Conn Perfected Wonder Trumpet (1910 model)
Date: 1909. Owned by Chris Tyle.
Note that the 2nd valve slide points towards the bell, unlike most later Conn instruments.
What Conn said in 1910:
For years manufacturers have vainly endeavored to turn out Bb trumpets with a vibrant, penetrating tone. The manufacturing of G
trumpets for orchestras is not so difficult, because the pitch is lower and makers are enabled to use sufficient cylindrical
tubing to give the instrument a shrill, strident tone. But the demand for Bb trumpets with a distinctly Trumpet voice has not
been satisfactorily met until Mr. C.G. Conn, with more than ordinary skill gave to the musical world the Perfected Wonder
Trumpet. This instrument is not a Trumpet model Cornet, nor is it a Trumpet built with a Cornet bell. Contrary to
general belief among musicians the length of the trumpet does not govern its voice. To be a true Trumpet the instrument must possess
proper proportions to give it a piercing, strident voice, which is the opposite of a fluegel and a Cornet. Therefore, Trumpets
manufactured with Cornet bells are not Trumpets, although they may be designated as such. Heretofore makers have endeavored to
give their Trumpets a Trumpet tone by the use of a small shallow mouth-piece. No such artifice is needed to produce a Trumpet tone
on the Perfected Wonder Trumpet. When desirable, Cornetists may use their Cornet mouthpieces on that instrument,
although a Trumpet mouthpiece is recommended.
The total length of the Perfected Wonder Trumpet from mouth-piece to rim of the bell is 20¾ inches, from the v alve tips to
the bottom of the valve caps 6 inches. The diameter of the bell is 4 5/8 inches, the weight is 40 ounces.