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BOOSEY & HAWKES 'Imperial'
£1,150.00
Maker: BOOSEY and HAWKES, London, UK
Model: ‘Imperial’, a copy of a vintage Alexander 103
Age: 55+ years
Serial number: 291252
Type: F/Bb full double
Bell throat profile: medium
Bell diameter: 31 cm
Alloy: silver-plated brass
Bell flare: fixed
Adjustable finger hook
Weight: 2.85 kg / 6lb 4oz
Further details: a very good example of the legendary B & H ‘Imperial’, a copy of a vintage Alexander 103 with a central / cylindrical bore of 11.9 mm rather than the current Alexander bore of 12.1 mm. Its silver plate is in good condition apart from some wear inside the bell throat and scratches round the back of the exterior bell throat.
The ‘Imperial’ was the standard instrument of the BBC Symphony Orchestra’s horn section when led by Douglas Moore during the period 1945-1969.
A fine horn in every way, with very good valve compression and a ringing, compact sound.
Its 4th valve lever, formerly quite awkwardly placed, was rebuilt fairly recently, bringing it into a more comfortable position for the player’s left hand and thumb. Nevertheless, the horn is probably best suited to a player with large hands.
It comes in a sturdy hard case in good condition. An alternative new lightweight case with backpack straps is available for £60.
This horn is the 'equivalent' of a vintage Alexander 103 at less than 35% of the cost!
NB: although this is a 'Professional quality' instrument, it is also listed in the Intermediate category on account of its very modest price, and in the Vintage, Rare and Unusual category.
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Halstead Music Ltd acts as an agent only,
and accepts no responsibility as a principal.
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Red Dragon I.T. Ltd.