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Fine double bass by Albert Volkmann double bass specialist of Schonbach Bohemia c1910, with 110cm (43.25") two-piece maple swell back showing a strong narrow curl with ribs and neck block to match; strong narrow-to-medium grain spruce table with golden amber spirit varnish over a yellow ground; Albert Volkmann Schonbach trade-mark monogram to button; bears retailer's label for Karl Hammerschmidt & Sohne Watzkenreuth and various repair labels; peg box fitted with four separate brass machine heads; fitted with Stefan Krattenmacher bridge but also has original bridge carved with Albert Volkmann monogram; 181cm (71.25") overall; with Vickers French pattern silver mounted double bass bow stamped J.E. Vickers; in lined soft carrying case and Stephenson hard flight case profusely covered with world-wide destination labels. Albert Volkmann violin/cello/bass maker was born in Schonbach in 1869 son of Alfred Volkmann also a violin/cello/bass maker. His son and family died by suicide in 1944 and Albert never recovered dying of mental illness in 1945. Schonbach, now called Luby, was originally in the Bohemian part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and commonly called 'Austrian Cremona'. Biographical note: This instrument has been owned by professional musician Roy Babbington since 1967 having been previously owned by Colin O'Brien deceased of Stockton who purchased it in Germany c1960. No history is known prior to 1960. Roy Babbington, a professional musician since 1958, is best known for his work in jazz and recording and broadcasting sessions. Since 1970 the instrument has featured with, among many others, BBC Orchestra and The BBC Big band for twenty years; recording, festivals and touring; Stan Tracey various units for twenty years international touring and recording; many visiting American players; Mose Alison UK/Europe nineteen years seasons, festivals and recording; most recently touring and filming with Michael Legrand. Roy was voted best British bassist and fifth in the world in the Melody Maker jazz poll in 1974. More biographical details on the internet including images of Roy with the instrument.

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Great buy! Great service! Will be watching this site much more closely. Thank you

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Very quick service. Bid and win straight downstairs and pay then collect. Great. Very pleased. Well done.

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Very good service today. Everyone we met and talked to was helpful. Enjoyed our morning at the auction - delighted to be successful in bidding. Thank you.

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Great experience from start to finish.

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Lee was brilliant helping us pack the artwork in our car he was very interested in our choices and was a joy to deal with.

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Excellent service from the start to collection. My first, but not my last. B B

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It is a clear, clean-looking website. It is easy to check out my payment and arrange collection— thanks.

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