[MultiTalented]

Hey guys. I play an early 19 40's Selmer Buescher 400 Tenor Sax. (It was handed down from my grandpaw) I found a good sax tech. The sax needs some cleaning, needs a key fixed that sticks after you push it down and just an over all look over and inspection. the horn sounds beautiful and plays beautifully as well. My question is, what are some of the average costs of a simple repair/cleanup? Ya know just your once over on a sax going to cost? Thanks.

and does anyone have any advice on a specific book for learning Scales? Thanks!

 

[SuperAction80]

These estimates are given from what I have paid.

A "tune up", which it sounds like you are getting, usually involves replacing a few bad springs, corks, pads, and/or felts. This routine maintenance will cost anywhere from $80-$125 depending on what needs done.

A "rebuild" or "overhaul" is performed when it is just easier to replace all of the parts previously mentioned. Most techs will also remove dents, clean and lube all moving parts, adjust the neck tenon and bell joint, and adjust bent or damaged keywork. Depending on who you take the horn to and how much damage they will be repairing, an overhaul for a tenor saxophone could be anywhere from $400-$800.

 

[modre]

multitalented?
I did my first clarinet at age 12 or so, and by 16 was doing the repairs for a music store...by 35 I had 1/2 dozen music stores. the first repairs were lousy as any beginner is, then with experience the skills kept me a-float without ever having to ask for help or welfare. I rarely repair anymore cause people are annoyingly cheap, don't love their instruments, and don't appreciate my mastery. if you want to keep the title "multitalented", you have to realize you're in the pigpen with heavy hitters who chuckle at your egotistic inability...wait until you have to stand next to a Miles Davis with the "I belong here attitude".

you should at least have some basic knowledge so you know when someone's trying to rip you off.