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Thread: 1915 Vracas Bouzouki Strings

  1. #1

    Default 1915 Vracas Bouzouki Strings

    I have a 1915 Vracas Bouzouki in my shop for restoration. Does anyone know what strings and tuning came on this instrument when new?

    I am repairing back splits, top cracks, missing binding, etc. Would like to string it up before finish work in case I need to add a truss rod. Any help much appreciated!

    Phil

  2. #2
    '`'`'`'`'`'`'`'`'`'`' Jacob's Avatar
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    Default Re: 1915 Vracas Bouzouki Strings

    Guessing from the date that it has 6 strings.
    Traditionally tuned dD aa dd. 6 String Greek Bouzouki Tuning
    (D = D below Middle C
    d = D above Middle C
    a = A below Middle C)
    Strings available from California. Bouzouki Strings (nfi)
    Last edited by Jacob; Aug-13-2022 at 4:43am.

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  4. #3

    Default Re: 1915 Vracas Bouzouki Strings

    This one has 8 strings, but that same site has some info for that. Does anyone play these with GDAE tuning and modern gauge strings? I'm wondering about the load, neck bending, and top sinking. Any suggestions? Thanks!

  5. #4
    Registered User DavidKOS's Avatar
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    Default Re: 1915 Vracas Bouzouki Strings

    Quote Originally Posted by Spyder View Post
    This one has 8 strings, but that same site has some info for that. Does anyone play these with GDAE tuning and modern gauge strings? I'm wondering about the load, neck bending, and top sinking. Any suggestions? Thanks!
    Personally when dealing with a vintage bouzouki, I'd say either play it in a Greek tuning or sell it and get an octave mandolin if that's more suited to the player's style.

    Most older bouzoukis are 6 string trichordo models although as the article says, some had more strings.

    an interesting article:

    https://jakewildwood.blogspot.com/20...-bouzouki.html

    http://memoriesoftheinnocentage.blog...therie-in.html

    Another that shows 8 string Vracas..although I wonder if some have been reworked to be 4 course instruments.

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