Horn of the Day - 1923 Conn Eb Alto

[mrpillow]

This was recently acquired by the National Music Museum along with a highly engraved 38H ballroom model. It was made for Fred Tait, who among other notable posts was principal for the San Francisco Symphony from 1911-1913 and 1920-1934. The story from the donor is that Tait had the instrument specifically made for the performance of a particular opera, but he could not recall which one!

Beautiful instrument, I know some of you will appreciate it. Just thought I'd make a quick share in a spare minute at work!

Cheers

[hyperbolica]

very nice...

[Matt K]

WOW That's gorgeous. I love the bow guard.

[Neo Bri]

Wow...I love that!

[TriJim]

Ferrules, Water Key, and friction fit appear to match the parts on my 1923 Conn 5H; also in excellent condition.

Conn 5H (tenor) has guard on end of slide, but not 'bow guard' on tuning slides as shown on this alto.

Original black 'coffin' case includes small metal bottles - I think for slide lube.

Any idea what mouthpiece was used? (5H came with 'CONN TROMBONE' mouthpiece, somewhat smaller rim and bore when compared to contemporary examples, but the horn accepts current SS mouthpieces, too).

[mrpillow]

There is no mouthpiece that came with the alto unfortunately, and no information on what piece was used with it before.

[mrdeacon]

Raw brass?

[elmsandr]

How big is this horn? Is it largish like some of the 20s custom horns?


Cheers,
Andy