Alexander 90 in Red Brass with Ascending 3rd

A horn Dennis Brain would have approved!

This unique horn was made in the early 1950’s when Dennis Brain switched to similar Alexander single Bb horns. This horn is a custom Alexander model 90 4 valve single Bb. It is made from red brass and has an ascending 3rd valve.

Why red brass?

This horn is a soloist’s dream horn. Red brass is more popular with flugelhorns as it gives a warm, dark sound rich in overtones. Being a lightweight single Bb which tends to be on the bright side is balanced quite well with the choice of red brass.

Why an ascending 3rd valve?

For those that follow us regularly know we are obsessed with the ascending 3rd valve. Instead of the standard 1.5 step descending 3rd (G horn), this 3rd valve ascends a whole step (C alto horn). This gives many advantages: a built-in descant horn for a more secure high register, various useful alternate fingerings, more color options, and so much more! While there are a few fingering changes from the standard double horn, the advantages easily outweigh the time needed in the practice room to get used to this horn.

What comes with the horn?

Single Bbs are versatile instruments. Unlike a double horn, the best single Bbs come with various parts depending on the repertoire you are playing. In its purest form the thumb valve is a half-step, essentially getting Horn in A. With an added extender you get stopping valve length so stopped horn parts can be played in tune without transposing on the Bb horn. Next is a long F extension which extends the low range of the horn to that of a double horn (minus a few notes), and provides more color options of the longer F horn. Lastly is the A+/F extension with rotor tap. This provides more weight for those used to a double horn and lets you easily choose between an F extension or stopping valve.

Who should play this horn?

We understand this horn is very niche. This horn is not for students or the faint-hearted. It requires time, patience, and dedication to make it really sing. This was Dr. James Hampson’s main horn until he found a different version of this horn more suited to his playing.

We got this horn from Stefan Blonk in the Netherlands. When we received it we had valve work done and added the A+/F extension. This horn has been very well taken care of for the past 75 years. It does have a few protective patches but otherwise in excellent playing condition. The valves work great with thicker oil. A valve job is recommended for those using this horn full-time.

Collector’s item, part of the Hampson Horns Collection. An amazing soloist horn. Sadly no trials for this horn.