AboutKenton Scott Expertise Provide information on antique, obscure and out of production BRASS instruments. Please don't ask for evaluations, I'll not provide them on this 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
Question QUESTION: One of the treasures I brought home from my parents attic is a silver coronet. It is a Vega made by the Standard Band Instrument Co 62 Sudbury St. Boston - Serial 51520. Is this particular instrument worth holding on to and possibly have serviced for later generations to use. I am a Banjo/Guitar player and do not have a clue about brass instruments. Thanks for your time Bob - Stonington CT
ANSWER: It has some value. If you plan to get it serviced, you may want to let them know that you intend to keep it in storage rather than put into immediate use.
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QUESTION: Do you have and idea when it was made, If it is considered a student or pro instrument, and most importantly if a student would be comfortable with this instrument vs a brand new shiny one? - Thanks again, Bob
Answer The Vega Company bought out Standard in 1909 and lasted at least another 30 years.
It would have been a professional instrument.
Most students wouldn't be impressed with an instrument that looked different than the person next to them. Probably most would prefer a trumpet to a cornet. It would probably be the exceptional student that would appreciate and respect this venerable old instrument.
Oh, one other thing occurs to me, you may want to have it checked to see if it is a low pitch instrument - i.e. that is plays at A=440. Back then there were many instruments made at high pitch, and they won't play in tune with modern instruments.
