The Cornet

The cornet is a brass instrument. It is very similar to the trumpet but it’s smaller, with a conical bore, more compact shape, and mellower tone quality mostly found in Brass Bands. The most popular cornet is the Bb Cornet, found in great numbers in British Brass Bands, but also present is a Soprano Cornet, pitched in the key of Eb. They are available for all different levels and abilities, from the famous brands of Besson, Montreux, Yamaha and Sonata. The Bb cornet is the most commonly played cornet and available for all abilities. Especially great for beginners, including the very youngest as we have the ultra-lightweight pCornet, we can supply models suitable for students up to professionals.

Timeline Of The Cornet

The Post Horn – aka Tonga Horn

Before valves were a thing, the closest instrument was the Post Horn. It is a valveless cylindrical brass instrument with a cupped mouthpiece. To create the instrument we know today, they literally just added valves. Over time it has evolved so much that it no longer resembles a Post Horn as it once did. The Post Horn was used to signal the arrival or departure of a post rider or mail coach; used especially by postilions of the 18th and 19th centuries. Since 1941 the Post Horn has been played at the beginning of home matches of Leicester City Football Club, so if you’ve ever made the trip to the King Power Stadium on match day, you’ve probably heard this instrument being played.

The Pocket Cornet

The Pocket Cornet, also known as the Pocket Trumpet, is a compact size B♭, with the same playing range as the regular Cornet. The length of the tubing, if straightened, would measure the same as that of a traditional Cornet. This tubing is wound more tightly to reduce the instrument’s size while retaining the characteristic sound. The bell is generally of smaller diameter than a standard Cornet. It is not usually found in concert band or orchestra brass sections and is generally regarded as a novelty. It is used mostly by players as a practice instrument that can be packed in a suitcase and taken on your travels. Although the Cornet sadly doesn’t have a reputation as being a serious concert band or orchestral instrument, soloists in jazz or other ensembles play it to add flair and variety. So how about adding a little spirit to your band by taking a look at our fantastic Normans range.

"Just One Cornet....Oh"!

So, you are picking up the Cornet? Well done you. Sound choice. 10/10 would recommend to a friend. Now you just need to choose from the plethera of beginner cornets. There is just one small, slight, tiny glitch: THERE’S. SO. MUCH. CHOICE. Well, never fear! We’ve done the hard work for you. Just follow the flow chart below & see where it takes you.

“Simples.”

– Aleksandr Theresa May, 2K19

Decision Time

So there you are. The wonderful Cornet. What would the world of music be like without them? The original Hovis advert would not have the same emotion. Brass Bands would not be the same (both sound wise, and the fact there would be 8 less players!). Trumpet players would not have anyone to (unfairly) look down on; due to jealousy, as they can't double/triple tongue anywhere near as well as Cornettists (controversial!!). So, if you are still confused as to which Cornet to buy, let me help. Fun & Capable = pCornet. Beginner on a Budget = Sonata. EVERYONE ELSE = Montreux Cornet!! Long Live the Cornet!