Joe Foley is a highly regarded Irish luthier based in Dublin who has been handcrafting bouzoukis, octave mandolins, and mandolins since the 1970s. His instruments are sought after in the Irish traditional music community and are played by professional musicians throughout Ireland.
About This Instrument
Handbuilt by Joe Foley in his Dublin workshop in October 2018 (No. 1612). The instrument features a Swiss moon-wood spruce top with rosewood back and sides, with a decorative maple center stripe on the back.
Swiss Moon Wood Spruce is high-altitude spruce harvested during a specific lunar phase, traditionally believed to enhance the wood’s tonal and structural qualities. It comes from slow-growing trees in the Swiss Alps, known for their tight grain and exceptional resonance. This wood is prized by luthiers for use in fine stringed instruments and guitar tops.
Foley bouzoukis are known for their strong projection and remarkable resonance, with deep lows and bell-like highs. Players consistently praise the rich, warm tone and excellent sustain that makes these instruments ideal for both backing and melody work in traditional Irish sessions. The responsive nature of the instrument rewards both delicate fingerpicking and robust strumming.
Specifications
- Builder: Joe Foley, Dublin, Ireland
- Number: 1612
- Date: October 2018
- Back & Sides: Rosewood with maple center stripe
- Soundboard: Spruce
- Courses: 4 double courses (8 strings)
- Condition: Excellent
Construction
Handbuilt in Dublin, Ireland by master luthier Joe Foley. Each instrument is crafted by hand using traditional methods and select tonewoods. Features include elegant bindings, diamond inlays, and meticulous attention to detail throughout.
Condition: Used - Excellent
Condition: Details:
