Re: Protecting an unlacquered horn


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Posted by Lee Stofer on February 25, 2004 at 08:59:48:

In Reply to: Protecting an unlacquered horn posted by Dave Y on February 23, 2004 at 13:34:08:

The best way to protect your unlacquered horns is to get them lacquered or silver-plated. I work on a number of tubas, and bright-dipping or polishing the instruments eventually takes its toll. After a while, the metal will simply wear away. I have worked on silver-plated tubas dating back to 1903 and lacquered horns from the 1940's that were more solid still than unlacquered tubas from the 1970's, because they were silver-plated. Almost every unlacquered Alexander I work on needs a new leadpipe because it has worn through. Yes, it is possible to patch older horns and/or replace parts, but I like the idea of preserving what's there. The most modern lacquer finishes are at least slightly more durable than modern silver plating, but either one will protect an instrument for years. You can pay now, or you can pay later.

Lee Stofer


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