Brock Lloyd, Gilded Gurdy (ART & OBJECTS 2024)

Photos:

Tom Malycha

The Gilded Gurdy, designed and built between August and October 2023 for a university project, is primarily crafted from two materials: Brass and Tasmanian Blackwood. With the challenge of creating an amplified chordophone using only two materials, I sought to take a unique approach by blending traditional and modern themes, resulting in an acoustic-electric instrument that honours historical music in a contemporary way. The body, made entirely from Tasmanian Blackwood and finished with beeswax, features steamed and vacuum-formed side walls for perfect symmetry. The soundboard and back are bookmatched and thicknessed for optimal resonance, with a fan and lattice bracing pattern enhancing structural integrity without compromising sound quality. A thin brass strip is inlaid along the soundboard, secured with hide glue for both durability and repairability. The instrument’s fully repairable design includes a back panel attached with brass connector bolts, allowing easy access to its internals. The spindle assembly is constructed with a carbon fibre rod, 3D printed braces, and stainless steel bearings, all working together for smooth operation. The tailpiece combines brass and Blackwood, while the bridge and nut feature a 3D printed base with a brass saddle. Finally, the tuning machine rails, made from Tasmanian Blackwood, support four Gotoh GB-707B Bass Tuners, ensuring precise tuning and performance.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.