Expert: Kenton Scott - 3/8/2011

Question
I recently acquired a valve trombone and don't know anything about it and am having a hard time finding any info on the internet.  It has a CG Conn, Elkhart Ind stamp on the bell with a leaf/feather design etched on the bell.  There is a number stamped into the middle key, 121913.  I don't know anything about this instrument and am very curious.  It also has a black hard case with mouthpiece.  Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

I already asked Colin Muray but this is not his area of expertise, so he referred me to you.

Answer
Your horn dates back to 1911.  Back at that time, instruments were made to play at the antique "high" pitch, as well at the modern "low" pitch.  It was a time of transition.  And, some horns were made to be able to switch from one to the other.  It was also a time of transition for trombones.  Slide trombones, though the much older type of instrument, had gone out of favor in the 19th Century, and was only coming back into favor when your horn was built.  Now, valve trombones are not commonly used.