Albert Shutt

Albert Shutt (1877–1963) was a multifaceted musician, inventor, and educator based in Topeka, Kansas. Born in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, he moved with his family to Kansas near Beloit in 1879 and settled in Topeka's Oakland area in 1891. By 1901, Shutt had embarked on a teaching career that spanned over six decades, instructing students in guitar, banjo, mandolin, and violin until November 1962.

As an inventor, Shutt was prolific, securing nine patents for stringed instrument innovations beginning in 1906. His creations included novel mandolin designs, an elevated pickguard, a tuner, a compensating bridge, the Mando-Bass-Harp-Guitar, a glass tone bar, and the Shutt mando-banjo. These instruments were custom-made in his Topeka home under the Shutt Mandolin-Guitar Co. Despite the quality and uniqueness of his designs, his company couldn't surpass competitors like Gibson to achieve mainstream success.

Shutt was also a dedicated performer and composer. He organized and led various musical groups, including mandolin ensembles, Hawaiian guitar bands, and banjo groups. Notably, his "Shutt Banjo" band, featuring instruments he crafted, was the first to perform on Topeka's WIBW radio station, where they remained a staple for 14 years.

Throughout his career, Shutt published over two dozen musical works, many with patriotic themes. His composition "Allegiance" debuted at the 1930 Memorial Day parade by Marshall's Band and was later performed by the Army, Navy, and Marine Bands in Washington, D.C. Another notable piece, "Kansas, We're Proud of You," was recognized by the Kansas State House of Representatives and included in the Kansas State Directory.



Albert Shutt's enduring contributions to music and instrument design have left a lasting legacy, particularly in his hometown of Topeka.