Late-19th Century Salvation Army Class C G Bass Trombone
$750.00
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In stock: 1 available
Product Details
Brand: Salvation Army
The G bass trombone is a historic, small-bore bass trombone pitched in the key of G
that was widely used in British brass bands and orchestras from the 19th century until its decline in the late 20th century.
Key Characteristics
- Pitch & Key: Pitched in G (a minor third lower than a standard B♭ tenor or modern bass trombone).
- Slide & Handle: Features an extra-long hand slide that requires a mechanical handle attachment to comfortably reach the 5th, 6th, and 7th positions.
- Bore & Sound: Uses a small bore (typically under .490" or around .485") rather than the large bore of modern bass trombones, producing a bright, raspy, and cutting tone.
- Bell Design: Features a more gradually flared bell reminiscent of historical sackbuts.
Age and Origin
- Estimated Date: This trombone was likely manufactured around 1891 to 1893.
- The Math: The Salvation Army began manufacturing its own instruments in London in 1891. By 1896, they had reached serial number 5,049, and by 1972, their final production number was 34,283. A low serial number like 1045 places it squarely within the very first few years of the Salvation Army's in-house brass production.
- The "C" Stamp: The "C" accompanying the serial number explicitly denotes the Class C production standard (their economy or student tier at the time), matching the engraving on the bell.
This instrument has been serviced in our shop, where it was ultrasonically cleaned, and a couple of dents were taken out of the bell. The instrument plays great, slide shows some wear for being as as old as it is. Comes with a black alligator skin hard case and a mouthpiece from that era. This is a great piece of British instrument manufacturing history, and it also plays really well!
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Late-19th Century Salvation Army Class C G Bass Trombone
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