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Buescher400 Alto TopHat/Cane serial #345146 with original case and other accessories. I\'m the second owner of the alto sax. I purchased it in 1982. It was a referral or consignment from the original owner who was a professional musician in St. Louis, MO. Jeff Mozingo of Mozingo Music in Ellisville, MO (acquired in 2022 by Palen Music) was the intermediary for the purchase. I went to Butler University in Indianapolis on a music scholarship with this horn clinching the audition! However, I never took up a professional career in music.
From the serial number, we know this horn was manufactured in the early 50s, possibly 1951. Jeff Mozingo mentioned that the sax was refurbished just before sale. Other experts I\'ve consulted relate that the horn appears to have a high-quality factory refinish. That procedure included pad replacement, felt bumper replacement, adjustments and lacquer. The body and many keys have been relaquered, but there are several keys they chose to leave with the original, worn patina. When they replaced the pads, they retained or replaced with similar metal resonators, which are rare. New horns, even professional, will have plastic.While in my possession, I recall having the low E-flat pad replaced and some spring adjustments.
The horn is ready to play from the case. It has scratches and laquer wear you would expect from a sax entering its 7th decade, but no dings, dents, bends, or nicks.
The original case has seen good use protecting the horn and has the road-scars to prove it. The latches are functional, but springless, and the velvet interior and foam are intact. The exterior leather binding is dry and coming off. There are nicks, scratches and tears in the case cover.
If you want additional photos, I have more angles and close-ups. They exceed the 24-photo limit of , but I\'m happy to send them to you if you message me.
Included in this sale having approximately $500 value:
- Vandoren-Paris A100 mouthpiece, vintage and discontinued
- Eugene Rouseau 4R mouthpiece, vintage
- Harrison 2-screw ligature, gold-plated, vintage
- Sax*Pak Selmer by Ray Hyman. Hard case with Mooradian canvas cover and straps. (altered with foam inserts by owner)
