2.115 – Hanson 3 String Teardrop
David Hanson is a luthier from Colorado Springs, Colorado who makes limited numbers of individual instruments – designs and materials that appeal to him and are one-offs, rather than standard designs.
Printed label inside with blue Matisse-like figure: “hanson/[signed] David Hanson 8/15 [h/w]”. Slightly traditional appearance with Ledford-type scroll, violin-style (geared) pegs, 3 strings and high tail. But also has arched fingerboard for maximum sensitivity of top, shortish scale length and neat binding round top, with flashes of black purfling around and under the neck. Beautiful curly-figured, bookmatched walnut back and sides; unusual sculpted triangular soundholes in a close-grained western red cedar top. High, almost scroll-type tail, with strings passing through for ball end strings. Walnut single layer fingerboard with mother of pearl markers at 3rd, 7th and 10th frets and 6+ and 13+ frets. Nicely crafted bone nut and bridge. The neat violin type pegs are geared Pegheds, possibly with genuine ebony buttons – and they work well.
Overall length 35½”, upper bout n/a, lower bout 7”, depth 1⅞”, FBW 1½”, VSL 25⅝” (short), weight 2lb 5oz (1059g). 6+ and 13+ frets. Original strings 11, 15, 22 w.
This is a well-made and attractive dulcimer with good action and intonation, and a clear, well-articulated sound.
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