Identifying a Belgian Helicon *HELP*


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Posted by Santos on November 10, 2003 at 16:25:27:

Hello. I just returned from a trip to London where I happened upon my favorite antique shop on Portobello Rd. in the Notting Hill area. As I walked into the store I saw a silver-tarnished 3 piston valve helicon that was in remarkably good shape for its age hanging in the window. It had "BUY IT NOW" written all over it, practically! :-) After inspecting it over, I gladly purchased the helicon from the antique store owner and trekked it all over London and finally to the airport.

Now, I am in need of some help trying to find out its age, what type of helicon it is (CC, BBb, EEb, or F) and any history it may have. Here are some rough specs:

Label: Stamped on the bell is "Medaille, D & P LeBrun, Brevete, Bruxelles"
Bell: 15" across
Valves: 3 piston
Finish: Silver
Key: I can't tell
Heigth: About 40" tall if holding it by its bell

Like I said, I can't determine what key it's in, but I will say that the 3rd valve slide extends along the bottom bow and goes rearward a bit.

Pictures available for any tuba historians out there willing to help.

Thanks!




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