Expert: Kenton Scott - 8/9/2008

Question
I have several early model F.A. Reynolds cornets and trumpets (serial nos <15,000). They all have the slides scribed to indicate two different pitch settings. They all play in Bb @ A440 with the slides pulled. With the slides in, they will easily go to the old high pitch. With a short-shanked mouthpiece, they can be played in B. The question is - What are they supposed to be playing in? They date to the late 30's or early 40's, so LP/HP seems outdated, unless it was some way of protecting an existing patent. Do you have any thoughts? Thanks.

Answer
It does seem kind of late for high pitched instruments.  My only thought is that some of the old high pitched bands held on for some time after the 440 standard was generally accepted.  And, some high pitched instruments were sold late to these bands who choose not to make the investment to convert the whole band.