Gear
There’s an old saying. “It’s the player, not the horn.” Very true, but it’s also true that you will play better on a quality instrument than on a garden hose.
So for the gear-heads (and my insurance), here’s my current stable. Yes, I do like copper.
Horn-ography
Monette 149XL (Bb) in raw brass, serial 1663 (2000). My go to for most everything.
Compact sound, amazing slotting, it’s a Monette after all.
Mouthpiece is a Monette Prana STC-1 B4S S2 82
B•A•C “Pro 2” (Bb), copper bell in a brushed satin lacquer finish, Meinlschmidt valves.
Serial 862 (2025). Mouthpiece is a Monette Prana Resonance B4S S2 82.
I showed up unannounced to their factory while in Kansas City and Mike Corrigan and the people there were very nice and accomodating. After trying a bunch of horns and 3 prototypes I just had to have this one! Brighter and wider than my Monette, and just a joy to play! Seriously consider BAC if you’re in the market, these are fantastic horns!
Getzen Custom Class 3850 Cornet (Bb)
Serial G41380 (2007). Mouthpiece is a Monette STC B4SD.
1st and 3rd valves are vented.
Kanstul ZKF1525 (Bb). Serial 36723 (2010) Mouthpiece is a Monette STC B4S FLG.
“THE Flugel" for many many people. 6 1/2” Copper bell. .421 bore. Bach shank receiver.
1st and 3rd valves are vented. Yea. Just a damn great flugelhorn.