Abstract: A manually played control device mounted on the playing board of an electronic keyboard instrument, to be played by one hand of a player while the other hand plays the main keys. The main keys produce usual control signals whereas the control device produces electrical control or sound signals for the variation, supplementing and completion of the control signals produced by the main keys. A plurality of continuous and/or gradual control signals can be played simultaneously for a subtle control and shaping of sound parameters, such as volume, pitch, timbre and noise, through the use of a control handle which is movable in several directions and in several planes and is sensitive to the variable load by the player's hand.

Abstract: A foot-controlled musical instrument, the control portion of which includes a heel rest mounted for rotation so that, while the heel of the playing person is firmly placed on the rest, the foot may easily be turned to various angular positions within a range of about 90 degrees, to bring the anterior part of the foot into position to make contact with any desired one of several (preferably six) pedal keys which, when activated, cause production of various sounds, e.g. according to a tonal scale. The pedal keys are mounted on a spring-loaded plate which may be depressed by foot pressure, the depression thereof serving to control certain characteristics of the produced sound. The heel rest plate is also mounted for movement in one or more linear directions in addition to its rotary movement, and these linear movements control other characteristics of the produced sound.

Abstract: A device for continuous pitch variation of a stringed musial instrument. The neck portion of the instrument is movable relative to the body, to vary the tension on the strings, thereby to vary the pitch during playing. Locking means is provided for locking these parts against movement when no variation in pitch is desired, and for quickly unlocking the parts to allow movement when the variation is desired. The locking arrangement is responsive to pressure exerted by the playing arm of the player, exerted on a control member on the body of the instrument. Locking is accomplished by driving a rotary locking wheel into a tapered locking notch. There is provision for maintaining the lock in an effective locking position when no movement would be desired, as for example during transportation of the instrument.

Abstract: Device for the manual playing of electronic musical instruments. Each manual has three groups of keys respectively arranged along three tilting bars, for operation by three fingers on one hand of the player. When a key is pressed at one end, it tilts the bar on which it is mounted in one direction, and one tone is produced. If the same key is pressed at the opposite end, it tilts the bar in the opposite direction, and a different tone is produced. Special control keys or action converters include a roll positioned so that it may be operated by the thumb of the same hand which is playing the keys. Rotation of the roll by the thumb produces one control signal affecting the sound issuing from the instrument, and axial motion of the roll by the thumb produces a different control signal. Other refinements and improvements are disclosed.

Abstract: A device for continuous pitch variation has rotary support levers which connect the extension piece of the neck flexibly with the body of the instrument. A rotary string holder is mounted on the extension piece of the neck and a ribbon connects the string holder with one of the rotary support levers (via a roller). A tension spring connects one of the rotary support levers with the extension piece of the neck or as a second possibility with the body of the instrument. A counterweight is mounted on another rotary support lever which is so connected with the extension piece of the neck or one of its support levers that, when sliding the neck, an opposite movement of the counterweight will be effected. A locking or stop device gives the player the possibility to lock or to open the mobility of the neck.

Abstract: A console for use in playing an electronic musical instrument. Two manuals are slidably arranged on a stationary frame or desk, to slide sideways toward and away from each other. Each manual carries various keys and other movable control elements to be operated by one arm-hand-finger of the player. On each manual, keys for individual tones are arranged in rows extending front to back, toward and away from the player, rather than in rows extending from side to side as in a conventional piano keyboard. Each key is wide enough so that two fingers of the player may rest simultaneously on the key. In addition to these rows of keys, each manual has other special keys or movable elements, some arranged for operation by the little finger, some for operation by the thumb, some for operation by raising or lowering the hand, for changing the nature, quality, duration, octave, or other characteristics of the sound produced.

Abstract: A device for continous pitch variation has rotary support means which connect the extension piece of the neck flexibly with the body of the instrument. A string holder is mounted on one rotary support lever and has adjustable holding elements for each string. A system of levers transmits the tension of the strings over an adjustable point of force transmission to a tension spring. The tension spring has an adjustable seat.