Extreme Makeover: Horn Edition

I’ve been playing on my overhauled horn for over a year, but this post is better late than never, I say. Some of the work done: valves rebuilt, bell work, lots of new and rebuilt bits and pieces. Dan at Oberloh also added a brushed finish to the body to help hide some of the imperfections in the metal. That was an unexpected plus, and I think it’s lovely and unique.

I noticed a significant improvement in how the horn played. The valves no longer clack loudly (almost embarrassingly so!). My slurs are more buttery smooth, and my notes lock in better. My loud playing is more controlled and resonant. Overall, it just sounds great! A lot of that may be the horn, but a good portion of that may be because I play my “new” horn with more confidence and enthusiasm.