1920's Martin Stencil. Indiana Band Instrument Co. Alto Saxophone With A Full Mechanical Restoration.
This horn came into the shop and it looked pretty roughed up and neglected. It had been sitting for decades, forgotten and silent. It was a family heirloom and someone decided they wanted to play the saxophone again, and why not restore the one in the family. Of course, why not? For the price of a full mechanical restoration one can have a horn that will be far better than a brand new student horn. It will be infinitely cooler and more interesting; just like this old Martin stencil. No new horn can claim a story and musical heritage as rich as this one, and it will be superior mechanically. The extensive key fitting that is part of any restoration eliminates all end play and key slop. This horn played so well that after the long play test I just shook my head and wondered why so many people want to smirk at these old timers. They say they are not worth the trouble. But old saxophones never 'blow out', they simply need to be restored. And provided it was manufactured well to begin with, a restoration is a worthwhile investment. Well, the owner of this horn is very happy, trust me. I was too. Look at the photos to see many before and after shots depicting the work in progress. So awesome!
This horn came into the shop and it looked pretty roughed up and neglected. It had been sitting for decades, forgotten and silent. It was a family heirloom and someone decided they wanted to play the saxophone again, and why not restore the one in the family. Of course, why not? For the price of a full mechanical restoration one can have a horn that will be far better than a brand new student horn. It will be infinitely cooler and more interesting; just like this old Martin stencil. No new horn can claim a story and musical heritage as rich as this one, and it will be superior mechanically. The extensive key fitting that is part of any restoration eliminates all end play and key slop. This horn played so well that after the long play test I just shook my head and wondered why so many people want to smirk at these old timers. They say they are not worth the trouble. But old saxophones never 'blow out', they simply need to be restored. And provided it was manufactured well to begin with, a restoration is a worthwhile investment. Well, the owner of this horn is very happy, trust me. I was too. Look at the photos to see many before and after shots depicting the work in progress. So awesome!