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Trumpet/C. G. Conn Cornet with Opera Glass Tuning Slide

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Expert: Mike Pawul - 6/12/2009


Question
I have acquired a gold plated C. G. Conn Cornet with serial number 347579 with an "opera glass" tuning slide.  Since the second valve tuning slide points back toward the ferrule, am I correct in concluding that this is a C. G. Conn Victor Cornet Model 80A?

As a seller, which features should I emphasize and why would they be important to a potential buyer?  Also, what type of performer would most be attracted to this instrument?

Thanks in Advance!

Answer
Thomas, It sounds like you have already done some homework. Since it dates to 1941 it is most likely an 80A. It could be an 8A but would need to be longer and thinner looking than the 80A.

The horn is of most interest to a collector so the emphasis would need to be on the original finish, all parts match, all slides and valves move as they should, and overall wear to the horn. If you could be sure the horn had never been redone that is also a good point to use.

Good Luck!

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Mike Pawul

Expertise

I am familiar with most trumpets, cornets, and flugelhorns. I can answer most questions about playing and musicality. Best of all, if I can't answer it directly I play regularly in several bands and have many "old timers" that are familiar with most things that I am not. I collect, repair, and refinish old horns and have sold over 600 with more than 400 on ebay

Experience

I have played since 1965 and studied with many directors and trumpeters. I have been collecting since 2002 and have over 150 horns in my personal collection. I have done repair and refinsh since 2003 and have done work on over 900 horns.

Organizations
Kosair Shrine Brass Band and Dance Band, The Notables, The Mello Tones, Bourbon City Brass Band, River Cities Concert Band, Derby City Brass Band, University of Louisville Community Band, Member of Trumpet Players International Network (TPIN), Bugles Across America (BAA), Member of the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians (NAPBIRT)

Education/Credentials
I played at Brunswick High School. I played through college and have a BS in Business Administration from Trinity College. Of course, I am still learning from all my friends that play and work on trumpets around the world.

Awards and Honors
Without being vain, numerous awards and have played in several honor bands.

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