This rare 1920's Leedy Solo-Tone Monarch "marimba-xylophone" is in absolutely beautiful all original condition! This is the largest, top of the line xylophone produced by the Leedy company in the 1920's & 1930's. As shown in the 1928 catalog above, these extended range xylophones were called "marimba-xylophones" but given the thickness of the bars, it is a xylophone top to bottom. The Leedy Monarch is 86" long with a sturdy frame that rolls around a stage with ease. Like all Leedy instruments, it is surprisingly compact when packed for travel. The chrome plating on the frame and resonators is in exceptional condition. There are a few minor dings here and there, but they are very hard to find. The sound quality of this instrument is truly remarkable. The upper range is very bright and lower notes are full and resonant without the "funky" overtones that many extended range instruments from this era exhibit. This Leedy Monarch is similar to the large xylophone played by Howard Goulden in the John Philip Souza band. This truly remarkable, one of a kind instrument, was, and is, the ultimate xylophone for the solo artist. To fully appreciate this xylophone, it must be seen and played.
General Characteristics | |
Model | Leedy 316 Solo-Tone Monarch |
Era | 1900-1928 |
Condition | Excellent |
Extra Holes or Modifications | None |
Date | 1920s |
Hardware Finish | Nickel |
Keyboard Characteristics | |
Octave Range | 4 1/2 Octave |
Note Range | F - C |
Tuning | A = 440 |
Bar Finish | Natural |
Bar Material | Rosewood |
Length |