Custom Bowed Psalteries

If you'd like to have me build an instrument with exactly the woods and characteristics you'd like, please review options below and send me your ideas. I can even build psalteries with custom tunings. Contact me with information on what notes you are looking for. Within the models I offer the price of Custom designs will be determined by your choices (see the list below).

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Custom sound holes

My comet or star-like sound hole designs don't cost extra. I can add custom sound holes to any bowed psaltery much like my hammered dulcimer sound holes. The only designs I will repeat are Celtic. I have a number of those to choose from. Contact me to see those options. You are also welcome to generate one of your own sound hole designs making your bowed psaltery truly unique. Keep in mind that the diameter of the sound hole image is only 2 3/8" so keep it fairly open. You can read more on the process of creating your own design and seeing what other people have come up with here. 

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Woods

For the base price, you can have either walnut or cherry back and sides. Figured  or exotic woods can be used but cost more.  I generally recommend that the sound board be a tonewood, cedar, spruce or redwood if you are concerned about tonal response.

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Pickups

I offer an internal pickup as an option. You can see details on the pickups in Accessories.

 

Options with prices:

• Alto base price (3/4”pin spacing) - $375

• Alto base price (7/8”pin spacing) - $450

• Baritone base price (specify 3/4” or 7/8” pin spacing) - $625

• Semi-Hard Rectangular Case for either the Alto or Baritone  - $135

• Figured or exotic wood on just the sides - $25

• Figured or exotic wood on both back and sides - $85

• Figured or exotic wood for the whole psaltery including the soundboard - $100

• Painted or stained soundboard - $45

• Custom sound hole - $100

• Abalone rim around sound hole design - $75

• Internal pickup - $85

• Left handed orientation (No extra charge)

• Note:  If you already have a bow that you like, deduct $30 from the price of any of my bowed psalteries.

 

Email to get an exact quote plus shipping.

To start an order, all I need is a $200 deposit with the balance due upon completion of the instrument. Allow 2-3 weeks to get your psaltery.