Some Frequently Asked Questions (and answers)

Is Twink children's music?

I didn't intend to be the next Raffi, just to make fun and quirky music. Twink has gotten positive feedback from all kinds of folks, including kids, punks, and grandmothers. (And even a punk grandmother or two!) It's certainly kid-safe, and the whippersnappers seem to enjoy it.

Where can I learn more about toy pianos?

Check out Chris Allert's informative website toypiano.org. A good history of toy pianos by Margaret Leng Tan can be found in the September, 1998 issue of the Experimental Musical Instruments journal. The Miniature Piano Enthusiast Club has a fun newsletter for collectors and fans of the instrument.

I found an old toy piano. Can you tell me what it's worth?

Sorry, I'm not good at appraising. I buy toy pianos to play with, not for their collector value.

Are there other musicians that use toy instruments?

Heck, yeah! Here are just a few:

Margaret Leng Tan
Wendy Mae Chambers
Phyllis Chen
Chapi Chapo & Les Petits Musiques de Pluie
Frank Pahl and LIttle Bang Theory
Małe Instrumenty
Pascal Comelade
Yann Tiersen
Pianosaurus
Lullatone
Toychestra
Toydeath
Pascal Ayerbe
Klimperei
Scott Paulson
Adam C. Burke
ToyPOP!

And don't miss Eric Schneider's fabulous collection of mini keyboards and organs.

Where did you get the name? Isn't there another Twink?

I named my project Twink because it sounds like the noise a toy piano makes. At the time I didn't know about a 1960s psychedelic singer/drummer in the UK named John Alder who went by "Twink." At least two other bands have put out CDs under the name Twink since I started my band project. The cartoon Rainbow Brite from the 1980s featured a character named "Twink." I've even come across a kids' clothing line with the name. Since posting this FAQ, someone alerted me to the 1967 Ken Nordine album titled "Twink." If you see a Twink CD and want to make sure it's from my toy piano band, check my Discography page.

Can I use your music for my movie/TV show/website/etc.?

My music can be licensed for projects through Getty Images. Or get in touch if you'd like to discuss a specific situation.