Name of Instrument: tromba in Bb

Maker / Brand: Giuseppe Pelitti?

Stearns Catalog #: 0926

Country of Origin: Milan, Italy?

Region of Origin: Europe

Instrument Category: Aerophone

Date of Fabrication: late 19th C.

Location: AER F 2

Description: This late 19th century brass instrument from Milan Italy is the source of the Stearns logo. Its twice looped tubing ends with a bell in the shape of a dragon which is painted dull green. Beautiful and expressive, this instrument is unique in its design; the musical significance of this tromba is unclear.

Stearns #0904 through #0930 (except #0923) were purportedly designed for use in a series of pageants in connection with the Festival at Pompeii in 1883. Several are said to be reproductions of instruments used in early Roman ceremonials. This Tromba in B Flat is made of brass with dragon’s head bell. A portion of the tubing is looped twice; the body is comprised of a single large loop.

Research: Prof. James M. Borders and Stearns Staff