Bill Pfund's Next Generation Horns--Rotary Horns

I now own a Pfund Rotary C trumpet with the two bell option. I love this horn. I am very impressed with the warm sound--more impressed with the great intonation. Bill can tell you more about the cutting edge factory he is using to manufacture this horn. It is very well made. The bells are both warmer than a typical C trumpet, but one (the "German" bell) is very warm. I'll be using this in chamber and solo settings. I'll share about those experiences as they happen. Bill's webpage...
http://www.billpfund.com/

Steve

Comparing a Trumpet to a Cornet

I've posted a short video on my Facebook page comparing the difference in sound of a Bb trumpet and a Bb cornet. Check it out at Kindermann Trumpet.

What do you think?

Steve

My Website

Hi everyone,

Please visit my new website at www.kindermanntrumpet.org

Thank you!

Steve

After Four Years with Bill Pfund's Trumpets

Hi all,

I know how particular we are about our trumpets! I also know that some folks would never play a horn made in China. My response to that sentiment is that we truly are moving into a more global market. I encourage you to try one of Bill's horns. None of his Horns make it to US shores without Bill himself playing and testing it before being shipped from China. I have played Bill's horns for four years now, subbing with the Colorado Springs Philharmonic on a regular basis, playing in various brass groups, small church ensembles and solo work. I still love Bill's horns. For 26 years in the USAF Band program and 20 of those years in the USAF Academy Band, I used Yamaha, Bach, and Blackburn trumpets. Although I primarily played in Stellar Brass (quintet plus percussion) and our concert band, I did sub with the Falconaires Jazz Band from time to time.

Now in my 50's and past my USAF playing responsibilities, I find I want a horn that is easier to play affording a flexibility to make it easier to adjust to various playing situations. One concrete example is that I have now performed the "Penny Lane" pic solo numerous times with the Colorado Brass Arts Group with Bill's pic and his 7 pic mouthpiece (cornet shank). With the pic set-up I had while in the AF, I couldn't quite get that out on my Yamaha Custom 3 valve with a Warburton 4m cup and a 7* back bore. I realize that is a fairly big mouthpiece for a pic set-up--I was a slow learner and to be honest, I was striving for a nice big sound. As time moved on, I began to think it wiser to play equipment that makes playing easier. You will still sound like you! Your sound concept will overcome equipment for the most part.

One thing is for sure, today, there are many fine horns being made. Try them all. You might be surprised. My plan is to purchase a Pfund C cornet at some point. I own a Bb, C, Eb, picc, Bb cornet and his flugelhorn. Bill has finished his design for Bb and C Rotary Trumpets and has wooden cup mouthpieces available. Pickett makes Bill's mouthpieces. Bill designed his mouthpieces to match his horn design concept. Bill Pfund's site...www.billpfund.com.

Still loving the trumpet!
Steve

After Two Years on Bill Pfund's Horns

After spending two years playing Bill Pfund's horns, I find them easier to play than the my Bach, Yamaha, and Blackburn horns which I used to play.  I've played Bill's horns in orchestral, big band, brass group, and solo settings.

The bottom line for me is that they are simply easier to play. Specifically, his horns seem to respond to less effort. It takes less to start the sound. Additionally, the upper range is easier. For example, I can get through the "Penny Lane" pic solo. This is interesting as I'm now over 50 years old. Another example is I recently played the first movement of the Neruda Concerto in Eb. Bill's Eb worked wonderfully. It seemed easier to play than the Blackburn Eb which I used for 20 plus years previously.

You may be thinking,"It's not all about ease of playing!" I agree. But when an instrument is easier for me to use, my musicality and expression seem to blossom more.

Food for thought...

Steve

After 26 Years as an AF Musician, Part 2

I completed one semester as a Middle School Band Director in Monument Colorado. Transitioning to this new career is proving to be a challenge, but I love connecting with the students. The most rewarding part is encouraging others toward life and toward a deeper passion for music.

As for playing, I still play with the Colorado Springs Philharmonic as a regular sub. I also play with the Colorado Brass Arts Group and other groups here in the Spring's region.

How are you folks doing out there?

Steve

Bill Pfund Trumpets

I have six of Bill's trumpets. I really enjoy these horns. For those of you who are in Colorado, come out to CMEA in Colorado Springs later this month to try these well designed instruments. Bill has a new Eb cornet as well to show.

See you there.

Steve