Martin Committee Cornet 1955

An instrument that needs no introduction, the Martin Committee was famously designed with the input of a number of influential brass manufacturers and musicians, including Reynold Schilke and members of the Chicago Symphony. When asked about the design process, Reynold Schilke would later call it: “a Committee of one… me!”. The Martin Committee would go on to become an era-defining instrument, played by Dizzy Gillespie, Fats Navarro, Miles Davis, Kenny Dorham, Roy Eldrige, Art Farmer, Chet Baker, Freddie Hubbard, Clark Terry, Lee Morgan, Maynard Ferguson, Cat Anderson, Bill Chase, Conte Candoli, Red Rodney, Wallace Roney, and many more. The Committee captured the sound and style of a generation, with its streamlined profile, minimal bracing, side-mounted water keys, and intimate sound. Renowned for its ease of play and smokey, dark sound, the Martin Committee is without a doubt the most popular trumpet in the history of Jazz and improvised music.

This particular instrument dates to 1955, from the "golden age" of production at the Martin Factory in Elkhart, IN. This is a "Deluxe" Committee model, meaning it has an engraved bell and nickel trim. This cornet is a medium bore model, measuring at .453" at the 2nd slide. The valves are in good condition and have great compression. The slides are smooth and fast, and this trumpet has just received a full service ultrasonic cleaning at Beverly Music. There is evidence of minor repairs in the leadpipe and bell bow, as well as some red rot in the leadpipe. We are happy to supply a replica leadpipe if requested. This horn is a fantastic player, with an especially warm and dark sound compared to a committee trumpet. Intonation is excellent, and this horn feels quite easy to play. If you're looking for an instrument for small group jazz, this is the horn for you. 

Includes original case.