This handcrafted Colin Kendall A-Style Mandolin is a beautifully made British-built instrument from one of the UK's most respected independent luthiers. Featuring a solid spruce top paired with rosewood back and sides, this mandolin delivers the warm, balanced tone and excellent projection that folk, Celtic and acoustic musicians look for in a high-quality handmade instrument.

Built by Lancashire-based luthier Colin Kendall, this mandolin showcases the attention to detail and traditional craftsmanship for which his instruments are known. The combination of a responsive spruce soundboard, attractive rosewood body and comfortable mahogany neck creates an instrument that is equally suited to session playing, solo performance and studio recording.

With its elegant A-style body shape, understated aesthetics and quality hand-built construction, this is an excellent opportunity to acquire a boutique British mandolin that stands apart from mass-produced alternatives.

Why Choose The Colin Kendall A-Style Mandolin?

Handcrafted By A Respected UK Luthier

Colin Kendall instruments are handmade in small numbers and are highly regarded among British folk musicians. Each instrument is individually crafted rather than factory-produced, resulting in excellent attention to detail and tonal character.

Solid Spruce Top

The spruce soundboard provides excellent responsiveness and projection.

Players benefit from:

• Fast note attack

• Strong articulation

• Excellent dynamic range

• Improved tonal development over time

Rosewood Back And Sides

Rosewood contributes warmth, sustain and harmonic richness to the overall voice of the instrument.

This combination works particularly well for traditional folk music, melodic lead playing and ensemble work.

Comfortable A-Style Design

The A-style body offers a balanced tonal response with excellent playing comfort.

Many players appreciate its lighter weight and straightforward design compared to more ornate F-style mandolins.

Handmade Character

Every handcrafted instrument develops its own personality. This mandolin offers the individuality and craftsmanship that many players seek when moving beyond factory-built instruments.

Why Choose An A-Style Mandolin?

The A-style mandolin remains one of the most popular mandolin designs in traditional and contemporary acoustic music.

Benefits include:

• Comfortable playing position

• Balanced tonal response

• Excellent value compared to ornate F-style instruments

• Strong projection

• Lighter overall weight

• Traditional appearance

For many folk and acoustic musicians, an A-style mandolin provides everything required for session work, recording and live performance.

Who Is It For?

Beginners

An excellent choice for serious beginners wanting to start on a quality handmade instrument rather than a basic entry-level mandolin.

Intermediate Players

A substantial upgrade from factory-built instruments, offering improved tone, craftsmanship and long-term enjoyment.

Advanced / Professional Players

Ideal for players seeking a hand-built British mandolin with a mature, musical voice suitable for recording and performance work.

Particularly Recommended For

• Traditional folk musicians

• Celtic players

• Irish sessions

• Acoustic performers

• Singer-songwriters

• Recording musicians

• Bluegrass players

• Mandolin enthusiasts

Product Story / Heritage

Colin Kendall has earned a strong reputation among UK folk musicians for producing handcrafted mandolins, bouzoukis and other acoustic instruments. His instruments are known for combining traditional construction methods with practical player-focused design.

Because production numbers are relatively small, Colin Kendall instruments are less commonly found on the second-hand market than factory-produced alternatives, making them particularly appealing to players seeking something distinctive and handcrafted.

Colin Kendall vs Factory-Built Mandolins

Colin Kendall vs Eastman Mandolins

Eastman offers excellent value and consistency through workshop production.

A Colin Kendall provides the individuality and craftsmanship of a handmade British instrument.

Colin Kendall vs Kentucky Mandolins

Kentucky mandolins are popular entry and intermediate-level choices.

The Kendall offers boutique-level construction and a more individual character.

Colin Kendall vs Ozark Mandolins

Ozark instruments provide affordable access to mandolin playing.

The Kendall is aimed at players seeking a professionally crafted instrument with premium tonewoods and hand-built quality.

Spruce Top vs Laminated Top Mandolins

One of the biggest upgrades in any acoustic instrument is moving to a quality solid spruce top.

Benefits include:

• Greater responsiveness

• Improved volume

• Better note separation

• Enhanced tonal complexity

• Sound that matures with age

For players looking for long-term musical development, a spruce-topped instrument is often the preferred choice.

Looking For Advice?

Looking for advice on choosing the right mandolin, folk instrument or acoustic session instrument? Our experienced team of musicians can help by phone, online or in-store.

Technical Specifications

Specifications based on visual inspection and available information.

Pairs Perfectly With

Complete your mandolin setup with:

• Mandolin strap

• Mandolin strings

• Clip-on tuner

• Acoustic instrument stand

• Mandolin tuition books

• Folk music songbooks

• Selected pre-owned acoustic instruments

• Fair Deal Music accessories and care products

Why Buy From Fair Deal Music?

Fair Deal Music is a family-run independent music retailer that has been serving musicians since 1987. As Birmingham's largest independent music store, we pride ourselves on offering expert advice, competitive pricing and exceptional customer service.

With over 6,000 Excellent 4.9-star Trustpilot reviews, musicians across the UK trust us for instruments, accessories and professional advice.

Our knowledgeable team is available by phone, online and in-store to help before and after your purchase. We offer fast UK delivery, secure online ordering and a fully stocked Birmingham showroom where you can explore a huge range of instruments.

We also buy and sell pre-owned gear, with quality used instruments available both online and in-store.

For players looking for unique, handcrafted folk instruments, our acoustic specialists can help you find something truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a handmade mandolin?

Yes. This instrument was handcrafted by respected UK luthier Colin Kendall.

Is it suitable for beginners?

Yes. It offers a high-quality platform for beginners who want to start on a serious instrument.

What style of music is it best suited for?

Folk, Celtic, traditional, bluegrass, acoustic and singer-songwriter styles.

What are the benefits of an A-style mandolin?

A-style mandolins are comfortable, lightweight and offer excellent tonal balance.

Is this a solid wood instrument?

The instrument features a spruce top and rosewood back and sides. Full construction details can be confirmed upon inspection.

Is it suitable for recording?

Yes. Handmade spruce and rosewood instruments are highly regarded for recording applications.

Can I try it in-store?

Yes. Contact Fair Deal Music to confirm current showroom availability.