Based on the S/n 378570, this Bach Model 183 Stradivarius Flugelhorn was manufactured approximately between 1991 and 1992 at the Elkhart, Indiana factory.
This horn once belonged to famed “Chase” Band member Jerry Van Blair.
This instrument is with slight minor cosmetic wear but solid mechanical performance (good valve compression). Comes with a Gard Leather Gig Bag
The Bach 183 is the standard professional flugelhorn model for the brand, known for its warm, “signature Bach” sound.
Bore Size: .401″ small bore, which allows for a very easy response.
Valves: Monel pistons known for durability and smooth action.
Features: Includes a 3rd valve slide trigger or saddle for tuning adjustments and a tunable mouthpipe
Van Blair played a critical role in the “horn-rock” sound of the early 1970s.
Core Member: He helped form Chase in 1970 and performed on their self-titled debut album, which featured the hit single “Get It On”.
Vocal Contributions: In addition to playing trumpet and flugelhorn, he provided lead vocals on the track “Hello Groceries”.
The “BoChaWa” Connection: The song “BoChaWa” from the band’s second album, Ennea, was named by combining the names of Jerry’s previous band (BoReebie), Bill Chase, and Wally (Wa) Yohn.
Survivorship: Unlike several of his bandmates, including Bill Chase, who tragically died in a 1974 plane crash, Van Blair had left the group prior to the accident.
Legacy: He is remembered by fellow musicians as a “sweet” flugelhorn player with a soulful connection to his instrument. Van Blair passed away on June 17, 2000, in Richmond, Indiana, at the age of 65.
