MUSICIANS HAMPERED

Taranaki Daily News, 24 September 1940, Page 6

MUSICIANS HAMPERED

INSTRUMENT SHORTAGE RESTRICTED IMPORTS DEPLETION IN STOCKS Musical interests of Taranaki, in common with those of other provinces throughout New Zealand, are feeling the effects of import restrictions. Accumulated stocks of pianos have so far met the situation but these are steadily being depleted until most stocks are of secondhand instruments, for which there is a strong demand, supplemefited by the few new instruments available, Dealers state that if the Christmas period is a normal one it is probable that New Zealand will be stripped of her supplies of accordions, piano-accordions and mouthorgans by the beginning of next year. Banjo-mandolins, ukeleles and guitars are being manufactured in New Zealand, but in the case of pianos, accordions and mouth-organs this is impossible as New Zealand lacks the necessary materials and equipment, and possibly the technical knowledge, gathered by years of experience, which has enabled overseas manufacturers to produce instruments ot the highest quality. There is also a shortage of such instruments as clarinets, trombones, comets and trumpets, while there is no slackening in the demand for them. Accessories Sjhort. - Most accessories are available at present, but for some time reeds for saxophones and practice chanters, most of the cane for which was imported from France, have been unprocurable. In addition violin and 'cello string replacements are difficult. Supplies of popular sheet music have Jjecome restricted to ihe barest minimum of dealer's requisites. Wholesale dealers have gone to the extent of printing a special form, "We regret that owing to import restrictions the following are not available," with a list— usually a substantial one — added.