Dyer Harp Mandolins and the Symphony Harp Plectral Ensemble

**Gregg Miner** · Feb-26-2019, 9:02pm

For those mandolin aficionados who have been wondering what to do with themselves for an entire year with NO Harpguitars.net article on the Dyer Harp Mandolin, you can all breathe easy. The new monograph is finished!

http://harpguitars.net/blog/2019/02/...tral-ensemble/

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**Timbofood** · Feb-27-2019, 8:19am

What a nice set!

**David L** · Feb-27-2019, 12:40pm

Although interestingly shaped, are these really "harp" mandolins? The "harp" in harp-guitars refers to the extra, non-fretted strings, which are played like a harp, not the shape. To me, these are just mandolins that have had their scrolls unrolled.

**Gregg Miner** · Feb-27-2019, 2:44pm

Good question, David...you'll find the answer in the article.

**David L** · Feb-28-2019, 11:37am

Originally Posted by Gregg Miner

Good question, David...you'll find the answer in the article.

I missed the bulk of the article the first time. I had already figured what he said. Manufacturers can call what they make anything they want.

John Farris patented the name "Banjolin", then changed it to a four-string instrument. That doesn't mean that the name is correct.

**tim noble** · Mar-01-2019, 9:23am

Fantastic ensemble and wonderful write up comparing them with the catalogues. I found a style 35 mandolin hanging around the neck of a carved statue of a naked indian maiden at a flea market around 30 years ago. The guy had bought it from my neighbor and for $50 I had to get it. It's been prominently displayed ever since.
Tim