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Is it a banjo? Or is it a tenor guitar?
The Tenortrope is a 1930’s creation of the Dopyera brothers. With a banjo-sized 22 3/4” scale length and a spider resonator cone, the Tenortrope is sweeter than a banjo, louder than a tenor guitar, and a uniquely-voiced rarity. This example is blinged out with custom inlays and golden appointments, and features a bound walnut resonator/body. The tuners are planetary replacements that match the gold appointments. There's evidence of a pickup installed in the past, now removed and holes filled in. It’s in nice condition for 90 or so years old: some light scratches here and there, but overall a pleasure to look at. Frets are in good shape, action is great, and neck is straight.
Serial number 2509-2, placing the manufacture date somewhere between 1928-30. I’ve read that these special appointments were reserved for just a few Tenortropes, ones that were presented at guitar shows back in the day. Some who have seen this instrument have speculated that many of the custom elements may have been put in at a later date by Rudy Dopyera himself. But who knows? Lots can happen in 90 years, and the net effect is visually striking.
This instrument will work for mandolin players, tenor guitarists, tenor banjo players, and anyone interested in an unusual and unique piece of history. Tuned to octave mandolin tuning currently, CGDA tenor tuning or Chicago tuning should work fine. With sturdy circa 1980s hard shell case.
