Tag Archives
Bach History – Key Leadership
We’re always looking for more information/corrections to include on key persons that were involved in the history of Bach instruments, so please email us through our contact us link in the header.
All information is copyright per the original owner/source.
Key Leadership – CEO / President
| Era | Person | Title Biography / Notes |
||
| 1918 | 1961 | Vincent Bach | Founder, President of Vincent Bach Corp. |  |
| 1960 | 1974 | John F. (Jack) Feddersen | President, Selmer Company | <image wanted> |
| 1974 | 1970′s | Charles Bickel (d: 2008) |
CEO, Selmer Corporation |  Video Link |
| 1980′s | 1990 | H.W. (William) Petersen | CEO, Selmer Corp.(Came from rival C.G. Conn) |  Video Link |
| 1990′s | 2008 | Tom Burzycki | President, Selmer Band Instruments | 
|
| 2008 | Present | John Stoner | President, Conn-Selmer,Inc. |  |
Key Leadership – Brass
| Era | Person | Title Biography / Notes |
||
| 1918 | 1930s | Hans Bach | Vincent Bach’s brother.Ran some local NYC retail outlets. Helped in the early days of Vincent Bach Corp. | (image wanted) |
| 1931 | 1956 | Emil Bundschu | Manager of the Bach factory.Left the business following a nervous breakdown. | (image wanted) |
| <1960 | John Pettinato | Chief Bach RepairmanMfg. most Mt. Vernon Bach Trombones | (image wanted) | |
| <1940 | Mike Tareskevich |
Shop Foreman | (image wanted) | |
| 1960 | 1982 | Lloyd Fillio |
Chief Bach Brass TechnicianFrom NAMM oral historyVideo Link
“Lloyd Fillio grew up in the band instrument capital, Elkhart, Indiana. His father worked in the industry as did his uncle and cousin (Ernie Kenaga who was also interviewed). It seemed natural for Lloyd to work in the industry. He worked for CG Conn for a short time before moving over to Selmer in 1960 where he took part in the relocation of the Vincent Bach trumpet division, which was purchased by Selmer in 1963. Lloyd enjoyed his role as product developer and felt rewarded as the company began to focus on brass instruments from that point on.” |
"Lloyd Fillio, standing, is the Bach brasswind technician. Lloyd joined Selmer in 1960. He is working with Ken Pettifor, Pro Shop foreman and a 22 year Bach veteran." from Bach Brass AV4785B, 1986 |
| 1972 | Present | Tedd Waggoner | Chief Brass DesignerDirector of Marketing – Brass InstrumentsDirector of Bach Operations (2006-present)From NAMM oral historyVideo Link
“Tedd Waggoner began his career in the music industry in 1969 and soon joined the Selmer team. Tedd worked in most of the positions for the company but found his greatest satisfaction when he began working in the Vincent Bach division of Selmer. As a trumpeter, Tedd fit right in and soon learned not only the full production of the trumpets and mouthpieces but also the great Bach history. His knowledge and passion led to several production and product adjustments and improvements over the years to create instrument as close to Mr. Bach’s original design as possible.” |
 |
Sources: various Press Releases, NAMM, Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Introducing The Artisan Collection by Vincent Bach (2010)
Introducing The Artisan Collection by Vincent Bach
February 10, 2010
The makers of world famous Bach Stradivarius trumpets bring you five exciting new Stradivarius models – Introducing The Artisan Collection by Vincent Bach
Bach Stradivarius – No other brand evokes more passion, loyalty, and respect. Exceptional tonal color, balanced response, and superb projection are hallmarks of designs by Vincent Bach. Carrying on the legacy and true to the vision of the master craftsman, the makers of today’s Bach Stradivarius proudly introduce The Artisan Collection.
The Artisan Collection features new Bb, C, Eb, tunable bell D/Eb combination, and 4 valve long bell piccolo trumpets. Skillfully handcrafted, Artisan culminates in a unique blend of classic design, elegant styling, and the signature Bach sound.
Design features include a one-piece hand-hammered yellow brass bell with flat rim, special acoustic bell treatment, two-piece nickel/brass valve casing construction, Monel pistons, sets of brass and plastic valve guides, enhanced radius ferrules, 1st slide split ring, unique serial number sequence, and deluxe engraving. All models are outfitted in elegant cases that combine classic Vincent Bach styling, contemporary materials, and exceptional design.
The Artisan Collection
AB190 – Key of Bb, .459” bore, extended low F 3rd slide rod stop, available in
silver-plate as AB190S
AC190 – Key of C, .462” bore, available in silver-plate finish as AC190S
AE190 – Key of Eb, .462” bore, extra dual bore main tuning slide, available in
silver-plate finish as AE190S
ADE190 – Key of D/Eb, .450” bore, tunable bells with flat rim in D and Eb,
separate set of slides for D and Eb, available in silver-plate finish as
ADE190S
AP190 – Key of A/Bb, .450” bore, 4 valves, set of four mouthpipes includes both
trumpet and cornet shank mouthpiece receivers, available in silver-plate
finish as AP190S
Over a year in the making, development of The Artisan Collection was aided by long-time Bach artists Michael Sachs, principal trumpet, The Cleveland Orchestra, and Phil Smith, principal trumpet, New York Philharmonic Orchestra. Special thanks go to both Michael and Phil for their contributions to acoustic design and testing.
“Players all across the country are giving rave reviews about the sound, the response, and the quality of today’s Bach professional trumpets,” said Jeff Christiana, Director of Marketing for Bach. “The Artisan Collection enhances the entire line of Bach Stradivarius by offering today’s players the look, feel and signature Bach sound of vintage Bach designs. Staying true to key elements of Vincent Bach’s original designs was critical in the development of this new collection.” Whether a passionate enthusiast or performing artist, experience The Artisan Collection and discover the Artisan within.
For complete information, visit www.bachbrass.com. Vincent Bach instruments are handcrafted in the U.S.A. by Conn-Selmer, Inc., the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States and a subsidiary of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310, Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 U.S.A. or visit www.conn-selmer.com.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Conn-Selmer Launches Build A Bach Website (2009)
Conn-Selmer Launches Build a Bach Website
2009
Conn-Selmer has announced that the new “Build A Bach” website is now available for all musicians to design their own custom Bach Stradivarius trumpet. Players of all ages can now easily explore the vast number of available options that make Bach Stradivarius the most versatile professional trumpet in the world.
With this new on-line resource, players can customize their own Bach Stradivarius Bb or C trumpet. There are five easy to use steps to the process. It is as simple as picking the instrument to be customized, choose from a variety of options in each category, save multiple configurations during the process, and print out the final version as a record. Once completed, the printed record can be provided to the local Conn-Selmer dealer who can assist with pricing, advice and ordering information.
A wide range of features are available to choose from including bore size, bell and mouthpipe options, hooks and triggers, valve caps, finishes, mouthpieces, cases and more.
Players all across the country give rave reviews about the sound, response, and quality of Bach Stradivarius trumpets. Bach professional brass instruments are produced here with strict adherence to the heritage and designs developed by master craftsman Vincent Bach. Old-world craftsmanship merged with modern technology has resulted in a line of musical instruments that meet the artistic demands of the most discriminating players.
”Professional musicians worldwide recognize the Bach Stradivarius name for outstanding quality,” said Jeff Christiana, Director of Marketing for Bach instruments. “In keeping with this tradition, Bach continues to have the sound that defines excellence in the music industry.” All Bach USA instruments carry a full five year warranty.
Visit www.buildabach.com for complete information.
Conn-Selmer, Inc., the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States, is a subsidiary of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310 Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 U.S.A. or visit www.conn-selmer.com.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – New Look for VIncent Bach Website (2009)
New Look for VIncent Bach Website
August 26, 2009
Conn-Selmer is pleased to announce that a newly updated website for Vincent Bach trumpets and trombones, www.bachbrass.com, went live on the internet this month. This new website will be the source for all information regarding the Bach and Bach Stradivarius trumpet, cornet, flugelhorn, and trombone lines. This site also includes links to other valuable information such as the history of Vincent Bach, articles on the history and development of Bach products, the “Trumpet Corner” forum moderated by Dr. Karl Sievers, and the exciting new “Build A Bach” website, www.buildabach.com, where players can create and customize their own Bach Stradivarius trumpet.
“The new website offers a great new look and feel”, says Jeff Christiana, director of marketing for trumpets and trombones. “Bach enthusiasts of all ages now have a comprehensive source for all Bach information that includes new graphics, new full color photos, detailed product specifications and the new interactive “Build A Bach” website. This is a site players are going to want to spend a lot of time on and keep coming back!”
Visit www.bachbrass.com for complete information.
Conn-Selmer, Inc., the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States, is a subsidiary of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310, Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 U.S.A. or visit www.conn-selmer.com.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Vincent Bach Instruments Continue an American Tradition (2009)
Vincent Bach Instruments Continue an American Tradition
June 3rd 2009
The “Made in USA and Great American Sound” concept that has made Conn-Selmer brands the best selling in the world, continues today in Elkhart, Indiana, at the Bach plant where all Vincent Bach instruments are made. Players all across the country continue to give rave reviews about the sound, response, and quality of Bach trumpets and trombones.
Bach professional brass instruments are produced in the US with strict adherence to the heritage and designs developed by master craftsman Vincent Bach. Old-world craftsmanship merged with modern technology has resulted in a line of musical instruments that meet the artistic demands of the most discriminating players. Elkhart Indiana has long been largely a manufacturing-industrial area, especially for band instruments. The Vincent Bach plant is a ‘Crown Jewel’ in our community and continues to be one of the premier places to work.
“Professional musicians worldwide recognize the Bach name for outstanding quality,” said Jeff Christiana, Director of Marketing for Bach instruments. “In keeping with this tradition, Bach continues to have the sound that defines excellence in the music industry.” All Bach USA instruments carry a full five year warranty.
For complete information visit a Conn-Selmer authorized dealer or www.bachbrass.com.
Conn-Selmer, Inc., the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States, is a subsidiary of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310, Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 U.S.A. or visit www.conn-selmer.com.
Press Release – Vincent Bach USA announces increased availability of student instruments (2008)
Vincent Bach USA announces increased availability of student instruments
January 31, 2008
Conn-Selmer has announced the increased availability of Bach USA student brass instruments. Increased production of traditional models, as well as the introduction of three new US-made instruments, has been made available for educators “who want their students to begin their musical journey with instruments that promote student progress and achievement.”
The Conn-Selmer press release continues: “The traditional Bach TR300H USA trumpet, with monel pistons and first slide thumb saddle, also features single-point nylon valve guides for silent and secure action, a one-piece valve casing for long-lasting valve alignment, 4-3/4” bell with rim wire for superior tonal response, and nickel silver receiver to prevent corrosion and a “frozen” mouthpiece. The TR300H was originally designed with guidance from Vincent Bach himself and has set the standard for student trumpets.
“The new Bach USA models include the TR301 USA trumpet and CR301 USA cornet, with monel pistons and first and third slide rings, and the TB301 trombone. The trumpet and cornet each feature a nickel silver receiver and red brass mouthpipe for durability. Each also features a one-piece valve casing, monel pistons, first slide thumb saddle and adjustable third slide finger ring. All Bach USA instruments include a genuine Vincent Bach mouthpiece and carry a full five year warranty.
“Professional musicians worldwide recognize the Bach name for outstanding quality,” said Jeff Christiana, director of marketing for Bach instruments. “In keeping with this tradition, the new Bach 301 series of entry-level instruments strike the perfect balance of performance and value.”
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Two New Bach Stradivarius Models Express Professionals Preferences (2007)
Two New Bach Stradivarius Models Express Professionals Preferences
April 25, 2007
International Music Fair; Frankfurt, Germany
New Bach Stradivarius professional instruments were formally introduced at the 2007 International Music Fair in Frankfurt, Germany. The two instruments, a professional trumpet and a professional trombone, were created to reflect artist requests for particular overtone colors within the Bach Stradivarius design.
The Bach Stradivarius model 182 trumpet features a standard weight #37 one piece bell and #25 leadpipe, a lightweight body and a .459” bore. This particular combination, along with traditional Bach design values and classic features, responds quickly and delivers a quality of sound that is distinctly Bach. The instrument outfit includes a genuine gold plated Vincent Bach mouthpiece and a professional classic style case. The instrument is available in bright silver plate.
The new Bach Stradivarius model LT142BO trombone features a .547” bore with an 8-1/2” one-piece yellow brass bell. The slide boasts lightweight nickel silver outer slides, handgrip and tubular style body braces. The nickel silver inner slides are chrome plated, and the handgrip and tubular body braces are also of nickel silver.
The new trombone features the traditional Bach rotor mechanism, along with three interchangeable leadpipes for a multitude of response options under the player’s control. The LT142BO outfit includes a genuine Vincent Bach mouthpiece and classic style case.
Both instruments are results of intensive efforts to identify the needs of professional trumpet and trombone players that were not being met by current model configurations. “Existing Vincent Bach component designs were the key to these new models,” said Jeff Christiana, director of marketing for Bach trumpet and trombones. “Identifying how these components would best serve today’s top professionals is the key to the successful development of these instruments.”
Bach Stradivarius instruments are handcrafted in the U.S.A. by Conn-Selmer, Inc., the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States and a subsidiary of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310, Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 U.S.A. or visit www.conn-selmer.com.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – New Bach Flugelhorn From Conn-Selmer (2006)
New Bach Flugelhorn From Conn-Selmer
2006
In a effort to provide more trumpet players with a Bach flugelhorn option, Conn-Selmer has introduced the Bach Aristocrat FH600 flugelhorn. The instrument has a suggested list price of only $995 and is an excellent value for players looking for an entry-level flugelhorn.
This value-priced instrument has many professional level features worthy of the Bach name, including a .434” bore, new style “air-through” design, classic Bach-style tunable mouthpiece receiver, red brass first branch, third slide trigger and three water keys.
The FH600 also includes nickel silver outside slide tubes with brass inner slide tubes for trouble-free slide action. The the plasma-welded bell provides for full tonal vibration to the end of the bell. The single point valve guides help the player insert the valves correctly after maintenance.
The instrument outfit includes a genuine Vincent Bach mouthpiece and special Cordura covered case with large accessory/literature pocket.
Bach instruments are produced by Conn-Selmer, Inc., the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States and a division of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310, Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 U.S.A. or visit www.conn-selmer.com.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Conn-Selmer announces new Bach model TR500 student trumpet (2006)
Conn-Selmer announces new Bach model TR500 student trumpet
October 4, 2006
Conn-Selmer has announced the introduction of a new student trumpet under its famous Bach brand name. The Bach model TR500 trumpet aims to offer an affordable option for beginning players and to give Bach fans a choice in instrument designs within the Bach student line.
Created for teachers who prefer a traditional student trumpet design, the Bach TR500 trumpet is “built to the most stringent specifications”. The TR500 features a .460” bore, nickel silver trim, a red brass lead pipe and a pin-style third slide stop, in addition to nickel silver pistons with two point valve guides, fixed third slide finger ring, and first slide thumb hook. Finger buttons are genuine mother-of-pearl, and the outfit includes the same hard shell case as other Bach student trumpets and a Vincent Bach 7C mouthpiece.
The design and construction of the Bach TR500 differs from that of the specially constructed Bach TR300H, one of the most popular student trumpets in the world. For teachers who prefer the construction and concept of sound of traditional Bach student trumpets, the TR300H continues to be available. The Bach TR500 design is more in keeping with other competitive models but at a lower price. For those who prefer this more standard design, the TR500 offers an affordable option for beginning players. Please visit the Conn-Selmer website for additional information.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Bach “ Chicago” C Trumpet Honors 50th Anniversary (2006)
Bach “ Chicago” C Trumpet Honors 50th Anniversary
May 2006
In April of 1955, Vincent Bach completed and delivered six C trumpets to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Four were selected by individual members of the trumpet section and purchased by the Orchestra. The remaining two were sold to a music store for individual customers.
Now, almost fifty years later, these trumpets are still revered, still in use, and still the property of the Chicago Symphony. Each instrument is assigned to a specific section member.
Today, however, other trumpet players are in for a treat, as Conn-Selmer has introduced the “new” Bach Stradivarius “Chicago C” trumpet, an instrument closely based on these original designs. The model (specifically model C180SL229CC) features a #229 bell and a #25 leadpipe, but this instrument design is faithful to the original blueprints in many other details, as well.
Extensive research on Vincent Bach’s 1947 to 1956 design period was conducted by Tedd Waggoner, director of marketing for Bach, and Roy Hempley, author of “Bachology” (www.bachbrass.com). “Vincent was constantly experimenting and trying new designs,” said Waggoner. “He apparently made constant advances to his designs for Bb and C trumpets up to 1947. Design and production processes seemed to stay fairly consistent from that time until 1956 when another phase of changes was adopted. The famous ‘Chicago C’s’ come from this 1947 through 1956-design era.”
Waggoner continued, “The more information we turn up on the design and features of these horns, the more interested we became. We have tracked down 5 of the original 6 horns and one other one made just a few weeks later, we have the original shop cards listing specific information (including customer names), and we have the original design specifications in Vincent’s archives. The 50th anniversary of these instruments certainly is an appropriate time to make these instrument available again.”
The new instrument is available through all authorized Bach dealers.
Bach instruments are produced by Conn-Selmer, Inc., the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States and a division of Steinway Musical Instruments, Inc. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310, Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 U.S.A. or visit www.conn-selmer.com.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Vincent Bach introduce new piccolo trumpet (2006)
Vincent Bach introduce new piccolo trumpet
March 4, 2006
Conn-Selmer, Inc. write with information about a new instrument. “The new Vincent Bach Bb/A piccolo trumpet is the answer to the requests of hundreds of professionals looking for a quality piccolo worthy of the Bach name. The VBS196 has a tremendous response and its intonation is superb.
“The instrument incorporates a long bell design and features the highly refined valve alignment patented and performed by respected trumpet technician, Bob Reeves. The design and construction, along with this valve alignment allows full ease of response without distortion at all volumes. Unlike many piccolo models, this instrument performs with a very open and full sound. Its tone projects over a large orchestra, but also performs well in small settings.
“The VBS196 features both A and Bb leadpipes with trumpet receivers (cornet receivers optional). An additional slide allows the instrument to be played in the key of G. Other features include four Monel pistons, silver plated finish, genuine Bach 7E mouthpiece, and leather gig bag. Suggested list price is US$2895. The VBS196 is available through all authorized Bach dealers.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – Bach features vintage bell in new Limited Edition trumpet (2005)
Bach features vintage bell in new Limited Edition trumpet
March 9, 2005
Conn-Selmer has introduced a special edition Vincent Bach trumpet that “skillfully combines historically significant qualities with modern day performance features”. TheBach Stradivarius New York #7 Trumpet is available in limited quantities and features a Vincent Bach #7 bell, made popular during the early 1930’s. The bell was developed by Vincent Bach during the 1920s and first appeared in 1929. It is constructed in one piece from lightweight yellow brass, with the current version featuring a classic French-bead flat rim. The instrument also features a .459″ bore, #7 leadpipe, vintage ‘30’s style mouthpiece receiver, first and third slide finger rings, single brace tuning slide, third slide stop assembly, and semi-precious finger buttons. The instrument is finished in bright silver plate with gold plate slides and trim. The outfit includes a specially marked double case and includes a Certificate of Authenticity.
“Lightweight body construction with narrow braces and narrow tuning slide make this a very comfortable and intimate instrument,” said Tedd Waggoner, Conn-Selmer marketing manager for brass instruments. “Given the tremendous historical significance of the #7 bell, we are very excited to be able to offer this limited edition.”
Historical records show that the first production instrument with a #7 bell was a Stradivarius trumpet (#1249) made February 26, 1929. A few horns with earlier serial numbers were also retrofitted with the #7 bell. Regular production of the #7 bell started in January 1930. Examination of shop cards for these instruments show that influential players of the day purchased these instruments, including Merle Evans (on a cornet), George Mager, Leona May Smith, Dr. Charles Colin, Henry Busse, and the Juilliard Graduate School (all trumpets).
Source: Conn-Selmer
Press Release – TV’s Made In America features Conn-Selmer’s Bach factory (2004)
TV’s Made In America features Conn-Selmer’s Bach factory
December 5, 2004
There was a familiar face at Conn-Selmer’s Vincent Bach factory, when television’sCheers star John Ratzenberger (“Cliff”) brought his popular new show, Made In America, to Elkhart, Indiana. As host of this television series, now in its second season, Ratzenberger travels the United States highlighting products and workers he believes capture the essence of American manufacturing. “This is the backbone of our civilization,” said Ratzenberger. “We’re manufacturers. Sure, we’re innovators and inventors, but manufacturing is our foundation. If they’re not here, who is going to build our products?” Ratzenberger was impressed with what he saw at the Bach factory. “You’ve got a plant filled with artisans here. They’re working in tolerances of less than ten-thousandths of an inch. These folks have to do it right the first time, every time.”
The second season of Made In America began airing on the Travel Channel in December of 2004. The show featuring Conn-Selmer will appear in January 2005. Conn-Selmer, the largest manufacturer of band and orchestral instruments and accessories in the United States, is a subsidiary of Steinway Musical Instruments. To contact Conn-Selmer, write to P.O. Box 310, Elkhart, IN 46515-0310 USA. or visit the company’s web site.
Source: Conn-Selmer
Sponsors
For 2012, we've now re-launched our latest update to the original Bach Loyalist with even more information about Bach instruments. Keep sending in your Bach related information and photos. You're helping this become a great reference for fellow Bach loyalists.