Description
The Chapman Stick is neither a bass, nor a guitar, nor an ordinary stringed instrument—it is a genre of instruments all its own.
Invented in the late 1960s by Emmett Chapman, the Stick was developed specifically for two-handed tapping and opens up musical possibilities that are virtually impossible to achieve with traditional guitars or basses. Bass lines, chords, melodies, and solo parts can be played simultaneously, making it ideal for solo performers, progressive rock, ambient, or experimental music.
The modern Railboard version impresses with its precision-machined aluminum body, exceptional tuning stability, and direct response. A particular highlight of this instrument is the Vilex R-Block pickup module, which is no longer available but enjoys an excellent reputation among stick players.
The Chapman Stick gained international recognition primarily through Tony Levin, whose playing with Peter Gabriel, King Crimson, and the Stick Men made the instrument famous worldwide.
Tony Levin YouTube Video.
An exceptional instrument for musicians who want to break new ground—exquisitely crafted, versatile, and rarely found on the secondhand market.
