paultandberg

Hi,

It is time to get my son a new trumpet. I am considering good horns from good companies. Some are silver, some are lacquered (brass?).

Is the choice between silver and brass governed by appearance preference or are there some pros and cons to consider, such as ease of care or brightness of tone. (and in the same vein, what is the difference between a gold bell and a brass bell--do I have the two materials right?

My son is ten. He likes to play and he is pretty darn good. He plays in band and pep band. He is a good blower and he likes to play loud.

Some of the horns I am considering: Kanstul 700, Getzen 700, Eastman something or other, any Yamaha between $700-$1000. Of this group, is the Eastman the only horn with a one-piece, seamless bell? And does it matter? (and does the Eastman in fact have a one piece seamless bell in their "under a grand trumpets (I am only aware of two models, the cheaper one has lever spit keys and the more expensive one has amato-type (sp) water keys.

Thanks,

Paul