29 July 2013

Phil's Old and Odd Brass Collection (USA)



 "Tornister"  Tenor Tuba by Cervany c.1900
This is a beautiful small Tenor Tuba or Baritone  in Bb made by Cervany primarily for the military. It is called a "Tornister" or "Rucksack" baritone. The advantage of such a small horn is obvious- it can be easily carried on a long march in a soldier-musician's backback. It is 16 1/2" lng (42cm) and has a bell 6 7/8" (17.5cm) in diameter. Note the unique design feature which has the leadpipe coming from the side opposite the bell. It is a nearly identical companion to my tiny Tornister Tuba which is only slightly larger.  The label  is written: CERVANY & SOHNNE - ZUKUNIGGRATZ IN BOHMEN.   This baritone and my Tornister Tuba were both lovingly restored by Dick Hansen in Massachusetts. They both play amazingly well for such small horns.
More old instruments HERE

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