Simon Hartgroves

London sold, not made. Entries for Russell in PO Directories: 1856 Advert below 1865 Russell Joseph, 158 Goswell road EC 1869 Russell Joseph, 158 Goswell road EC 1882 Russell Joseph, 158 Goswell road EC Russell labels have been found on early Lachenals. Hi Russell - You may well be right, but I can only quote what it says stamped twice on the instrument - 'J Russell, Maker, 60 Goswell St, London'

Following my decision to have a clear out of most of my instruments, I have just posted my London-made Flutina on eBay.co.uk (see pictures accompanying the listing). This is an unusual instrument in that it is cased, complete, has absolutely perfect bellows and is in full working order. I never learnt to play it, concentrating mainly on English concertina, but believe it ought to generate a bit of interest - can't find any information on the maker (J Russell, 60 Goswell St, London), but believe it must date to somewhere between 1840 and 1880. Keys and valve top buttons are mother of pearl and it appears to be silver mounted.

As arthritis has started to play havoc with my fingers (the guitars went last year), I have at long last decided to put my concertinas up for sale - offers invited: I have a nice Wheatstone Aeola 48 key English treble (plus the remains of its leather case), in great condition and concert pitch; serial number 31633 and also a sweet-sounding Barnett Samuel (for which read Lachenal), serial number 27713 48-key brass reed English - also in concert - with *perfect* bellows and original case, lock and key (leather handle has been replaced, but otherwise the case is excellent). If anyone is interested, I can take and e-mail pictures. I live in North Cornwall - if you are in the area, drop in for a trial and a cuppa. Contact e-mail is si@unforgettable.com Simon Hartgroves 15th January Some pictures now at http://www.hartgroves.plus.com/index.htm - I've had problems producing decent sound files, but will upload some as soon as I manage to get hold of a decent mic. Items now listed on eBay.co.uk with additional pictures and reserves of £1200 on the Aeola and £200 on the Lachenal BOTH CONCERTINAS NOW SOLD