Claude Gordon Trumpets
A Full Voiced Trumpet That Is Not Tiring To Hold Or Play
I have exclusively played a Claude Gordon Selmer trumpet since December of 1984, when Claude picked one for me from Zepp's Music in Burbank, California.
Anyone looking to buy and sell is welcome to contact me and email me pictures of what you are selling and your asking price so I can quickly forward it to students looking to buy and others that have enquired.
The Meha Besson Reputation
Claude modeled his trumpet after the best Meha Besson Trumpets of the past, as played by himself, Conrad Gozzo, and great players of that era. The leadpipe design on the CG Trumpets was designed by Claude in his work with long time friend Dominic Collichio, the famous custom trumpet builder of Hollywood, California.
Benge, then Selmer USA (Bach Factory)
Prior to the CG Selmer, Claude also designed a Claude Gordon Benge trumpet. The CG Benge was one of the best selling trumpets made by Benge at the time. They are easier to locate.
In 2007, both of the above Claude Gordon trumpets were re-released by Joe Marcinkiewicz. The craftsmanship on these two trumpets is excellent. The names are "CG 468" and "CG 470" after the Benge and Selmer respectively. If you have one of these to sell you may contact me about that too.
One of the important things to look for on the CG Trumpets is that they haven't been modified with a different leadpipe or bell. Those parts are crucial to the design and playing of the CG trumpets. Also, be careful of repairs done to the leadpipe and the start of the bell, where it joins the first valve.
Equipment That Gives Freedom
The unique characteristics of the Claude Gordon trumpets are that it is an extra large bore trumpet that is free blowing and at the same time easy to control due to unique aspects of the design. This trumpet is capable of being used for any kind of playing situation. This goes along with Claude's philosophy about correct practice being more important than a never ending hunt for a mouthpiece or trumpet to solve problems.
