Expert: Kenton Scott - 9/3/2008

Question
Kenton,

I recently purchased an Antoine Courtois Trumpet, serial number 4633, from an antique dealer closing out his store, having recently suffered a stroke.  Although it was one of the last items on his shelves; he assured me that it was one of his true treasures.  It is in relatively good condition, with slightly tarnished silver plating, some denting around the bell, and an occasional ding on the lead piping.  The valves work well.

If it is not too much trouble, could you provide any insight you might have on the trumpet's history, and whether it is the treasure that was implied.

Thank you in advance!

Sincerely,

Patrick

Answer
Patrick,

I'm away from home as I'm on vacation and don't have any records with me, but the Courtois instruments are generally respected.  But, you may want to look at general information at:  http://www.horn-u-copia.net/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?board=Courtois