There was some interest in the past for a device that would enable us
to operate our midi controlled pianolas remotely. I came across this
item on eBay (140150642884) here in the UK, that plays midi files and
can be controlled using a standard universal TV remote. After
discussing it with the seller, although he developed it for solenoid
players, he thinks that it would work for us too. I have not tried it
and have nothing to do with it but it looks like it might be worth a try.
James