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Have you ever wondered why the double basses of Paul
Claudot are so sought after by both orchestral and jazz players?
Well, when you take a look at the magnificent form and construction
of this instrument you will quickly appreciate the reason for their
passion and then when you finally get that chance to pluck the strings
or draw your bow across them, you yourself will instantly become
a disciple and accept without question that no other instrument
will do for you what a Claudot can do. Claudot made both viol shaped
instruments and those on a violin outline. The Double Bassist magazine
No 14 (Autumn 2000) describes a chamber size instrument on a viol
model with flat back by Paul Claudot. It is definitely worth dusting
the magazine off from your shelf for a read as it provides much
useful information on Claudot and his work.
This particular instrument is one of the sought after
"Grand Violin Modéles"
with a flat back and proportions so exact that when viewed from
a distance it looks every bit like a large Stradivarian model violin.
Both model and workmanship exude strength in a bold-regal type of
way. Just take a look at the F`s - they are placed in exactly the
right place, while the corners are a picture of elegance and as
for the scroll it is so complete in it's size, shape and the
way it has been so neatly and precisely carved. These are sure signs
of a master craftsman at work. Claudot`s reputation is most definitely
upheld in this instrument.
Is the instrument in good playing order? Yes of course.
The Contrabass Shoppe has lavished
some five thousand pounds in the process of restoring this instrument
into the tip-top order that you now find it. There is a brand new
neck and finger-board both of the most superb quality and workmanship
that one can find while the original three string peg box has been
‘re-cheeked' and fitted with a highly complementary
set of quality brass machines. Work to the inside table includes
a replacement bass bar and a small patch upon which the sound post
sits. To the inside back of the instrument all necessary studwork
has been well executed. Put simply this
is a magnificent instrument now in top playing order.
Width at the upper bout 21.75in (55.3cm)
Width at the centre bout 15.2in (38.6cm)
Width at the lower bout 27.25in (69.2cm)
LOB 44.7in (113.6cm)
String length 42.4in (107.6cm)
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