Expert: Kenton Scott - 8/19/2007

Question
Hi folks

I've just purchased a Besson & Co Baritone. The serial number is 113 707. I think this dates the horn between 1920 and 1930. Would you expect it to be high pitched? I have a similar 1924 Euphonium which I had converted to low pitch so will do the same to the Baritone if needed.
I also have an Eb Tuba by Couesnon around 1930, same question.
Thanks for your time.
Graeme

Answer
I agree on your dating.  In the US, I would expect that most horns from the mid-20s would be modern low pitch.  

There was a press of activity in the late teens to standardize pitch, but it wasn't successful. I find reports of subsequent efforts in Germany in 1939 and London in 1953, and again in 1971 to set a international pitch standard.  But, I don't believe it has ever occurred.  

And even after low pitch became the norm, horns were still manufactured for high pitch.  The reason being that many bands had considerable investment in high pitched instruments, and it was more economical to get a few high pitched ones rather than replace the whole band.

So, I would think it more likely that the horns you mentioned are low pitched, it would not be a certainty.