Trumpet in Bb. Grisha Farfel 'Sessionair' model. Brass tubing with hallmarked silver sections, including bell, water keys and mouthpiece receiver. Three Périnet valves. Two water keys with cork pads. Stylised angular bracing. Mouthpiece missing. Bell stamped B&H Ltd LP SILVER/358131/LP/MADE IN ENGLAND/SESSIONAIR/GRISHA FARFEL. Stamped with globe and semiquaver device. Trumpet in B flat. Grisha Farfel 'Sessionair' model. Brass tubing with hallmarked silver sections, including bell, water keys and mouthpiece receiver. Three Périnet valves. Two water keys with cork pads. Third valve slide operated by adjustable little finger ring. Stylised angular bracing forms an octagonal shape within the tuning slide. Mouthpiece missing. Entire bell is decorated with angular art deco style stamped engravings. Top of bell has globe and treble clef motif, beneath which is stamped: MADE IN ENGLAND/GRISHA FARFEL; Side of bell next to valves stamped: B&H Ltd LP SILVER/358131; Other side of bell stamped: SESSIONAIR; Valve casings stamped 1,2,3 respectively.
This flashy B flat American-style trumpet was designed to appeal to jazz and session players and was an attempt by Boosey & Hawkes to compete with US instrument makers. This model was endorsed by Grisha Farfel, whose name is engraved on the edge of the bell. Farfel became famous playing on the Billy Cotton Band Show in London during the 1950s. The Billy Cotton Bands Show was a very popular variety programme that featured music, dance and comedy. It was broadcast on radio and later on TV by the BBC. The workshop order book record for this instrument reads: '[Job card no.] 55754; Quantity: 10; Date: 19th November 1962; Description: L.P.; Model: 4017; Charged out: 7th January 1963 LAC L.P. Sessionaire Wholesale (sterling silver bell)'
