by "rediscovering" the original process. Original-style lamps with glass bead fringes (as shown) were found in Switzerland to finish out this magnificent restoration.
A large supply of excellent condition multi-tune rolls accompanies this rare beauty. Top off your collection with this INCREDIBLE piece. Available NOW, In Perfectly Restored Condition.
Inventory Item #154 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Go to COTPS Homepage
Updated January 3, 2006
Do you know where there is another rare Frati full Orchestrion like this? This piece came from Europe in the early 1970's and awaited restoration until we acquired it several years ago. This piece has now been restored to be a FULL orchestrion, complete with bass drum (with tymphany beaters, snare drum, triangle, wood block, castanets, rosewood xylophone, three ranks of pipes (flute, clarinet, violin) 13 note bells, piano (of course) and much more.The colorful silver and golden glass panels were restored to their original beauty by "rediscovering" the original process. Original-style lamps with glass bead fringes (as shown) were found in Switzerland to finish out this magnificent restoration.
A large supply of excellent condition multi-tune rolls accompanies this rare beauty. Top off your collection with this INCREDIBLE piece. Available NOW, In Perfectly Restored Condition.
Inventory Item #154 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Go to COTPS Homepage
Updated January 3, 2006
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FULLY ORCHESTRATED LOSCHE ORCHESTRION
Take a close look at these pictures. You are looking at a very rare Losche Orchestrion whose restoration was recently completed. Have you ever seen another one? This piece entered the US in 1972 and had never been fully restored, until now! The Losche, which comes with at least 25 new and original 13-7/8" multi-tune rolls, automatically controls violin pipes, xylophone, percussion, piano, triangle, etc. This instrument recently completed a "100-point," mint condition restoration. Here, it is shown with its magnificent lamps on each side. One of the finest restoration shops in the world, The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Company with over 80 years of experience in the family, has completed the work. The case has been completely restored, inside and out, with a 12-coat, hand polished finish. The piano action has been expertly restored and new nickel pins and new strings have been installed. All beveled, original glass panels have been re-mirrored to perfection using original techniques. We usually NEVER sell, "as is" but perfectly restored.If you have any interest in this rare orchestrion, let us know promptly. Such orchestrions are rare in this condition and sell fast. Further information and computer transmitted pictures are available if truly interested.
Inventory Item #157 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 3, 2006
Take a close look at these pictures. You are looking at a very rare Losche Orchestrion whose restoration was recently completed. Have you ever seen another one? This piece entered the US in 1972 and had never been fully restored, until now! The Losche, which comes with at least 25 new and original 13-7/8" multi-tune rolls, automatically controls violin pipes, xylophone, percussion, piano, triangle, etc. This instrument recently completed a "100-point," mint condition restoration. Here, it is shown with its magnificent lamps on each side. One of the finest restoration shops in the world, The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Company with over 80 years of experience in the family, has completed the work. The case has been completely restored, inside and out, with a 12-coat, hand polished finish. The piano action has been expertly restored and new nickel pins and new strings have been installed. All beveled, original glass panels have been re-mirrored to perfection using original techniques. We usually NEVER sell, "as is" but perfectly restored.If you have any interest in this rare orchestrion, let us know promptly. Such orchestrions are rare in this condition and sell fast. Further information and computer transmitted pictures are available if truly interested.
Inventory Item #157 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 3, 2006
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LOSCHE JAZZ BAND ORCHESTRION
Losche Jazzband percussion section
(bass drum removed to show beaters).
Made by Losche in Germany about 1929 to capitalize on the continental passion for hot jazz, this orchestrion comprises a fine-quality piano with mandolin effect. Above, is a complete jazz percussion section with bass and snare drums, triangle, cymbal, and woodblock. The expressive possibilities are impressive: the bass drum has not one, but 4 beaters plus a shifting pneumatic. The woodblock has one beater and two expression pneumatics! The pump is a grand affair, completely filling the bottom section. Comes with 25 brand new recut 3-4 tune rolls (the arrangements are fantastic!). Ready to play for the next 30 years. Rare. One of the very few remaining. Certainly available for a return to Germany if desired.
CONDITION
The finish is perfect. It plays perfectly. It was refinished, restrung and restored in 2000. The piano is in excellent condition with near perfect soundboard, bridges, action, felts, keytops (ivorine). It has been tuned to very near A440.
NOTE: Since pictures were taken, "original" lamps were imported from Switzerland and installed. It is now more beautiful than ever (1/1/06)
Inventory Item #210 on the "Availibility and Price List".
The Losche Jazzband pump. Motor has been changed to 110v AC. All the original electrical components remain, including the mercury contact switches. However, these are not connected.Losche Jazzband stack. Note how nice the hammers are. Pneumatic cloth looks good. If you like impressive German design, you'll love this Losche!
Updated December 29, 2005
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KINDER (SMALL) MAESTO ORCHESTRION
(PRODUCED BY WORLD-CLASS ARTISAN)Most collectors of orchestrions are very familiar with the wonderful Weber Maesto Orchestrions produced in Germany during the 19th century. The very few originals that survive typically sell for nearly $500,000. About five years ago, incredible German craftsmen duplicated the antique Maesto and a few were sold at well above $250,000.
Recently, an equally skillful German artisan in Canada began producing a "Kinder" (smaller version) Maesto Orchestrion. The original Weber required a display room with ceilings well above 8 feet, eliminating use in most homes around the world. The "Kinder" can be proudly used in any home with at least 8 foot ceiling heights. Just like its "big brother," the "Kinder" will contain piano, pipes, percussion, a midi system for "days" of music without repeating, automatic stop selections and other features that were standard on the Weber Orchestrions. The buyer can own one of the two Kinders to be built for 75% - 80% LESS than the scarce original Weber Orchestrions.
The "Kinder" Maesto is approaching the halfway point with completion expected in late 2003. If you enjoy the finest orchestrions from Europe, you will love this one and save hundreds of thousands of dollars in the process. A spool frame for rolls, to compliment the midi system, can be added if a buyer wishes.
If you have always wanted a fantastic orchestrion typical of only the finest instruments produced, now is the time to consider purchase. Let us know of your interest. Several "production" pictures are attached to "peak" your interest.
Inventory Item #228 on the
"Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 3, 2006
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IMHOF & MUKLE BADENIA 2 ORCHESTRION
Large orchestrions like this inventory addition are fast disappearing from Europe into worldwide collections. We found this one during a buying trip to Germany.The Badenia 2 is shown in Bowers Encyclopedia on page 476. It is 9 feet high (only 8 feet high without the gallery), five feet wide and a little over 3 feet deep. This orchestrion is loaded with instrumentation including piano, xylophone, violin pipes, bells, snare and bass drums, cymbal etc.
The beautiful painting in the center-top of the orchestrion has a "flowing fountain" scene, giving the instrument a very European flavor. Two hot-air balloons cross the blue sky from right-to-left while an airship slowly moves from left-to-right. The effects are astounding.
There are 7 huge, multi-tune rolls (9-12 tunes each) with the instrument and more are readily available in Europe. (The Imhof rolls are produced on thick, almost indestructible paper so all have survived. Four large 9-tune roll cassettes were recently filled with new recut music from Belgium. There are now hours of orignal music for this rare, beautiful instrument.
Full restoration by experts will be completed by 1/06.
Our price on this instrument is MUCH lower than several other Badenia Orchestrions for sale around the world.
This wonderful orchestrion will be available in March 2006 so let us know of your interest early.
Inventory Item #263 on the
"Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 16, 2006
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MAGNIFICENT 67-KEY MORTIER ORCHESTRION
WITH MIDI SYSTEM
Our Shoppe has never had a HUGE Mortier Orchestrion in our collection or inventory UNTIL NOW. As many of you may know, in the 60s through the 80s, most of the facades for the huge Classic Mortiers (20' to 35' high and 20'- 40' wide) were reduced to a more useable size. One of the most prominent facade rebuilders was Oscar Grymonprez & Son, Organbuilders, Belgium. These European craftsmen "crammed" the hundreds of pipes and percussion into smaller cases that fit more easily into restaurants, museums, lower ceiling dance halls and hotels, etc. As a result, few of the original huge facades remain today. Most have been converted to much smaller units.We have just acquired an 67-key, book reading Mortier organ with a "ton" of playable book music. But the best news is that a MIDI system will be installed to add hundreds of other original Mortier tunes to this magnificent organ. What a combination ...... original bookreader backed by a midi system.
This beautiful, restored case organ will be wll be done by the "master" himself, Ronald Schmuck of the Great Canadian Nickelodeon Company, LTD. Most major mechanical music references describe the beauty of this instrument and its internal components. When the restoration is finished in 2005, it will be a spectacular performer, ready for any collection or world-class museum.
"Stay tuned" for more progress pictures in the months ahead. This orchestrion, with hundreds and hundreds of original Mortier melodies, should go quickly when restoration is complete.
Inventory Item #283 on the "Availibility and Price List".
December 27, 2005
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PHILIPPS PC-10 CONCERT ORCHESTION WITH ACCORDION
After negotiations with a local collector, we were able to secure this magnificent Philipps (circa 1910- full PM Roll and midi system) PC-10 Concert Orchestrion. This marvelous Philipps contains a piano, mandolin, rosewood xylophone, bass drum, snare drum, cymbal, triangle, and full 120 bass accordion. Although today playing satisfactorily, it is below our standards and will receive a full inspection and restoration , as needed, in the shoppes of Ronald Schmuck in Mount Forest, Ont. Canada. It will be available fully restored by Summer 2009. (NOTE:By connecting a major hose that had slipped off and making a series of minor repairs, the PC-10 awaits only the installation of the MIDI system to be "perfect".)The Great Nickelodeon of Canada shoppes are operated by fifth- generation Europeon instrument restorers. Their work is beyond compare and they have restored many, many instruments in our collection, over the past 11 years.
This instrument plays the popular Piano Mandolin (PM) rolls of which 10 multi-tune rolls are included. HOWEVER, it (very soon) also contain a PM music MIDI system with hundreds of PM tunes for hours of continuous music, if you desire. OR select just the tunes you wish to hear from the long listing.
Examples of this wonderful Belgium piano Orchestrion with accordion can be found in only the finest museums in Europe. If further information is needed, please contact our shoppe at COTPS@aol.com. This instrument is fully described on page 574 of Bowers "Encylopedia of AutomatIc Musical Instruments " VESTAL PRESS, 1972.
This fully restored instrument will be available after it is returned to ORIGINAL, STRONG playing condition WITH a MIDI system by the summer of 2009 giving many hours of top quality music. So if you have a future sincere interest and you want the "right of first refusal", just get in line. THIS ONE IS A DANDY and the first we have offered in more than 40 years of collecting. Addition recut PM paper rolls are available from a recutter, if desired.
Inventory Item #384 on the "Availibility and Price List".
May 27, 2008
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Gavioli 25er Uniflute
With Original-Style Cart
This is a magnificent example of a Gavioli crank organ; fully restored. 9 tunes on a wooden barrel with nice tune card. In addition, an original-style cart has been custom-made by a European craftsman.We are told that the front-center low brass medalion "proves"? this organ dates to the 1860s.
It was tuned by a German crank organs specialist in Canada. This is a great buy in this beautiful, restored condition with "original" cart .
Inventory Item #124 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Go to COTPS Homepage
Updated January 1, 2006
With Original-Style Cart
This is a magnificent example of a Gavioli crank organ; fully restored. 9 tunes on a wooden barrel with nice tune card. In addition, an original-style cart has been custom-made by a European craftsman.We are told that the front-center low brass medalion "proves"? this organ dates to the 1860s.
It was tuned by a German crank organs specialist in Canada. This is a great buy in this beautiful, restored condition with "original" cart .
Inventory Item #124 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Go to COTPS Homepage
Updated January 1, 2006
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Josef Riemer & Sohne
Crank Organ 45 Key
This huge organ by a terrific builder in Waldkirch, Germany in the late 1800s is crammed full of pipes. It weighs about 85 pounds and will be equipped with a drive motor for more comfortable playing.Measuring 36 inches wide, 17-1/4 inches deep and 33 inches high, the organ houses 58 pipes as follows:
o 12 trumpets
o 27 Unusual Spitzflutes
o 3 bass trombones
o 3 bass bourdons
o open and closed flutes
The 9-tune barrel contains melodies for the American market and are all recognizable. With a huge range of 45-keys, complicated arrangements will thrill your audiences, where ever you go.
This instrument has received a museum quality restoration by experts in Canada. If interested, let us know so you will have the "right of first refusal".
This Item is #270 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 1, 2006
Crank Organ 45 Key
This huge organ by a terrific builder in Waldkirch, Germany in the late 1800s is crammed full of pipes. It weighs about 85 pounds and will be equipped with a drive motor for more comfortable playing.Measuring 36 inches wide, 17-1/4 inches deep and 33 inches high, the organ houses 58 pipes as follows:
o 12 trumpets
o 27 Unusual Spitzflutes
o 3 bass trombones
o 3 bass bourdons
o open and closed flutes
The 9-tune barrel contains melodies for the American market and are all recognizable. With a huge range of 45-keys, complicated arrangements will thrill your audiences, where ever you go.
This instrument has received a museum quality restoration by experts in Canada. If interested, let us know so you will have the "right of first refusal".
This Item is #270 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 1, 2006
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a GAVIOLI 25ER
UNIFLUTE ORGAN
WITH CARTAnother magnificent example of a Gavioli crank organ. The first two pictures show ITEM 124 , a fully restored 9-tunes organ on a wooden barrel with tune card. Tuned by German experts in crank organs.
The third, fourth and fifth pictures show the unrestored ITEM 331, available fully restored by March 2006. Both of these items have beautiful original-style carts. Both have a brass awards medallion attached in the center near the bottom of the organs. European experts state that this "awards medal" dates both organs to 1865 making both extremely rare today.
Inventory Item #331 on the "Availibility and Price List".
January 1, 2006
UNIFLUTE ORGAN
WITH CARTAnother magnificent example of a Gavioli crank organ. The first two pictures show ITEM 124 , a fully restored 9-tunes organ on a wooden barrel with tune card. Tuned by German experts in crank organs.
The third, fourth and fifth pictures show the unrestored ITEM 331, available fully restored by March 2006. Both of these items have beautiful original-style carts. Both have a brass awards medallion attached in the center near the bottom of the organs. European experts state that this "awards medal" dates both organs to 1865 making both extremely rare today.
Inventory Item #331 on the "Availibility and Price List".
January 1, 2006
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ONE OF ONLY THREE
Philabois Triple Monkey Automaton
With 8-Tune Barrel Crank OrganUPDATE:
ART CONSERVATOR * RESTORED THIS
ITEM TO HISTORICAL PERFECTION,
6/1/06-9/15/06
We have had only two Philabois automatons in inventory during the past 40 years. BUT none as rare and as spectacular as the circa 1860 piece shown here. There are only three of these pieces known to have survived. One (in poor condition) from the famous Murtaugh Guinness collection is now in the famous Morris Museum of New York. It now costs $10 per adult to see this piece and others from the Guinness Collection,The three monkeys perform as the organ plays your "favorite tune" from the 8 barrel tunes available. This piece measures over 3 feet high, 2 feet wide and about 2 feet deep. When placed on an appropriate stand, the performance is now at eye-level.
Movements include eyes, lips, heads, hands, arms, torsos etc. The center "magician" performs right hand and left hand tricks that will baffle you and make you "grin from ear-to-ear." The musicians provide the "music" as they move, and "play" as you crank. All three move their eyes and head very expressively. After the recent restoration, the organ performs at "full power", filling the playing areas with beautiful, fully arranged reed organ music.
This piece is EXTREMELY RARE. In the last 40 years of visiting most of the finest collections in the world, I have only seen two others like it. One in the Morris Museum and one in a well-known European museum.
Philabois French automata are very finely made as the picture shows. This piece deserves to be in only the finest automata collection making a fantastic extremely rare, focal piece. (Verified provenance is available with this piece.)
(*) Art Conservator in London , England (1985) and renowned certified former State Art Conservator in the USA, Richard Parker, Delaware.
This Item is #273 on the "Availibility and Price List".
September 14, 2006
Philabois Triple Monkey Automaton
With 8-Tune Barrel Crank OrganUPDATE:
ART CONSERVATOR * RESTORED THIS
ITEM TO HISTORICAL PERFECTION,
6/1/06-9/15/06
We have had only two Philabois automatons in inventory during the past 40 years. BUT none as rare and as spectacular as the circa 1860 piece shown here. There are only three of these pieces known to have survived. One (in poor condition) from the famous Murtaugh Guinness collection is now in the famous Morris Museum of New York. It now costs $10 per adult to see this piece and others from the Guinness Collection,The three monkeys perform as the organ plays your "favorite tune" from the 8 barrel tunes available. This piece measures over 3 feet high, 2 feet wide and about 2 feet deep. When placed on an appropriate stand, the performance is now at eye-level.
Movements include eyes, lips, heads, hands, arms, torsos etc. The center "magician" performs right hand and left hand tricks that will baffle you and make you "grin from ear-to-ear." The musicians provide the "music" as they move, and "play" as you crank. All three move their eyes and head very expressively. After the recent restoration, the organ performs at "full power", filling the playing areas with beautiful, fully arranged reed organ music.
This piece is EXTREMELY RARE. In the last 40 years of visiting most of the finest collections in the world, I have only seen two others like it. One in the Morris Museum and one in a well-known European museum.
Philabois French automata are very finely made as the picture shows. This piece deserves to be in only the finest automata collection making a fantastic extremely rare, focal piece. (Verified provenance is available with this piece.)
(*) Art Conservator in London , England (1985) and renowned certified former State Art Conservator in the USA, Richard Parker, Delaware.
This Item is #273 on the "Availibility and Price List".
September 14, 2006
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Steinway
Carved Case, Jacobean Style Duo-Art
A magnificent Steinway Duo-Art Reproducer Grand piano with raised carvings throughout the Florintine Style case. The piano was completely restored to "brand new" condition in 1993 in Boston MA. by fourth-generation , exclusively Steinway restorers. New strings, pins, hammers and refinishing were just the start. One of the best Duo-Art technicians in the U.S. then beautifully rebuilt and installed the reproducer mechanisms. Nearly $25,000 was spent on the restoration alone. This is the ONLY reproducer we have owned (we have had about 15 over the years) that doesn't "die" in the dry winter and change tuning - SOLID YEAR ROUND. Has a perfectly matching bench (not shown) and a large supply of Duo-Art rolls. You must hear this wonderful machine to appreciate it's expression capabilities. Even though the reproducer market has been slow in the recent past, this one is a "bargain".
This Item is #44 on the "Availibility and Price List".Updated January 2, 2006
Carved Case, Jacobean Style Duo-Art
A magnificent Steinway Duo-Art Reproducer Grand piano with raised carvings throughout the Florintine Style case. The piano was completely restored to "brand new" condition in 1993 in Boston MA. by fourth-generation , exclusively Steinway restorers. New strings, pins, hammers and refinishing were just the start. One of the best Duo-Art technicians in the U.S. then beautifully rebuilt and installed the reproducer mechanisms. Nearly $25,000 was spent on the restoration alone. This is the ONLY reproducer we have owned (we have had about 15 over the years) that doesn't "die" in the dry winter and change tuning - SOLID YEAR ROUND. Has a perfectly matching bench (not shown) and a large supply of Duo-Art rolls. You must hear this wonderful machine to appreciate it's expression capabilities. Even though the reproducer market has been slow in the recent past, this one is a "bargain".
This Item is #44 on the "Availibility and Price List".Updated January 2, 2006
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RESTORED 6' WELTE REPRODUCER GRAND PIANO
We recently acquired a beautifully restored Welte-Mignon Reproducer Grand. Shortly after it had been restored at a cost of $15,000, the previous owner died. This Welte-Mignon Signature Case reproducer was manufactured in 1919 in the elegant Louis XV styling with heavy carvings throughout. The piano was restrung and the action fully restored; new hammers were installed and the piano voiced. Overall, the finish is in very good condition.The case finish has a few "bruises" and the lid finish will need some minor repair. Much of this will be done before resale, if you wish.
Even after a long trip from New York, the tuning stayed "locked in" at A-440 due to recently installed 000 pins. The piano now expresses beautifully. The matching bench highly compliments this rare Louis XV 6 foot Grand piano. It comes complete with 12 brand new recuts and perfect condition original rolls. More are available if desired.
Since the current reproducer piano market is "flat", the asking price has been reduced 40% for quick sale.
Let us know of your interest soon.
Inventory Item #287 on the "Availibility and Price List" - Reproducer Grand Pianos
Updated January 2, 2006
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A MAGNIFICENT AEOLIAN MODEL "Y" ORCHESTRELLE
WITH MIDI SYSTEM
Finally, we are able to offer a VERY RARE Model "Y" Aeolian Orchestrelle to our growing fully-restored inventory. The only other "Y" of which we have knowledge is in the Mark Twain Museum in Hannibal, Mo. Our instrument includes the second MIDI system ever successfully placed in any Aeolian Orchestrelle. (Both MIDI Orchestrelles are currently in our inventory.) None of the pictures show the magnificent topin place.
NOTE: The full-front photo (to the left) is the "as restored" mahogany instrument WHICH, measures about 8 feet 4 inches high and has currently finishied its 100+ points restoration in the fantastic restoration shoppes of Ronald Schmuck of Canada.
It plays 58-note Aeolian Grand rolls, of which 50 are included. It is guaranteed to perform perfectly for you in your collection or museum.
This instrument ALSO contains THE ONLY OTHER MIDI SUPPLEMENTED SYSTEM FOR AN AEOLIAN ORCHESTRELLE IN THE WORLD, WITH 400 MIDI (AEOLIAN ROLL SCAN) FILES.
Comes with original organ blower (120 volts AC and 60 cycles).
Inventory Item #275 on the "Availibility and Price List"
September 3, 2008
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MAGNIFICENT AEOLIAN MODEL V ORCHESTRELLE
Absolutely wonderful items are becoming available in today's "soft" market. However, with shipping and restoration costs increasing daily, it is difficult to be cost effective in bringing many of these wonderful instruments "back to life".The pictures tell it all. This is a truly outstanding case on a Model "V" 58-note Aeolian Orchestrelle. This instrument will be completely and thoroughly restored by the master, Ronald Schmuck of Canada. It will be available very soon and you can be sure it will be "mint", inside and out.
Twelve (12) 58-note Aeolian rolls are included with the instrument. More are available, if desired.
Let us know if you are interested in this piece. Aeolian Orchestrelles are the most expensive restorations today. Few restorers have the expertise for this extremely labor- intensive rebuild.
NOTE: Pictures show only unrestored cabinet sections. Can you imagine what the final restoration will look like?
Inventory Item #284 on the "Availibility and Price List".
January 2, 2006
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AEOLIAN MODEL "W" ORCHESTRELLE
WITH MIDI SYSTEM
Want to own an Aeolian Model "W" Orchestrelle, fully restored with only the second MIDI system ever installed in any orchestrelle? This piece, as pictured, is completing its full restoration.It will:
1. Be fully restored.
2. Contain a blower to eliminate pumping when you wish.
3. Be maintained in original condition with pumping available, if you wish.
4. Contain an 58-note MIDI system to allow the 400 melodies in the system to be played on command.
5. Contain a generous supply of 58-note rolls for those that who like to pump or by using the blower, listen to music directly from the rolls.
If you ever wanted a no-trouble instrument from Aeolian that allows you to just lean back and listen to the music...........this is the one for you.
We are currently offering an Aeolian Model "Y" containing a surperb MIDI system filled with a "ton" of 58 note orchestrelle files. Are you the next to own such a wonderful, rare orchestrelle?
Inventory Item #304 on the
"Availibility and Price List"
January 2, 2006
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Rare 53 Pipe National Calliope
Manual Play Only
We have collected, traded and sold dozens of calliopes by makers such as Tangley, Hanchett, and others. But we have NEVER had a rare National 53-pipe calliope in our inventory. In 40 years of collecting, we have had only ONE opportunity to acquire a unit like the National and it was "priced out-of-sight".The calliope is complete with a powerful (but small) external blower to provide strong but "clean" calliope music. And of course, it may be played from the keyboard or the installed roll player. Six (6) "Calliphone" rolls are included for beautiful performances of your favorite tunes.
The National Calliope will be available soon after receiving a 100-points restoration in the famous shops of The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Company, Ltd. Ron Schmuck is a fourth generation restorer of mechanical musical items. The pictures here are of the National Calliope, "as found". It will be a rare, magnificent example when its restoration is completed.
Please let us know soon if you have any interest in this item. When restoration is completed, it should sell quickly, just in time for the summer season. Connect the National blower to a portable generator and you are ready for any parade or activity.
Inventory Item #329 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated November 26, 2007
Manual Play Only
We have collected, traded and sold dozens of calliopes by makers such as Tangley, Hanchett, and others. But we have NEVER had a rare National 53-pipe calliope in our inventory. In 40 years of collecting, we have had only ONE opportunity to acquire a unit like the National and it was "priced out-of-sight".The calliope is complete with a powerful (but small) external blower to provide strong but "clean" calliope music. And of course, it may be played from the keyboard or the installed roll player. Six (6) "Calliphone" rolls are included for beautiful performances of your favorite tunes.
The National Calliope will be available soon after receiving a 100-points restoration in the famous shops of The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Company, Ltd. Ron Schmuck is a fourth generation restorer of mechanical musical items. The pictures here are of the National Calliope, "as found". It will be a rare, magnificent example when its restoration is completed.
Please let us know soon if you have any interest in this item. When restoration is completed, it should sell quickly, just in time for the summer season. Connect the National blower to a portable generator and you are ready for any parade or activity.
Inventory Item #329 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated November 26, 2007
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Bursens 97-Key Dance Organ
This Bursens Dance Organ is among the latest addition to our inventory. It has been fully restored by an expert in such dance organs and is perfect. This is the finest dance organ we have ever seen and we have been in the hobby / business for over 40 years.
This fully restored instrument comes with a heavy-duty MIDI system containing 20 HOURS of ORIGINAL music provided by the DeCap Company in Belgium. This represents the entire library of music ever available.. It does not get any better than THIS!!!!!!...... It also plays as it did originally with:
1. 250 meters of book music, some about 20 years old.
2. Four temple bells
3. Terrific snare and bass drum
4, Wood block
5. Triangle
6. Cymbal
7. 12 huge bass pipes for a solid foundation.
8. 12 accompaniment pipes
9. 23 melody pipes
10. 19 jazz flutes (spectacular sound)
11. 15 registers which flavor the music unbelievably.....Wow.!
12. 12 Keys for percussion ...great!!!
Over 270 pipes of all tonal effects, accompanied by TWO HUGE ( 2) accordions and a "working" saxophone (the sax pipes make it seem SO real). You must personally hear this instrument or you will not believe it.
The facade has three different colors (from 120 bulbs). Soft music merits a very soft blue light. The saxophone, when it plays , merits the green lights. When the music really gets "hot", the red lights light up the entire facade..... A combination of colors is shown for the "in between" . Want a good nap?? Put on 15 tunes and you will be sound asleep by the third tune..... Guaranteed!!!!!!
This is the very favorite instrument in our entire inventory. We would hate to see it go but everything is for sale on this web page. You are invited to listen to this magnificent instrument. It is the biggest and best we have ever heard.
This Item is #188 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 2, 2006
This Bursens Dance Organ is among the latest addition to our inventory. It has been fully restored by an expert in such dance organs and is perfect. This is the finest dance organ we have ever seen and we have been in the hobby / business for over 40 years.
This fully restored instrument comes with a heavy-duty MIDI system containing 20 HOURS of ORIGINAL music provided by the DeCap Company in Belgium. This represents the entire library of music ever available.. It does not get any better than THIS!!!!!!...... It also plays as it did originally with:
1. 250 meters of book music, some about 20 years old.
2. Four temple bells
3. Terrific snare and bass drum
4, Wood block
5. Triangle
6. Cymbal
7. 12 huge bass pipes for a solid foundation.
8. 12 accompaniment pipes
9. 23 melody pipes
10. 19 jazz flutes (spectacular sound)
11. 15 registers which flavor the music unbelievably.....Wow.!
12. 12 Keys for percussion ...great!!!
Over 270 pipes of all tonal effects, accompanied by TWO HUGE ( 2) accordions and a "working" saxophone (the sax pipes make it seem SO real). You must personally hear this instrument or you will not believe it.
The facade has three different colors (from 120 bulbs). Soft music merits a very soft blue light. The saxophone, when it plays , merits the green lights. When the music really gets "hot", the red lights light up the entire facade..... A combination of colors is shown for the "in between" . Want a good nap?? Put on 15 tunes and you will be sound asleep by the third tune..... Guaranteed!!!!!!
This is the very favorite instrument in our entire inventory. We would hate to see it go but everything is for sale on this web page. You are invited to listen to this magnificent instrument. It is the biggest and best we have ever heard.
This Item is #188 on the "Availibility and Price List".
Updated January 2, 2006
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This is a small idea of the various types of instruments we restored for
Mr Rick Cooley.
I will post more in the near future Many Thanks for taking the time to visit this page and to remember Rick.
Ron Schmuck
The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Co.Ltd.
Mr Rick Cooley.
I will post more in the near future Many Thanks for taking the time to visit this page and to remember Rick.
Ron Schmuck
The Great Canadian Nickelodeon Co.Ltd.
