The journey of a vintage brass instrument often leaves physical scars. While many instruments age gracefully, others arrive needing serious intervention. We recently welcomed a magnificent Boosey & Hawkes Imperial Baritone horn that looked far past its prime. Its casing told a dramatic story, bearing the marks of decades of use—dents, creases, and severe warping that suggested a life spent less in the concert hall and more, perhaps, in a boxing ring. For enthusiasts and professional musicians alike, preserving the heritage and playability of these classics is paramount, and this Baritone presented a significant restoration challenge.
At Elliott Brass, our restoration philosophy bypasses quick fixes like cosmetic fillers or heavy polishes that degrade original materials. Instead, we rely solely on the nuanced application of traditional brass working skills. Our head technician, Paul, approached this Baritone’s casing with surgical precision, employing specialized dent removal tooling. Using meticulous mandrels, rods, and targeted hammering techniques, he painstakingly ‘floated’ the brass back into its original curvature. This demanding process requires an understanding of the metal’s memory, ensuring every lump and crease is ironed out without stressing the instrument’s structural integrity or historic finish.
The outcome is a complete aesthetic and functional revival—a true “anti-aging” treatment for professional brass. What entered the workshop as a battered heirloom departed as a gleaming testament to enduring quality. The severe dents vanished, restoring the instrument’s smooth, classic lines and, crucially, ensuring optimal air flow through the bore. This meticulous restoration proves that serious physical damage is not a death sentence for high-quality vintage brass. By renewing the horn’s external appearance and ensuring internal precision, we significantly extend its service life.
If your cherished instrument has suffered the knocks and bumps of an active life, resembling something more suited for a storage unit than a bandstand, we encourage you to consult our repair team. Elliott Brass specializes in comprehensive instrument rescue, tackling complex structural and cosmetic challenges that others deem impossible. We pride ourselves on restoring the visual appeal and unparalleled sonic performance of professional-grade vintage brass, cementing our reputation as the UK’s leading specialists in high-stakes restoration projects. Bring us your challenge—we guarantee skill, precision, and a rejuvenated instrument ready for its next few decades of service.
View this product: Baritone Details