Gamut Instruments - Hans Frei-Model Renaissance Lute

Hans Frei was one of the great instrument makers in Italy in the early 1500s. In his workshop in Bologna he helped to define the form of the lute. A testament to the enduring quality of his instruments is that no extant Frei lute remains in original condition. They have all been updated with the passage of time and the fashions of music with new necks to accommodate more strings and new tunings.

This model is based on an instrument by Hans Frei now in the Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien, no. C34. This model has been chosen because it is a very beautiful and comfortable form with a full, bright tone. It is an ideal lute for both beginners and experienced players.

The original instrument, in its present form, is an 11-course instrument for baroque tuning. This is a later adaptation of the instrument, which was probably made as a six-course instrument. To supply the needs of a variety of players this instrument is offered as a six, seven, eight, nine, and ten course renaissance lute.

Hans Frei-Model Renaissance Lute Specifications:

• String length 6-, 7-, 8-, 9-, and 10-course models - 63cm or 64cm

• Body length - 44cm

• Body width - 31cm

• Overall length - 74cm

• 11 rib cherry wood back

• Cherry neck

• Cherry fingerboard with rosewood edges and points

• "AAA" Englemann spruce front

• Rosewood end pin

• Bone nut

Hans Frei-Model Renaissance Lute:

Modeled after: Hans Frei Renaissance Lute no. C34, c. early 16th Century - Now in the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna