Nothing sounds quite like an old Conn Chu Berry – especially if it’s the gold burnished Artist model. However a characteristic of this vintage is that the ergonomics aren’t particularly user-friendly. The goal with this horn was to blend a classic 1920’s sax with more modern key work and enhanced performance.
First I modified the keys for better positioning and then matched the original gold finish. I also removed the trill keys and reversed the spring. Less weight improved the ease of the action and enabled the player to get around the horn quicker. As a final step, I brought back the original lustre of the burnished gold entirely by hand.
These old horns are beautiful and have such a distinctive sound. The end result blended that incredible Conn quality with easier ergonomics.
