Wednesday, 17 April 2013

Appalachian mountain banjo #4

Just handed over my latest mountain banjo to a very happy - and surprised recipient.

Its made from reclaimed mahogany (Edwardian wardrobe), with a goatskin head. Fully fretted, 24.5" scale, screws for position markers, ebony (piano key) nut.

It also has some folk art, naive carving on the heel and the center section of the pot picked out with coloured enamel.




Original inlay work from the old wardrobe.







And here's the happy owner. Thanks Nick and Laura.

3 comments:

  1. some lovely work has gone into this, not sure about the brass screws though.coach bolts would have looked pretty cool around the head, and will stand the test of time better than using a flathead screwdriver, imo, also the coachead bolts shape, ( hexagonal) could have been replicated with some lovely red abalone as position markers, just my thoughts. More importantly, a soundfile of the banjo could have created a lot more interest and future business, all the best, jed

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  2. Thanks. glad you like it although i disagree with the bolts. i feel that the screws are more traditional and simpler. they will also lose their shine with age an develop a nice patina. regarding abalone position markers i feel this would add a bit too much sophistication to what is essentially a humble piece of folk art... which is why i used screws to reflect the nature of the piece i.e. made from whatever is at hand. the instrument is made from around 95% reclaimed materials.... i did make a very quick vid which i will edit ASAP and stick on here. thanks for your comment... always good to hear opinions.

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  3. This is simply stunning, John! The juxtaposition of the elegant antique inlay from the reclaimed wardrobe and the naive flower carving on the heel are perfect. I'm sure Nick and Laura are going to love this banjo for many years to come!

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