Pedal keyboard operated musical instrument

Abstract

A pedal keyboard operated musical instrument includes a keyboard housing formed as a shallow, upwardly opening coffer. A spacer bar extends laterally in the housing, with a plurality of spring bars arrayed in parallel fashion and secured atop the spacer bar in generally orthogonal relationship thereto. The spacer bar bisects the longitudinal extent of the spring bars, which are unsupported at their opposed ends. A first and second plurality of pedal keys are secured to the spring bars, in alternating fashion, with each key of one plurality disposed between a pair of the keys of the other plurality. In addition, each key of one plurality is secured to one end of each spring bar, with a key of the other plurality secured to the other end of the respective spring bar. The keys of the one plurality are provided with blocks extending upwardly therefrom to extend above the nominal height of the second plurality, the blocks being adjustable in the longitudinal distance from the medial spacer bar. A plurality of electrical switches are provided, each disposed at the distal end of one of the keys to sense depression thereof. The keys are adapted to be played by the foot, using a heel-and-toe rocking motion. The notes ascribed to the keys may be selected electronically, and generally comprise the notes of major and harmonic minor chords commonly used in bass accompaniment.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.