|
We Have Two CHICAGO BENGE Trumpets from the collection of Frank Kaderabek
One in original lacquer and one in silver-plate - serial # 2102 & 2159
We did have them listed as a pair but are now going to sell them separately. THIS LISTING IS FOR THE SILVER ONE ABOVE - Serial #2159.
This is a pair of Chicago Benge trumpets, some of the holy grail trumpets from Eldon Benge's early era. These were originally purchased from the collection of Frank Kaderabek. A short bio follows:
Mr. Kaderabek served as principal trumpet with the Philadelphia Orchestra from 1975 until his retirement in 1995. His previous appointments included principal of the Dallas and Detroit symphonies and assistant principal of the Chicago Symphony. Born in Chicago, he studied with Edward Masacek and Adolph Herseth, then with Harry Glantz and Nathan Prager in New York. Mr. Kaderabek has appeared as a soloist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, Grant Park Symphony, Chicago Chamber Orchestra, the Bach Festival in Cranbrook, and Pennsylvania Symphonia Orchestra. Mr. Kaderabek now teaches at West Chester University and joined the faculty of The Curtis Institute of Music in 1975.
If you wish to read more about Mr. Kaderabek, click here for a google search -> Frank Kaderabek
We are listing this Benge as one of the instruments we sell at www.quality-brass.com
This one has been a part of our personal collection we have had for a number of years. Of the thousands of trumpets that have passed through our shop over the years, we have kept only a handful of either exceptionally rare or supremely in fantastic vintage shape.
Mr. Kaderabek knew Eldon Benge personally and has this to say about Mr. Benge's playing - "Elden Benge was a fine trumpet player. When he was healthy, Elden Benge was about 6'2", but when he was older he was all crippled up with arthritis of the spine and stood nearly a foot shorter. According to Frank Kaderabek, Benge would sit in a desk chair and lean back to play the trumpet. His sound, according to Kaderabek, was gorgeous--soft and refined" (Source: dallasmusic.org)
Below is a partial copy of the page on Joe Lill's website database of Chicago Benge trumpets he has registered there. This shows "Frank Kaderabek" as owner of 2102 and 2159 and gives a little detail on each horn. These were both purchased from the original owner, George Olisar. Joe Lill's site is here: Joe Lill Benge Site
These trumpets are in their original, unrestored condition as purchased from Mr. Kaderabek. The one is in original lacquer while the other, according to Mr. Kaderabek, was refurbished and silver-plated years ago. We've just added some photos - showing valves, leadpipe and anything else we found of interest due to some questions we had. Compression on the valves on each horn is excellent - no leakage can be detected. The valves on the silver-plated one appear to have been overhauled when the restoration was done as they are nickel-silver plated and look as good as new.
The leadpipes on both look good.
As far as playability, we agreed with Mr. Kaderabek and liked the full, mellow tone of the lacquered horn but others who have play-tested both horns have enjoyed the silver-plated one which is brighter in tone which makes for a great leadhorn.
Neither horn came with a case or mouthpiece but we will provide a letter of providence if the buyer requests one. Vintage Benge prices, especially the Chicago era horn, are steadily going up. A Chicago Benge of this vintage would currently command a price of no less than $4-5000, and from the collection of such a famous player and collector, maybe more. If you are looking for a bargain, this is not it - these are one-of-a-kind trumpets you'll always cherish. And, besides, they are both fantastic players - some may prefer the raw brass sound while others the zing of the silver-plated horn!
If you have any questions, please inquire and don't forget to check out our Quality Brass website
--> click here to see 
| 
;)
