Expert: Kenton Scott - 10/23/2010

Question
QUESTION: I just acquired a baritone horn. It is probably from the 1940's ( my guess).  The only identification on it that I can find is on the #2 valve where the serial # is usually found.  It says "Austria".  It is brass, but very light weight.  Can you give me any information?

ANSWER: Not really enough information to hazard much of a guess, but I'd think it might be a older than than.  Obviously an import.

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QUESTION: What else can I use for an identifier?  It has a water key, so it was made after 1900. I found it in Ohio from what I think was and estate sale. It is light weight.  The mouthpiece was an old Wurlitzer, brass.  Is this any help?  James

Answer
Some domestic companies would buy horns made in Europe and then resell them in the US.  Typically they would put their own information on them, but you also find some that have no markings.  Mouthpieces and the instrument are often mis matched, so that really isn't any help.  And, there were instruments with water keys prior to the turn of the century.