Virgil Practice Clavier Piano, 1904

Description

The Virgil Perfected Practice Clavier was made by Almon Kincaid Virgil in New York in 1904 or prior.  According to the National Museum of American History, these practice pianos "were popular for their ability to weight the keys forcing the pianist to press them harder, and in doing so, building finger strength and muscle memory".  The clavier has an adjustable gauge and weighted keys, and the only sound it makes are the clicks as the keys go up and/or down.  If you turn the gauge to the maximum, you will get a LOT of resistance in the keys.  You can turn the gauge to make the keys feel "lighter" and anywhere in between.
The patents on the clavier are June 29, 1888, October 23, 1888, and July 19, 1892.  This clavier's serial number is #7292.  Directions for use are located on the inside of its top.  You will see in the photos that a few of the white keys' tops have separated from the keys themselves.  This does not affect their function.
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