Looking to get a contra trumpet/flugelhorn built

[Bob Kolada]

I'm looking into getting another low "trumpet" in F or Eb built. I'd prefer a leaner, Bb bass trombone sound (partially so I can use it on infrequent bass gigs as I'm having ergonomic problems with big trombones that won't go away) but am open to more of a euphonium sound. I'd like something zingy, light, easy to play, compact, a big sound, and with good intonation with the ability to adjust slides (rings or kickers). A decent sized valve set from a marching bariphonium in Bb or G might work, possibly a very small bore top action Eb tuba. Eb would be nice as it would most likely be paired with an Eb tuba (so a lighter, bass trombone sound would also work better) and would give me a low Bb and A but F would be lighter.

Anyone got anything like this, got any parts that might work and are not wanted, interested in building it, got any thoughts,...? I would prefer to trade one of my for sale trombones but can also give actual money for it.

One of those Chinese travel tubas in trumpet form with piston valves might be nice. I sold my rotary bass trumpet as I just couldn't get used to the sideways thing.

Thanks!
Bob

[imperialbari]

One very common ergonomic problem with the heavy two valve bass trombone is about the trombone wanting to rotate to the left thereby creating what I with a bad expression might call tension-by-torsion in the players left wrist.

As I am fairly well educated in elementary mechanics (subdivision of science), I know how to balance things so that the center of gravity is right above the center of the supporting axis, which is the center of the edge between palm and wrist.

Trombones by definition have a moving center of gravity during playing, but that is counteracted by the right arm supporting the hand slide ever so slightly. The main problem is the said outward rotation. The very simple solution is to turn the rim of the bell so close towards the first branch of the outer slide that the right hand fingers and the slide just can pass the rim without collision.

One common reply when giving this advice to players with ergonomic problems is: I can’t see the music!

To which I reply: That is a matter of how you place yourself relative to your music stand.

Some bass trombones have good hand supports like my old first generation Boosey & Hawkes Sovereign. My newer (1990 or so) King 7B has none and was ergonomically hopeless, when I bought it. So I made my own support out of a wooden ring intended to hang curtains from a thick bar, braided nylon line intended to level bricks (as in building houses), and a cover up of textile tape intended for bike handles.

Klaus

[imperialbari]

As for the desire for a contra trumpet there are problems of choosing the pitch and about getting the right donor sources.

Harvey has made a high Bb cimbasso from an 8.5" bell with an F valve, the 3 pistons cluster from a baritone and the outer slide from trombone (bore unknown to me). But I think he uses it for the 3rd rather than for the bass trombone part in a dance band.

One potential bell source for a bright low instrument often may be seen on the UK eBay: G bass trombones with less than functional slides. Whether the gooseneck and the tuning slide shall be part of the project will depend on the bore of the valve section.

Klaus

[Bob Kolada]

The left wrist was never a real problem as I always use a hand strap, occasionally the Ergobone, and try to keep my lower arm and hand in a straight line when I play. I don't really like how the Ergobone ties me in place as I tend to bop around when I play. But with or without it my left elbow starts hurting pretty quickly. I suspect it's due to the tight angle from my long arms. Funny, the very thing that helps me play trombone makes it difficult to play trombone.

[Ace]

Try this. It's in Eb and cylindrical. I own one-------good build, great pistons, wonderful tone quality. Got it on eBay for $350.

http://www.jimlaabsmusic.com/band-orche ... _3641.html" target="_blank" target="_blank

Ace

Added: Oh, I think you are interested in a contrabass intrument, not a contra alto in F or Eb.

[Bob Kolada]

I brightened up til I saw your second line. Yes, I'm looking for a contrabass instrument.

[rodgeman]

What about one of the Travel Tubas in F or Eb?

I recently went from Bass Trombone to Tuba. I understand the issues with the bass. If not a travel tuba - then maybe a cimbasso? There are some Asian ones coming out.

I am just tossing ideas out there.

Good Luck!

[rodgeman]

Maybe this:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Bass-Trombone-4-rot ... _720wt_939

[imperialbari]

Is the bore large enough to make ot a real player?

Klaus

[TheHatTuba]

Is the bore large enough to make ot a real player?

Klaus

http://www.hornguys.com/miraphonecimbasso.php" target="_blank
They seem to like this one.....

[Bob Kolada]

That Cerveny is stupid expensive!

[Gilligan]

Have you considered a FLUBA ??



Yes it is real!

Check it out on Jim Self's site.

http://www.bassethoundmusic.com/index.html

[Bob Kolada]

While I'm at it, how about a front action non comp euph as well?

[rodgeman]

While I'm at it, how about a front action non comp euph as well?

Here is a beauty:

http://cgi.ebay.com/KING-4-valve-EUPHON ... 2526wt_705