Triplet harmonica
Trade Name
J. S. Duss
Distributor
Buegeleisen & Jacobson
Date1905-1915 ca.
Place MadeGermany, Europe
Place DistributedNew York, New York, United States, North America
ModelDuss Band Tremolo
Serial No.none
SignedBottom signed: NONE GENUINE without / J. S. Duss (in script) / SignatureMarkingsEach top cover marked: DUSS BAND / TREMOLO / Extra Full Tone / Reg. U. S. PAT. OFF. / MADE IN GERMANY
Comb ends: decorated with silver designs / D
DescriptionMetal casings, wooden combs painted red. 2 reed plates with 16 brass reeds each, 32 reeds per harmonica, 96 total reeds. 16 double holes per harmonica, each compartment housing 1 reed, 2 reeds per hole (1 blow, 1 draw).
This early triple-harmonica was manufactured as part of the clever publicity machine organized by R. E. Johnson for John Samuel Duss, a cornet player from Pennsylvania. With the help of his agent, Duss worked his way to the role of conductor of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra. According to Pittsburgh Music History, Duss was indeed a talented musician, composer and conductor; however, he was apparently a controversial showman and a bit of a narcissist, as reported by the national press.
Dimensions8-1/2 x 2-3/4 inches
ProvenancePurchased by donor, August 1995.
Credit LineAlan G. Bates Collection, 2000
Object number08693
On View
Not on view
