Miscellaneous John Talcott (jbtsax) R.I.P.

JayeNM · Dec 6, 2023

Wow, shocking...sudden. I somehow missed this entirely, that he was even injured.

We shared many a spirited conversation over the years with John; he could be quite the curmudgeon but I say that respectfully - once we adjusted to one another it was a very fruitful online relationship between two repairers.

His knowledge of acoustical engineering as it pertained to musical instruments was astounding. We occasionally helped each other out with sax-based repair stuff or history over the years as well.

I am really a bit numb.....

jonf · Dec 6, 2023

How sad. I was always so impressed by the combination of the depth of his knowledge and his generosity with it.

greenstripe · Dec 6, 2023

Rest in peace jtbsax

helen · Dec 6, 2023

Oh no. I am so sad to hear this. He and I have been in touch over the years about a variety of things ranging from vintage German saxophones, to alto mutes.

I will keep his family in my thoughts while they go through this difficult time.

PigSquealer · Dec 6, 2023

JayeNM said:
Wow, shocking...sudden. I somehow missed this entirely, that he was even injured.

We shared many a spirited conversation over the years with John; he could be quite the curmudgeon but I say that respectfully - once we adjusted to one another it was a very fruitful online relationship between two repairers.

His knowledge of acoustical engineering as it pertained to musical instruments was astounding. We occasionally helped each other out with sax-based repair stuff or history over the years as well.

I am really a bit numb.....

John always brought something to the conversation. Differences in opinion or technique I always welcomed. I will greatly miss his presence.
I had many great private conversations with the man. I learned from his recent adventures in plating. John was always interested in learning new options and sharing the experience.
One of my favorite threads with him was ”the missing cone”.
Musician, technician, scientist and fellow member will all be missed.

Pete Thomas · Dec 6, 2023

PigSquealer said:
One of my favorite threads with him was ”the missing cone”.

Was that this one?

Tech/maintenance - A new way to see a saxophone - the missing cone

Notice how the wavelength for the note Ab concert behaves as if it begins at the apex of the "imaginary" missing cone. What a cool instrument we play. The "missing cone" is also longer than the neck itself.

cafesaxophone.com

Clivey · Dec 6, 2023

A very sad loss to the global saxophone community. I will always remember him for his expert advice, his vast knowledge of acoustics and of course his beautiful alto playing. RIP

Digger2054 · Dec 6, 2023

Sorry to read this. As a relatively new member & learner his posts were very informative and helpful, we're very lucky to have just a portion of his knowledge on the forums, and will undoubtedly continue to help many others in the future.

saxyjt · Dec 6, 2023

John, I hope they're connected where you are now and can feel the love from here. I was hoping to meet you one day in this life. I will have to be in the next. Looking forward to.

DavidUK · Dec 6, 2023

I just re-read a long PM thread with John relating to Scotchbrite pads and dremel sanding wheels he recommend to me.
Whenever I use one in future, he'll be in my thoughts.
A sad loss. RIP.

skeller047 · Dec 7, 2023

This is a sad loss to our community. We mourn, and send condolences to John’s family. RIP.

Manco · Dec 7, 2023

It is a sad message for me that he has passed, as he showed integrity in a medium. Ie internet discussions on music and saxophone, that can be ( full of sh**T ) on all the available platforms. I can recall his measured comments re. A subject on SOTW which I will always treasure.

I feel sad for his family at this time.

I hope Mr Springsteen and his friends can express my feelings for his loss.

View: https://youtu.be/RmUG1ffgKFw?si=d_xGqjbi4m7ZlcVv

wakyct · Dec 7, 2023

I arrived too recently to the forum to interact with him, but I've read many old threads here where John's posts added much to the conversation. My condolences to his family, and to the Cafe Sax community.

PigSquealer · Dec 7, 2023

Pete Thomas said:
Was that this one?

Tech/maintenance - A new way to see a saxophone - the missing cone

Notice how the wavelength for the note Ab concert behaves as if it begins at the apex of the "imaginary" missing cone. What a cool instrument we play. The "missing cone" is also longer than the neck itself.

cafesaxophone.com

Yes this one and another years later on SOTW.

Jeanette · Dec 7, 2023

Just wanted to share the below message I received from a member of John's family. I am sure your kind words have brought some comfort.

Jx

Thank you so much, Jeanette. I have shared all of the information with our family. It's been a pleasure reading through the posts and seeing John's influence and talents shared with so many. Beyond grateful you reached out and shared the link.

RUISAX777 · Dec 7, 2023