Hilburn #57

**Jill McAuley** · Dec-20-2011, 7:47pm

Ok, I've just spent 2 hours playing my absolutely gorgeous Hilburn A5, made a pot of tea and it went stone cold I was so wrapped up in playing I forgot all about it! Words can't describe just how happy I am with this mandolin! Everything about it is fantastic - fit and finish, playability, sound. It feels like I've been playing this mandolin for years, just so, so easy to play. The quilt back and sides are even more amazing looking than the photos imply. Anyone out there contemplating an A5 build, do yourself a favour and get on Jim Hilburn's list NOW!!

Tomorrow is my "Monday" at work so I most likely won't get a chance to record any video clips until the weekend, but I'll get some up as soon as I can.

Huge, huge thanks to Jim for building me such an awesome mandolin - the whole experience has been first class all the way, can't speak highly enough of the man.

Cheers,
Jill

**Ed Goist** · Dec-20-2011, 7:52pm

Jill; that is just fantastic!
I'm thrilled you're so happy with the Hilburn (though not at all surprised

).
Congratulations!
I can't wait to hear you play it.

**Loretta Callahan** · Dec-20-2011, 8:07pm

Great song title: "The mandolin was so captivating, my tea went cold". Congratulations!!

**GKWilson** · Dec-20-2011, 10:22pm

Jill. I couldn't be happier for you.
And yet, we are the ones who will reap the benifits of hearing you play it.
Have a most Merry Christmas. [I know you will.]
Gary

**Loretta Callahan** · Dec-22-2011, 9:06pm

Ok, after much hand wringing and thought, I've put my name on the list for a Hilburn Mandolin. This gives me about two and a half years to save up. I can do this. Plus, my playing should have improved enough by then so I don't embarrass the mandolin or myself.

**Jill McAuley** · Dec-22-2011, 9:46pm

Originally Posted by Loretta Callahan

Ok, after much hand wringing and thought, I've put my name on the list for a Hilburn Mandolin. This gives me about two and a half years to save up. I can do this. Plus, my playing should have improved enough by then so I don't embarrass the mandolin or myself.

YES!! You won't regret it - I was nearly late for work this morning because I had to get the Hilburn out just to pick a "quick" tune or two - totally lost track of time, it is an absolute joy to play!

Cheers,
Jill

**GKWilson** · Dec-22-2011, 10:15pm

Good one Loretta. Your going to be one happy picker.

**Ed Goist** · Dec-22-2011, 10:58pm

Congratulations Loretta! I am sure you will be thrilled.
In my opinion, players of all levels deserve the best mandolins they can get their hands on.
Way to go!

**Loretta Callahan** · Dec-23-2011, 1:01pm

Thanks for the encouragement. I finally realized that my MAS and constantly fiddling with picks, tailpieces, fretboards, strings, etc. .... on and on would be greatly reduced by owning a first class instrument. Plus, it makes gift giving easy .... folks now know to contribute to Grandma's Hilburn fund.