Unknown Maker (Berliner Pumpen)

Unmarked Left-Handed Alto Horn with Berliner Pumpen
Archived Collection Piece: This instrument is no longer held in the physical collection.

This fascinating alto horn by an unknown maker stands as a highly unique mechanical specimen within the history of nineteenth-century brass wind development. The instrument features a left-handed playing configuration and is equipped with historic Berliner Pumpen (valves), a distinct short, wide piston design that represents an important evolutionary step before the global dominance of the Périnet valve system. Acoustically, the horn presents a compelling contradiction; when played open without using the valves, it produces a surprisingly beautiful, rich, and full tone. Unfortunately, the valve pistons themselves are severely worn, resulting in significant air leakage and a highly compromised, poor sound quality when engaged. Because I originally acquired this instrument specifically to study and document its historic Berliner valves, I eventually decided to sell it once I obtained another horn with the same valve mechanism that remained in fully playable condition.