Ok, this is a very serious topic. I have been playing my grandfathers tenor saxophone for a while now, but since it is pretty old, it needs a bit of a tune up. The notes wont come out as easily sometimes, and i cannot tighten the neck onto the body at all. I think it is wise to go get it fixed, but that sentimental value makes me a wee bit distrustful. This saxophone is almost 60 years old. Should I go get it fixed, or just grin and bear it?
With The Utmost Respect and Reverence,
Richard James Mansfield, IV
Ive had a few elderly saxes in the past and there is always a big debate as to the viablility of refurbing over new. I play a sax dated from the late 50`s and it plays all ranges and stands up well when accompanied with newer models. I would say take it along to your nearest music shop and let an expert take a look at it. If the neck doesnt close up, maybe it can be fixed. However these kind of reapirs, repadding, respringing and general tidying up can run into the hundreds of pounds, so at what price sentiment comes into it depends on the depth of your pockets...
Routine maintenance is necessary on all saxophones and especially vintage/older ones, the more you play, the more leaks you will have, loose screws, etc... In my opinion take it to a well known repairman, I would figure if it has sentimental value you would want to keep it in working order rather than collecting dust.
If you really want to continue playing it get it refurbished, if you want to get a different sax keep the old vintage one and see how much it's worth. If it's not worth much you could take a chance and not have it refurbished and hope that a big boom of that type of sax is wanted by collectors,or you could have it refurbished and keep playing your choice.
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