Since my work on the 12 String Canjo, I been learning a lot about course String instruments and I must say Its all quite interesting, but I am finding little to nothing for Cigar Boxes, Canios, etc, except for the occasional mandolin, my 12 String and a few other 12 Strings.
So I got to ask, you the assembled Cigar Box makers and players is there much to it. I like the idea of making a view coursed string instruments, smaller than the 12 stringer, but I need a little history to work with.
Also has anyone tried a coursed Diddley Bow, by which I mean what is essentially a 2 string Diddley, but with the 2 strings either in unison or in octaves, again I've looked and found nothing.
Replies
Lowman did some double & triple course some time ago? https://cigarboxnation.com/photo/thinking-outside-the-box-redux-1
Interesting, Triple courses are a little beyond me at this moment, but something to consider.
I'll be interested to see your results. I have had a few ideas. considering I started with a full 12 string, i'll go back to basics and try some coursed Diddley Bows. I also have thoughts to try converting a standard 6 string neck into something with courses.
Hi, I have built many instruments with varying string courses. I started with mountain dulcimers, and then mandolins, 12string guitars, Irish bouzouki', citterns and hammered dulcimers. But never applied this to CBG's....but when I get time.
Taff
I'd like t see it, Taff.
I have done a few Tahitian style ukuleles though more traditional styled than cbg or cookie tin. They are an amazing sounding instrument that has the advantage of being strung with a single gauge of fishing line for all strings, usually 20lb to 40 lb line.
https://youtu.be/1yprUlZodNw
https://cigarboxnation.com/main/search/search?q=double+course+
I’m on board with Taff, just build it & see what you come out with. History is kool, but sometimes you gotta make your own when there’s none. I would look for books on building Mandolins, I’m sure there’s some history about double course in one? Maybe search some Luthiery sites?
I'll have to have a look around thank you.
Plenty of builders have made them here. Mostly mandolin type? And yes there’s a two string Diddley made by Johnny Lowebow for some years now, one low, one high string & a pickup for each string? Most builders here aren’t luthiers, so they don’t all call them double course. Shane built this awhile back, not a double course, but gets the sound,have you been to the Resources tab? https://www.cigarboxnation.com/forum/topics/piccolo
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