Posted by Steven on August 09, 2001 at 15:27:34:
Hi!
I'm thinking of learning to play a lower brass instrument. I'm attracted to the interesting tubas and sousaphones, much like the rest of you.
Recently I found an old helicon; there's no name on it anywhere that I can see, and I can't tell if it's an Eb or a BBb. I tried measuring the tube that LOOKS like it comes out of the second valve, and it seems to be about 12" long. Someone told me that this means that it's a BBb. The bell is only 16" in diameter, though. It needs one whole valve, as it's missing, and the other two valves are there, but aren't working. It needs a neck and mouthpiece. The body looks to be in really good shape as far as dents and dings go.
I guess I'm asking for folks' opinions; is this a worthwhile instrument to try and restore? Is it possible to replace the valve section, or modify an existing valve to go in the missing one's place? This instrument originally had three piston valves.
The thing sure looks cool. I'm sure I could get it for a reasonable price.
All comments and suggestions welcome, and greatly appreciated.
-Steven