History

The metal saw itself, as a carpenters tool, has been in use for over 4000 years. The history of this instrument as a musical instrument is shrouded in mystery. No-one knows who first thought of the novel idea to strike or bow a saw blade although it is generally assumed that it must have been discovered by accident. There is evidence that in the 1700s saw music came into existence on several continents simultaneously. Some connect its origin with the Ozark and Appalachian Mountains and think that it was possible that African slaves brought it to America. Others associate its origin with workers in the Scandinavian and South American timber industries.

 In the UK the instrument was associated with music halls as that was at one point the only source of entertainment. During the Victorian times the music hall became the only source of entertainment and halls were established throughout the UK.
There are many references to musical saw players in the UK during the 1920’s and 30’s. They include players such as Gloucestershire George, Ronald Tingle, W.R.Willis, Thomas Stones, Cecil Twistleton and Jack Robinson.  More is known about Jack because of a display in the Museum of Liverpool. He was  a hairdresser, but played many different stringed instruments The musical saw was his speciality. During the ballroom boom of the 1920s, Jack would perform solo and with orchestras at many different venues across the North West. These included Harry Wood’s Grand Band at The Palace and with Bert Pearson’s Band at Reece’s Ballroom in Liverpool. However it was during this time the demise of the music halls began. The introduction of radio, the start of  moving pictures and the cheapening of the gramophone record all had an effect.. Over time there wasn't a requirement  for so many dance and musicals halls.  

 Below is picture link to the Museum of Liverpool archives showing Jack performing on stage. I was honoured to be able to play for Jack's Great Grand daughter's wedding as a tribute to him. 

Unfortunately the second world war only accelerated the process possibly due to a shortage of metal, performers and of course the audience. Luckily the musical saw did not die out completely. Performers, such as Marlene Dietrich, entertained the troops during the second world war with her saw playing.  You can hear her play on this recording : (www.umpcollection.de/saege1.ram). 

Another player during World War II was Nat Jackson who spent most of the war serving with the The ROYAL ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERS. These were formed to rationalise and improve the efficiency of the Army's repair resources midway through World War 2. However the REME workshops had a BAND, and Nat played a number of instruments including violin, saxophone and musical saw ( party piece!) They played big band favourites of the day, and entertained their colleagues whenever the opportunity arose. 

After the war there were fewer players  with hardly any mention of performances in either the UK newspapers or radio listings. Companies such as Cashmores Ltd continued to manufacture the instrument until their demise. In this country now are just a few active players. Apart from myself I am aware of Henry Dagg, Denis Teeth, Ian Harris, Happy Martin and more recently Austin Blackburn.