Set up a Besson Meha web page...

heavyharmonies · Posted: Wed Apr 14, 2004 6:48 pm Post subject:

I found that tracking down differences between the various Meha incarnations to be confusing, so I decided to throw the information online as an information resource. It's incomplete and in many cases confusing (especially the 3 variants of original French Meha/Brevete horns).

http://www.vintagetrumpets.com/meha.shtml

I'm looking for any and all corrections and additions to make the information more complete, especially any information as to what serial number ranges the different Mehas comprised.

Thanks,

-Dan

supportlivejazz · Heavyweight Member Joined: 05 Jan 2003 Posts: 3757

Hey... #5... that's mine... before the complete refinish at Kanstul. If you would like I'll send you photos of the after version. It will be leaving for Anderson's for valve re-plate re-fit soon. Let me know via private message. Your welcome to add the photos to the sit. The site is excellent. Thanks.

Martin · Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 1:40 am Post subject:

Nice site!

BTW, the unusual third slide configuration in one of the pictures (stop rod on top, ring on bottom) was not a custom job, it was standard for earlier pre-war Bessons.
Only a couple of years ago, Jerome Callet re-discovered that configuration and found out that it improved the playing characteristics of his horns. Those who have had their third slides modified swear by it.
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All the best

Martin
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"I have found that it is enough when a single note is beautifully played." - Arvo Pärt

Trptbenge · Posted: Thu Apr 15, 2004 3:03 am Post subject:

That configuration was used by several manufactures including some early American manfactures until it was abandoned for the more popular configuration. I personally don't like either set-up and would prefer a trigger on the third slide like the Olds Recording.

I used to own a pre-war Besson Brevette that was a nice player. It still amazes me how much influence the Bessons had on the development of trumpets and how much they continue to influence them today.

Mike
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It's the sound that makes the difference!

supportlivejazz · Heavyweight Member Joined: 05 Jan 2003 Posts: 3757

The Brevete that was played by Fats Navarro was that design and is shown in several photos. I also think I have seen picture of Miles (young Miles) with one like that.