Wheatstone 40 button anglo C/G

[finnbeames]

 

An unusual 40 button Wheatstone anglo in C/G, 6-fold bellows, serial number 57074, concert pitch, bought in 2008.

 

This researcher estimates that the serial number places this box in or around 1954: http://www.concertina.com/gaskins/late-wheatstone-anglos/index.htm

 

This is from a period when Wheatstone were starting to use a new type of (lower quality) reed and lighter bodies, but somehow this instrument got through with the best of both -- previous generation, higher quality reeds but with a nicely light body. It is chirpy, quick and bright, but is capable of a softness and mellowness of tone which I hadn't heard on many instruments -- this is why I bought it (as well as the extra buttons). Originally bought to play professionally, mostly in theatre, and has been well looked after in smoke-free, pet-free homes. A really lovely instrument which I am sad to sell, but I can't justify having such a fine model for only the occasional session.

 

It will need some playing in, as it hasn't been played regularly recently. There is a G# on the left hand which sometimes sounds raspy and should be looked at, and one of the extra keys on the right hand (E/D) sometimes sticks open, but I think this is due to the action being underused and will resolve with playing.
 
Very happy to skype/send recordings/more photos/have people round to play it/post internationally. Am in central London.
 
£3500

Exchanges / part-exchanges for an English TT considered.

 

 

Edited February 28, 2021 by finnbeames