Q: Lyon & Healey or replica?

By Marilynn | Published: August 17, 2010

Q: I have a couple of questions about your mandolins. I’ve noticed one of the mandolin you play is a Lyon and Healy-style instrument, is this a replica or an original? If it’s a replica, who was the luthier? Would you recommend this instrument to a “classical” mandolinist? I’ve also seen pictures of an a-style mandolin that you use, who is the maker of that instrument? I’ve greatly enjoyed reading your articles, especially the one on the Beethoven’s works, it was interesting to discover those. Thank you very much for your time,
-MC

A: I do play an original Lyon & Healey, and love its dark rich tone– perfect for tremolo and classical music, especially romantic-era pieces. I also play an instrument made for me by Doug Woodley, a brilliant luthier who, unfortunately, is no longer making instruments. This instrument is brighter and crisper, great for Baroque and modern music. I highly recommend the Lyon & Healeys from the 1920s & 30s, if you can find them. But there are also many great luthiers today who are producing excellent instruments for classical playing. Play some instruments and see what sound you personally like.
-mm

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    • “Smudging the lines between folk and classical is an intrepid endeavor… Mair’s a superb mandolin player who has brought the instrument to unexpected places…” – Jim Macnie, The Providence Phoenix (USA)

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