History
Bach History – Brands
Vincent Bach Brands
There have a few different brands of Vincent Bach brass instruments through the years. This list tries to capture various descriptions and information about the various Bach instrument brands.
| Apollo |
Apollo Model The instrument for the Professional Musician A solidly built trumpet, perfect in tune, with excellent intonation and a marvelous valve action. This instrument fills all the requirements for orchestra and band work. The “Apollo” Model Bach Trumpet needs but little effort to play upon as it is a scientifically constructed instrument. This trumpet is built all in brass, has nickel-silver pistons and is equipped with a two piece bell made of special brass, treated according to a secret formula. The tone is of a beautiful ringing quality, of a great carrying power and responds readily to a crescendo or decrescendo. The ‘Apollo Model” has a splendid appearance and is the highest grade “medium priced” instrument on the market, with quick change attachment to draw-out to A. One genuine Bach Mouthpiece furnished with this instrument. Quick change to A slide with rotary valve quoted extra. from 1925 Vincent Bach Corporation catalog. |
| Mercedes |
The Popular Priced Vincent Bach “Mercedes” In playing perfection these instruments meet the demands of the most discriminating artists, yet the price is considerably below that which one might expect to pay for such a well-designed and carefully fitted instrument. They are made in the most popular bore, have sufficient volume of tone for a large symphony orchestra, yet they are so easy-blowing that dance, vaudeville and other musicians who work long hours find them an immeasurable aid to endurance. from Genuine Bach Mouthpieces (1956) – Publication 6001 |
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| Mercedes II (1970′s) | “Mercedes instruments were created to make Vincent Bach’s acoustic designs available at prices within a students limited means.We do this without making any compromises in their musical quality: intonation, resistance and timbre meet the high standards that are a Bach tradition. Instead, we make them available at moderate prices by using machines instead of handwork on some of their construction details, or by using materials, components, and assembly methods more conventional than in costlier Bach Stradivarius models.There are a number of other minor structural differences; these are tabulated for direct comparison below. Together they account for the differences in price. But do they also account for a difference in performance? Well, Bach Stradivarius brasses are unique; that is why they are virtually standard equipment among professional artists. Any student that has progressed to the point where we can hear, feel, and take advantage of their unique qualities will be happy to pay the premium price for a Strad. On the other hand, Mercedes models give their owners all but the ultimate refinements of the finest brass instruments ever made, at significantly lower prices.”
from Bach Publication; AV6021 (4/81) |
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| Mercury |
“Mercury” The ideal model for the young artist or advanced student who wishes to economize, but must have an instrument of excellent playing qualities. Never before have solo instruments of such remarkable playing qualities and sturdy construction been offered at a similar price. Ask your dealer for further details or write for a price list. from Genuine Bach Mouthpieces (1956) – Publication 6001 |
| Omega | The Bach Omega trumpet model is available in silver or lacquer and has the Stradivarius valve block and is combined with economical tubing and bell. |
Tagged apollo, mercedes, mercury, stradivarius
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