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Description

Experience the enchanting world of folk music with the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw, a unique instrument that bridges the realms of artistry and craftsmanship. This musical saw is a beloved staple among folk and world musicians, offering a distinct, ethereal sound that resonates with audiences. Crafted with precision, it allows you to produce a wide range of notes by bending the blade and using a bow to play, similar to a violin. The saw's versatility makes it suitable for both melodic and harmonic playing, captivating listeners with its hauntingly beautiful tones.

The Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw is renowned for its superior sound quality, providing a clear, resonant timbre that is unmatched by other saws. Whether you're a seasoned musician or an adventurous beginner, this instrument offers a unique playing experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Its robust construction ensures durability, making it a reliable choice for performers who travel frequently.

Ideal for solo performances or as part of an ensemble, the musical saw adds a distinctive element to any performance setting. Its portability and ease of use make it a popular choice for outdoor gigs and intimate venues alike. Explore new musical territories and captivate your audience with the singular sounds of the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw.

Key Features:

  • Produces a unique, ethereal sound ideal for folk and world music
  • Suitable for melodic and harmonic playing
  • Superior sound quality for clear and resonant tones
  • Robust construction for durability and longevity
  • Portable and easy to use, perfect for travel and outdoor performances

FAQs

What is the primary material used in the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw?

The Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw is crafted from high-grade steel, which provides the flexibility and resonance needed for producing musical tones.

How long is the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw, and how does this affect playability?

The Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw is approximately 28 inches long, allowing for a broad range of notes and greater control over pitch and dynamics.

Can the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw be played with any bow?

While it can technically be played with different bows, a cello bow is recommended for its balance and agility, providing optimal sound quality and ease of play.

Is the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw is suitable for beginners, though producing clean tones may require practice and patience to master the technique.

How does the Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw produce sound?

The Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw produces sound by bending the saw into an S-curve and using a bow to vibrate the metal, creating unique, ethereal tones.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw.

Setup and maintenance

  • Homemade cleaner using 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and baking soda, applied with a melamine sponge, preserves patina without harming the blade.

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  • Applying carnauba wax in two thin layers, 20 minutes apart, helps fill micro scratches and seals the blade for better longevity.

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  • Heating the blade with a hair dryer before waxing allows better wax penetration into scratches, enhancing protection and shine.

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  • Removing the handle for thorough cleaning is recommended for better access and maintenance.

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  • Windex is suggested for wiping down the wood handle after smoothing with steel wool, followed by a clear gloss spray for protection.

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  • For cleaning tarnished gold plating, a soft screen cleaning cloth with diluted dish soap is recommended to preserve the surface without further damage.

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  • Use WD-40 on exposed steel parts for protection; apply with a cloth to avoid damaging the plating.

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Features and functionality

  • Existing patina on the saw is preferred for better sound quality, similar to stripping varnish on horns for resonant harmonics.

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  • Gold plating on saws is supported by a copper layer, which naturally patinas and protects against further wear.

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User experience

  • Gold plating restoration kits are available on Amazon for under $100, offering a cost-effective alternative to professional restoration services.

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  • Experienced saw players prioritize sound quality over appearance, indicating minor tarnish doesn't impact tone performance significantly.

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  • Transitioning from a shorter saw to a larger one can be difficult, even after 6 months of practice on a smaller instrument.

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Use cases and applications

  • The edge of the musical saw should have a slight roughness to allow the bow to grip and vibrate effectively, similar to a violin string.

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  • A 36" Charlie Blacklock is challenging for beginners; a shorter model is recommended for easier learning.

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Comparisons

  • The Mussehl & Westphal tenor saw at 28" is favored over the Great Neck 26" for those seeking a purpose-built musical saw.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Julian Koster uses Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw

Julian Koster

Singer, Guitarist

Neutral Milk Hotel

...
Verified via Scruss

"I play a Mussehl & Westphal tenor saw... and have found it to be the best sounding saw that offers a full range (2½ octaves or so). I also have some sweet sounding old carpentry saws that all have great distinctive voices, though a more limited range."

See how Nesey Gallons uses Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw

Nesey Gallons

Singer, Composer

Circulatory System

...
Verified via Photo

Nesey Gallons showcases their Mussehl & Westphal Musical Saw on Instagram, expressing affection for the instrument with the caption, "I ❤️ my new saw."

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