Hello all: As I mentioned in my last (I mean previous; don't get your hopes up!) message, I've started considering the acquisition of a proper, pro-built HG.
Alden is, of course, the prime source for such instruments here in the US; but, considering the great demands being put on the shop these days (yes, I refer to the waiting list), I thought I would try looking overseas. There seem to be a fair number of builders in Europe and the UK, offering HGs at what seem to be reasonable prices; as a matter of prudence, I'd like to run some of them by the List members, to see what you think. You may have your particular preferences...... * Chris Allen offers a rather nice Colson copy for a little under US$4000: I've corresponded a bit with him... Chris has also recommended Mike Gilpin, who also does a good-looking Baroque style for around that price, not to mention an interesting Bosch style... *Neil Brook also has a good variety, including the 'St. Thomas' model for less than $3000..... *Moving over to the Continent, my first reaction was to check out Helmut Gotschy's site. I was rather taken by his 'Renaissance' model; and his Phoenix 'Da Vinci' seemed rather nice. (I have yet to get a reply on the price range for the former). *Kurt Reichmann's HGs were also interesting and attractively priced; but perhaps the most striking designs were from Helmut Seibert..... To tell the truth, I haven't looked much yet at French makers; but I will probably remedy that soon. Now, is there anyone who could give an experienced opinion on some of these builders and their work: their usual backlogs, waiting lists and such; maintenance histories and so on? That, plus the advantages/disadvantages of buying instruments from overseas, would go a long way towards helping to resolve my mind (I think)..... As for the type of music I'm interested in playing, I'd say it is rather eclectic: a mixture of Medieval/Renaissance/Baroque/FolkTrad, plus plain old noodling around on the instrument to see what I can get away with..... I hope to attend Jocelyn's NE gathering in July; and perhaps there I can get some more hands-on experience and personal advice. Till then, I'll continue searching, comparing, contrasting and, most inportantly, obsessing...... -Bill Steinmayer ************************************** AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at http://www.aol.com.
