*
banner

Jim'll Fix It! — We ask Normans top boffin to sort out your instrument problems...

We ask Jim Prior, Normans top technician and all round repair boffin, to come up with the solutions to the usual set of troublesome questions that seem to effect brass players and their beloved instruments...

Jim Prior
Jim'll Fix It!  Ask Normans Jim Prior for tips on your instruments.

If you have a question or a problem you want Jim to try and sort out, drop 4BR a line at: news@4barsrest.com


The third valve tuning slide on my tenor horn is stuck fast. I’ve tried a gentle pull on it but it doesn’t move. 

How can I release it without damaging the instrument?
 
Jim's Fix It:

The best option is to take it into your local repairer. 

If you start to pull to hard you are in danger of damaging the bow of the slide or pulling apart one of the soldered stays.


I have a nasty looking crease in the bell of my tuba, as well as bumps and dents in the usual places after five years of constant use.  

Is it worth getting the instrument spruced up? 
 

Jim's Fix It:

Yes - it would be worth having it looked at. You need to be careful with dents in the bell section, especially if it has caused damage to the rim as that will affect the sound of the instrument.

If there are dents and bumps in the usual places and some in unusual places it would be worth getting them looked at as it could be restricting air flow and making the instrument harder to play.


The first valve on my cornet turns 360 degrees at times for no apparent reason making the instrument impossible to play. 

Any ideas on how to fix it?
 

Jim's Fix It:

Very simple. It sounds like the valve guide is either past its sale by date or its not fitting properly into the valve casing. 

I would suggest getting some new valve guides first.


I’m the proud owner of a bass trombone with the usual complex trigger mechanisms. It’s been getting sticky to use recently. 

Any tips for easy cleaning or should it be sorted by a professional?
 

Jim's Fix It:

It would be best to take it to a professional. 

Getting the valve out in the first place is quite tricky and you really need a specialist tool to work on it without damaging it or the thread that holds it all together.



Longridge Band - Christmas Concert

Saturday 7 December • Longridge Civic Hall, 1 Calder Avenue, Longridge, Preston PR3 3HJ


The Hepworth Band - Christmas Brass & Voices

Saturday 7 December • Thornhill Parish Church, Dewsbury WF120JZ


Enderby Band - Broughton Astley Rock Choir

Friday 13 December • Thomas Estley Community College. 2 Station Road. Broughton Astley. Leicestershire LE9 6PT


Bedford Town Band - Bedford Town Band Brass Academy

Saturday 14 December • Putnoe Heights Church MK418EB


Newstead Brass - Christmas Showcase 2024

Saturday 14 December • St Wilfrid's Church, Church Street, Kirkby in Ashfield NG17 8LA


Wakefield Metropolitan Brass Band

December 24 • Solo Baritone Eb Bass and Percussion required to complete the line up building towards the NEMBBA and area contests. Under the Direction of Duncan Beckley, the band is keen to fill the few remaining seats.


Reading Spring Gardens Brass Band

December 19 • Current joint 1st place in the L&SC 4th section grading tables and 2024 4th section National Finalists. We have recently appointed a new MD and are now looking to fill a few empty seats! Rehearsals in Woodley (RG5) on Thursday evenings.


Dobcross Silver Band

December 14 • Looking for a new challenge in the New Year? . Dobcross Silver Band is a progressive and Successful 3rd section band on the lookout for a competent SOLO BARITONE PLAYER. If you are a team player you fit perfectly! Really enjoyable rehearsals here!


Nigel Seaman

ARMCM ARNCM
Conductor, band trainer, teacher and adjudicator


               

 © 2024 4barsrest.com Ltd