GB374189A - Apparatus for use in teaching the playing of pianos and other keyboard instruments - Google Patents

Abstract

374,189. Teaching music. GODDARD, H., Broad Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire. March 28, 1931, No. 9503. [Class 88 (ii).] A chord and note indicator to be mounted on a piano or other keyboard instrument, comprises a paper strip fed from one roller to another by ratchet and pawl mechanism. The strip f is marked with symbols or differently coloured numerals indicating the fingers to be used, which symbols are seen successively through slots in a stationary chart c bearing a representation of a keyboard thus indicating the notes to be played. The upper, take-up, roller g is advanced, after the playing of a chord or bar, by a spring- controlled lever l, which is actuated by a Bowden wire t connected to a pedal and turns a ratchet j by means of one of two pawls m. One pawl may advance the strip by e.g. three rows of symbols, and the other by four; they are connected by a spring o and either may be put out of operation by a cam p. On actuating the lever l a brake-shoe 4 is simultaneously applied to a drum k on the delivery roller. A spring catch 6 prevents return movement, but can be put out of action when the strip is to be re-rolled, for which latter purpose a handle is provided on the spindle of the lower roller. The paper strip is maintained in tension by spring strips, Fig. 3 (not shown), and may be tightened by a knob on the upper roller. The representation of the keyboard may be printed on the strip, with the symbols. According to the Provisional Specification, the ratchet and pawl mechanism may be operated by an electromagnet from the keys or a pedal of the instrument. Or a friction device may be used in lieu of the ratchet and pawl, and there may be a direct mechanical connection between the strip-operating mechanism and the keyboard. Or the strip may be moved by a handle attached to one of the rollers.