Martin Sousaphone in the UK

[Highams]

Just purchased a beautiful Martin 3v E flat Sousaphone to add to my collection.

Can't post any pics at the moment, our comp has a virus and has been out of action for some days now, I'm on a borrowed laptop.

It's a 1954 (I believe, number 1887xx) Martin E flat 3v sousaphone, in beautiful gold plate, in mint condition with valves like new. It's a dream to play, I've blown some models before and the sounded thin or rough when played loud. The thickness and quality of the metal are quite something.

The engraving says;
'The Martin, Elkhart, Ind'

I'll post some pics when we get the comp back.

CB



Cheers, Chas

[Highams]

maybe 1972?

I'll post some pics when we get the comp back.
Chas

[Wyvern]

Congratulations Chas! Look forward to seeing the pictures

[Paul Scott]

With that serial number the horn should date to early 1954, (many Martin serial number charts are just downright wrong). Interesting that Martin was making an Eb sousa that late-didn't know that. Congratulations on your new acquisition!

Paul Scott

[Highams]

Thanks Paul. I was originally given that date by a tpt player, but other sites date it to 1972 as I said. I tend to think it's from the 50's but would like to get it confirmed.

I'll be using it in my next recital for the first time on May 14th. the audience will love it I'm sure.

Chas

[Highams]

pics now here;

http://s91.photobucket.com/albums/k309/ ... ousaphone/" target="_blank

CB

[imperialbari]

Aside of yours looking much better than mine, this Martin and my Conn 26K are very close in general architecture. Details in valve slides and in the main bugle right after the tuning slide still prevent any mistakes about which is which.

My question is:

What is the bore of yours?

Klaus

[Highams]

Recordings now online;

http://www.acidplanet.com/artist.asp?so ... 069&T=6372" target="_blank

featuring the Highams 5v
Besson Enharmonic
Martin Sousaphone
B&H Imperial
Willson 2900

CB