Coloured Brass Instruments: Availability, Preferences and Cultural Impact

While most people associate brass instruments with the traditional gold and silver finishes, the manufacturing industry has expanded to include a range of colorful options. These non-traditional brass instruments are available for purchase and have a certain unique appeal, even if they are not the norm. This article explores the availability, preferences, and cultural impact of colored brass instruments, providing insights into why they may or may not be favored.

The Availability of Coloured Brass Instruments

Coloured brass instruments are indeed available, though they might be of lower quality and less common. Platforms such as Amazon, specialized music stores, and some quality-brass instrument makers offer these colorful options. Notable manufacturers like Inderbinen, Monette, Taylor, and Harrelson provide a wide range of custom finishes, including colorful ones.

For those passionate about visual aesthetics, plastic horns are a popular choice. These horns come in various colors, such as school colors for marching bands. Traditional brass instruments also offer options like gold and silver plating. Now, modern technology allows for anodized finishes in a variety of colors, adding a vibrant touch to the instruments. However, these colored options often receive mixed reviews, with some finding them distracting and less preferable compared to the natural finish of brass.

Why Traditional Finishes Prevail

The focus of a brass instrument is to facilitate high-quality musical performance. The traditional intrinsic color of brass supports this main purpose by ensuring that the instrument is not the focus of attention, but rather the music it produces. High-quality brass retains its true metallic luster, which helps in achieving the desired sound quality. When colored finishes are applied, they can detract from the primary function of the instrument, which is to produce music.

While colored brass instruments are available, they are not the norm. This can be attributed to the high standards that musicians and instrument manufacturers uphold. The primary goal is to ensure that the instrument supports the musicianship and creates the intended sound, not to make the instrument into a mere decorative piece. Therefore, the traditional gold and silver finishes remain the preferred choice for many musicians.

Plastic Alternatives and Historical Precedents

For those who desire a colorful brass instrument but need a more adaptable option, there are plastic alternatives available. These plastic instruments can be found online at vendors such as On-line Brasswind and Woodwind. Historically, the desire for colored instruments has existed, especially for marching bands. Nostalgic memories of windy days when a colored instrument would have been useful are common among many musicians and instructors.

The use of plastic instruments has its own challenges, as evidenced by the author's experience with a plastic trombone. For individuals suffering from metal poisoning, plastic instruments can be a life-saving alternative. However, these instruments must be carefully evaluated to ensure that they are truly plastic and do not contain any harmful metals. The author's account highlights the importance of thorough testing and quality assurance in any instrument purchase.

The Perfect Coloured Instrument: A Personal Touch

For some musicians, adding a personal touch to their instruments can enhance their enjoyment of music. The author shares a personal anecdote about preferring their silver trombone and only adding festive decorations for special occasions. This preference embodies the idea that the primary focus should always remain on the music and the musical experience, rather than the visual appearance of the instrument.

In conclusion, while colored brass instruments are available and may appeal to some, the traditional finishes continue to be favored due to their role in enhancing the music and musicianship. The cultural and historical context of brass instruments plays a significant role in their visual design and the preferences of musicians.