Takes a trumpet Shank Mouthpiece. It comes with the original case.
The Getzen Deluxe Alto Trumpet F/Eb Mdl. 389
is a discontinued, vintage alto trumpet, valued for its unique tone and used in specific professional contexts. This instrument is primarily available on the used market.
Key Details and Specifications
The Model 389 is a vintage instrument, no longer in current production by Getzen.
Key: Pitched in F with an included slide to change the key to E-flat. (Concert)
Design: Described as having a tone similar to an alto horn, offering a different sound profile compared to a standard Bb trumpet.
Construction: Like other vintage Getzen models from the era (mid-20th century), it was built in Elkhorn, Wisconsin, USA, and features high-quality components like nickel-plated, nickel silver pistons.
Usage: Professional musicians have used this model for specific orchestral and ensemble pieces, such as the contralto trumpet part in Stravinsky’s Scherzo Fantastique.
Since the Model 389 is a discontinued vintage item, availability is limited to the second-hand market and specialty music shops like The Horntrader that deal in used instruments.
Availability: The Getzen 389 is noted as “by far the most common used alto trumpet to show up” on the second-hand market, although it is still not a widely available instrument.
Reviews: Expert and user opinions praise its specific tonal characteristics. According to one professional musician, it has a “completely different tone from a regular trumpet” and is suitable for specific low-F trumpet parts from composers like Wagner and Strauss. Instruments are generally considered durable and built to last. The main considerations when purchasing a used model are typical vintage wear and tear, such as lacquer wear or evidence of past repairs.
