Expert: Mike Pawul - 5/29/2009

Question
We have an old Olds trumpet purchased I believe in 1958 or 1959.  The serial
number is 308120 and I think it is an Ambassador.  I have been reading Olds
websites after purchasing a newer but used Olds trumpet for my 7th grade
son.  It was a former rental horn at the local music store that has been
refurbished.  The model number is 519016 on the 2nd valve casing.  The bell
says Olds, Elkhart, Indiana, U.S.A.  He had been playing the "old" one which
still plays well and has the lightening fast valves.  However, it has several
dents and really bad lacquer.  We thought the price was right for a shinier
model, rather than refurbishing the "old" Olds.  I am curious as to the age
and quality of the newer horn and wondered if you could advise me.  Our
older son, who started on the old Olds (as did I and my older brother)
became a wonderful trumpeter and is a band director now.  We had him try
out the newer one before purchase and while he said it seemed pretty good, I
could tell by his eyes that he still liked the "Old" Olds better.  Thanks for your
help.

Answer
Marlene, Olds went out of business in 1980 and the name was sold to a company in Illinois. They have had their horns made several places over the years. Your particular horn was made for them by Blessing in Elkhart Indiana. The horn should date to about 2001. While the NA10 is a good student model the old Olds will play circles around it. If you got a good deal on it he should be happy with it until high school. Then I would either look for another older Olds or just have you horn redone. Your old horn does date to 1959 and is a great student horn. Many people feel the Ambassador was the best student horn of all time. Several pro players have them as practice horns.