Description
Bach Stradivarius 25G Large Bore — Early Elkhart Era
Serial #45523 — Circa 1968 — .462” Large Bore
Raw Brass
A REAL PLAYER’S BACH!
Here is a very desirable Bach Stradivarius Model 25G Large Bore Bb trumpet, serial number 45523, dating to approximately 1968 — an early Elkhart-era Bach and one of the periods that serious Bach players and collectors continue to seek out.
The 25G is the classic Bach large-bore .462” configuration with the G/gold-brass bell, giving this horn the combination of broad projection, warmth and depth that makes the 25G such a favorite with professional players.
WHY THIS ERA?
Serial #45523 places this trumpet right around 1968, only a few years after Bach production moved from Mount Vernon to Elkhart. The early Elkhart instruments occupy an interesting place in Bach history: they retain much of the traditional hand-finished approach and design philosophy associated with the earlier Vincent Bach instruments while benefiting from the increased production capabilities of the new Elkhart facility.
Many experienced Bach players specifically seek out early Elkhart Strads because of their individual playing characteristics, substantial construction and the consistency of the classic Bach designs from this period.
Rather than simply calling an older Bach “better” than a modern instrument, we think the real attraction is that these vintage horns can have a distinctive personality and response that many players find difficult to duplicate. Every good vintage Bach has its own voice — and this one has the added advantage of having received professional valve work.
BOB REEVES VALVE ALIGNMENT
This trumpet has had a Bob Reeves Valve Alignment, a significant upgrade for a vintage Bach.
Proper valve alignment can make a remarkable difference in the way an older Bach plays. Correcting the relationship between the valve ports, slides and leadpipe helps maximize airflow and gives the player a more efficient, centered response.
On a vintage professional instrument, this is exactly the kind of work you want to see.
THE 25G
The 25G is a particularly desirable configuration for players looking for a big, powerful, orchestral-style Bach soundwithout giving up the flexibility that makes the Stradivarius design so useful.
The .462” large bore provides plenty of air capacity, while the G/gold-brass bell contributes a broader, warmer tonal character.
This is a horn for the player who wants depth, projection and authority — whether you’re playing concert band, orchestra, big band or commercial work.
HORNTRADER’S TAKE
The combination of:
- • Early Elkhart Bach Stradivarius
• Model 25G
• .462” Large Bore
• Gold-brass/G bell
• Approximately 1968 manufacture
• Bob Reeves Valve Alignment - 1st Slide Thumb hook installed by Charlie Melk
makes this a particularly interesting vintage Bach for the serious player.
It isn’t just another used Strad.
It’s an early-Elkhart 25G — the kind of Bach that deserves to be played.












