The Mute Trombone

In early summer 2007 low C of the pedal 16' Trombone went dead. There were no mechanical issues with the trackers and action, and when the reed was re-tuned it still did not speak. We did know that air was reaching the pipe.

The Trombone has full-length wooden resonators and is by-and-large very easy to access EXCEPT FOR THE BOTTOM FEW PIPES on the C side, which is very difficult to get to. Knowing that the issue was within the pipe, likely a dirty reed and/or dead bird or bat, the next step would need to include lifting the resonator and block off of the boot. This would allow cleaning of the reed and removal of any dead animal or other debris blocking the air flow. This is easier said than done and after some months and numerous attempts, I gave up. The problem was not going to fix itself and I was not going to be able to do it myself even with the good advice I gathered from George Bozeman and Dave Wigton. In addition I brought some clever mechanical-type problem solvers in to see the logistical issues and although we had ideas, none was pursued. I finally called in Dave Wigton to do the deed.

Dave climbed up on the top of the 16' open wood and lifted the resonator from above while an assistant at the bottom helped guide and support it. Finally it broke free and was lifted up over the walk-board behind the Swell, turned upside down and after some poking and shaking, a long-dead bird fell out.

The reed was cleaned and put back in place and the resonator restored to its home (long to stay put I trust), tuned and regulated and we were back in low C Trombone land!