This vintage Yamaha Custom French Horn YHR861 carries decades of musical history and character. Yamaha's custom series brass instruments are legendary among musicians for their refined design and rich tone, making classic vintage models like this one a genuine point of interest for collectors, repair technicians, and brass enthusiasts alike.
The set includes the horn itself, a Yamaha 30E mouthpiece, and its original carrying case. The case holds a small piece of brass heritage: a faint, handwritten signature from Peter Damm, former principal horn of the Dresden Staatskapelle, signed roughly forty years ago. It's hard to spot at first glance; zooming in on the side of the case without the sticker brings it into view.
Please note that this horn is in overall poor condition and is best suited as a restoration project or a historical display piece. It was purchased around 45 years ago and last overhauled and relacquered by Yamaha some 30 years back, but it has sat unplayed for the past two decades. Rust has taken hold, and some of the valves and slides are currently frozen in place. The case shows heavy wear as well, and the seller notes that the actual instrument looks more worn in person than the photos suggest.
Yamaha Custom Horn YHR-861, purchased approximately 45 years ago. It was overhauled and lacquered by Yamaha around 30 years ago.
Unused for approximately 20 years and allowed to develop rust. Photos appear cleaner than the actual instrument. Some valves do not move, and some slides are also stuck.
Includes a Yamaha 30E mouthpiece and a worn case. The case bears a faint signature obtained approximately 40 years ago from Peter Damm, then principal horn of the Dresden orchestra.
