Minstrel Banjo

For enthusiasts of early banjo

Can anyone tell me what the gentleman third from the right is holding? Thx.

Views: 119

Comment by Paul Draper on December 22, 2017 at 10:04am
Comment by James Pentecost on December 22, 2017 at 10:12am

Some kind of squeeze box.

Comment by Al Smitley on December 22, 2017 at 10:36am

Hard to say.  Jim might be right.  I think I've seen a print of minstrel performers with a squeeze box.

Comment by Al Smitley on December 22, 2017 at 10:42am

This isn't the period print I had in mind but.......

Comment by Paul Draper on December 22, 2017 at 11:00am

Jim pointed out the buttons in this illustration. 

Comment by Al Smitley on December 22, 2017 at 11:56am

What is this? 

Comment by Strumelia on December 22, 2017 at 12:42pm

Al, those are actually fireplace tongs.  lol   

Comment by Strumelia on December 22, 2017 at 12:46pm

Metal/iron tongs have been traditionally played in India/Pakistan areas... known as "chimta"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bxvCfxyOTso

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUmHxxN0bog

Comment by Al Smitley on December 22, 2017 at 5:41pm

Hmmm.  I was never aware of this.  I wonder how it made it's way into the minstrel show.

Comment by Strumelia on December 22, 2017 at 6:05pm

No doubt people liked the novelty of seeing musicians play improbable everyday objects.  Not unlike people playing on garbage can lids or 'playing' bicycle pumps or balloons.  Good musicians can play all kinds of things in a musical way, and it's great entertainment value.

Take Paul and his aspirin bottle....(please).   LOLOL   ;D

Comment

You need to be a member of Minstrel Banjo to add comments!

Join Minstrel Banjo

About

John Masciale created this Ning Network.

© 2024   Created by John Masciale.   Powered by

Badges  |  Report an Issue  |  Terms of Service