Expert: Kenton Scott - 10/4/2007

Question
i have recently acquired a getzen super deluxe trombone and was wondering how the horn might play if restored like new.  it blows great in the upper register, which is what i would be  using it for, and didn't sound too bad in the pedals.  but the slide on it needs a complete overhaul. my question is 'Is this horn worth repairing?'  and, if so how much should a complete overhaul cost?

any advice would be appreciated

Answer
I think you already have the answer.  If you like the way it sounds now, then unless there are serious dents in it, leaks, or it is full of crude, it is going to sound basically the same if restored.  

Without physically having the horn and checking it out, I couldn't give you an idea on costs.  A good working slide is simple in design, all tubes need to be round, parallel, and straight down their length, and the inner and outer slides need to fit exactly, and the tubes need to be smooth on their contact sides and no dents.  The design is simple, but to return a slide to that condition is a process that sometimes borders on being an art.

I'd suggest that you ask around your area and find who is good with repairing slides, have them take a look and give you an idea of costs.  Once that is done right, your horn will be playing about as good as it ever will.