I am a Boston(ish) based instrument idiot.
Back in 1989, I was walking around Cambridge with a friend and we happened on the Music Emporium — back then they were more an all-round dealership rather than limited to the very high-end and occasional vintage shop they are now. On top of one of the cases sat a Gibson J-Type Mandobass — and I was thunderstruck (in a very AC-DC sort of way) by it. Looking around a little more I saw a Gibson K-1 Mandocello and asked them if I could play it.
Even though they knew I couldn’t possibly afford it, and probably that I couldn’t play it either, they let me give it a go. It was to this day the most beautiful sound I ever heard come out of a stringed instrument; followed closely by the first strum of my D-55. I asked after the price, and promptly handed it back.
But it sparked an interest (and well-nigh obsession) with things that make sound that goes up until this very day. Many folks know about this and have been very generous in donating instruments to the cause.
Even though took over 20 years to be able to finally own a Gibson Mandocello (may it RIP) and everything else, I am self-delusional in thinking I am not a hoarder. Even so, I am determined to own as many full mandolin family sets as possible.
And with that I present the Home for Wayward Musical Instruments, a virtual museum, collection, and seldom store for things that come through my door.
And thus the manifesto:
- There are some instruments that are for sale.
- There are some instruments that are not for sale.
- There are some instruments I could be persuaded to sell or trade for something else I want.
- There are some instruments I want and would appreciate any leads on.
- I will happily take any donations of any kind, in any condition, for any thing, excepting perhaps pianos.