Thursday, August 31, 2006

Giardinelli C4 French Horn Mouthpiece

Giardinelli C4 French Horn Mouthpiece


Giardinelli has designed custom mouthpieces for thousands of professional musicians over the years and, to this day, we continue to work in close collaboration with the world's finest instrumentalists. The quality is unmistakable. From the moment you see a Giardinelli mouthpiece, to the moment you hear your first note, you'll know you've purchased a superior product!

Bach Mouthpieces - Prices Slashed

Bach Mouthpieces - Prices Slashed

Free ipod with Select Trumpets


Monday, August 28, 2006

Miraphone 1258 Euphonium

Miraphone 1258 Euphonium Lacquer

The Miraphone 1258 has a well centered sound, great upper and lower register, easy response in low and high register and one of the best in intonation. This euphonium is also 2 inches longer and is easier to play for taller players.

Schilke Custom C Trumpets S22C L Bore ML Bell

Schilke Custom C Trumpets S22C L Bore ML Bell

With a Schilke instrument one achieves the highest degree of intonation that is technically possible. Schilke offers many bell and bore combinations to suit your playing needs. Available in silver.

Schilke Custom C Trumpet

Schilke Custom C Trumpet with Tuning Bell C1L ML Bore L Bell

The advantage of the tuning bell feature is that the tuning slide can be left all the way in or moved only a little, thereby, keeping the bore relatively free of gaps that may cause a disturbance in the nodel pattern of the sound wave. Available in silver.

Sunday, August 27, 2006

How to buy a Trombone

The Trombone is a member of the Brass family. It is a simple, yet unique instrument in that it uses a slide to change from note to note, rather than valves. There are 3 basic types of trombones: Tenor, F-Attachment Tenor and Bass.

There are also specialty trombones such as the Valve and Alto. For students, the most common is the Tenor. This is the trombone most commonly used for concert and marching bands.

When choosing a step-up instrument, players sometimes option to move to an F-Attachment model. In our Buyers Guide, we will show you the differences between the various levels and how they affect price and performance.

The Tenor Trombone is the most basic of the trombone family with no tubing inside the main section. The bore (inside diameter) of a student trombone is around .500”, which is considered a “small bore”. This is important for a beginner, as it doesn’t take a large amount of air to produce a good tone.

Student
These trombones are machine made and designed to be inexpensive and durable. They play well, but forego the craftsmanship and high-end materials found on intermediate and professional models. A student model is commonly a Tenor model with a small bore. Most are made of Yellow Brass, although there are some student models that are manufactured from Rose Brass.


Intermediate
These trombones are machine made and designed to be inexpensive and durable. They play well, but forego the craftsmanship and high-end materials found on intermediate and professional models. A student model is commonly a Tenor model with a small bore. Most are made of Yellow Brass, although there are some student models that are manufactured from Rose Brass.

Professional
These trombones are machine made and designed to be inexpensive and durable. They play well, but forego the craftsmanship and high-end materials found on intermediate and professional models. A student model is commonly a Tenor model with a small bore. Most are made of Yellow Brass, although there are some student models that are manufactured from Rose Brass.

More Info

The F-Attachment Trombone features a trigger that is sometimes referred to as an “F trigger”, or an “F-rotor”. When this trigger is engaged, it activates extra tubing within the main loop on the bell section of the trombone. This makes the horn longer and lowers its tuning from “Bb” to “F”. Until the trigger is engaged, the trombone plays just like a standard Tenor.
The Bell

There are 3 different types of material used in making a brass instruments bell. Each material has a distinct influence on how the instrument will sound.

* Yellow Brass – This is the most common brass used in making brass instruments. It produces a rich, full sound. Most student horns are made of Yellow Brass

* Rose Brass – Also referred to as Red Brass or Gold Brass, this produces a darker, warmer tone in comparison to Yellow Brass. Most intermediate horns are made of Rose Brass.

* Silver/Nickel or Sterling Silver – Used primarily for professional instruments and some intermediate. It produces a very rich sound.

Our site has a complete and varied selection of Trombones for any playing level, all backed by our 45/45/100 Guarantee. Call and speak with one of our Product Specialists to help you find the instrument that’s perfect for you

Buying Guide for French Horns

The French Horn or “Horn” as it is sometimes referred to, is one of the most unique members of the Brass Family. First developed in France about 1650, the French horn has a wonderful warm round tone that makes it stand out in the Brass family.

The instrument comes in 2 basic versions: Single and Double. Single Horns are physically easier to handle and are available in smaller sizes for younger players. Students find the Single easier to start on and usually play it for a couple of years before switching to a Double Horn. Almost all intermediate and professional Horns are Double Horns.

These names sound a bit odd for a horn, but the differences are very basic.

There are 2 basic versions of the French Horn:

Single Horn:


This comes in the key of “F” or “Bb”. The majority of single French Horns that students begin with are in the key of “F”. The Single Horn has three rotary valves that are used to change notes.

Double Horn:


The Double Horn gets its name from the fact that it has a double set of tubing, which is engaged with a fourth valve pressed by the thumb. This allows the Double Horn to switch between the key of “F” and “Bb”. The player uses the “Bb” side of the instrument to hit higher notes more easily and more in tune than the “F” side of the instrument.

The Bell

There are 3 different types of material used in making a brass instruments bell. Each material has a distinct characteristic on how the instrument will sound.

* Yellow Brass – This is the most common brass used in making brass instruments. It produces a rich, full sound. Most student horns are made of Yellow Brass

* Rose Brass – Also referred to as Red Brass or Gold Brass, this produces a darker, warmer tone in comparison to Yellow Brass. Most intermediate horns are made of Rose Brass.

* Silver/Nickel or Sterling Silver – Used primarily for professional instruments and some intermediate. This produces a very rich sound.

The Taper

There are different tapers to the bell of a French Horn. The taper is the way the horn flares from a small diameter to the full opening of the bell. This is referred to as the Throat Size. Single Horns, especially for younger players, have a smaller throat, which produces a weaker, but more controlled sound. Double Horns usually feature a larger throat, which is harder to control, but produces a larger, fuller sound.
Linkage

Linkage refers to how the finger levers, pressed by the player, are attached to the valves. The two types of linkage are:

* String Linkage – This type uses a strong string, which is wrapped around a connecting post from the valve to the lever. When the lever is pushed down, the string rotates the rotary valve to change the note. String linkages require periodic adjustment and eventual replacement of the string. The biggest advantage of string linkage is its silent operation.

* Mechanical Linkage – This type uses metal arms that connect the levers and valves with ball and socket joints. Mechanical linkage can produce a slight “clicking” sound when the instrument is played. The advantage of mechanical linkage is that it lasts much longer than string linkage and requires less maintenance.

Our site has a complete and varied selection of French Horns for any playing level, all backed by our 45/45/100 Guarantee. Call and speak with one of our Product Specialists to help you find the instrument that’s perfect for you

Trumpet Buying Guide

The Trumpet is the highest voice in the Brass family. Within the Trumpet family there’s the Cornet, Flugelhorn and several specialty instruments such as “C” trumpets and Piccolo trumpets (Mainly used in symphony orchestras and chamber ensembles.) For students, the most common is the Bb (B-flat) Trumpet. This is the horn that is most commonly used for jazz, concert and marching bands. In our Buyers Guide we will show you the differences between the different levels and how they affect price and performance.

Student
These trumpets are machine made and built for economy and durability. They play well, but don’t have all the high-end features and craftsmanship found on intermediate and professional models. Most student horns are made with a two-piece bell as opposed to a one-piece. While this affects sound and projection, it also makes for a more affordable instrument. A student horn should fit the bill for most players for the first 2 to 3 years.

Intermediate
After 2 to 3 years, a player should consider moving up to an intermediate level trumpet. There are 2 different types of intermediate horns:

* Student horns with added features such as 1 st valve slide/thumb hook, deluxe cases, silver plating and adjustable 3 rd valve slide stops. These features improve durability and tuning.

* Intermediate trumpets based on comparable Professional horns built with less expensive manufacturing techniques that affect resonance, looks and intonation.

Professional
These are high-end instruments made with the finest materials and craftsmanship. Features such as one-piece bell, stainless steel pistons and heavy or lightweight versions are features usually found on pro horns. A professional trumpet is worth the investment for a long-term player of any age.

More Info

Valves

The player pushes down on the Valves or “valve pistons” to sound different notes. They are the main moving parts of a trumpet. The ease and accuracy with which the valves operate, plays a major role in the quality of the horn.

The valves on a student instrument are usually Nickel-plated. They are hard, durable and tolerant of infrequent cleaning. They are made with slightly looser tolerances so they should always move freely as long as they are regularly cleaned and oiled.

Many intermediate horns feature valves made from Monel®. Monel is an alloy that is softer than nickel plate. It’s very resistant to corrosion and it “wears in” for a very comfortable feel. Professional horns are usually made with either Monel valves or Stainless Steel.

The goal is to have valves play quickly and smoothly. This is the result of valves having been properly “lapped” (Polished and honed for a smooth, close fit). Intermediate horns often have hand-lapped valves, which means an expert has performed this finish work by hand to assure perfect function.
Finish

All trumpets are made of brass, but most are commonly available with a lacquer or silver plated finish. There are three main types of finish for brass instruments:

* Lacquer – A lacquer finish is sprayed on and then baked in an oven to cure it. A coat of lacquer slightly darkens the sound. All levels of trumpets are available in lacquer finish.
* Silver-plating – This finish is applied by dipping the instrument into a tank of silver. It’s more durable than lacquer and slightly brightens the sound.
* Gold Plating – This finish slightly darkens the sound and is found on professional instruments only.

Our site has a complete and varied selection of trumpets for any playing level, all backed by our 45/45/100 Guarantee. Call and speak with one of our Product Specialists to help you find the instrument that’s perfect for you

Conn 8D CONNstellation Series Pro French Horn

Conn 8D CONNstellation Series Pro French Horn

Conn 8D CONNstellation Series Pro French Horn
CONNstellation 8D all nickel Silver Bb/F Double Horn. The most popular French Horn in the world! Comes more >
Reg. $4,715.00
Our Price: $3,079.00

Meinl Weston 451S Compensating Euphonium

Meinl Weston 451 Series Compensating Euphonium 451S Silver


Meinl Weston 451 Series Compensating Euphonium 451S Silver


Meinl Weston 451S Compensating Euphonium
The Meinl-Weston 451 delivers superior intonation, flexibility, and control in all registers, with a more >
Reg. $5,900.00
Our Price: $3,295.00

Yamaha YCR8620S Xeno Professional Eb Cornet

Yamaha YCR8620S Xeno Professional Eb Cornet

Yamaha YCR8620S Xeno Professional Eb Cornet
The Yamaha YCR8620S Xeno Professional Eb Cornet was designed for cornet performance in solo, chamber more >
Reg. $2,895.00
Our Price: $1,991.01

Schilke XA1 / XA7 Custom Bb Cornets

Schilke XA1 / XA7 Custom Bb Cornets

Schilke XA1 / XA7 Custom Bb Cornets
Schilke professional cornets are hand-made and silver plated. Shipped with no case or mouthpiece.
Reg. $2,675.00
Our Price: $1,979.00

Free $300 Gas Card with Yamaha Trumpet Purchase

Free Shipping Woodwind Brasswind

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Jupiter 528 Bb Valve Trombone

Jupiter 528 Bb Valve Trombone

Jupiter 528 Bb Valve Trombone
An excellent value in valve trombones. A strong choice for the professional or the amateur.
Reg. $1,250.00
Our Price: $899.00

Protec PB301 Pro Pac Standard Trumpet Case

Protec PB301 Pro Pac Standard Trumpet Case

Protec PB301 Pro Pac Standard Trumpet Case
Includes a roomy mute compartment and accommodates two mouthpieces. It comes with shoulder straps - or more >
Reg. $114.00
Our Price: $79.98

Miraphone 281 Firebird 6 Rotary Valve F Tuba

Miraphone 281 Firebird 6 Rotary Valve F Tuba

Miraphone 281 Firebird 6 Rotary Valve F Tuba
Model 281, 6 valve F tuba. This horn plays just about perfectly in tune. Big sound out of a 4/4 F tuba more >
Reg. $12,500.00
Our Price: $6,999.00

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Bach 42 Professional Standard Tenor Trombone 42

Bach 42 Professional Standard Tenor Trombone 42 - no F attachment

BACH STRADIVARIUS 42 series Large Bore Tenor Trombones deliver a large symphonic sound that projects without distortion. Professional players often prefer the Bach 42 series instrument over anything else.

Schilke Custom Series with Beryllium Bell Bb Trumpet B1B

Schilke Custom Series with Beryllium Bell Bb Trumpet B1B ML Bore L Bell

Testing has shown that beryllium bronze projects very well with more of the higher overtones present. The response of this material is also faster at all dynamic levels from pianissimo to fortissimo. Price does not include a case which can be purchased separately.

Friday, August 18, 2006

Music 123 Brass Instruments

Bach Tuba/Sousaphone Mouthpieces in Silver 7

Bach Tuba/Sousaphone Mouthpieces in Silver 7

Standard Tuba/Sousaphone mouthpieces in silver.

Bach Model 1109 Intermediate Tuba

Bach Model 1109 Intermediate Tuba Lacquer finish

Another fine Bach product. A medium sized instrument with a warm sound and excellent resonance. The bore is rather large as is the bell, to add a lot of depth at the back of the ensemble.

Bach Combination Trumpet and Flugelhorn Case Combination case - trumpet and flugelhorn

Bach Combination Trumpet and Flugelhorn Case Combination case - trumpet and flugelhorn

Combination case for trumpet and flugelhorn.

Denis Wick Flugelhorn Mouthpieces in Gold 2FL

Denis Wick Flugelhorn Mouthpieces in Gold 2FL

Gold Plate Fluegelhorn Mouthpieces.

Cerveny AFH 501R Rotary Valve Bb Flugelhorn Lacquer with Nickel Silver Rim

Cerveny AFH 501R Rotary Valve Bb Flugelhorn Lacquer with Nickel Silver Rim

Cerveny's old style instuments are known world wide. This rotary valve flugelhorn offers the traditonal dark, rich sound and the smooth feel of rotary valves.

Blessing B154 Artist Bb Flugelhorn 154 - Lacquer, yellow brass bell

Blessing B154 Artist Bb Flugelhorn 154 - Lacquer, yellow brass bell

The free blowing B-154's sound is rich in quality, and fully enables the player to produce the magnificent, mellow soprano voice that is typical only of the flugelhorn. Available in many different configurations.

Allora Flugelhorn Lacquer

Allora Flugelhorn Lacquer

Flugelhorns, by Allora, are an idea refined that gives rise to an instrument that is easy to play and one that offers rich, full tonal quality with stellar projection and superb intonation.