Vintage Martin Tenor Sax Saxophone Made In USA 1948 PLAYER
Item History & Price
Reference Number: Avaluer:515378 | Body Material: Yellow Brass |
Country/Region of Manufacture: United States | Brand: Martin |
Skill Level: Professional | Type: Tenor |
Up for auction is an incredible example of a vintage Martin Tenor Saxophone in absolutely awesome condition!! The Martin Band Instrument Company is one of the greatest companies of all time! Known especially for trumpets, and saxophones, the Martin company was endorsed by some of the most iconic Jazz Musicians of all time! (Dizz...y Gillespie, Miles Davis, Gerald Wilson, Art Pepper, and Hank Mobely to name a few) This instruments was produced in the United States, just a few years following WWII. Many people refer to the time of musical instrument manufacturing from 1930’s-1960’s the ‘Golden Age’ for musical instrument manufacturing. Most of the musical wind instruments in the world at the time were being produced by American Factories, and the quality and craftsmanship of these instruments are seen as certainly some of the best of all time. This is a time when American companies were solely focused on Quality of product competing in the marketplace, and less of a ‘cost’ competitive situation that later developed in the 1970’s and carried thru today with competitive less expensive import instruments dominating the marketplace. While it is sad that many of the most iconic American band instrument factories have disappeared, and only a few remain today, perhaps the most sad reality is the fact that there are no longer ANY saxophones being produced in the USA.
“The Martin Tenor” Saxophone you see here, otherwise known as the Committee is an amazing horn. This instrument is very comfortable to play and the ergonomics allows a proficient musician with excellent facility. These Martins are well loved for the thick fat body of the sound. The low end speaks incredibly well, and the instrument resonantes beautifully into the altissimo range.
Mechanically, this instrument is in solid condition!! The pads are in excellent condition. It is a typical leather pad with domed plastic resonators. The former owner had actually had the instrument mechanically overhauled just a couple of years ago, and has seen little action since. That said, the key corks, and leather pads are still supple and in excellent condition. While it is typical for a high level professional musician to have slight adjustments made for them by a trusted technician to suit their specific preferences, this instrument is set-up well, and will be playable out of the box. The keywork and key fitting is solid and will not require major mechanical work at all. As you will see in the images, the instrument is really in great condition! There are no signs at all that the horn ever required any repair work. There are no cosmetic blemishes to speak of. The neck is in excellent condition. The lacquer has turned a darker honey comb color, and is in excellent condition. The instrument comes with the original Martin case, and has the original brass end plug.
Don’t miss out on an opportunity to bring home such a beautiful example of an American Made Tenor saxophone!! I’m offering this instrument with NO RESERVE!!!! I will cover shipping within the lower 48 States at no additional cost. I’m happy to ship internationally, however shipping will vary. Please contact me in advance to procure a more accurate cost of shipping abroad. Considering the original hardwood case, (Which is in nice condition) I would suggest to expect a cost of approximately $100 to most locations internationally. Good luck and happy bidding!!