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Practice clavier
A practice piano without strings with adjustable sprung and weighted keys. This is a relatively complex practice keyboard. The spring-loading of the touch is adjustable and the weights with 'lost motion' attempt to imitate the sensation of playing a piano action. The case is of bass-wood stained and the top edges of the keywell cheeks are decorated with fluting, as are the front faces of the legs. The Virgil Practice Clavier was marketed and patented by Almon Kincaid Virgil (1839 or 42 to 1921) as an adjunct to his pedagogical method.
- Date:
after 1892 - Maker:
Virgil, Almon Kincaid - Collection:
Royal College of Music Museum - Inventory number:
Loading... - Place of production:
New York City
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- Inscriptions:2 printed paper labels glued to inside of lid: central, large label entitled "IMPORTANT GENERAL DIRECTIONS." gives instructions for operation of the instrument; a smaller rectangular label in top right hand corner is a warranty: "WARRANTEE. \ This Virgil Practice Clavier, No. 5908, made by us, \ is hereby warranted for the term of FIVE YEARS from date, and should it \ with proper care and use prove defective in materials or workmanship within \ that time, we agree to put the same in good repair at the manufactory or \ replace with another. We do not warrant this instrument against extreme heat or dampness. \ New York, 189 \ (signed) \ THE VIRGIL PRACTICE CLAVIRE CO \ 26 WEST 15TH STREET."
- Hornbostel-Sachs category:
- Repository:Royal College of Music Museum