Six years ago I bought the horn of my dreams, a Factory CC Holton 345 Tuba, silver. The horn was marvelous,however like a classic car of 50 (+) years of age it was in need of an overhaul. The horn had been modified some years back with a 22 " York Bell and Bow in addition the lead pipe had been changed several times, including modification from the owner I bought it from to one that was more comfortable for myself.
After 4 years of solid playing I knew it was time to have the horn overhauled. The 22" bell was not working out for me, I am sure it worked well for others, the Lead pipe mod I performed to the horn was not working out, and I believe the bottom bow was near cracking.
Lee took my horn and completely restored it to its factory condition, Matching Numbers
!! Mr Tom Treace (Another Thank you !!!!) provided a silver 345 bell and Lee had the bow. The work performed is meticulous !! Lee found all original parts and put the horn back to the way it would have been !! Lee was so generous in the time he spent away from other projects and most of all his family working on my instrument, I have know him since I was little boy and he has always been a man I have looked up to. Lee worked with me as I bought a new house, was married, and adopted great son to get my instrument finished and back too factory playable condition. I have talked to Lee steady for over two years, while my horn was away from everything from living a Christian Life to tuba's and though I have known Lee for a long long time I believed I gained way way more than a restoration.
Lee I love my horn !!! I love playing it !! Thank you Sir and thank you for being a mentor and most of all my friend.
Here are two pictures 1st Pre-Restoration 2nd Post-Restoration !
Thank you,
Ronnie A. Tong Jr.
