Music Box Construction: Assistance please?

[Wednesdays_Child]

Alright so for my latest (and first...) project, I'll be attempting to construct a music box. Using none of the fancy computer-chips of the modern age of course, a steel rotating drum and a wind up key shall be the keys to victory here! Now then, as for the box, I'm still looking for a suitable one, from stores in my area of course, however I've not found the perfect fit. Secondly, and this would be my biggest issue, the song I wish to use is one I've composed on my own... However, due to the fact that this must be a box of pure steampunkish goodness, I must find a way to create said drum. Any ideas on how I should go about construction, or ways to obtain my materials will be GREATLY appreciated. Besides, if you help me out, and this works, perhaps I'll begin making music boxes to repay the favor

[johnny99]

      That's quite a first project. Honestly I would suggest going for a hurdy-gurdy as your first attempt. as that will elliminate the spring&pawl mechanism,  the air brake, and most if not all of the complex gearing. Leaving you with only the problem of cutting and tuning a working comb, and fabricating a suitable music roll.  Remember, most of the old music boxes didn't use roll's they used plates.Which may or may not be easier.
     I'm In kind of a rush right now, but I'll try to post a few construction suggestions tonite when I get home.

     Hope this helps
            John     
   

[sidecar_jon]

one can get punched paper controlled music box movements...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_yZJVUucBQ

http://www.redferret.net/?p=10735

http://www.grand-illusions.com/acatalog/Music_Box_Set.html

[Wisconsin Platt]

one can get punched paper controlled music box movements...

and also

http://www.thinkgeek.com/geektoys/science/8f7f/