Wm. Frank Utona Sousaphone

[tubarepair]

From the New Langwill Index:

Frank, William (b. Allentown, PA 1 January 1876; died Chicago 29 August 1932) Company ran in Chicago 1910-p1950

Earlier worked for Holton; 1910 established independently; later workforce of about 32; from 1934 used the tradename 'American Prep'; also trade name 'Belmore'.

DLH

[Mitch]

Frank trumpets are much more common, at least throughout the midwest. I've encountered technicians in Michigan familiar with trumpets from this company. The bulk of those are labelled "student" in one fashion or another. This is the first I've heard of a Frank tuba. I happen to own a Frank trumpet (-not- a student model) that was purchased for my uncle ca. 1950 (it was slightly used then). I, too, have found it challenging to find information about the company other than the basics, so I'll be watching this thread with added curiosity. I happen to believe my trumpet to be a great instrument, better than the Bach 37ML that I used to have (and I had a great one). I think some of their instruments must've been aimed at consumers looking for a higher quality product. The valves in my trumpet look like new. Every solder, joint, and brace is perfectly intact. Hopefully, your horn will serve you just as well. If I ever come across Frank instruments, I'll buy 'em (if the price is right).

[Lew]

A number of years ago I owned a "Frank" euphonium. It had fairly elaborate engraving and was a nice playing horn. Frank was a relatively small company that had a limited output so not too many of these instruments survive.