Bill Monroe endorsed Ibanez mandolins during the 1970′s. That much we know. The rest of the tale is somewhat less clear, and many questions remain. IbanezMandolin.com is researching an article provisionally titled “The Ibanez Mandolins of Bill Monroe”, to include information about their history and his endorsement of the brand. We are seeking submissions of information, pictures, and first-hand accounts for the article. Full credit will be given on publication.

Ibanez catalogs show Big Mon playing a 524 model, in two photos presumably taken during his 1975 tour of Japan. It seems a bit strange that he was not playing the 527 model in the advert, since it was Ibanez’s top of the line mandolin and considered the Bill Monroe model.

It seems that Bill had at least a 524, which ended up with Bluegrass Boys band member Ralph Lewis, and a 527 which was sold at auction in 2001. Photographs of these mandolins, and especially of Bill playing them (apart from the Ibanez catalog) are nowhere to be found.

If you have anything to add, please email 527@ibanezmandolin.com or fill out the contact form on the stie.