What is the key of the Besson Sovereign BE955?

The Besson Sovereign BE955 is pitched in the key of Bb, which is the standard tuning for baritone horns in brass band settings.

What type of valve system does the BE955 use?

It utilizes a three-valve compensating system. This design helps correct intonation issues naturally found in the lower register of brass instruments.

What material is used for the bell?

The bell is handmade from yellow brass. This material is chosen for its ability to produce a warm and focused tone.

Is the BE955 silver-plated or lacquered?

The BE955 model described here features a silver-plated finish, which is highly durable and common in professional brass bands.

Are the valves made of stainless steel?

Yes, the instrument features stainless steel valves. These are designed for smooth action and long-term durability against wear and corrosion.

Does the instrument come with a case?

Yes, the BE955 includes a shaped ABS case. This case is designed to provide secure protection for the instrument during transport to rehearsals and concerts.

Is the BE955 tested before it leaves the factory?

Every BE955 is checked and play-tested by a professional soloist. This ensures that the instrument meets quality standards and has a consistent feel out of the box.

What accessories are included with the horn?

The horn comes with a mouthpiece and essential maintenance accessories. These additions ensure the player is prepared for immediate use.

How much does the Besson Sovereign BE955 typically cost?

The typical price for this professional baritone horn is approximately £5,299. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.

Who is the primary target audience for this instrument?

It is designed for brass band players seeking high-level control and tonal balance. It is suitable for advanced students, serious amateurs, and professional performers.

How does the compensating system benefit the player?

The compensating system automatically adjusts the tubing length when certain valve combinations are used. This keeps the intonation steady across the full register, especially in the low range.

What is the tonal character of the yellow brass bell?

The handmade yellow brass bell supports a focused sound that carries clearly. It is designed to maintain musical detail without sounding thin or overly bright.

Gear article

Besson Sovereign BE955 Bb Baritone Horn

The Besson Sovereign BE955 is a professional-grade Bb baritone horn specifically engineered for brass band performance. It features a three-valve compensating system and a handmade yellow brass bell to provide precise intonation and a focused, warm tonal character.

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Overview

The Besson Sovereign BE955 Bb Baritone Horn is a staple instrument within the British brass band tradition. It is designed to offer a balance between tonal richness and technical reliability. As part of the Sovereign series, the BE955 represents the professional standard for baritone players, providing the necessary projection for ensemble work while maintaining the agility required for solo passages. Each instrument undergoes a rigorous quality control process, including being play-tested by a professional soloist before leaving the factory to ensure consistent feel and response.

Design and Construction

The BE955 is constructed with a focus on durability and tonal clarity. The heart of the instrument is its three-valve compensating system, which is essential for maintaining accurate intonation in the lower register. The valves are manufactured from stainless steel, ensuring a smooth, fast action and resistance to corrosion over long-term use. The 9.5-inch bell is handmade from yellow brass and finished in silver plating, a combination that contributes to the instrument's specific resonance and aesthetic appeal.

Sound Character

The sound of the BE955 is described as warm and focused. The handmade yellow brass bell allows the player to produce a sound that carries clearly through an ensemble without losing its inner detail or becoming overly diffuse. Because of its compensating system, the instrument maintains a stable tonal balance across its full register, allowing for seamless transitions between the low and high ranges without the thinning of sound often found in non-compensating models.

Player Suitability and Accessories

This horn is primarily aimed at serious brass band players, from advanced students to professional orchestral musicians. Its ergonomic design and reliable valve action make it suitable for performers who require an instrument that can handle demanding technical repertoire. The BE955 is supplied as a complete outfit, including a shaped ABS case for protection, a mouthpiece, and essential maintenance accessories, allowing the player to use the instrument immediately for rehearsals and performances.

Market Comparison

Within the brass instrument market, the BE955 sits alongside other high-end brass band instruments like those from Yamaha or Roy Benson. While instruments like the Roy Benson FH302 serve the flugelhorn market, and French horns like the Yamaha YHR671 serve orchestral needs, the BE955 is a specialised baritone horn. Its compensating system distinguishes it from entry-level non-compensating models, placing it in a higher price bracket reflecting its professional specifications.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the key of the Besson Sovereign BE955?: The Besson Sovereign BE955 is pitched in the key of Bb, which is the standard tuning for baritone horns in brass band settings.
What type of valve system does the BE955 use?: It utilizes a three-valve compensating system. This design helps correct intonation issues naturally found in the lower register of brass instruments.
What material is used for the bell?: The bell is handmade from yellow brass. This material is chosen for its ability to produce a warm and focused tone.
Is the BE955 silver-plated or lacquered?: The BE955 model described here features a silver-plated finish, which is highly durable and common in professional brass bands.
Are the valves made of stainless steel?: Yes, the instrument features stainless steel valves. These are designed for smooth action and long-term durability against wear and corrosion.
Does the instrument come with a case?: Yes, the BE955 includes a shaped ABS case. This case is designed to provide secure protection for the instrument during transport to rehearsals and concerts.
Is the BE955 tested before it leaves the factory?: Every BE955 is checked and play-tested by a professional soloist. This ensures that the instrument meets quality standards and has a consistent feel out of the box.
What accessories are included with the horn?: The horn comes with a mouthpiece and essential maintenance accessories. These additions ensure the player is prepared for immediate use.
How much does the Besson Sovereign BE955 typically cost?: The typical price for this professional baritone horn is approximately £5,299. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.
Who is the primary target audience for this instrument?: It is designed for brass band players seeking high-level control and tonal balance. It is suitable for advanced students, serious amateurs, and professional performers.
How does the compensating system benefit the player?: The compensating system automatically adjusts the tubing length when certain valve combinations are used. This keeps the intonation steady across the full register, especially in the low range.
What is the tonal character of the yellow brass bell?: The handmade yellow brass bell supports a focused sound that carries clearly. It is designed to maintain musical detail without sounding thin or overly bright.