Geoffrey Crabb

Thanks all for your kind words. 'Old' Mr Crabb. 😉 (Geoff)

The attached may be of interest. Lachenal Crabb.pdf Geoff

Having repaired examples in the past and if memory serves me correctly: It is an instrument akin to the bandoneon, that is basically split in half, the left and right sections, each, complete with an independent bellows, being mounted on a board with the keyboards orientated upwards. Each bellows is provided with a large internal spring, (like an old fashioned bed spring) which when restraining clips are released (can be seen in the video) causes each bellows to try to expand. Because the instrument is ‘single action’ (notes only sound when the bellows are compressed) one way flap valves are incorporated to allow air to enter the bellows to allow full expansion. A separate button mounted behind the hand rest and operated by the heel of the each hand opens a wind pad to allow each bellows to be compressed, without sounding any notes, and clipped shut for transporting The single action negates the need for a hand strap, effort only being required to compress the bellows during playing. And of course, a strong pair of knees/legs to support models without a stand. Geoff

Being a simple concertina maker/repairer (now retired) and a technology Luddite, I am somewhat confused by the following part of your statement which seems contradictory: If, 1. 'the problem stays with the note, not the chamber'. This suggests that there is some anomaly with that particular reed. 2. 'despite not being related to the reed itself.' have you actually proved this by careful visual examination and comparison with the other ,non affected, F3 reed? If all the gaps etc are the same, perhaps the profiling is different. Just a thought Geoff

David, I agree, but, judging by the fifteen or so inquiries for clarification I have received, there are some that had expressed confusion. Unfortunately, not everybody has the time or inclination to read linked articles. Geoff.

Having had many requests for my opinion as a retired concertina maker regarding the use of English in the description of miniature concertinas, I have posted my personal observations and opinion in Instrument Construction & Repair . Geoff

Please see the attachment. The content is not intended to contradict the thoughts that may be held by others but are my own personal observations and views that I offer for perusal. It has been rather hastily put together so please excuse the odd grammatical or speeling error. Unfortunately, health issues may prevent me from partaking in prompt or heavy discussion. .Mini Eng Observations 2021.doc Geoff

Current speculation seems to be as to the whether the instrument in question was originally made by Charles Jeffries (Sen) or was commissioned of and supplied (unbadged) by CRABB, an existing maker. It is true that John Crabb and his son Henry Thomas Crabb did, jointly, make and supply a large number of unbadged Anglo concertinas to Charles (Charlie) Jeffries (Sen) before he and his sons began to produce complete instruments in their own right. However, it is also evident, although rarely mentioned or possibly known, that he also procured or commissioned instruments from other, contemporary, makers during the later 1800 period Perusal of a series of external & internal pictures of this particular instrument reveals some features that conflict with what is expected to be seen in J & HT Crabb built instruments. I have attached some of the relevant pictures with my own, personal, observations . Geoff C Jeffries 'badged' Anglo Concertina. Some observations..docx

Seems to be as a slower version, with added part, appears on 'Springtime in Battersea' LP (Freereed Record FR 008) Side 2 Track 1. (Unknown Scottiche ?) played by Tommy Williams. Geoff.

I argree with Frank, plus it won't shrink. The desk also of the same material attached with the face grain at right-angles to that of the base plate. Geoff

I agree with RAc, very doubtful if any of those objects are concertinas. Search ‘Shackleton‘ at concertina.com to show a picture of three sailors aboard ‘Endurance’ possibly with the Lachenal English Edeophone in question. Picture not reproduced here to respect copyright. Geoff

As some will know, health issues have caused me to step back somewhat from concertina related issues, so, due to requests for dating information regarding Crabb instruments, I offer the attached information that may be found useful or at least interesting. I have tried to provide all the information that I believe to be relevant, based on the records that exist and that furnished by current/past owners of these instruments. To those awaiting replies to dating and other enquiries, I apologise. Geoff Crabb Dating Document.docx

Gary, I have found two definite Crabb built Jeffries Duets in the records: No.9055, 50 button, built 1930. No.18298, 60 button, built 1969. I have no other information to hand at the moment on these. When I am more able, I will have a look to see if the plans for these (or any others) still exist. Geoff

AN Other =Tommy Williams Early 1950's