TK 92 Double Bass

Heifetzbass · #1 07-11-2008, 07:21 PM

Hello All,

I promised Chet and a few others that I would post some pics of the Thomas Kelishek bass that he made just before his untimely illness. We here in the south, and bassists everywhere for that matter, lost a great luthier and talent, and he is sorely missed as a luthier.

I don't have all the pics I once had, and these are not the best quality (scans), but you can see the masterful hand in the graceful outline and innovation in the shape and design. There was a great article about this bass, which I don't have, describing all of its detail. I can't remember all of it, but maybe someone else here will happen across it.

I have seen this bass up close, and heard it. Pictures don't do it justice. It is beautiful and stunning.

Brian

Heifetzbass · #2 07-11-2008, 07:22 PM

And the beautiful back...

Jake deVilliers · #3 07-12-2008, 10:24 AM

Well said Ken!

I think we're living in the Golden Age of Lutherie right now. There are more great mandolins, guitars, double basses, banjos and yes, violins being made at present than at any other time in mankind's history.

To be able to hear these instruments in 100 years would be absolutely amazing and those who are able to will be inspired!

arnoldschnitzer · #4 07-12-2008, 10:58 AM

When I was working on the design of my Ergonomic Contrabass I first grappled with creating a cornerless asymmetrical bass. I scratched my head each time I thought about how the thing would be carried by the player. Then I recalled seeing pictures of Tom's lovely bass in one of the magazines and realized that building the bass with upper corners only was the answer. So in essence I lifted that idea from him. I'm glad this thread came up so I could give him some credit.

Heifetzbass · #5 07-12-2008, 03:40 PM

Ken,

Yes, I have held and played the bass, but that was many moons ago... it was new and sounded great. However, it wasn't the ideal situation for me to test out a bass, and I was green at the time when it came to viewing and listening to basses. I had heard and seen plenty, but my eyes and ears are much more keen now. I was only 20 when this bass was made...

Arnold, I did see some of that bass in your ergonomic model. This was the first truly "different" bass that I was able to see up close. One of these days I am going to get by your shop, I just haven't made it to NY lately. I would love to hang out and talk shop.

I would love it if we could find the article about the instrument from the magazine... I can't remember if it was in the ISB journal or what... man, I am getting old.

Brian

Ed Fuqua · #6 07-14-2008, 11:33 AM

Th article was in DOUBLE BASSIST