Expert: Kenton Scott - 7/6/2007

Question
Years ago, I acquired a trombone made by the Boston Musical Instrument Manufactory. The serial number is 13997 and the only other marking is U.S.Q.M.D. I assume that is US Quartermaster's Department, which means it would have been used by a military band. Correct? It still has the original case (albeit rather beaten up!) and mouthpiece. I'm not interested in selling it and I don't play anymore, so I would like to get it cleaned up for display in my home. Would it be best to send it out for cleaning, or try to get rid of the tarnish myself?
Many thanks,
Jonathan

Answer
That would date it to about 1897.  I would also suppose that it was a military instrument. I think you could clean it yourself, and save the expense.  But the technique for doing so would depend on what finish it has.  The most likely would be silverplate or raw brass.  So, I'll guess silverplate.  I would recommend starting with Tarnx to get as much off as you can, and then go to Blue Magic as a second step, and then go to a good quality silver polish to finish up.