| Stage 1's new stuff
First of all, Felix and JC did a fine job with the PA trumpet fest. this past weekend. The experience gave me many ideas for this years Md. Trumpet Day and I look forward to continuing the work with the trumpet community.
Now to the horns. Felix had his new modular Bb at the show and I was able to give it a test drive before many people had shown up for the day. Let me tell you, that thing cooks. I have been a little sceptical of the copper rimless bell, since I had never played one. Felix had suggested this set up for my new horn so I was eager to try it out. Remember, I play lead stuff and also am in a regular Brass Ensemble, so I am looking for that versitle horn that can do it all. Well, I tried the Copper bell (about 5 1/4" rimless standard wieght) and was very surprised with how dark and rich I could make the horn. The tone seemed to just keep going and filled up the large hallway I was in with ease. I used both a shallow and deeper mouthpiece on this bell and was amazed on how even they both sounded, I could get an acceptable "legit" sound out of the horn with any mouthpiece set up. I tried the Gold Brass bell and Yellow Brass Bell as well, they both sounded great, but the copper had such a rich group of overtones it was hard to match.
Well, then Felix pulls out some slides he has for his Cal. line. The materials and bow of the crook change, and they make a world of difference. Even just the slide could change the character of the horn. To make a long story a little shorter, I can't wait to get my horn.
I ended up really liking the California Bb with a 5 1/4'ish solid copper bell with a Nickel squared slide for lead (and this thing really lights up) and an rounded yellow brass slide with a brace for legit (smooth as silk). I plan on trying more of the slide once mine arrives to really zero in on the perfect match for me.
Felix is making some amazing stuff. He was quite the star of the show and If I didnt know better, he may have gained some more players to his horns. |