Ordering an Algerian Mandole

Quote: Originally posted by dinausuare

Hello there, I know this forum is for oud mainly, but as I have seen some members mention the Algerian Mandole in older posts, I thought about seeking help regarding this beautiful Algerian instrument. I'm willing to order a Mandole from Chaffa's workshop (Khaled Chaffa to be specific) in Algiers soon. Does anyone have an experience with this luthier? If so, how was it? Also, what types of wood do you guys recommend ? And is there anything else I should know before going to the luthier? I live in Algiers by the way. Thank you and merry christmas

Quote: Originally posted by John Erlich

My friend Moh Alileche is a pretty serious mandol player, as well as being a singer and songwriter. He is an expat Algerian, living in the USA. He returns to Algeria frequently, especially to record. I checked with him, and you are welcome to ask him any questions you wish about the mandol (woods, Chaffa, etc.). (He did say that if you live in Algiers, you should just me Chaffa directly.) His email is flagoffreedom@flagoffreedom.com Good luck with the mandol purchase and happy new year!

Quote: Originally posted by dinausuare

Quote: Originally posted by John Erlich   My friend Moh Alileche is a pretty serious mandol player, as well as being a singer and songwriter. He is an expat Algerian, living in the USA. He returns to Algeria frequently, especially to record. I checked with him, and you are welcome to ask him any questions you wish about the mandol (woods, Chaffa, etc.). (He did say that if you live in Algiers, you should just me Chaffa directly.) His email is flagoffreedom@flagoffreedom.com Good luck with the mandol purchase and happy new year! Hi John, Thank you so much for taking the effort to tell Mr. Alileche about my quest for buying a mandole, I really appreciate it Sir! I'm about to send him an email right now. Happy new year!

Sorry about my mistake, I meant that Moh said that you should just MEET with Chaffa, yourself. English is my 1st language, so I don't have any excuses. Anyway, you can ask him whatever questions. I had not communicated with Moh in several years, rarely in fact, since he moved away from my city and state. It was a good excuse for me to get in touch with him. He says he will have a new recording out soon.

Chaffa is the reference in Algeria for Mandol, like Nahat for ouds, at the difference that they are still alive , they make very good instruments !
there are lot of other good luthiers, the best thing you can do is discuss with them !