One of the most interesting and unique members of the brass family of music is the flugelhorn. There is more to this instrument than just an interesting name as the flugelhorn comes with an intriguing, albeit short, history. Those individuals interested in joining the brass section of wind instruments may want to consider buying flugelhorns, especially if they enjoy a good challenge.
While other brass instruments such as the trumpet date back as far as 1500 BCE, the flugelhorn’s history is much shorter by comparison. The exact origin of the flugelhorn remains open for debate. Some believe that the flugelhorn originated as a member of the saxhorn family, developed by Adolphe Sax the inventor of the saxophone. Others believe that the flugelhorn predates even the efforts of Sax, and that it was developed by Michael Saurle in 1832. Saurle developed the keyed bugle, which many believe the flugelhorn derived from.
Regardless of its origin, the flugelhorn was first used for military tactics on the fields of Europe. Meaning “wing” or “flank” horn, the flugelhorn was used to communicate maneuvers to the flanks of an army in the field. Those who wish to buy flugelhorns should make themselves knowledgeable about not only the history of the instrument, but also its design and capabilities.
The first thing to investigate before you buy flugelhorns is the design and construction of the instrument. The flugelhorn has a similar design to its brass cousins the trumpet and cornet. They are built with a B flat pitch similar to these instruments and make use of three piston valves with a similar fingering system as other brass instruments. Flugelhorns, like some trumpets, are also available in four piston valve systems.
While buying a flugelhorn may seem like an easy instrument transition for some trumpeters, they should be aware ahead of time that there are differences between the instruments despite very similar designs. The flugelhorn makes use of a deeper, more conical shaped mouthpiece. Trumpeters also need to adapt their playing and fingering styles should they buy a flugelhorn as the instrument plays differently.
Individuals who have owned other musical instruments, especially other brass instruments such as a trumpet, are likely to be shocked a little when they go to buy flugelhorns. Buying a flugelhorn can be somewhat aggravating compared to the process of purchasing other instruments, but not impossible. Many experts suggest avoiding the purchase of standard, student, or intermediate labeled flugelhorns. While these models are priced less than professional flugelhorns, their value depreciates extremely quickly and they are often more difficult to play.
Buying a professional flugelhorn is the best route for those in the market for the instrument. Yamaha is one of the most notable makers of the flugelhorn and units can be found at prices ranging from $1335 all the way up to $2000. Flugelhorn prices can vary based upon maker, location of purchase (local store vs. high volume retailer), and finish on the instrument.
The flugelhorn is not as widely accepted in various musical genres as other brass instruments. Those looking to buy a flugelhorn should have a particular love for jazz and brass bands as these are the most popular genres in which the flugelhorn is used. The flugelhorn is occasionally written into certain orchestras, but for the most part it remains on the outside looking in at this musical genre.