G. Leblanc Corporation

Michael W Suter

James H Andersen

Gregory C Hilliard

Lawrence V Ramirez, Ii

The disclosure involves a valve for a brass instrument, e.g., a trombone, having an outer casing and a rotatable piston with first and second outer passages and a central passage between the outer passages. Two pairs of tubes are connected to the casing with each tube of a pair being coextensive with the other tube of that pair. At least one and preferably each outer passage is coextensive with a pair of tubes when the piston is in the switched position. The valve thereby affords 'straight through' air flow during that valve position at which the trombone air column is longer or longest. Air flow resistance is thus reduced and the musician experiences a better 'feel' when playing lower register notes, particularly when doing so at increased volume. A method for making the new valve, which is substantially hollow and lightweight, is also disclosed.

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Allen Park, MI, United States of America

Michael W Suter