What is the primary purpose of the Bach 1691L?

The Bach 1691L is designed to hold sheet music securely for trumpet and cornet players while they are marching or performing standing up. It ensures that the music remains at a readable distance without the risk of dropping it during movement.

What finish does the 1691L have?

This specific model features a lacquered finish. This provides a gold-like appearance that matches the aesthetic of most brass-lacquered trumpets and cornets.

Does this lyre attach directly to the bell of the trumpet?

No, the 1691L is designed to attach to a horizontal lyre holder that is already fixed to the instrument. It is not a bell-clamp style lyre.

What is the benefit of a bent stem compared to a straight stem?

A bent stem allows for better positioning of the music, often bringing it closer or at a better angle for the performer. This is particularly useful depending on where the lyre box is located on the instrument's leadpipe.

Is the Bach 1691L suitable for both trumpets and cornets?

Yes, it is compatible with both instruments, provided the instrument has a standard horizontal lyre attachment point. It is a common accessory for both trumpet and cornet players in marching bands.

How much does the Bach 1691L typically cost?

The typical price for this lyre is approximately £12.00. This makes it an affordable but professional-grade accessory for brass performers.

How secure is the music grip on this model?

The 1691L features a sturdy, well-built spring mechanism designed to hold music firmly. It is specifically built to prevent music from falling out during the physical activity of marching.

Can I use this with a Bach Stradivarius 180S43 trumpet?

Yes, if the 180S43 is equipped with a lyre holder, the 1691L will fit. Note that many silver-plated instruments may prefer a nickel-plated lyre for visual matching, but the 1691L will function perfectly.

What kind of music does the lyre hold?

It is designed to hold standard marching 'lyre cards' or small flip folders containing multiple pages of music. The spring clamp is strong enough to hold several sheets of paper or a plastic folder.

Does this lyre include the mounting box for the trumpet?

No, the 1691L is just the lyre itself. The horizontal lyre holder must already be present on the instrument for the lyre to be attached.

Is the lacquer durable enough for outdoor use?

Yes, the lacquer is designed to protect the brass from tarnishing during outdoor performances. However, like all brass accessories, it should be wiped down after use in damp conditions to maintain the finish.

Why is Bach considered a good brand for this accessory?

Bach is a well-established manufacturer of high-quality brass instruments and accessories. Their lyres are known for being sturdier and more reliable than generic, unbranded alternatives found in the budget market.

Gear article

Bach 1691L Bent Stem Cornet and Trumpet Lyre

The Bach 1691L is a professional-grade bent stem lyre designed for use with trumpets and cornets during marching performances. It features a lacquered finish and a sturdy construction intended to secure sheet music firmly while the performer is in motion.

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Overview

The Bach 1691L is a specialised accessory for brass players, primarily those playing the trumpet or cornet in a marching band context. It serves as a portable music stand, allowing the performer to view their sheet music at eye level while keeping their hands free to operate the instrument's valves and maintain a proper grip.

Constructed with durability in mind, the lyre is finished in a clear lacquer to match the aesthetic of standard brass instruments. Its robust design is specifically engineered to withstand the physical demands of outdoor performances and parade marching.

Design and Functionality

The 1691L features a bent stem design, which is essential for positioning the music at a comfortable viewing angle depending on the instrument's leadpipe configuration. Unlike straight-stem lyres, the bend allows for greater clearance and adjustment.

The device works by attaching to a horizontal lyre holder (also known as a lyre box) that is pre-soldered or clamped onto the instrument. Once inserted into the holder, the lyre's spring-loaded clamp mechanism holds music cards or flip folders securely, preventing them from falling even during vigorous movement.

Compatibility and Use

This lyre is compatible with most standard trumpets and cornets that feature a dedicated lyre attachment point. While it is a Bach product, it follows standard sizing for horizontal holders, though players should verify their specific instrument's mount before purchase.

It is often used in conjunction with other professional brass accessories. For example, a player might use a Bach Stradivarius 180S43 trumpet or a Yamaha YTR-5335G equipped with this lyre for parade duties, while protecting their gear with a Protec L203 mouthpiece pouch or using specialised mutes like the Wallace Eb/Soprano practice mute during warm-ups.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to budget generic lyres, the Bach 1691L offers a higher build quality and a more reliable tension spring. While basic lyres may lose their grip over time, the Bach model is designed for longevity.

When compared to straight-stem versions, the 1691L's bent stem provides better visibility for instruments where the mounting box is positioned closer to the player's face. Unlike clip-on bell lyres, which attach directly to the flare of the bell, this model requires a fixed mounting bracket, providing a more stable and vibration-resistant connection.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Bach 1691L?: The Bach 1691L is designed to hold sheet music securely for trumpet and cornet players while they are marching or performing standing up. It ensures that the music remains at a readable distance without the risk of dropping it during movement.
What finish does the 1691L have?: This specific model features a lacquered finish. This provides a gold-like appearance that matches the aesthetic of most brass-lacquered trumpets and cornets.
Does this lyre attach directly to the bell of the trumpet?: No, the 1691L is designed to attach to a horizontal lyre holder that is already fixed to the instrument. It is not a bell-clamp style lyre.
What is the benefit of a bent stem compared to a straight stem?: A bent stem allows for better positioning of the music, often bringing it closer or at a better angle for the performer. This is particularly useful depending on where the lyre box is located on the instrument's leadpipe.
Is the Bach 1691L suitable for both trumpets and cornets?: Yes, it is compatible with both instruments, provided the instrument has a standard horizontal lyre attachment point. It is a common accessory for both trumpet and cornet players in marching bands.
How much does the Bach 1691L typically cost?: The typical price for this lyre is approximately £12.00. This makes it an affordable but professional-grade accessory for brass performers.
How secure is the music grip on this model?: The 1691L features a sturdy, well-built spring mechanism designed to hold music firmly. It is specifically built to prevent music from falling out during the physical activity of marching.
Can I use this with a Bach Stradivarius 180S43 trumpet?: Yes, if the 180S43 is equipped with a lyre holder, the 1691L will fit. Note that many silver-plated instruments may prefer a nickel-plated lyre for visual matching, but the 1691L will function perfectly.
What kind of music does the lyre hold?: It is designed to hold standard marching 'lyre cards' or small flip folders containing multiple pages of music. The spring clamp is strong enough to hold several sheets of paper or a plastic folder.
Does this lyre include the mounting box for the trumpet?: No, the 1691L is just the lyre itself. The horizontal lyre holder must already be present on the instrument for the lyre to be attached.
Is the lacquer durable enough for outdoor use?: Yes, the lacquer is designed to protect the brass from tarnishing during outdoor performances. However, like all brass accessories, it should be wiped down after use in damp conditions to maintain the finish.
Why is Bach considered a good brand for this accessory?: Bach is a well-established manufacturer of high-quality brass instruments and accessories. Their lyres are known for being sturdier and more reliable than generic, unbranded alternatives found in the budget market.