htaylor@herbtaylor.com
updated 19-Aug-2024


I love mandolins!

This directory lists the "mandolin family" of instruments: mandolin, mandola and mandocello. These are the instruments used in mandolin orchestras and correspond to classical music's violin, viola, and 'cello. My "octave mandolins" are listed in the "bouzoukis and citterns" directory because they aren't usually found in mandolin orchestras.

My models are my own invention and don't correspond to Gibson's "A" and "F" designations, but the oval-hole models with flat backs and X-braced tops are more soft and singing, whereas the instruments with F-holes, tone bar bracing and carved backs are more percussive and punchy (more suitable for bluegrass).

All instruments have modern 2-way truss rods in the neck and bridges with thumb-wheels for easy height adjustment. All of them have bolt-on necks which can be more easily removed or adjusted, compared to the traditional built-on necks.

AVAILABLE

Number 292 A large body Celtic mandolin in maple with spruce top. $3500
Number 283 An arch top mandocello in bocote with Sitka spruce top. $4300
Number 257 An experimental classical mandolin in madrone with spruce top. $1900
Number 237 An alto mandola in ziricote with Sitka spruce top. $3800

GALLERY OF SOLD MANDOLINS

The mandolins, mandolas, and mandocellos in this gallery are either already sold or not for sale, but the photos may give you an idea of the range of body styles and ornamentation available if you choose to have an instrument custom made.

Click to view gallery