Kerman Mandolin Quartet

[JacobReuven]

The Kerman Mandolin Quartet, which bears the name of the Israeli luthier Arik Kerman, is formed of four internationally acclaimed solo mandolinists: Jacob Reuven from Israel, Fabio Gallucci from Italy, Vincent Beer-Demander from France and Mari Carmen Simon from Spain.
For the past 20 years, Arik Kerman has been collaborating with mandolinist Jacob Reuven in order to create an instrument of matchless possibilities of sound and colour. Using the knowledge and traditions of violin building, Kerman has been producing instruments that enable mandolinists to play repertoire originally written for violin and other string instruments with great success, thus helping to integrate the mandolin into the classical concert stage and significantly broaden its repertoire possibilities.​
The Kerman Mandolin Quartet's objective is to produce new performances of pieces originally written for string quartets as well as arrangements, contemporary music and new commissions.

[brunello97]

Great stuff, Jacob. Thanks for connecting with us. I dig mandolin quartets so am happy to have yours on the radar.

I was looking for more information on Arik Kerman's work. Here's a link to the "Kerman Quartet":

Kerman Quartet

Does Arik have a dedicated site for his luthier work?

Mick

[Jim Garber]

I am also curious about what makes these special and how the quartet has worked with the luthier to produce the desired sound and playability. They look like flattops constructed similarly to German flatback classical mandolins by Seifert and others with interesting side-positioned soundholes.

Perhaps, Jacob can tell us more about that.

There is this interview...

[billhay4]

I, too, would like more information about the Kermans and how they are constructed. Fascinating instruments. In addition to the side soundholes, they have an internal sound chamber, a large body, and a solid bridge.
Thanks for the teaser. I'd like to hear more of your music.
Bill

[Irénée]

... Wonderful instruments... Fantastic musicians

[Barry Canada]

It is quite interesting how both Jacob and Avi do not conform to any of the commonly described “principles” of plectrum hold, right hand positioning or technique as taught in Italian, German or American bluegrass circles.
I think this would make an interesting discussion alone.

[Billy Packard]

As of today, Dec. 8, 2020 there are no videos at the top post. The interview with Jacob Reuven does work and is interesting. I'd love to have one of the Kerman in hand to hear what it really sounds like.

Also Mick's link to the "Kerman Quartet" doesn't work.

Dang!!

edit! There is quite a few videos of the Kerman Quartet on YouTube.