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I
have decided to dedicate this page to an instrument that I have always thought was one of the most beautiful things my father
ever made. One of only seven exceptional and similar instruments made together during a short period in the mid-1960s, it
is the epitome of the unique aesthetic that sets J. A. Sloan Banjos apart from any other instrument made on Earth. It is a
five stringer equipped with a triple tone ring. Within the twelve inch diameter ring mounted on the head there are a pair
of floating rings changeable with the twist of a knob from a bluegrass (8-1/2" diameter) sound to a classical (10"
diameter) sound. Originally strung by my father with nylon, it was designed with steel strings in mind, also. This banjo has
a 27" scale for easy fingering.
The sleek neck abounds in fall color laminations that include African ebony,
amaranth, hard maple, walnut and mahogany. There are eleven laminations from keyboard to heel, not counting the multiple widthways
laminations.
The 12" pot is made of laminated hard maple, and inlayed with a wide multicolored marquetry
band. Thirty bracket hooks hold down the present plastic head. Finally, the pot is rimmed with solid walnut. Created as an
art-historical nod to the old minstrel show banjos, this fine instrument is not intended to be equipped with a resonator.
This banjo is not only a light (8 pounds) and responsive banjo with one of the finest tones on Earth, it is also
a true work of art. While we no longer have this instrument in our possession, one like it can be special ordered with either
an 11" and 12" diameter rim. While keeping the spirit and essence of the old, the new versions will be even better.
Price upon request.
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12" head and minimalistic lines reminiscent of instruments preferred by historic greats like Fred
Van Eps and Vess Ossman.
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