Unknown Maker (Berliner Pumpen)

This is a forward-facing model Alto Horn of unknown origin in E♭. Its exact acoustics present a classic historical puzzle: because it plays much closer to a modern-pitch E, it is highly likely that this instrument was manufactured to the historic High Pitch E♭ standard.

Mechanically, the horn is distinguished by its fascinating Berliner Pumpen valves, an early piston-valve design that predates the common modern Périnet system.

Structurally, there is a nasty, significant crack located right along the bell rim. While this physical compromise means the acoustic resonance is probably not exactly as the maker originally intended, the vintage mechanism still functions. Despite the damage, the instrument remains fully playable and still produces a surprisingly pleasant sound.