On Mon, 22 Feb 2010 02:06:52 -0000, UnsteadyKen
wrote:

Don Pearce said...

Went to an antiques fair today and found this, which was clearly
irresistible. Made in 1880, it is a lauten - a cross between a lute
and a guitar, and it sounds brilliant.

That looks lovely and it must be fun to play. I'm very envious of those
who can play an instrument. I've tried keyboard and guitars many times
but just can't relate the sound produced to the physical action
required if you see what I mean, bloody frustrating.

Fun it certainly is, but also a bit frustrating. The curved back means
it won't sit upright on your thigh, but always tries to twist away and
lie flat. I'll need to get a strap for it. Probably a fluorescent
green and yellow one wouldn't be quite the thing.

d