Although known for its banjo production at the Kalamazoo factory in Michigan, the original Gibson workshop also made violins mostly from 1939 to 1942. About 4200 violins were crafted at the 225 Parsons St. manufacturing site, but production of these unique instruments was discontinued at the onset of World War II. The co-host of our Thursday evening jam sessions owns one of these unique fiddles which he has preserved in safe keeping for many years in its original case. Recently, he brought out the vintage violin to play at a weekly picking session. His fellow musicians were so impressed with the instrument`s marvelous tone and volume that it has become a regular feature at our weekly jams.
A Kalamazoo-Gibson sticker is readily visible inside the vintage instrument by peering through an “F” hole in the front of it. The violin has a flamed and quilted maple back.
In a recent jam, our co-host (below center) holds the precious vintage fiddle after playing it in a spirited hoedown tune with the band. One summer years ago, the BRC craftsman visited the historic Parsons St. site of the original Gibson factory while vacationing with family in the Michigan Upper Peninsula.
On the same evening seen above, we also celebrated the birthday of our bass player (far right) with cupcakes, and we regaled her with a cheery chorus of “Happy Birthday.” In addition to being the band’s time keeper, our bassist is also a skilled dulcimer player.
Above is a Seasonal photo of the lakeside BRC domicile as seen from the far shoreline.
From the BRC: Have a joyous Holiday Season.
From the BRC: Have a pleasant Fall season.
Both cellphone holders have identical blossoms inlayed (below) on the rear platform of each perch as a flowery representation of these two gracious and skillful back-up vocalists.
