I would like to try and write an act for a music box I have. I have never used music, ever, and would like to somehow fit a musical piece into my act. Can anyone recommend anything? I already have a jewelry box I'm going to use, I will just order the mechanics... thanks...

As a firm believer in involving as many of the senses as possible, Music, or at least background sounds, are very important.
Consider the manipulated music box working as described by Tony Andruzzi. It was, if I recall, used in an effect to be found in the Daemon's Diary. There is little liklihood of the tune being known in that instance. another is to simply alter some of the tines or bumps on an existing music movement to make it sound eerie.
I have found that using a piece that is known has positives and minuses. If the music being played is known, then you run the risk of the vict-, er participant focusing on the music; humming along, or providing the words- which may or may not be what you want them to do.
When seeking general backgorund music I use some of the music form the "international" section of the music store. Many of them have producers and contacts in the US so if permission or rights for public/paid performance needs to be done, it is easier to accomplish.
k

You might be interested in this post about a programmable music box:

http://www.themagiccafe.com/forums/viewt......forum=14

Bending a few teeth in an existing mechanism may give you an eerie, original, discordant tune.

Chris

Thanks for the idea's. I'm looking for a tune I can read a love letter to. I found the most beautiful music box in a trashcan and this is where the story begin's...
Something that will unsettle the mind in its haunting simplicity.
Its for a wind up music box which is activated when you open the lid.
thanks