To all musicians out there...
I posted this a few days ago in the 'Vintage Instruments' section.
In my enthusiasm I didn't notice that it would have been better in this section.
I am hoping that there is someone out there that can help me find out the age of this 8-string Greek bouzouki.
It came into my possession in 1970, 49 years ago.
At that time it was already well-travelled and weather-beaten and I don't know for how long it had been in the previous owner's possession.
I am at least the third owner, possibly the fourth.
It came into my possession when I rescued it from a vicious blow it recieved from its previous owner who was intent on its total destruction. (Don't ask me why)
It was cracked from the top of the arm to almost all of the headstock.
I am sure it must be a good quality instrument because in spite of the damage the instrument didn't collapse. Surely a lesser instrument would have collapsed under the strain!
After a lot of time and effort I restored it to the beautiful instrument you see in the pictures.
It's been in my care for the last 49 years.
It doesn't play as sweetly as my main bouzouki, so I don't use it for performances.
But the joy of playing a renovated instrument is something to be treasured.
It's not for sale, but I'm curious as hell to know how old it is.
I'll give some details to help any experts out there.
In spite of its age, and the abuse it received, there is no sign of any warping at all.
The headstock and arm are one-piece. The black varnish on the headstock was put on by me to help disguise the 'scar' left by the break. So originally the headstock and arm were the same wood colour.
The tuning machine in the photo is no longer there. After it ceased working I replaced it with a Grover tuning machine.
It has 21 douyes, there is no label inside and no truss-rod.
The inside of the bowl seems to be lined with dark green paper.
It has 26 frets ( excluding the 1st fret that is next to the nut/bone)
The top note on the 'D' string plays 'E'.
On a modern bouzouki the top note on the 'D' string plays 'F'.
The overall length is 98.5cm.
The width of the body is 27cm.
The depth of the body is 18cm.
If there is anyone out there who can give me an indication as to its age I would greatly appreciate it.
If anyone needs more measurements or photos I'll gladly supply them.
Thank you . . .
Bookmarks