I’m the original owner/designer of these 2 Tom Norwood custom banjos. These are before he moved to Paris and made his name as a great classical guitar builder. This 5 string banjo was originally commissioned because I saw that fish inlay at Chuck Erickson’s shop (he’s known as “The Duke of Pearl”,) and I liked it so much I had the rest of the banjo made for it! Tom did the tree of life design, and I redrew the resonator design from a piece of Lalique jewelry. Please note the “snowflakes” run down to the side of the resonator! It is a testament to Tom’s ability that he was able to inlay this large surface of pearl and abalone perfectly on the curved resonator surface!
And note the rim construction: It is not the typical laminated Maple, but instead made of Brazilian rosewood blocks (!) that were then turned on a lathe. This, and the 40 hole tone ring, make this banjo sound so beautiful and dynamic. It has a 2-piece flange that is black hard chromed. Many of you have probably heard this banjo of TV commercials, sound tracks, and pop recordings (& Banjo/fiddle contests) back when I played professionally. Notice the engraved armrest and Ode tailpiece. I also have a spare Brazilian rosewood “plain” resonator if you want to take it on the road and don’t want to damage the inlayed resonator (see photos). While the beauty and craftsmanship might make this a Collector’s item, it sounds amazing, and it certainly deserving of live performances (I used it for both Bluegrass and clawhammer styles). I'm only selling this because I'm old with Arthritis in my fingers so I can't really play and my kids aren't interested. If you’re in the S. Calif area, I urge you to come and check it out. With like new Superior HSC. In very good condition, but could use a good cleaning and polishing. Sold as is.
LAST PHOTO IS OF THE CUSTOM 7STRING IN ANOTHER LISTING UNDER "CUSTOM BANJO BY THOMAS NORWOOD"

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