This vintage banjolele is a “Dick Barrie Bands” model, a British distributor brand produced by the famous manufacturer George Houghton & Sons (GH&S) in the 1950s.
Structurally, this instrument is identical to the GH&S Melody Junior model. It is a sturdy, well-made instrument, typical of the golden age of banjoleles in the United Kingdom, perfect for achieving that “punchy,” bright sound associated with George Formby.
Technical specifications:
Manufacturer: George Houghton & Sons (Birmingham, England).
Model: Dick Barrie Bands (equivalent to Melody Junior).
Type: Resonator banjo-ukulele (Soprano).
Materials: Mahogany neck and resonator.
Dark wood fingerboard (probably rosewood or stained pear wood) with diamond-shaped mother-of-pearl inlays.
Original chrome hardware.
Dimensions: Total length approx. 56-58 cm.
Appearance: Distinctive “Dick Barrie Bands” plate on the head of the instrument.
Condition (to be adapted to the actual condition of your item):
Skin (vellum): Appears to be in good original condition.
Neck: Straight, with comfortable action for playing.
Frets: Little visible wear, still has a lot of life left.
Body: Natural vintage patina. A few slight signs of wear on the resonator due to its age (see photos).
This item is sold As-Described
This item is sold As-Described and cannot be returned unless it arrives in a condition different from how it was described or photographed. Items must be returned in original, as-shipped condition with all original packaging.Learn More.
| Listed | 4 months ago |
|---|---|
| Condition | Fair (Used) Fair condition gear should function but will show noticeable cosmetic damage or other issues.Learn more |
| Brand |
|
| Model |
|
| Categories | |
| Year |
|
| Made In |
|
Product safety information may be available here.









