(February, 2008)
In a recent discussion about unusual jazz instruments, we came across a reference to the pocket cornet (Don Cherry played one). As many will know, cornets are nearly identical to trumpets in that if you were to unwind the the total length of the tubing it would be the same, so they play in the same key. Historically, cornets are 'conical bore' instruments in that the diameter of the tubing gradually increases from start to end, while trumpets are 'cylindrical bore' - the diameter maintains the diameter until the bell. (There are arguments about this definition). Pocket cornets are cornets that have their tubing wrapped in an exceptionally compact design, resulting in an instrument 7 or 8 inches in length, but play in the same key and tonal range as full-sized cornets. Apparently, pocket cornets were primarily intended as useful for travel, as novelty instruments or for use by children. To see pictures of pocket cornets and for more information about them, visit Nick DeCarlis's interesting site at www.pocketcornets.com. We would be interested to hear from anyone who has played one or come across one in jazz.