Sep 13 2007

Bowed Psaltery

Published by at 6:28 am under Instruments,Photographs - Non-Art Images

I wanted a bowed string instrument, and decided upon the Psaltery. It is a fairly ancient instrument, with lots of character and charm. I found an instrument maker by the name of James Jones. His specialty is the hammered dulcimer, but he also makes harps, thumb pianos (kalimba), slit drums, and even guitars. He was very patient with me, and allowed me to choose the woods I wanted from his rather extensive collection. Here’s a photo:

Bowed Psaltery Custom Made by James Jones

The woods are as follows: Top & bottom are Stripy Mahogany, sides and bridge are Cocobolo, and the pin block is Rock Maple.

5 responses so far

5 Responses to “Bowed Psaltery”

  1. Tomon 19 Feb 2008 at 11:44 pm

    Nice, looks great! Anxious to hear how it sounds…

  2. […] time ago I acquired a hand-made custom bowed psaltery. Recently, I recorded a wee tune with it. The tracks were recorded in Cubase SX3, and all the […]

  3. Donna Maluson 30 Jul 2010 at 5:32 am

    If you are looking for more information regarding the bowed psaltery or are looking to communicate with other people who love the bowed psaltery please visit our web site
    psalterystrings.ning.com
    Donna

  4. Donna Maluson 28 Jun 2011 at 2:33 pm

    Hello!
    By chance do you still play your bowed psaltery? I moderate a network dedicated to the bowed psaltery and we are always looking to welcome new bowed psaltery fans. If you find some time please visit us at psalterystrings.com
    Consider joining us, we’re always looking for new information and to share what we have.
    Donna

  5. Administratoron 28 Jun 2011 at 2:49 pm

    I still have a very nice custom made bowed psaltery. I wouldn’t exaggerate my abilities by claiming to ‘play’ it, however. I have used it as part of a larger sonic pallet and was, in fact, thinking of using it for a project I’m currently involved in.

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