Posted by Paul Scott on July 04, 2001 at 13:41:22:
In Reply to: Need info on Buescher Helicon posted by Bryan Cass on July 03, 2001 at 09:08:42:
I have a 1917 Buescher Eb that came with tuning slide extensions. These were provided to allow the horn to play in the old high pitch and modern low pitch systems. In other words, they weren't for changing the key of the horn, only the pitch system. Mine plays best (unfortunately) in the old high pitch configuration, (minus the extensions). I believe that the late Allan Jaffe played a Buescher helicon similar if not identical to yours. If you find some of the old Preservation Hall Jazz Band records there are many photos of Mr. Jaffe and this instrument. These may help with your restoration. It looks to me that the valve buttons on the first and second valves of your instrument are original as they match those on my Buescher. Hope some of this helps.