Expert: Kenton Scott - 12/10/2007

Question
I recently bought a Boosey & Co Silver Plated Cornet, it has Class A, Light Valve, 295 Regent ST London and a number 63244 on the bell. The bell is also engraved with flowers and leaves.
There is a number 50257 on the second valve.
I am really not sure what key it is but the tones are the same when I play a low open tone on the Boosey and I play an F on a B flat trumpet. I am guessing that it would be an E flat trumpet? Is there a way to confirm this?
Can you tell me how old it might be and any other information you might have that might be interesting.

Thanks,

Tim

Answer
When you play a "C" on a Eb cornet, it sounds an Eb.  When, you play an "F" on a Bb trumpet, it sounds a Eb.  So, yes you have an instrument pitched in Eb.  I'm assuming that this horn is smaller than your Bb trumpet, which would make it an Eb (probably) cornet.  If it is larger, it would be a solo alto hor.  It dates to 1902.