What is a 'penny piano'?

Hadrian · Post by **Hadrian** » 23 Apr 2006, 14:38

Hi there, I realise that my post isn't strictly piano-related but I thought that someone might be able to shed some light on this for me. I am trying to find out the difference between a pianola and a 'penny piano'. As far as I can gather, the penny piano is a kind of music box in the form of a piano. If someone knows any more it would be really helpful if you would let me know. Thanks in advance,

Hadrian

Post by **Bill Kibby** » 24 Apr 2006, 09:50

Firstly, "Pianola" was the brand name of a particular make of Player Piano. Some player pianos were electrically powered, and some of these were Nickelodeons, designed to be coin-operated, like a juke-box, for bars and cafes. I guess that might be a "Penny Piano", but who used the term? People have a habit of making up their own names for things, which cannot be defined.

Hadrian · Post by **Hadrian** » 24 Apr 2006, 10:01

Hi Bill, thanks for your reply. The reference to the 'penny piano' is from a record of war songs http://www.footlight.com/product.cfm?product_id=23631

In light of your post it seems that the penny piano would be some kind of juke box and that is the original source of the recording used on this compilation.

Thanks again, if anyone has any more detail on the penny piano I would be very interested to hear it.

Hadrian