String-less Mandolin by Vinaccia, Vihuela & Larson Co.

[Peter K]

This hunchback mandolin style defies description, but its eBay seller appears to have tried his best. Here it is for your edification and amusement:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-Vtg...MAAOSwA-VeNcqW

If you decide to buy it, please do not blame me, and do not call me about tuning the thing. I know nothing.

[MikeEdgerton]

He says that might be on the label. Heavens knows what it really says.

It appears to be a Mexican Vihuela, not to be confused with the traditional Spanish Vihuela. I'm pretty sure he won't get 180.00 for it.

[DavidKOS]

He says that might be on the label. Heavens knows what it really says.

It appears to be a Mexican Vihuela, not to be confused with the traditional Spanish Vihuela. I'm pretty sure he won't get 180.00 for it.

Yup, standard mariachi band vihuela.

Tuned like the top 5 guitar strings but quite re-entrant, used to play chords mostly.

[Peter K]

I knew that was not an ordinary mandolin.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KExQu-4wi9A

[MikeEdgerton]

Apparently there is no money above the sixth fret on these. Actually there's no frets above the sixth fret.

[Peter K]

Apparently there is no money above the sixth fret on these. Actually there's no frets above the sixth fret.

Mike, on this particular Vihuela I see only 4 frets. I guess that does the trick.

[MikeEdgerton]

Well then, I guess what I meant to say was there is no money above the 4th fret

[brunello97]

Well then, I guess what I meant to say was there is no money above the 4th fret

My nephew, Pablo, has been gigging in Austin mariachi bands since he was about 13. He doesn't play a vihuela, but the guitarron, which is essentially fretless.
He's been making pretty good jackero for a HS kid.

Mick

[allenhopkins]

My nephew, Pablo, has been gigging in Austin mariachi bands since he was about 13. He doesn't play a vihuela, but the guitarron, which is essentially fretless. He's been making pretty good jackero for a HS kid.

Mick

Hey, I own a guitarron -- a tourist-grade Honduran model. Maybe there's a new career ahead...? Except the damn thing's so big...

[brunello97]

Give it a go, Allen!
The mariachi bands in Austin / San Antonio tend to be very gig oriented, like you are. Very fluid personal.
I'm on a few email group lists for fun and folks are always sending out word for another trumpet, violin, guitar, etc.
No calls for accordions, yet, or I'd be jumping.
My nephew makes enough bread to keep himself out of trouble... and he's going to a wedding reception every weekend.....
Mick