Expert: Kenton Scott - 5/3/2006

Question
I bought what I believe is a vintage trumpet for a family member that wants to learn to play, and I was hoping you could tell me a little more about this instument. It is a Holton with ST550 on the mouthpiece receiver and serial #807853 on the middle valve casing. It has the Holton logo on the top and MF engraved on the side. It has push-in spit buttons in place of water keys, and silver-plating that is worn where the hands would come in frequent contact, which makes me think it is older.  The third valve has what I believe to be a calibration screws for 3rd valve slide. It looks like there a screw on nut, that may be missing. If that is the case, I would like to find a replacement before I present it to my niece, and would like to know where I should look for such a part also. Thanks you in advance for any assistance you may be able to give me.

Answer
HI Lynn,

Well, it isn't vintage by my sense of the term in that it is less than 25 years old.  I believe that they are called the Holton ST550 MF Admiral trumpet. Most any repairman should be able to get a replacement for the nut.  It is standard to most of the Holton Trumpts.  Parts aren't sold to the public. If you have trouble getting one, let me know, I should be able to get one.  Assuming it is in good condition, it is a pretty nice horn to be starting out on.

kms