posted 06 May 2002 08:48 AM
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I am now the proud owner of a genuine Hawaiian Tremoloa: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=864965396& r=0&t=0&showTutorial=0&ed=1020641467&indexURL=0&rd=1
Does anyone know anything more about these instruments? I have no idea how to play it, but it looked so interesting it was worth the cost just for the conversation piece!
In case the link is down, here is the information that was printed on the auction page:
"Up for auction here is a wonderful vintage musical instrument: a Hawaiian Tremoloa purchased in 1938 from Manufacturers Advertising Co., Jersey City, NJ. From the looks of it, this instrument saw very little use or wear, but there is some age damage. There are hair-line splits in the wood at top and bottom, as shown in photos.
The Hawaiian Tremoloa was called by its makers "The Original Hawaiian Instrument"and they sold new from $30.00 in the late 1920's to $45.00 in the 50's. This instrument is not being produced today.
It appears to be somewhat similar to the steel guitar, but gives tones that special South Pacific reverb. It is played by strumming chords with your left hand while playing the melody string with the right hand. It has 4 groups of 4 strings, each group is a chord. The Tremoloa has the chords of C, G, F and D. This allows you to play in the key of G or C, as long as simple 3 chord songs are performed. It's melody string is played with a finger pick that is attached to a piece of spring steel. The spring steel is attached to a roller, which rolls on the melody string. The roller is attached to a long arm which is equipped with a spring and pivot point.
This item comes with original sales receipt, Manufacturers Warranty, extra string still in the package, and some instructional sheet music: How to Number Your Sheet Piano Music to Play on the Tremoloa; Sacred Hula; Let Me Call You Sweetheart & The Old Oaken Bucket are just a few of the titles. Also included are an original ad for the case and a listing of available music titles. We do have the case, but it has seen far better days. Originally it cost $3.00 and had a fake alligator texture. We are happy to include it at no extra cost."
Thanks for any replies. I don't even think I'm pronouncing "Tremoloa" properly, so any info anyone has about this unique instrument would be appreciated!
[This message was edited by Jeff Strouse on 06 May 2002 at 08:49 AM.]
[This message was edited by Jeff Strouse on 06 May 2002 at 08:50 AM.]
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posted 06 May 2002 08:48 AM
