Term of the Moment
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Definition: music box
A music box was one of the earliest music reproduction systems on the market. Starting in the late 1800s, a variety of systems were introduced using cylinders or discs to hold the music. This was considered extremely high tech in the 19th century, and people marveled at the amazing realism of the music.
The Regina Music Box
Music is made by a comb of teeth with different lengths. The holes punched in the disc create spurs on the bottom, and as the disc rotates, the spur turns a wheel that plucks the tooth in that location. The brass bar keeps the disc flat against the wheel and comb. (Image courtesy of Richland Antiques & Collectibles Center, Quakertown, PA.)