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A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... (guitar)
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Subject: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: bbelle Date: 20 Jul 00 - 01:49 PM I am preparing to bid a say goodbye to an old and dear friend. She has been my closest companion since I was 16 years old. She has traveled with me from the deep south to the far north; from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean. She has been my friend, unconditionally, through thick and thin ... literally and figuratively. She has never asked "why" or said "maybe." She has outlasted the Viet Nam war, five engagements, and a myriad of boyfriends. She has never minded the spill of my tears and never insisted that I go back and close the door properly. She was born during the infamous "folk revival" of the '60's and has suffered through disco, heavy metal, and rap. She is a gentle soul ... just the thing for a sensitive, budding 16-year-old girl and a troubled 52-year-old. She has never demanded that I be any certain way ... just myself. My old and dear friend is my 1965 Gibson B-25. After much thought and soul-searching and tears, I have decided that the only way I can afford to buy a different guitar is to sell my Gibson. I wish that I could afford to keep her and still buy another, but it's not financially feasible for me to do that. Her sentimental value to me far outreaches any dollar amount, but sometimes one has to look beyond sentimentality. It's no secret that I've had some troubling times, of late, on several levels, but through the support of loving friends, I think I will find my way back. My goals are very simple ... get healthy and start performing again. I've realized for a while that to start performing I needed to change guitars. Men's voices change when they go from boys to men, but women's voices also change. Not when they go from girls to women and not so drastically (I think). It's more subtle and over time. So ... over time my voice has mellowed and deepened. My B-25 has a bright sound ... a wonderful bright sound that just rings ... but it doesn't match my voice anymore ... and while someone else may say they don't notice any difference ... I do ... and, therein lies the reason. I am very, very sad to be losing my old friend, but there are guitar players out there who will love her and take good care of her and give her the strokes she deserves. I don't want her to sit in a closet unplayed ... that would be such a shame. I don't know, yet, what my "new" guitar will be. I will be playing many different makes and models to find just the right "fit" for me. And I dearly hope that, in time, my new friend will prove just as loyal as my old friend. moonchild |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Richard Bridge Date: 20 Jul 00 - 01:53 PM Don't do it. You won't find a new guitar with the rich midrange of an old one. Tizzy top, yes, thumping bass, yes, but the mellow midrange of a 60s instrument, no chance. My wife has a Hagstrom acoustic of that age and while it measures inferior when compared to a modern superacoustic, just sit back and soak up the sound and there's no reason for it. Keep the old one. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Amergin Date: 20 Jul 00 - 02:00 PM It's too bad you can't just pass it on to a young friend (or something) that will appreciate it as much as you obviously do.... Amergin
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Clinton Hammond2 Date: 20 Jul 00 - 02:01 PM YA YA YA! NO NO NO!!!! Don't do it! If you get rid of that guitar yer gonna hate yerslef forever!! Keep it... Maybe some other mudcatter here can suggest where to get an affordable, good guitar to replace it with Like maybe a Seagul eh? [~` |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Dee45 Date: 20 Jul 00 - 02:43 PM I agree with the other comments here. DON'T SELL IT!!!! Many, many stores offer financing and monthly payments on instruments. Without this in place so many able musicians would never be able to afford good quality instruments to play. Take your time with this, and play as many different guitars as your spare time will permit. It is actually a fun process. Eventually you will discover that gem waiting for you, and at a price that if not outright affordable, will be something that you will be able to put a down payment on, and then make small easy monthly payments. When your financial situation improves, you can always go to the store and just pay it off. Keep this B-25. In light of the troubles you appear to be experiencing right now, selling the B-25 is a rash decision and something you will most certainly regret. Best Wishes, RH |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: catspaw49 Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:19 PM Hi moon...and I'm glad to see you.....But let's hold on here a minute. I remember from past discussions that the B physically fits you well. Next, its a well aged instrument with a great tone, although not quite what suits you now....right? Third, it is, as you say, an old friend, sowething I appreciate. Finally, you're not eat up with dough. Am I still right here? Well........Before you make any move as you're suggesting, have you tried altering the tone by making a few changes? A good sounding guitar can also have different tonal qualities through changing to different composition and gauge strings, saddle and nut materials and cut, string height, etc. Maybe a try at those things first would be a wiser and happier solution. If it doesn't work, you know what the current set-up is and can go back to it before you sell it. I really think its worth some thought. Spaw |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Bert Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:30 PM Spaw's right, have you tried different strings? Plug your ears to the screams of horror and try some flat wound electric strings. It would be worth going through several sets before losing your friend. Try some biased sets. And I was counting on being reincarnated as that Gibson and I would hate to come back and find myself tucked up under the bosom of someone like Bill D, or Big Mick or heaven forbid 'Spaw! Bert. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Sorcha Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:35 PM I know just how you feel, Jenny. I have a violin and a viola that I seldom play anymore, and should have new homes. However, I just can't bring myslef to sell them. It would be like selling my children. I might though, just might, give them away if just the right person came along, which hasn't happened yet. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST,JMike Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:44 PM I have to agree with the nay-sayers here - I won't give all the details (it's a long story), but I traded a friend, soulmate, and occasional antagonist (where is that buzz, and why does it only happen when I'm just about to think that it's gone?) for a technically superior, richer toned, all round better instrument. After a couple of days I went back. Due to good luck Hypatia was still there (BTW, if your guitar has a name it's a good sign that you shouldn't trade it.) Due to a truly noble and kind dealer, it didn't cost anything to undo the deal, but even if I had lost money I would have brought her home. New strings *can* make a huge difference. I am currently trying my first set of Elixir's. They have added a richness that memory (or maybe wishful thinking) tells me is comparable to the other woman I almost left my lover for.
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Willie-O Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:46 PM Your friends are all offering you wise counsel, I'm sure...but I know where you're coming from. Sometimes you have to let go of material things you've become attached to, no matter how much sentiment and memory is involved. As long as you are doing it with a clearheaded understanding of what you're about, and know it will help you make progress in your life. I'm having similar feelings about my Martin. Don't know if I'm in a position to maintain and feed two fine guitars, and if I dealt it out (and its worth what Fielding claims it is) I could get a cheaper second guitar and a bunch of other stuff I need to outfit myself properly for gigging. And people tell me DONT DO IT, but I'm the one who has to decide. But if possible, you should get another guitar that you're happy with FIRST. Because happy coincidences (which is about the only way you can get a really nice guitar without a bank loan) don't come along every day. This is not a time for workin wit-out a net. Don't do anything rash, and don't take less than top dollar unless there is a good sound ethical reason for it...but follow your heart. Best
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Mooh Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:48 PM I'll add my voice to Rawhide's and Spaw's, good advice all around. Don't sell it. I sold my old Gibson and lived to regret it. Modifying strings gauges (go up in gauge and down in pitch), nut and saddle materials (bone?), string pins (try ebony or brass), set up tolerances, tuning machines, may help. Keep it and buy a second via a payment plan, or borrow etc...Good luck! Mooh. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: little john cameron Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:48 PM moonchild, they are all right don't sell it . Altho' it don't play much anymore i will never get another Gibby that sounds half as good as the one i have. 1966 sunburst jumbo. TRY he string thing. it will work ljc |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: catspaw49 Date: 20 Jul 00 - 03:59 PM Well Bert, I wasn't thinking FLAT WOUND but in truth, I knew a guy in college with a B-25 who did try a set of flatwound electrics and they were....well, let's just say interesting. Actually I was thinking more along the lines of vintage/solid bronze first and then maybe trying some silk and steel.....In any case, I think you're seeing a pattern here aren't you moon? AND BERT.....naw, fergit it........too easy. Spaw |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Willie-O Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:00 PM well, yeah, do try the suggested changes first. You will know for sure then what you should do. And payment plans are not a bad idea... W-O |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Wesley S Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:00 PM Moonchild - Let me add my voice to the throng. DON'T SELL IT. Put this on human terms. Would you get rid of the friend you described in your post just because you wanted to add a new friend to your life?? I don't think so. You might consider looking at your day to day budget. Maybe you can give up cable TV, or imported coffee, or the daily paper ect until you can afford both of your friends. You will never regret keeping your Gibson. But you'll never be able to replace her if you sell her. Trust all of us on that. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Fortunato Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:04 PM Moonchild,
Much as I hate debt, I would take out a loan and sacrifice to pay for the new guitar I wanted badly instead of selling my Gibson.
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Kim C Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:08 PM Keep it and believe the Powers of the Universe for a solution to your conundrum. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Bert Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:13 PM I suggested flat wound as they would certainly reduce the brightness of any guitar. Perhaps way too much. And reading these replies again, would one conclude that Mudcatters are excessively prone to sentimentality? Bert. (Who's glad his old Yamaha ain't worth doodly sqat as a trade in) |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Mbo Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:16 PM Aha, Bert, another Yamaha user? Cool! Nothing like my Yamaha EF-10 with Martin Silk & Steel strings! Greatest sound ever! --Mbo |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: bill\sables Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:17 PM Moonchild, I know and have played you Gibson, You'll never get anything like it and you'll always regret selling it, So DONT!!!!! Cheers Bill |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: oggie Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:19 PM May I add my voice? Please think very carefully before you do it. It is not just it's sentimental value, I've found it takes years to adjust to a new instrument. When my concertina and mandolin were stolen I couldn't find another concertina I could play to my satisfaction and no longer play one, the mandolin has taken 2 years and I still ain't happy. If you CAN find an instrument that plays right and are happy with then I suppose fair enough BUT FIND THAT INSTRUMENT FIRST! All the best and hoping it works out Steve (oggie) |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Dharmabum Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:19 PM Moon, I have never sold an instrument that I didn't end up regreting. I suggest you reread your own post,better yet, have someone read it to you. Ron. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Giac Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:20 PM Hey, Moonchild,
Only you know what you need to do, and all I can offer is experience. I'm a few years older than you, but I once had a Gibson B25 of that same vintage. I've done a lot of stupid things in my life, and selling that guitar was probably one of the most stupid (for me, not meaning any disrespect to you)~:)
Now I have a beat up old 50s-something Guild with which I would never part. I've played other instruments along the road. None has ever fit my hand, or nestled in my arms as did that Gibson. No neck ever felt as "right" as that Gibson neck. The Guild is close, but no cigar. Bigger guitars have lovely voices, oh, how they ring, but, to me, they are not the same as that B25. And, it takes quite a while and a lot of playing to help a new guitar cultivate that mellowness that is so wonderful in an older instrument.
That's my 2cents, I wish you well, whatever you decide. Giac |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Wesley S Date: 20 Jul 00 - 04:26 PM Moonchild - I predict that someday you'll be holding your Gibson in your arms coaxing lovely sounds out of it and you'll say to yourself - "I can't believe I ever considered selling it". |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Allan C. Date: 20 Jul 00 - 05:01 PM Well, let me add my voice to the chorus. Don't do it, mc. If you simply MUST have another guitar, let it keep your old friend company. (BTW Have I ever mentioned my easy payment loan program? Only 46% interest. No, not simple interest - it's compounded semi-weekly. And there is no amount that is too small to request.) In your post you carefully articulated the very good reasons for keeping the Gibson. You have a history with it. It belongs with you. And with some small changes you can alter its voice to suit you. Bring it to someone who knows a few things about guitars and let them help you to implement one or more of the suggestions mentioned above. Sorry to say this, but to me this is tantamount to sending your dog to the pound because he will no longer eat the same brand of kibbles he has for years. There are solutions. Seek them out and give them a try. Most of them won't cost much at all. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: dwditty Date: 20 Jul 00 - 05:06 PM Ok, here's the deal. Every time, yes every time, I have sold an instrument I have regretted it - a 1917 Gibson L-1, A 1929 Martin 018K, a Gibson J-45 (my favorite), and various and sundry. Why? Because I was too damn impatient to set a goal to save for a new guitar and wait til I had the funds. Oh, almost forgot the Dobro Model 36. Few of us can just go out and buy another guitar. It's part of the definition of a folkie. So take the next year or so to decide on what that new guitar will be. Play some and play some more. You'll find that with some, the beauty is only skin deep. By the time you are really settled on what you want, you'll have the dough. In the meantime, do what 'Spaw says - different strings etc. to mellow the tone. You may want to even try stuffing a small possum inside to absorb some of the brightness. Now, take a deep breath, relax, and enjoy the experience. Remember, it's wise to choose friends and instruments carefully. Good luck. dw |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: annamill Date: 20 Jul 00 - 05:10 PM Moonchild, don't be silly! You'll be able to get another one day. You two belong together girl!! Love, annap |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Jon Freeman Date: 20 Jul 00 - 05:38 PM Well Moonchild, I am yet another says don't do it unless you really need to. That guitar means far to much to you. If it were mine, I would certainly try the options that spaw has suggested before going for a replacement. Jon |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: jayohjo Date: 20 Jul 00 - 06:10 PM My god, this is dreadful! The thought of you parting with a guitar you obviously love so much is causing me pain! Everyone has said everything really; it doesn't sound to me like you'll ever find another like her, so at least wait before getting rid. I just hope so much you're able to keep this guitar; you obviously DO belong together! hugs and supportive guitar-type thoughts jayohjo XX |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Jed at Work Date: 20 Jul 00 - 06:23 PM Don't do it, moon child - but if you must; sell it to me!! ;-) Actually I do suggest you try differnet strings sets, first; Elixers have different sounds and last four times as long, if you're using lights guage, switch to mediums (meatier sound). Then while you're experimenting, look at various new guitars, and see what fits your budget and you style. It may take months, but you'll find one to fit both. I'd hang on to that sweet old Gibson, if I could! |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Sorcha Date: 20 Jul 00 - 06:48 PM Jenny, I was convinced all the way through your post you were talking about your dog.........see, Allan, great minds do run on the same track. This is a SERIOUS offer, if Jed's wasn't------I don't play guitar, but I would buy it for your price and keep it (having friends play it) until you are financially able to buy it back. PM me if you need this to happen. I can do it, I have stock options.......let's mend some fences, here, woman. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: CamiSu Date: 20 Jul 00 - 06:57 PM Moon Child--I am almost in tears. Years ago my old friend had an accident, and I decided to sell my newer 12-string to pay for the repairs. That I have never regretted even tho my friend was worth much less. The guy who repaired her understood completely and she sounded even better after her repairs. Do try the new strings. Even different brands will make a big difference. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: kendall Date: 20 Jul 00 - 07:32 PM Talk to a competent luthier, ask what, if anything, can be done..Maybe, say, scalloping the braces? I bought a J-45 Gibson in 1956, and when I found the guitar of my dreams, I gave it away. If you ever see Dave Mallett perform, he just might be playing it. The Taylor is so superior, I dont miss the Gibson at all. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST,Southern Luthier Date: 20 Jul 00 - 07:51 PM Keep you guitar and have a second built they way you would like. There are alot of custom luthiers out there and the cost is often less than a factory built guitar. Some of the female builders in Canada built very very high quality guitars and are very resonable price wise. Contact any member of the Guild of American Luthiers or Association of Stringed Instrument Artisans ad they will be happy to help you find what you need. Just keep your old friend..... Dave |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: M. Ted (inactive) Date: 20 Jul 00 - 07:57 PM Well, I had a B-25 once, and the neck was too narrow for my fingers, but it was very cool looking and sounding--I sold it to someone who liked the way it fit their hands, twenty eight years ago, and I understand that they still play and love it today. But I only sold it after I bought a guitar that I liked a lot more-- By the way that you talk about the guitar, it seems like you love it--I don't understand why you would consider getting rid unless you have a guitar in hand that you like a lot more--is there something that you are not telling us? Was the guitar musically unfaithful? |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST,Barry Finn Date: 20 Jul 00 - 08:18 PM Hi Moonchild, no, no, no, no. Barry |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Helen Date: 20 Jul 00 - 08:51 PM Moonchild, I agree with most people's comments here. Try different strings first. My new Celtic harp still has the yukky strings on it that the harpmaker put on it (he told me that the string company uses tennis racquet strings - tough, tight, plinky sound, definitely not harp string material) and it sounds ukelele-ish and horrible but when I get some real strings on it it will sound 100% better. I have sold two instruments: my first lever harp and my first flute. I regret selling the flute - I did it because I needed the money (I thought) and because I had recently bought another one which I thought was better value. The second one is not much different to the first and there was really no reason to do the swap, and I regret it because it was my first real instrument that I learned to play - other than the plastic whistle in primary school - which I still have. I never really sent a backward glance to my first harp because I was never happy with the sound and even changing the strings made only a minor difference - it made it bearable and not dull sounding, but it never made it sound good. It was built with a big bit of metal pipe inside the sound box for strength, built for the future pedal/classical harpists who wanted to try out harp playing to see if they like it or can do it. It was built for young people to carry around and to withstand knocks and bumps. It wasn't built that way because of the sound it made. It was never going to come good, in my opinion. Your B-25 belongs with you. Needing money to buy a new guitar is no excuse for getting rid of the old one. Sell a piece of furniture instead. Sell your skills - writing, singing, whatever - for a few extra hours a week. Do whatever it takes. Take up Sorcha's offer to do a short term solution for long term gain. Take Kim C's advice and plug into the Universal Classifieds (my label for it) and ask the Universe *how* you can make your B-25 sound the way you want it to sound or how to find the money and the right guitar for your current needs. The question is "what do I need to do to get a guitar to perfectly fit my needs?" (It's an action thing, not a passive waiting for the answer to fall out of the sky - like most people tend to see prayers etc.) Look into the future and impagine yourself in a time when life has taken a lot of turns for the better - you have more money, better health, almost everything you want in life. How would you feel, looking back, if you had lost hope now and sold your guitar? Desperation = loss of hope. Be an optimist. Your posting is a cry from the heart. I don't really think you want to sell the guitar otherwise you would not have made this cry for help which says "Somebody stop me, please!" Helen |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: rangeroger Date: 20 Jul 00 - 09:04 PM Moonchild,I also have to add my NO to the others.While I dearly love my Zink,I would do anything to get back the Gibson I killed. I realize that these are different cicumstances than mine were, but you will always regret this action. If you have to, take Sorcha up on her offer.I was going to suggest something like that before she posted. Someone should have it that you can go to and say, I want it back now. If you keep it,getting another guitar also,and have it hanging on the wall,it will always be that old friend you can go back to again and again relishing remembrances of times past and expectancies of times to come. rr |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: JamesJim Date: 20 Jul 00 - 11:59 PM You can never have so many friends that you can afford to lose one. That goes the same for guitars. You will find a way! Jim |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Big Mick Date: 21 Jul 00 - 12:41 AM Hello, Dear Friend. I don't know if you should sell it or not. There are manny considerations, most of them known only to you. But I can tell you one thing for sure. I don't think I have ever read a more touching ode to an instrument. If it ever came to pass that I would have to consider selling my beloved old Guild 12, I doubt that I could write anything that spoke to the love one developes for the instruments that we play. You might be well served to go back and read your own post and consider it before you make your decision. Mick |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: bbelle Date: 21 Jul 00 - 01:17 AM I wrote the above at the urging of a friend. I was just going to post the fact that I was going to sell my guitar, but when I started writing, the words and emotions poured from my heart. I guess it was always there ... just buried. I've learned much in the last few days about friendship and about betrayal. I have to learn to trust again because without trust there's no reason to live. Your warmth and sincerity have overwhelmed me and helped me to see that maybe I'm not in the right space to make this decision right now. That is my way of placing trust in you. I do want another guitar, but I will find an alternative way to accomplish this goal. In the meantime, I will follow the stellar advice you've given me. They call us obsessive because of the love we have for these odd shaped pieces of wood and string. That may be, but I would be hard put to try to explain it. moonchild
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Allan C. Date: 21 Jul 00 - 07:33 AM If this is such good news, then why are there tears in my eyes?! |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Helen Date: 21 Jul 00 - 08:19 AM I second that, Allan C. It's really hard to read the computer screen when it goes all blurry like this. Helen |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Naemanson Date: 21 Jul 00 - 08:33 AM Hi Moonchild, I would like to tell you a story. I bought my guitar back in 1984. Not as venerable as yours and over the years not as well played as your. Still, like your it was always there for me. Then I began to concentrate on playing it better and realized that I didn't like the action or the sound, I thought I could do better with another guitar and started to look for one. And a miracle occurred. I went from shop to shop, trying out all the nice instruments. Then I'd go home and pick up the Madiera. Suddenly the action felt right, and the sound fit like a glove. I knew then that I couldn't let go of that guitar. And since then It has stood by me through some pretty rough emotional times. And now it is there for me as I celebrate new love. Go ahead and shop but think very carefully before you decide. Then whatever you decide will be the right decision. Best of luck, Brett |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Wesley S Date: 21 Jul 00 - 09:09 AM To paraphrase the Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers - "A guitar will get you through times of no money better than money will get you through times with no guitar". Good luck - Here's hoping everything works out. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: jeffp Date: 21 Jul 00 - 09:27 AM I think you've made a wise decision; one which you are extremely unlikely to regret. I predict a renewed and wonderful relationship with your old friend. jeffp |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Bert Date: 21 Jul 00 - 11:08 AM Sorcha, you're wonderful. Bert. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Sorcha Date: 21 Jul 00 - 11:15 AM Nah, just a sentimenal old sap that can't sell a fiddle either. At least, not until the right home comes along. I believe Jenny has it worked out, though. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: KT Date: 21 Jul 00 - 11:29 AM I have a beautiful Martin.....it was given to me by my brother and I just love it. But there's no way I would ever part with my old clunker Yamaha, a gift from a dear friend.....It's been with me for too long and we have too much shared history to ever give it up. You know the old saying, "If these walls could talk....." How 'bout "If this guitar could talk....." Sounds like a song challenge if ever there was one. This thread reminds me of "The Red Violin." Anyone familiar with it? Jenny, it's not like me to give advice on what to do with instruments....But, until YOU know for sure what to do, try finding something else to get rid of...maybe something you can toss in the fireplace or campfire........and keep that ol' Gibson. All the best..... KT
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: RichM Date: 21 Jul 00 - 12:04 PM Let me add to this ever increasing chorus of Nays. *Don't sell it!* In 1974 or thereabouts, I gave away my '64 Gibson J50, to a friend who needed a guitar. From this he was inspired-by his beginnings on guitar- to compose many wonderful songs--and today continues to do so. I don't regret that I gave the guitar to him; but I do miss it very much. In 1990, I sold my '72 Martin D-35, because I wanted another martin. Wrong move, I still miss it too.
As an alternative, I suggest you put in a pickup of some kind, to give you the volume you need. There are many to choose from, and you can get all the volume you need. I have a Baggs mic+undersaddle combo in my all time gigging favorite (Beneteau dreadnought), and it works well. Others have found similar satisfaction with B-Band pickups, or McIntyre pickups. And other people here can offer similar advice, I suspect. Rich McCarthy
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Willie-O Date: 21 Jul 00 - 02:15 PM Make new friends...but keep the old. Sound choice there. Love |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST Date: 21 Jul 00 - 11:02 PM Moonchild, that sigh of relief you hear came from your old guitar. It loves you as much as you love it. Jim |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Big Mick Date: 13 Mar 01 - 11:25 AM So, Moonchild, ............... How about an update? Now that you have had the new guitar for a while, how does it play? Has it lived up to your expectations? Has it repaid the investment you have made in it? Has it become your friend and made you proud for trusting in it? Let's have an update on it, woman..............inquiring minds want to know. All the best, Mick |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST,Blind Desert Pete Date: 13 Mar 01 - 05:05 PM Sweetheart,there will come a day, maybe not tommorrow matbe not next year but you will regret it for the rest of your life. This is your friend, not some construct of wood and steel. Wow lots of emotion on this subject.BDP |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Big Mick Date: 13 Mar 01 - 05:30 PM Not sure what that is all about, maybe you would like to explain it in a PM. Threats are counterproductive, and sometimes one should be careful about making them. And use your own name. You fool no one. By the way, I am your friend as well.BML |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Jeri Date: 13 Mar 01 - 05:34 PM BDP was quoting a Bogart line, Mick. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Big Mick Date: 13 Mar 01 - 05:35 PM I am aware of where the line came from, Friend Jeri, I am just not sure what was meant by it. I am sure time will tell. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Jeri Date: 13 Mar 01 - 05:46 PM I think he was saying bbelle was gonna miss the guitar if she got rid of it. Because it was her "friend, not some construct of wood and steel." BDP missed the bit in the middle where she said she was gonna keep it. I completely missed anything close to a threat. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST,B25Babe Date: 13 Mar 01 - 05:52 PM Oh, I hope you held onto her! I have one, too and while I can't compare the sound to the Martin I got years later, there is still something funnky and terrific about the sound and the size. I hope you were able to hold onto it.
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST,Blind Desert Pete Date: 20 Mar 01 - 11:38 AM Thanks jeri, thats xactl what I meant. keep the old guitar, sometimes it dont pay to try to be clever. sorry if I jerked your chain Mick BDP |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Barbara Date: 20 Mar 01 - 02:44 PM Isn't [Blind] Desert Pete the dude who recommends keeping the water to prime the pump in that song? Blessings, Barbara |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: SINSULL Date: 20 Mar 01 - 03:02 PM You gotta prime the pump You gotta have faith and believe You have to give of yourself Before you're worthy to receive... |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Wesley S Date: 20 Mar 01 - 03:36 PM Drink all the water you can hold - wash your hands, cool your feet - Leave the bottle full for others, Thankyou kindly, Desert Pete. |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: GUEST,Blind Desert Pete Date: 20 Mar 01 - 06:38 PM Very good guys! Ive been wondering who long it would take.BDP |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Big Mick Date: 20 Mar 01 - 11:42 PM Hey Pete, I apologize. Not sure what was in me that day, but I was seeing something that wasn't. I am sorry for the smartass comment. And thanks to Jeri for setting me straight. Mick |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: harpgirl Date: 24 Jun 02 - 09:24 PM hey Jen...it looks like you have a nice new guitar! How are you doing? Abby http://www.larp.com/~ddugas/ASIA-2001.htm |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: Willie-O Date: 24 Jun 02 - 09:54 PM Try clicking on this for the above: some pictures taken in Nashville, featuring Jenny's guitar, but not Jenny who was taking the pictures! Y'know, when this thread was happening I had never actually played a Gibson B-series guitar, as far as I know. This winter I tried a funky little B-15 a friend had for sale, and damn, it had a ton of soul and was great to play--and CHEAP for a mid-60's Gibson in good shape ($600 Cdn). That would confirm almost everyone's opinion that you should keep a guitar like that. Selling it for a few hundred bucks would be a mistake. So what's the story Jenny? How many guitars do you have now? W-O |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: wysiwyg Date: 24 Jun 02 - 10:04 PM Boy, it's been awhile. Moonchild became bbelle, and lots of other water passed under (over?) the bridge. What's the latest? ~S~ |
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Subject: RE: A Sad Goodbye To An Old Friend ... From: harpgirl Date: 24 Jun 02 - 10:16 PM ...hey someone erased this picture!!! http://www.larp.com/~ddugas/friends/jennyt.htm |
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Subject: Don't Say Goodbye To An Old Gibson Friend!!! From: SharonA Date: 25 Jun 02 - 09:26 AM Jenny: Kinda looks and sounds as if you've found a second guitar and kept your old friend the Gibson as well. I certainly hope that that is the case, since I too would hate to have read that you'd parted with that faithful companion of so many years, who sings to you with the voice of so many shared experiences... But just in case you're still considering, with even one brain cell, the sale of your Gibson, let me add my voice to those who are begging you: Please, please, don't sell her!!! I'd like to make two points that haven't been brought up yet (or I missed them if they were brought up): (a) The ideal guitar-sound you are seeking, the one that you'd be more comfortable singing along with (in the present incarnation of your voice), may be found in another used guitar, and some used models cost less than a new model depending on the vintage so you may not have to spend as much as you think you do. If I may wax romantic for a moment, some of these used guitars are pining for their old friends who parted with them, while others have never known a real friend at all. In either case, they're in need of new friends to love them and to listen to the old stories they have to tell. (b) That 1965 Gibson B-25 is a treasure, an heirloom, that should be passed on to a family member or friend who will respect her as such and will play her with the reverence she deserves! I can't believe for a moment that you would want this dear companion to be cradled in a stranger's hands or, worse, to be abused in any way by someone who has no idea of who she is or where she's been or what she's sung to the world. Keep your Gibson friend safe, preserve her legacy, and make sure that her next home is with someone who loves and treasures both her and you! |
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