Olds Recording Trumpet 1964

The F.E. Olds company was one of the premier manufacturers of brass instruments in America for most of the 20th century. The "Recording" model was the top-of-the-line trumpet when it was released in 1949, and this particular trumpet is from the golden age of production at the Fullerton factory. This trumpet features a beautiful "Rey-O-Loy" bell with full engraving, nickel trim, and a copper leadpipe. 

The Recording trumpet and cornet were designed with Hollywood studio musicians in mind. During the time period in which these instruments were built, it was common for studio players to spend 8-10 hours in the studio playing for movie soundtracks, tv shows, commercials, and more. As such, the Olds company designed an instrument that would be as ergonomic as possible, not to mention one that musicians wouldn't get tired of looking at! The hallmark of the Olds Recording is the offset 2nd valve and balanced valve section. The layout of the pistons is not in a straight line like most trumpet, but has a slight offset, so the hand can lay naturally over the pistons. The balanced wrap makes the instrument feel lighter in the hand, as it does not strain the wrist to hold it up. While it take some getting used to, this piston layout is incredibly comfortable. Being Olds' top-of-the-line instrument, the Recording cornet also received a beautiful engraving on the proprietary "Rey-O-Loy" bell. This trumpet plays with a full, rich sound, no doubt enhanced by the nickel trim and high copper content "Rey-O-Loy" alloy.