Vaughan Williams 3rd (Pastoral) Symphony, Eb Natural Trumpet

[jkarnes0661]

If you've played it, what did you use?

I'm thinking of using my Bb as an Eb natural trumpet by extending the tuning slide, holding all three valves down, and kicking the 3rd valve slide a bit. Sound is OK but also thinking about trying one of those cheapo Eb Cavalry Bugles out there (made in Pakistan I think, $85) and seeing what they sound like.

Heard a story about Vaughan Williams carrying an Eb natural trumpet or cavalry bugle with him when conducting this piece to lend to the principle trumpet in case they didn't have the correct instrument. Made me think that he preferred the tonal quality of a true natural horn that isn't sending the air column through a bunch of tight bends in the valves and slides.

Thoughts or suggestions? Thanks!
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Jonathan Karnes
Grand Rapids, MI
jonathankarnes.com

[robert_white]

RVW's motivation was to have the "natural" intonation of the valveless trumpet - i.e., a flat 7th partial (which is reiterated often in the cadenza). Your first idea seems like it could work, esp. if you can kick the 3rd valve slide out all the way.

Dealing with a Pakistani bugle may create more problems than it solves!

[rivnut]

No need to go with anything substandard. There are several excellent Eb Cavalry trumpets for sale on the French Ebay, as I type. There are usually a few Couesnon, some pre '40s in great shape. I saw a beautiful Selmer with a water key go recently. Thibouvilles etc. Be sure to get the top of the line versions as they all made several levels of quality. Never seen them go for much more than $100. They usually ship for around $20 to $30. There is quite a market for them in Europe, not so much over here. The Couesnons take a standard modern taper trumpet shank. Mine does.