Ever wonder how they used to print music?
Before the invention of based notation software programs, there was The Keaton Music Typewriter. In was originally invented as a portable typewriter with just 14 keys in San Francisco by Robert H. Keaton in 1933. He released a larger 33 key version in 1953 (see photos) which sold for the tidy sum of $225.
Sales figures are unknown, but today it is estimated that between six and 24 are left in existence. One was recently up for sale on Etsy for $6000 USD.
The typewriter worked by placing a single sheet of paper on a board behind the typing mechanism.
You can read more about these historical music notation machines at Musicprintinghistory.org. It’s a great resource for those interested in learning about the history of music printing. While you’re there check out the Columbia Music Typewriter invented in 1885. Neat stuff!
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