Quote:
Originally Posted by rowuk  The finger holes are more experience than science. The cornetto or zink does not slot. You have about a third that you can bend each note. The regular trumpet rim is so round that you have to work harder to bend the notes in tune. ... . |
Forgive my asking, but just what is your experience with the cornet? I can't imagine it has been very good. Having played the instrument professionally for more than 25 years, I find these observations to be utterly rediculous.
There are quite complicated acoustics involved with the cornett and not much room for misplacing a fingerhole. Undercutting and adjusting size helps but only so much. Instruments that are capable of being played well in tune are not so rare these days and on a decent instrument there really is no need to bend notes as much as you suggest. I'd say notes really can't (or shouldn't) be bent more than a half step. Any more than that then you're effectively subverting the acoustics of the instrument and what does that prove? One should be trying to play the instrument itself not pushing it to what it shouldn' be doing. No its not an equal/meantone temperament thing. Its a JUST intonation thing= playing in tune (period!) in real time be it equal, meantone or any other tone for that matter. Just like modern instruments.
Yes indeed notes on a cornett slot, quite strongly and securely, and quite precisely I might add. Alternate fingerings not only help with intonation but also give options for different tonal colors.
re mouthpieces - many use trumpet style mpieces to great effect. as for "acorn" style mouthpieces: What rim? Their rim ususually measures in the range if 2-3mm wide at most.
Forgive my rant, but I just couldn't sit back and let such misinformation be promulgated.
To the original poster - Unless you really have a thing for woodworking or are really into creating things (or simply a masochist) don't bother. You'll either make an instrument that is surprisingly decent or has potential (very, very, very unlikely) or you'll creat such a dog of an instrument shaped object that you actually will have an experience such as described in a previous posting. Try to get a hold of a real cornett. There are used ones out there, and even the resin ones are quite good. There are even several noted performers who have played professionally and recorded with them.
Again, I am truly and most sincerely sorry for the rant and do not mean it personally. I'm just sick and tired of hearing the same old misinformation about historical brass instruments being perpetuated.
Dr.Z