My Sander CC

[Sam Gnagey]

I'd like to share some thoughts about this horn. The overall size is about like a Rudy 4/4. I have a Rudy 4/4 bell that is nearly identical to the Sander's. The bore is 20mm (about .780") The valves have string linkage and once the first two valves have new cork bumpers they should all be fast and quiet. I played it on a concert with good results. The pitch is quite good. The sound is beautifully dark and colorful like I expect from an old Alexander. It's been a real challenge working with a 4th valve that gives the equivalent of a 2-3 combination (ie. play D below the staff 2-4; C# 1-4 etc). I won't change the 4th length. I don't have a fingered low DD or CC# but the false tones for them are useable. As you can see it has some dents in the 4th valve tubing that we'll repair, or we may have to try to replace that section of tubing. I discovered after taking the picture that the main slide is in backwards. The craftsmanship is extraordinary with artistically executed fine touches to detail.
I'm honored to possess this great old instrument which harkens back to the era of Geib, Helleberg and Green.

[Mark E. Chachich]

Mr. Sam Gnagey,

I am very happy that such a tuba is now in the possession of someone that will value and use it! I wish you many happy years with your Sander, it is a beauty!

best,
Mark

[jeopardymaster]

FWIW, Fred Marzan had a "cheater" pipe made for his copper Sander that he used to get that extra half step from his 4th valve. It fit between the original slide and original pipe so he didn't have to change the instrument from what the maker had intended- no cuts, no unsolders, no surgery at all. Elegant solution, I think. Sam didn't bother changing his horn, but of course his 5th valve was the same as everyone else's 4th, so there really wasn't a need. As I've posted before, Sam offered to sell me his backup Sander. I loved the sound, but the overtone series was pretty far off, so I declined. Plus of course the 4th valve was 2-3, but that was a nit. That one has been owned since by Dave Borsvold and Dave Freedy, but I'm not sure where it is now. Different craftsman, I think - the pipes are all kind of backwards, like some of those Alexanders one sees from time to time.

[Tom Coffey]

It's great to see another one of these in good hands. Congratulations Sam!