Page:Instruments of the Modern Symphony Orchestra.djvu/46



Italian Cornetto Cornetta

This instrument is similar to the valve trumpet in all respects except that its bore is slightly conical instead of cylindrical. The mouthpiece also differs from that of the trumpet in being less cup-shaped, thus tapering more gradually into the main bore of the instrument. These two features combine to render the tone of the cornet coarser and thicker than the clear, brilliant tone of the trumpet.

The cornet is rare in the modern symphony orchestra, though it was of undoubted utility during the period prior to the introduction of valve trumpets. Two cornets in addition to two trumpets, were then employed, their special function being to supply the chromatic tones lacking on the plain trumpet.

Owing to its ease of blowing and its pleasing, mellow tone, the cornet is still much used in amateur and in professional small orchestras; also in military bands. It is made in B flat and is provided with a slide or a valve mechanism which instantly transforms it into an "A" instrument. In compass and in the manner of writing it is precisely like the valve trumpet. Cornets, like other similar brass instruments, may be muted by means of a pear-shaped device set in the bell.

The range the cornet is:

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