Author: Roger Aldridge
Date: 2008-07-21 11:45
CWH,
International Musical Instruments is a stencial name. Stencials were made by "name" instrument companies -- such as Buescher, Conn, Martin, etc -- and then had another name engraved on the horn. Typically, they were second-line instruments in their quality.
Clearly, this is an early 20's soprano. I, personally, would have concerns with its intonation. Around 7 years ago I had an absolutely superb 1928 Buescher soprano. Its intonation with a large chamber Morgan mouthpiece was excellent. However, it's cost was a couple of thousand. This was an exceptional instrument. Earlier model sopranos can be more problematic with respect to intonation and I would be especially be nervous about an early 20's stencial.
If I was in your shoes, I would consider a newer soprano. If you do some research and comparision pricing it's possible to get a decent one at a resonable price. Of course, it will be more expensive than the cost of overhauling the one you have. But, I cannot help but think you might spend your money on that horn and then find that it has all kinds of problems. I was in that situation a number of years ago with an early model c-melody. After repeated trips to the repair tech, I finally got smart and got rid of the horn out of frustration.
Good luck!
PS, the pearl G# key is typical of pre-1926 Bueschers. As I recall, later 20's Conn, Martin, and Selmer sopranos did not have a pearl G# key. Also, Buescher changed their design in 1926 to have a metal G# key with a roller. I'm wondering if your soprano may be an early 20's Buescher sential.
Roger
Post Edited (2008-07-21 11:59)
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The Clarinet BBoard
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