Specifications
Cornets in their standard form are pitched in Bb as trumpets. However they
differ from trumpets in that cornets have a conical bore (which gets gradually
larger throughout the length of the instrument), where as trumpets have
a cylindrical bore (which is the same from lead pipe to the beginning of
the bell flair). In addition the different layout and configuration of
the instrument allows for a different and distinctive mellow tone.
However, in terms of technical specifications and choices, many of the
factors and options discussed in the trumpet section relating to materials,
lead pipe, valves and so on equally apply to cornets.
Long/Short Model
In the UK the normal cornet layout is a short model (compact shape with
a "shepherd's crook" design). Long model cornets are more "trumpet
like" in shape and the norm in the USA. These are seldom seen in Britain
and all the models listed are short model. |
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Bores
Besson offer their Sovereign and Prestige models in both medium and large
bore, however practically every instrument we sell is a large bore model.
Finger Rings and Triggers
To aid in tuning, cornets have finger rings or triggers, which enable the
first and third valve slides to be extended. As instruments become higher
in specification they move to having one finger ring on the 3rd slide (Elkhart
and Jupiter student models), to two finger rings (Yamaha YCR2330), to one
trigger on the 3rd slide (Besson 700), to two triggers (Besson Sovereign,
Prestige and Yamaha Maestro).
Finish
The finish (lacquer or silver) makes little or no difference to the tone
of the instrument. We recommend choosing Silver for all Besson products,
(as both options are the same price, silver is harder wearing, easier to
repair, and less prone to manufacturing defects). For Yamaha instruments
we generally recommend choosing lacquer, (as silver comes at a premium,
availability can be sporadic and the quality of their lacquer is exemplary).
Eb (Soprano) Cornets
In addition to the standard Bb cornets, Eb (soprano) cornets are also used
in brass bands and these are considered separately.
Instrument Recommendations
Student Models
At a student level the most popular instruments are the Besson 1000 Series,
Elkhart (from Vincent Bach), Jupiter, and the very good (but more expensive)
Yamaha YCR2330. |
Intermediate
Models
There are only a few intermediate instruments available, with the Yamaha
4330G and (more expensive) Besson 7000 series cornet (BE7023) being by
far the most popular. |
Professional
Models
The Besson Sovereign is the benchmark in this class - played by the vast
majority of brass band players. However, the Besson Prestige - only launched
in the last few years - is the new top of the range Besson model and has
become very popular. Not just a Sovereign "with extra bits on",
the Prestige is a completely different instrument with playing characteristics
that resemble the old "Boosey and Hawkes Sovereigns" of old -
with a warmer tone and greater dynamic capabilities. The only other popular
professional model is the Yamaha "Maestro"- designed exclusively
for the UK market. |
Soprano
Cornets
As with high trumpets there are no student level soprano cornets - with
all models being professional models. Head and shoulders above the rest
is the Schilke, which has the option of a beryllium bell - for an extra
bright tone. A credible alternative is the Yamaha (YCR6610T) |
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