It is my solemn honor to offer for sale Howard Johnson's personal Boosey & Co. “Silbron Class A” compensating F tuba. I worked with Howard in several groups and we became good friends. Howard's life partner has asked me to broker his instruments for her, and the third to be offered publicly is his Boosey & Company F tuba. This instrument was previously owned by noted tubist John Fletcher, who played in the BBC Orchestra, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble. Howard purchased it from Mr. Fletcher early in his jazz career. Serial number 141814 indicates that this horn was built in January of 1933, shortly after the merger of Boosey & Co. with Hawkes & Son.
This horn has a lacquered finish. I do not know for sure but I believe that it was relacquered at some time prior to Howard’s ownership of it—see photos. Condition is very good, although there are a number of dents here and there, some denting of the bell flare, and scratches typical of frequent professional use. Valves are in good condition. Howard had the instrument modified with an upright extension rod and lever allowing the 4th valve to be played by the 4th finger of the right hand, rather than with the left hand.
This instrument will include the Mirafone mouthpiece pictured, a hard case, documentation, and a certificate of authenticity signed by myself and by Howard's partner. Howard used this instrument in many performances at major jazz festivals and venues, and on many recordings, for much of his long career. This is an extremely rare instrument to begin with, and Howard’s ownership and use pushes it into the realm of historic importance. You have the opportunity here to own not only an excellent instrument, but a historic horn owned and played by the greatest jazz tuba player of all time. I am pricing it quite high because of its unique historical value, and I am not taking a commission on the sale—all proceeds of the sale go to support the Howard Johnson endowment at Penn State which will fund masterclasses by leading low brass luminaries. Once a commitment to buy has been agreed to, I will put the buyer in touch with Howard's partner to complete the transaction. Pickup in person in NY City only, no shipping. Payment upon pickup, by cash or certified funds only. Please PM me with any questions—if you are seriously interested in this important instrument, I will be happy to discuss details and terms with you.
