Restoring yea or nay

OldOlds · New Member Joined: 14 Aug 2022 Posts: 8

Back in 1976 I purchased an Olds Opera Fullerton cornet. I think it dates to the early 60's. I had no idea until recently what a rare gem it is. I have been a casual player since high school, got it out once a year or so and for long periods it just sat in the case. Now I am playing more, playing 4th in an amateur jazz band and 2nd or 3rd in our local community band. I am in a position to put some money in it and I have a back up instrument I can use. (A late 70's Bach Strad came from left field.)
So, I would like some insight into having an instrument restored. The finish is quite worn and the 2nd and 3rd valves are giving me fits. Will it affect the sound, will it ruin it, will the heavens open and angels sing?

homebilly · Posted: Thu Aug 18, 2022 11:39 am Post subject:

Gabriel is already drooling from his lip mounted Amado water key
_________________
ron meza (deadbeat jazz musician) & (TH 5 post ghost neighborhood watch ringleader)
waiting for Fed-Ex to deliver a $50 trumpet to my door. shipping was prepaid by seller of course!
http://ronmeza.com
http://highdefinitionbigband.com

plankowner110 · Heavyweight Member Joined: 12 Jun 2003 Posts: 3620

Charlie Melk can restore it like absolutely new.
You will find his contact info here on TH
_________________
C. G. Conn 60B Super Connstellation
Getzen 800S Eterna cornet
Bach 5C (Jens Lindemann is right)
https://www.trumpetherald.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=26763

JayKosta · Posted: Thu Aug 18, 2022 12:16 pm Post subject:

First address the functioning of the valves. That might be as simple as the valve casings need to be straightened - a repair tech should have the tools and skill to do that. Similar if there are problems with the pistons.

If you get the horn working ok, then think about cosmetics. But, yes, sometimes a cosmetic 'restoration' can affect how the horn sounds.
_________________
Most Important Note ? - the next one !
KNOW (see) what the next note is BEFORE you have to play it.
PLAY the next note 'on time' and 'in rhythm'.
Oh ya, watch the conductor - they set what is 'on time'.

OldOlds · New Member Joined: 14 Aug 2022 Posts: 8

You brought up a good secondary issue. Finding out where my go to music store would send it. Thanks for the info.

Jon Arnold · Heavyweight Member Joined: 07 Jan 2002 Posts: 2025