An orchestrion is a mechanised orchestra. It has a collection of musical instruments, which are operated mechanically. A long strip of folded cardboard paper with holes in it is fed through a reading device, which translates a hole to a note of specific length being played on one of the instruments.
One of the few still in working order sits in Kinloch Castle, on the Isle of Rum. I could write books about Kinloch Castle and Rum. I just wanted to share this video which I recorded as I was shown round the place. I dare you to put up the volume. You have to bear in mind that the instrument literally sits under the stairs, but when played can be heard right through the castle.
Rum was depleted of its original population in 1826, when they were summarily told to clear off. It has since been the domain of the landed gentry, who kept sheep and latterly deer there. Textile magnates Bullough of Accrington, Lancashire (England) had money to burn, so they built a castle there in 1897.
Rum has been referred to as a landscape without figures. I stayed on the island for a few days in October 2004. I found it to be scenically stunning, but very empty, and sad. An orchestrion? Here? It's what you call a folly. Enjoy.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Fascinating entry! Rum was my favorite drink when I drank. Welcome back Guido!! - Barbara
ReplyDeleteWhit a racket! Lol!
ReplyDeleteI would have been heading for the furthermost part of the castle. Or the jetty for the boat back to the mainland again. hahahaha!
Welcome back Guido. Wonderful photos! I'm waiting to see if there are any more of your Glasgow visit this time around. The last ones were all new to me. I have never seen those places you saw and I'm a Glaswegian.
Take care.
Jeanie
ReplyDeleteP.S.
Just looked up your Orchestration on Wikepedia and its fascinating how it works and all comes together...amazing!
Thanks for sharing it.
Jeanie
Wish I was allowed to watch videos still.......... It sounds to me a bit like a player piano. My dad's piano is a converted player piano. I suspect I'd LOVE this!
ReplyDeleteListened to the orchestrion which made that world seesm a little closer. Music helps do that. Gerry
ReplyDeleteI want one ! Don't know where I'd put it in this house of mine but it would be fun to have. Lovely pictures. Linda in Washington
ReplyDeleteYour pictures are great and the castle is absolutely beautiful. I love castles. I cannot image how the orchestrion sounds live, echoing through the castle. I loved spaghetti junction, I see where the name came from with all the signs!
ReplyDeleteLisa
Beautiful orchestrion....June:)
ReplyDelete