Bisher

[Windsong]

Well, at least that is how it is pronounced, (and here is your proof:)

Buescher made some neat stuff.  While the early split-bell saxes were known to be problematic, intonally, and front F often got pinned (spring reversal) to assist with achieving acceptable intonation, they were more known for their build quality and beauty.

Ferdinand Augustus Buescher, ("Gus") made a decent horn with a nice, fuzzy sound.  Most modern players snicker and scoff if you mention these early True Tones, but I still say they are one of the nicest looking saxes ever made, and have an intimate tone.

During the 1920s, especially as American manufacture was concerned, Buescher had some of the very best engravers, and sensible, attractive mechanicals.  I think Martin and Holton qualify here, as well.

As a teen, I had an Alto TH&C (c. 1948) for about 5 weeks until my mother got swindled out of it for a shiny new Bundy II, but that's a story for another time.  I have had a few Bueschers since then, and they have all been good, fun players, though probably without the potential of the TH&C.  I still have a satin silver 1923 Alto with a gold wash bell.  It is enjoyable to gaze at, truly.

Today, in a listing, on the reverse side of a warranty card, I heard eloquent verse, straight from the horse's mouth, well worthy of broadcast:

[350 Rocket]

Sometime in the '50s, they'd reversed course.
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I've read previously that the Buescher family pronounced their name "Bisher", but the company was often "Busher". I'm not sure what the basis for this is though, besides maybe long-term recollections of those in the industry.

In any case, the most well-known Buescher today is probably the one who drives the #17 Ford for Roush, and he pronounces it "Busher", so that'll probably stick for a while. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZq_WBAf81Y

I've never been able to get my hands on a proper Buescher. One slipped away years ago and I haven't seen one locally since. (I do have a ca. 1923 Wurlitzer stencil C-melody that was made by the Elkhart Band Instrument Co. and is a Buescher design, but it has all its original pads and I've yet to decide what to do with it.)

Gus Buescher's words still ring true today.

[Windsong]

Yes indeed.  There was some confusion, back and forth, and probably some appeasement and "Americanization" at play.

I always said "Busher" because my great uncle called it that, and he was a big band sax player in the 40s.

I have a friend with the last name of Buettner, who pronounces it "Bit-ner" still, and that's probably a good thing.