Dana Johnson & Kensington Concertinas

[Joe G.]

I recently answered an ad on concertina.net for a Kensington concertina with Jeffries lay-out. I played it, liked it, and bought it, but two reeds played different notes from what I was used to on my C/G Jeffries. I contacted Dana Johnson and offered to pay to have the two reeds retuned or replaced to match the other concertina. He offered instead to do the work just to keep the Kensington playing as it should; all I had to pay was the cost of insured shipping. This is the only interaction I've had with Dana Johnson, but I couldn't be more impressed. First, he is a careful and thoughtful craftsman. In addition to the reed work, he replaced a fluttery valve (now it's perfect). I'm very pleased with the voice, action, and articulation of this Kensington concertina, but I also have nothing but praise for Dana Johnson's work-and-service ethic. If you're looking for a well-made concertina, consider Dana Johnson's Kensingtons. They—and he—are the real deal. 

[Marcus]

Dana is such a giving guy. So willing to share his knowledge and time. His concertinas are wonderful - I know I love mine. 
When I bought mine second hand he honored the “first tune up” that goes with a new instrument since it had never been back to him for it. 
Dana is in this for the music - just like it says on his website and with a Kensington you can’t go wrong. 

[Bill N]

I third the motion.  I bought one of his instruments sight unseen from someone in Italy (I'm in Canada).  Doing my due diligence I contacted Dana to confirm that the vendor was the original owner as claimed.  Dana confirmed it, and offered to give it an overhaul for the cost of postage.  He also said he'd buy it back for what I payed if I didn't like it. And he swapped the too-small hand bars for a larger set.  Every interaction with him has been a pleasure.  

A Prince among men!

[LR71]

I bought mine 3rd hand about a year ago and Dana honored the final tune up guarantee, too as well as swapping a reed.  I live to your south, Joe, and have gotten many compliments on the Kensington's oh so sweet tone.  I also have a Jeffries duet and really like Dana's going for a tone equal parts between Jeffries and Wheatstone.