Vintage sax water damaged by Katrina

I don't know if it is hopeless or not but I need some advice. My father-in-law (now passed away) was inducted into the N.O. Jazz Hall of Fame shortly after his death. He played for more than 50 years behind many great names in the famous Fairmont Hotel's Blue Room, on Bourbon Street and many other notable places. Unfortunately, Hurricane Katrina destroyed his home where his vintage alto and vintage tenor sax were stored. They were underwater for 16 days. After they were rescued from the house they were placed, still in their cases, in plastic bags to isolate the molding cases. Needless to say, this was done by a non-musician. Obviously, there is extensive damage to the finish. All pads, strings, etc will need to be replaced. My questions: Has anyone experienced this extent of needed restoration and is it even possible? He was a legend and actually gave Pete Fountain lessons when Pete was a young man. I hate to loose these instruments if it is at all possible to restore them. All comments would be appreciated. Thank you.

Reply To Post [Report Abuse]