Preserving the Past, One Note at a Time

Fans of Antiques Roadshow know that the stories behind heirlooms often rival the value of the objects themselves. Whether tucked away in closets or passed down through generations, these items offer a glimpse into personal and cultural history.

At Rocky Mountain Music Repairin Broomfield, Colorado, that same spirit of rediscovery plays out every day. Brass and woodwind instruments arrive with dents, dings, and decades of memories. For owner Brian Stevenson, each one carries a unique history — from century-old cornets to unusual instruments that seem as though they belong in a storybook. Some have even survived dramatic journeys, including falls from moving cars.

Since 2013, the shop has provided expert repair and restoration services, serving musicians from across the Front Range. But the work extends beyond the bench. Each year, Rocky Mountain Music Repair partners with Bringing Music to Life, a nonprofit organization that refurbishes donated instruments for students in underfunded schools. The team also organizes an annual School Secret Santa Instrument Drive, providing repaired instruments to music programs in need. In just four years, these efforts have supported more than 15 schools across Colorado, with contributions valued at over $220,000.

Stevenson is also an avid collector, with a personal archive of rare and storied instruments. In a recent visit with Rocky Mountain PBS, he shared four favorites from his collection — not just discussing their history, but also playing them to demonstrate their distinctive sounds.