Tom Fellenbaum Psalteries

[Donna Malus]

Hi All, a friend of mine who hasn't signed up here yet was looking for any and all information and feedback on Tom Fellenbaum psalteries.

I know a few of you out there own them and would love to hear from you about how and when you got your psaltery, what you think of it, what you like and don't like.

Any input will be appreciated!

[Rick Long]

I've only seen Tom's psalteries, but never played one.  I don't think he still makes them, but he is still in business in Black Mountain, NC.  I believe his business name is "Acoustic Corner".  The last time I visited his shop he was into building fretted instruments, guitars, mandolins, and dulcimers.  I remember seeing both he and Jerry Read Smith of "Song of the Wood" sharing a sales booth at the Southern Highlands Craft Fairs in the mid-90's.  The psalteries they made at that time were similar in looks.   

[Robert Myers]

Hello Donna,

I am new to the Psaltery after hand injury has kept me from guitar. I bought a 1986 Fellenbaum at a thrift shop in Asheville, NC. a few weeks ago. The Psaltery was in the original box it was sold in. I have contacted him as I only live a couple of mountains away from him and hope to meet him after Christmas.

He works in Old Fort, NC but does not own the Acoustic Corner over in Black Mountain. The Acoustic Corner is owned by Joe Friddle who lists his duties as Owner, Caster of Visions, and Sweeper of Floors. Joe is also a super nice guy who is always helpful with stringed instrument needs.

Tom has pretty much settled into dulcimer and mandolin creations and stays busy enough with that.

I hope to be able to at least play one song without hurting his ears when I go to visit after Christmas.

The 1986 is a beautiful work of art and in the hands of someone who can actually play one I am sure it would sound wonderful.

I was having trouble getting it in tune until I contacted Rick Long who sold me a wonderfully modified tuner that I could plug a Snark into. Tuned up in a jiffy. If you have not seen his modified tuner you should go to his site and check it out.

I will try to post a photo of the Fellenbaum.

Oh yes, Jerry Reed Smiths outlet, Song Of The Wood,  is still in Black Mountain but his shop is somewhere else.