Expert: Kenton Scott - 10/1/2008

Question
I believe that it the maker.   It is very hard to read.  It also says Made in Williamsport PA. number is 7744.  This is an old silver plated trombone with scroll work on the bell.   To me it sounds stuffy though even with a modern mouth piece.  The mouthpiece that is with the trombone is a Harry Glartz 6M. I play euphonium and am not that familiar with trombones. Can you tell me anything about this horn?

Answer
Brua Keefer of Williamsport, was the quality successor to quality maker Henry Distin.  It dates to 1919.  You would probably be more impressed with a Keefer baritone.  

Their horns were all top notch, but the nature of trombones have changed more dramatically than valved instruments.  A well respected trombone of the period is not very satisfactory to the modern player.

The old trombones are bright and edgy and do not blend with modern trombones.  

A new mouthpiece will only confuse the issue.  The old horns were designed to play best with period mouthpieces.  Modern mouthpieces will have have negative effects on intonation and response.