Bluegrass instrument repair

The editor reports:

Instruments often need adjustments and sometimes repairs; and those of us who pick may not always know where to find a qualified craftsman with special knowledge of the bluegrass instruments.

In the last half-year my banjo (left) has needed expert treatment twice on its fingerboard: first to add railroad spikes (for capoing the fifth string), and secondly to replace badly worn frets all the way up to the twelfth. Enda Donnelly of Knocklyon, Dublin 16, has handled both jobs with care going well beyond the call of duty, and with complete satisfaction to the customer. In both cases the banjo not only functions better but looks better than before.

Enda plays mandolin, lead guitar, and banjo himself, and has led the Dublin band Fair City Grass for many years. I strongly recommend anyone needing a skilled repair or setup job to contact him by e-mail or telephone (01-4943644; mobile 086-3184127).