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Antique Musical Instruments/1921 MARTIN BBb tuba,three piston front, in satin silver

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Question
Hello. I just recently purchased a 1921 MARTIN  BBb tuba.  It plays beautifully!  Can you tell me anything about its history? Its' serial number is: 20079  Thank you for your time.  Regards. John

Answer
The serial number lists for the early Martins are just estimates.  Some lists would suggest that it might be even earlier than that.

I'm not sure I can tell you anything that you haven't already figured out.  It always amazes me when I get a hold of one of these old beauties, what a delight they are to play.  When I was a kid, I was led to believe that the only good old instrument was a string instrument.  And, that all old brass was junk.  I have found out that nothing could be further from the truth.  Because even with horns that are not in prime condition; compromised by wear, possibly needing valves rebuilt, they still perform admirably.  

Antique Musical Instruments

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Kenton Scott

Expertise

Please note: My area is BRASS instruments, not other wind, string or percussion instruments. I will provide information on antique, obscure and out of production BRASS instruments. 1) Please don't ask for evaluations, I'll not provide them on this site. 2) I am often asked very similar questions, so I'd invite you to first check on Horn-u-Copia.net. Much of the information I have garnered about this topic, I have posted on this WEB site.

Experience

I perform in several historical bands, have informally researched the area, repair brass instruments, and operate a Forum dedicated to the topic at http://horn-u-copia.net

Education/Credentials
B.S. Ed, M.S.

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