Crabb "Aeola" 64-key tenor-treble - NOW REDUCED

[david robertson]

Made in 1931, this is a rare example of an 8-sided Crabb, made even rarer by the amboyna veneers, gold-plated buttons and fittings, and tan leather bellows and straps.

 

It offers a range of four and a half octaves, which includes the bottom end from a tenor-treble, and the top end from an extended treble, and it is every bit as fast and responsive as you would expect of a top-quality vintage Crabb,

 

It has been the subject of a comprehensive restoration, with new pads, valves, bushes and springs. New wrist and thumb-straps have been fitted, the bellows have had a cosmetic re-bind, and the woodwork has been refinished in French polish. Finally, it has, of course, been tuned to Modern Concert Pitch (A=440Hz).

 

On the minus side, the left-hand end has had some slightly agricultural repairs to the fretwork, but it is sound and solid, and I thought it better to leave honest repairs visible than to try to disguise them. (And these imperfections are reflected in the price.)

 

It plays beautifully, and it could well be many years before you see another one like it offered for sale.

 

As always, if you're within striking distance of Norwich, do feel free to come and have a squeeze. And if not, get in touch anyway, and we'll work something out.

 

Price: NOW ONLY £2950