[Dixielandjazz] for banjo players

[Cebuisle2 at aol.com]

Hello Kay and all you other banjoists-
 
After years in storage I finally got my Ludwig capitol Special out of the  
closet and have tried to refresh my knowledge. Amazing how little I remember  
chord wise, and how stiff my wrists. are.
 
But that's not the purpose of this post. I could use some help. Is there  
anyone out there who repairs banjos, or has a supply of spare parts? Years ago I  
took the instrument to a ":reputable" string instrument repair shop. The 
pearl  inlays were becoming unstuck. The shop managed to break the nickel tail 
piece  removing it and substituted as cheap chrome one from a five stringer. 
There are  almost no four string banjos in this neck of the woods. I would like to 
return  the instrument to its original condition, even though it plays well 
with the  bastard tail piece.
 
Secondly, the old wooden case is in shabby shape. The black (leather?)  
covering has come off on the edges, exposing the wooden construction. The  leather 
handle has dry rotted and broken. 
 
The banjo has been in the family since the early twenties. (No, I didn't  buy 
it new!!) I inherited it years ago and used to be able to play it.
Is there anyone you players know who can help with repairs and/or  parts?
 
                                                                              
                 ted