And just in case we are posting photos of Uncle Eddie, here are two. One is of Uncle Eddie before John clothed him in black paint. The other is of John showing Uncle Eddie in front of the luthiery in Hindman, KY.
Enjoy.
Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."
I found the photo on Doug Berch's website and in a video of langeleik music played by Gunvor Hegge. She recorded that album in Paris in 1999. I might email Doug and see if he can provide me with the source of the photo. I am sure that the instrument is a langeleik.
Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."
Shopdad, the wood is 3/8" plywood on top, back and sides, and laminated poplar everywhere else.
Shopdad, I think the instrument in your photo is a langeleik from Norway. Later today I'll research the source of the photo and give a better answer. I'm off to worship in a couple of minutes. More later.
Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."
That's awesome. What kind of wood did you use? I posted a picture an original instrument which was later described as a Scheitholt. I thought it was about six feet until Ken pointed out it was sitting on a foot stool. Later, some of the similar instruments with the two strings were identified as zithers. If I have my facts straight. I am waiting for some of my wood to dry to build a zitter with the help of all who have assisted me in gathering info. I am anxious to start but the wood isn't as anxious, I guess.
Here's a better photo taken in Richmond, KY on my tour of the south.
Thought I saw Uncle Eddie on the road.....
I've purchased rolls of music wire from Howard Piano Supply and Mapes. I also found a company out west (Washington or Oregon?) that supplies harpsichord wire for my restoration projects on zitters.
Ken
"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."
I was able to make a string set for a "mizrabli tambur' , a very long Turkish instrument. String lengths over 65 inches. And don't get me started on the hours of "patience practice" re stringing bowed psalteries and hammered dulcimers....
A spool does last awhile, but the cost and convenience of not having to buy new each time, and seemingly always having to re order gives some solace.
I know all about 6'+ VSLs, having made "Uncle Eddie", the 8' long dulcimer! When you go THAT long, string THICKNESS becomes an issue as well! I bought the music wire rolls at W.W. Grainger for that dulcimer.
Having done hundreds of refresh, rehab, and restorations... it only made sense to make my own. Buying in bulk spools, and hand twisting loops. Nice company and good service.
I use Strings and Beyond. Great customer service!
Guitar Strings and Beyond - Buy Guitar Strings Online and Save!
I buy strings by the dozen from Folkcraft.
Where to members buy strings in bulk now that Juststrings.com is no more?
