Does anyone know who he is, or have had anything repaired by him? A close friend has been urged to send a vintage horn [cornet] to him for some work and was assured that Mr. Ita was excellent. My friend had an unfortunate incident with another vintage horn [another repairman altogether] and is somewhat gunshy about sending this horn to someone he really doesn't know personally.Since I have never heard of him either, a report either way from the TNFJ will help out immensely.
Thanks,
Scottw
I give Rich my highest recommendation. He's a world class repairman, and extremely knowledgeable. I've had my euphonium worked on by him 3 times, each with a fantastic result. My first choice in the Southeast among repairmen.
Martin Cochran
Columbus State University
University of Alabama-Birmingham
Adams Euphonium Artist mceuph75@gmail.com" target="_blank
Rich has done remarkable work for me as well. If I needed a cornet restored, I would choose him over anywhere else in the world. His shop is very close to my home and I can't ever get out of there on time because I hang around and watch him work on his precious cornets. It is his specialty and his passion.
I am fortunate to have a great job that feeds my family well, but music feeds my soul.
I have known Rich for years, played brass band with him and had him do work on tubas and cornets for me. I don't think you will find anything negative about him but, especially, from people for whom he has done work. He is a great repair tech and a wonderful person.
Always make a good sound; audiences will forget if you miss a note but making a good sound will get you the next job.