The business of owner Thorsten Uhlmann has been an old institution since the 80s for acoustic guitars. Customers and musicians from all over the world appreciate the expert advice of guitar maker Thorsten Uhlmann.
His range includes a comprehensive collection of the best mandolins in the world.
The Gelas Double-Top Mandolin is a remarkable instrument developed in the early 20th century by Lucien Gelas in Paris. Gelas, a versatile musician and teacher, was known for his innovative designs of plucked instruments, including guitars, mandolins, and ukuleles.
This unique construction principle leads to a special sound character. The tone of the Gelas double-top mandolin is characterized by a full quality with long sustain and a less audible attack. The highs and lows are well balanced, resulting in a stronger fundamental tone with reduced overtones.
Gelas' instruments gained international recognition. At the exhibition in Bordeaux in 1907 and the Brussels exhibition in 1910, he was awarded a gold medal for his double-resonance plucked instruments. Ten of his instruments are now displayed at the Musée de la Musique in Paris.
The Gelas double-top mandolin is a testament to the innovative power and craftsmanship of its creator. Its unique design and characteristic sound make it a coveted instrument for collectors and musicians alike.
Some of these historical instruments are still available today. For example, a mandolin by Gelas from the 1920s was offered on the platform Reverb.
There are also discussions in professional forums about mandolins in the Gelas style, such as a Patenotte mandolin that is modeled after this design.
Another example is a double-top mandolin by René Gérôme, which follows the Gelas design and is offered for 580 euros.
These offers highlight the ongoing interest and appreciation for Gelas' innovative instruments in the music world.
More info at American Guitar Shop here on their website: https://guitar-shop.de/Imprint/
