Music Boxes: Magic in a Box

They come in all shapes and sizes, in forms from angels to the devil, and plunk out very pleasing melodies on demand.  Some fit in the palm of your hand, while others do better on their own special stand.  They can be cheaper than a meal or as expensive as your car.  And, perhaps most importantly, they can be magical enough to earn a special place in your heart, remaining for a lifetime.  You already know that this thing is a music box.  If you've ever owned one, you will know what I'm talking about when I refer to music boxes as "magic".  For certainly they are, emitting fine and delicate music unlike any other.  Although the songs may be,and usually are familiar, the tunes are heard with a new ear.  We fill in for the missing orcestration, the simplicity of music box music brings us into a purer realm of memory and feeling.  Come learn about these boxes.  See what makes them special, how they came to be, and how to choose the perfect music box for yourself or for a loved one. 

Music boxes were invented in Europe in the 18th century, and curiously enough were meant for men.  First named carillons à musique and later called snuff boxes, they were carried by gentlemen in their coat pockets.  Were these early models meant for the entertainment of the men, or were they meant to charm women and delight children?  Whatever the case, music boxes soon evolved to include larger sizes and a wider variety of styles.  They were so popular that at one point the accounted for 10% or Switzerland's exports and manufacturing of music boxes exceeded that for watches and lace-making.  The most well know of these was Reuge music boxes; and the company is still in existence to this day.  In this period before the invention of records or any kind of recorded music, music boxes served the purpose of our modern day stereos (or more accurately I-pods these days).  This all came to an end thanks to Thomas Edison and the invention of his phonograph, which meant people could have access to a greater variety of realistic music played at higher volumes.

So how does a music box actually work? Is there a miniature person playing it from in the box who hides as soon as you look in to take a peek?  The actual explanation is much more simple, though no less ingenious than this fantasy one.  The basic structure consists of a metal cylinder with raised pins on it, which is attached to a compression spring that is usually wound by hand.  The pins are of varied spacing to create the different notes and rhythms which make up a song.  There is a metal comb which sits clear of the cylinder, but not the pins.  When the music box is in movement, these pins pluck the teeth of the comb in sequence, producing the delicate, tinkling songs unique to music boxes.

The most well-known music boxes have and continue to be the most popular.  These usually feature objects and scenes that appeal to our sense of whimsy, fantasy, and pleasure.  Perhaps the most well known of all music boxes is the one that features a ballerina, as can be seen on many antique music boxes.  She dances with the music, twirling around the box when the music plays.  Other popular themes include cupids, carousels (also a good match for the simple motion musical jewelry boxes are capable of), singing birds, and more.  Usually an object will be chosen for how compatible it is with the music. 
As for the songs, probably any tune you can think of that's not too out there has been used in a music box.  The most popular music are children's songs, romantic songs, and classical music.  However, this includes the hits of today and recent times too.  You will find theme music, such as "Send in the Clowns", and even Disney songs and movie themes.  The fragile music produced by a music box means that nostalgic, gentle songs are perfect suited to these devices.  However, a humorous song such as "If I Were a Rich Man" is also sure to bring a smile to all who know the tune.

If you're looking for the perfect gift for someone close to you, why not get them a custom-made music box?  You can't control what the box will look like down to the last detail, but you do have a choice of the color, style, wood used, as well as the tune.  You can even specify a certain object for the music box, such as a bird or a ballerina.  And for something truly personal, you have the choice of putting a picture of your choosing on the box.  That way, if you and your loved one have a song your would consider "your song", you can immortalize the feeling you share, and even include your picture!