The new Boosey and Hawkes horn models 902 and 903

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The new Boosey and Hawkes horn models 902 and 903

Several people wanted to know more about this horn so here goes:

I have now been to B&S's factory and had a blow on the model 902 and 903.

The horn's bell is stamped;

Besson
London
Sovereign
Made by Joseph Lidl Brno
BE903 0000000

It looks a bit like an Alex 103 using the single deck 6 way F/Bb valve but I think that is the only common feature.

903 uses a large throated bell that flares to a large diameter. This is modeled on the old B&S Imperial bell and gives a comfortable freedom to the horn in tone colors and dynamics.

902 uses a medium throated bell that flares to a smaller diameter. This is very Vienna like in its dimensions and feel and has a focused fizzy sound and a substantial dynamic range.

Both horn use the same mouthpipe and cylindrical tubing at something like 11.7mm which is narrow by comparison to most modern horns.

The manufacturing quality seems fine, both horns have a finger hook and ducks foot that are variable in position using a ball socket arrangement, I have never seen these things before but found it useful as I have a large hand and this is the first time I have ever had a really comfortable little finger.

I found both horns to be consistent through the range, to have a focused tone and well worth having a blow on. To my surprise I found that I preferred the larger bell model but it was a close thing. I had a friend listening to my playing who observed that as I switched between the horns I was gradually making the sound closer to the type of sound I usually make on my Alex. I found the bigger bell more comfortable and my friend thought I sounded better on it. I think this supports the theory that it is the player that makes the sound - which came as a surprise.

Is this a biased view, yes - probably; I know Tim Barrett of B&H well and have been looking forward to blowing these horns for some time. And I hope horn players like the results of Tim's work as much as I do.

So don't take my word for anything - blow them yourselves. In the UK the recommended retail price is 3750 (UK pounds)

Boosey & Hawkes can be reached on email at information@boosey.com

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