When Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s signature, lettered tuba went missing in late February, the band sent out a distress call via Facebook offering a reward and a “no questions asked” policy for its safe return.

On Monday, the NOLA collective was pleased to announce that the tuba had been brought back to its rightful owners through an “anonymous tip.” And while the instrument’s identifying marks had been removed and it “suffered a little damage,” PHJB creative director/tuba player Ben Jaffe was overjoyed to be reunited with his instrument. “Words cannot express our appreciation for all the support and effort that went into getting the word out,” Jaffe wrote. “This tuba has allowed us to bring a lot of joy to the community and it was our community that helped ensure its return.”

For Preservation Hall Jazz Band’s upcoming tour dates click here.

Read Jaffe’s full statement below:

I am delighted and relieved to announce that our Preservation Hall Tuba has found its way home! We were able to retrieve the tuba through an anonymous tip. I want to thank everyone near and far for the overwhelming show of support! As you can imagine, the horn’s signature lettering had been removed and it suffered a little damage, but nothing a bit of “Tender Loving Repair” can’t remedy! It was through the outpouring of concern that the message spread and led to the tuba’s successful return. Words cannot express our appreciation for all the support and effort that went into getting the word out. This tuba has allowed us to bring a lot of joy to the community and it was our community that helped ensure its return. Much Love and Many Thanks, Ben