Description
Martin Committee II saxophones were only made for a few years, and of the few that were made, hardly any are in good cosmetic condition, because Martin used delicate lacquer that wears off quite easily over time. This one is looking quite good still, with some normal lacquer wear from use on the back of the body tube and bow. The neck, bell, and body tube all look great. There are a few spots on the back of the bow where lacquer is missing, perhaps from a light chair dent being removed long ago. (This has no effect on the way the horn plays at all.) As you can see, the Committee 2 model came with strong, nickel keywork, and it has a cool look with the dark vintage lacquer.
The most important thing you need to know about the Committee II alto is that it plays well. These are very versatile altos with a warm, round, medium dark tone that works great for classical or jazz. The intonation is very good as well. Keywork is pretty comfortable too, and altissimo is easy. For a good vintage alto at a reasonable price that was handmade in the USA to the very highest standards of professional manufacture, AND for less than the price of a cheap, mass-produced student alto, this is an excellent choice. It’s amazing to me that people don’t buy something like this for their promising student who needs a step-up instrument, but instead buy a bland sounding modern Yamaha 62III for $3k!! So please, if you want to both save money, and get a horn that sounds really full and interesting, get this, and put some of the savings towards a good mouthpiece as well, and you will really be in business. This is the gear-related advice I often wish I could tell my younger self, so that’s why I’m passing it along to you.
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