Thanks for your input Chrissy1551! I'll be sure to point frustrated players to your post to show them that the game CAN be played through to the end on an iPAD2!
(hope you figured out the music puzzle at the end)
Sorry it had to end but I was hoping to find another game similar and have had no luck!!
If, besides your iPAD, you also have a MAC laptop or desktop system give Amanita Design's earlier game, Samorost2, a try. As much as i enjoy Machinarium i STILL get a kick out of re-playing Samorost2 every now and then. (especially the MAJAK level! Floex's composition for that scene is absolutely celestial! :-)