Hats off to Tara Linhardt, whose dream of breaking the Guinness World Record for the largest mandolin ensemble was realized this afternoon at the Old Fiddlers Convention in Galax, VA.
The previous record of 383 was held by a German aggregation, and it seems wholly appropriate that the title now resides with the esteemed Galax convention, now in its 77th year.
We are awaiting confirmation of the official count, but are told that they beat the record by at least ten. And it could have been more, but for a lack of instruments. Local music stores brought out what they could, and a good many attendees brought extras as well, but when the time came to start, there were still willing participants without an instrument.
People waited in line up to an hour to register, and from reports we’ve gotten, a wonderful time was had by all.
Tim Finch of Eastman Guitars was on hand, and one lucky young picker came away with a new Eastman mandolin for his trouble.
We expect to get more photos – and hopefully video – shortly, and will post what we can obtain. If you have photos or video from the mandomania at Galax, please contact us.
