These photos show Howard Stevens, who lacquered instruments for Buescher. He taught me to lacquer many years ago, though he was much older than in these pictures. Click the image to view the gallery.
FAQs
What do you do?
I specialize in repair and restoration of vintage and professional quality brasswinds. Knowing what not to do to a valuable vintage or antique instrument is as important as knowing what can, or should, be done. I do not overfinish an instrument to the point that it never would have been, even when new. While a super shine and perfection of surface finish may look nice, it normally comes at a price- the amount of strapping, filing, and buffing often needed to produce such a finish removes a great deal of material, and leaves the instrument thinner. I use my best judgement to make the most improvement in appearance without degrading the integrity of the instrument. Click here to go to see examples of completed projects.
Do you have a price list?
Its best to contact me for an estimate. Prices are tailored toward the nature and amount of work each instrument needs. All estimates given over the phone or by email are subject to actual examination of the instrument.
What is the best way to contact you?
The best way to contact me is through my contact form. As a one man shop, it can be difficult to field phone calls all day while trying to do repairs. Additionally, I may be operating machines, running an errand, or dealing with a walk-in customer. Email also has the advantage of providing a record of what work is discussed, and estimates given. I do check my email frequently, and normally respond within 24 hours, if not sooner. Click here for the Contact page.
How long will my instrument take to be repaired or restored?
This will depend on the amount of work to be done to the instrument, my workload, parts suppliers, platers, etc. I can give an expected turn around time on a case by case basis. I do have a long waiting list for refinish and restoration jobs. Its important to understand that I am a one man shop, and the amount of work I am able to produce at the quality level I expect is limited.
How do I get my instrument to you?
If you are in the area, you may drop your instrument off at the shop, see the location on the Contact page. If you are shipping, click here for shipping information.
Which payment methods do you accept?
I accept cash, checks, money orders, and PayPal. A deposit may be required for major restorations or valve rebuilds. Payment in full must be received before instrument can be returned. I do not accept chickens as payment.
Do you supply parts for vintage instruments?
I maintain a parts inventory for my use in the course of repairs. I am generally unable to do business as a parts supplier, though on occasion I might be able to provide a part. So you are free to ask, but don't be too disappointed if I am unable to provide the part you're looking for.
Where do you source your replacement parts from?
For instruments of current manufacture, I use original manufacturer parts when possible. For vintage instruments I keep a large inventory of "new old stock" and obsolete parts, as well as a "boneyard" of parts horns. If I can't otherwise source parts from these sources, I can often make them from scratch, though this can be time consuming.