I know there are things in his book that aren't done anymore (scroll cutting for extensions), and controversial, seemingly subjective assertions, but I still get a lot of enjoyment out of it. R.I.P.
I own and have read (most of) the book. What an amazing resource. R.I.P. Mr. Traeger. You certainly DID teach us to "think in a different way about bass repair."
He set up my Olde Tyrolean when I first got it, and it was a revelation. It served me well for 35 years.
I spoke to him earlier this year when he called asking permission to use something I said in his new book. I was stunned. I never met him, but on the phone he was a bright spirit: enthusiastic, positive, and excited about his work. I wish now I had met him. RIP.
He also completely overhauled my old Tyrolean 35 years ago, and it's still my go-to everyday bass. Played it on a gig last night; still sounds and plays great.
hey everyone... Thanks for the kind words. Chuck passed peacefully on Weds morning with Bill Merchant and I by his side. He was quite an amazing human being. This is still very fresh for all of us,so,that's it for now... The world is very different today. robert
Sorry to hear this. I never knew him, or I should say knew him in person except for speaking on the phone. He and I subbed on some of the same bass gigs in NYC. At that time I never even knew he was a luthier We both were on Bucky Calebrese's list of gigging bass players in the 60s into the 70s. RIP
Chuck was always great to me whenever we spoke and had the enthusiasm of a man many many decades younger. He was very excited when I reviewed his first book for American Lutherie. 'Bummer that he is no longer here with us, but I'd bet he is having the best evening ever jamming with Django and Miles and Duke and Dizzy and all the rest of his heroes for the welcome party, blister free and never a reason or need to take a break. Rest in peace Chuck and keep the band warmed up for when I get there. j. www.condino.com www.kaybassrepair.com
Chuck was super cool to me whenever we got to speak. We shared a stage and an amp once and just chatted away our breaks. He was kind enough to share some of the information that he had in that big brain of his. A gentleman and scholar that will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, Chuck.
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