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French Horns
The Balu Instrument Spa
The Balu Instrument Spa Expert Repair and Customization Work By working out…
Detachable Bell Conversions
Detachable Bell Conversions Detachable Bell Conversions require knowledge and precision in order…
Yamaha 671 repair without replacing the bell.
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EXCELLENT Based on 43 reviews Evan Kashtan2024-08-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing care and craftsmanship. My new recommendation for any brass instrument repair! Davis Erin Anderson2024-08-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommended for horn repair in Chicago and beyond! I had a great experience meeting Ion. Not only did he have my horn back to me the same day, but the condition was improved beyond my expectations Ethan Stanfield2024-07-30Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ion is a great guy and took care of all the dents in my horn perfectly. Getting it cleaned also makes it play like a completely new instrument. There's no one I trust more to work on my instruments! Alex Benson2024-07-07Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ion is the absolute best! He worked on my Alex 103, removing the lacquer, doing extensive dent work and he did a beautiful custom finish on the inside of the bell. What I liked most about Ion was he was almost as excited about my horn as I was - even though it was a lot of work - he had a vision for the whole project. He went above and beyond on my horn and was even able to somehow bring my already very good compression (1.2) in my valves down to 0.1! Pricing was excellent and fair on everything too - my horn now looks and plays brand new (even though its 100 years old)!!! For all the work he did, the turn-around to get it back was not bad at all. I really really recommend his work to anyone with a horn that means a lot to them. I know for sure I'll be back!!! Jillian Adams2024-06-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ion is amazing! He did such a great job cleaning my horn, and fixing the tiny dings in my bell! He even got it all done by the next day! I loved the video he sent of my horn getting a bath. Will definitely be back. Ion is very knowledgeable and kind! Kevin Krivosik2024-06-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am incredibly pleased with Ion’s work. He took my Conn 8D and gave it a huge makeover and cleaning. It feels like I’m playing a new horn with my cut bell and lacquer removed. He’s the best! Ryan Williamson2024-06-06Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Went in for an ultrasonic cleaning and minor dent removal on my Lewis. Ion’s care and attention to detail in his work is fantastic. So grateful to have him in Chicago! Marc Hetzel2024-05-05Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ion added a flipper/duckfoot and worked on my rotary valves. I have an older horn (Chambers Contempora) and he has made it play better, more ergonomic, and it looks great! He does fantastic work and I will definitely be back! Shawn2024-05-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ion Removed the lacquer off my B&S PT-4P Tuba. Though a horn player, Ion did expert work on my tuba. His attention to detail is unmatched by anyone i've let work on my instruments. Pricing was great. Will always recommend! Stanley Bouma2024-03-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Ion Balu REALLY knows horns! He makes, fixes, reconditions, and cleans horns. He reconditioned my Geyer, and it sounds MUCH better than before- more secure note centering, and better high and low range. He is meticulous and attends to the smallest details. I highly recommend his work.
Ion Balu has been integral to my successful performances. He has a wealth of experience from repairing horns to designing and building horns which gives him my trust with my instruments. He can quickly identify any issues on the horn and has done beautiful repair and restoration work on my instruments. I go to Balu and trust him with any issues I have. He can fix anything!
Precision French Horn Repairs Personalized Customization: Elevate Your Instrument’s Potential
Ion played professionally for almost two decades and knows a thing or two about sound concepts. There are many intricacies involved with helping horn players find their sound, and this is something Ion takes the time to do. Don’t be surprised if you get a lesson along the way! Whether you’re on FaceTime or in our shop on Michigan Ave, you’ll experience a tailored visit just for you. Call, text, or message us on social to schedule an appointment. At the heart of our business is our desire to earn your trust. If you know Ion, you know he strives for perfection. He puts his entire being into everything he does. If you’re a high school student, or a touring pro – your horn and experience with our staff will be the same.(click here)
Discover your Perfect French Horn and more
If you’re a first time customer – visit our Instagram or social feeds to see examples of our work. Be it a cleaning, bell conversion, ergonomic enhancement, or a commissioned custom horn built to your specifications – we are here to do the best possible work with complete transparency. (click here)
World’s best mutes, custom mouthpieces and more…
Experience the pinnacle of musical craftsmanship with our selection of world-class hand-crafted mutes, custom mouthpieces, and more at Balu Musik. Each of our products is meticulously handcrafted using unique technologies, ensuring unparalleled quality and performance. Widely recognized as the choice for professionals and amateurs alike, (click here) Balu Mutes are proudly made in the United States with US materials and labor.