Bell for tenor slide trombone
Maker
Yamaha
Date1974-1995 ca.
Place MadeGranger, Indiana, United States, North America
Place MadeJapan, East Asia
ModelYSL-641
Serial No.0982
SignedOn balancer: YAMAHAMarkingsEngraved on the bell: STEVE TURRE (vertical stacked)
Engraved on top of bell tube: 1995
DescriptionSilver- and gold-plated bell for tenor trombone. Detachable bell flare. Main tuning slide with weight balancer.
The engraving on this bell was designed by jazz trombonist Steve Turré, known since 1984 as the trombonist for the Saturday Night Live band (the NMM has the original drawing for the design, drawn by Turré). The custom engraving was done by Sherry Huntley (Granger, Indiana), one of the leading engraver's of the late 20th-early 21st centuries.
Given that this was a customized part, some elements do not match original characteritsics of the YSL-641 model from the 1970s and 1980s---the detachable bell being the most obvious change. The balancer design is different from the original, and could be a later modification. The bell lock flange and brace appear original, but of different design from the original 641 model as well.
DimensionsBell diameter: 214.1mm (8 1/2in)
Bore: 14mm (0.551in)
ProvenanceCustom-made and custom-engraved by Sherry Huntley for Steve Turre, Montclair, New Jersey, a jazz trombonist who has played n the "Saturday Night Live," TV show, band since 1984.
Credit LineGift of Lynn and Steve Dillon, 2023
Object number15552
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