Gear article

Roy Benson Charli Green Signature Trumpet (Silver Plated)

The Roy Benson Charli Green Signature is a Bb trumpet designed for students and advancing players seeking a distinctive instrument with professional-inspired features. It combines a medium-large bore with a reversed leadpipe and gold-plated accents to provide a balance of projection, resistance, and aesthetic appeal.

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Overview

The Roy Benson Charli Green Signature Trumpet is a specialised Bb instrument positioned for students who require a higher level of character and performance than standard entry-level models. Developed in collaboration with the artist Charli Green, the instrument is notable for its silver-plated finish accented by gold-plated components, offering a visual aesthetic that stands out in ensemble settings.

Constructed with a yellow brass bell and leadpipe, the trumpet is designed to produce a bright, traditional timbre suitable for a variety of musical genres. The inclusion of nickel silver outer slides enhances the durability of the instrument, as this material is notably resistant to corrosion and contributes a certain sonority to the overall sound profile.

Design and Functionality

Technically, the instrument features a medium-large bore, a specification commonly chosen to facilitate significant projection without requiring excessive breath support from the player. This makes it an efficient choice for students who need to be heard in a concert band or jazz ensemble without experiencing premature fatigue.

A key mechanical feature is the reversed leadpipe. Unlike standard leadpipes, the reversed design provides a specific level of resistance that many players find provides better tactility and feedback while blowing. Additionally, the instrument is equipped with a more open bell flare, which aids in the dispersion of sound.

Tonal Character

The Charli Green Signature model is characterised by a bright, clear tone. The choice of yellow brass for the primary resonant components ensures a crisp response that is standard for the trumpet family. This brightness is tempered slightly by the silver plating and the nickel silver slides, which add a layer of complexity to the timbre. The instrument is engineered to allow players to project with less effort, making it particularly effective for lead playing or solo passages in a student context.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the mid-range trumpet market, the Roy Benson model competes with instruments like the Yamaha YTR-5335G. While the Yamaha is often praised for its consistency and standard engineering, the Roy Benson Charli Green Signature offers a more unique aesthetic and the specific feel of a reversed leadpipe at a similar price point. Compared to professional-grade instruments like the Bach Stradivarius 180S43, the Roy Benson is significantly more accessible for students while still offering features, such as gold-plated touches, that are usually reserved for higher-end models.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary material used for the bell?
The bell of the Roy Benson Charli Green Signature Trumpet is made from yellow brass, which is the standard material for creating a bright and resonant trumpet tone.
What type of leadpipe does this trumpet have?
This model features a reversed leadpipe. This design is often preferred by players who want a bit more resistance and a specific tactile feel when blowing into the instrument.
How does the bore size affect the playing experience?
It features a medium-large bore. This allows for excellent sound projection while ensuring the player does not need an excessive amount of breath, making it ideal for students.
What is the finish of the Charli Green Signature model?
The instrument is primarily silver-plated. To add a unique aesthetic, it also features gold-plated accents on various parts of the instrument.
Why are the outer slides made of nickel silver?
Nickel silver is used for the outer slides because it is highly resistant to corrosion. It also helps to add a specific sonority to the trumpet's timbre.
Is this trumpet suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is specifically described as a great instrument for students of the trumpet. Its ease of projection and unique character make it a strong choice for those moving beyond their first instrument.
What key is the Roy Benson Charli Green Trumpet in?
The Roy Benson Charli Green Signature model is a Bb (B-flat) trumpet, which is the standard key for most orchestral, jazz, and student trumpets.
What is the purpose of the more open bell design?
The more open bell design helps with sound dispersion and projection. It allows the bright tone of the yellow brass to be heard more clearly in larger performance spaces.
How does the price compare to other student-level trumpets?
With a typical price of around £678, it sits in the mid-range category. It is more expensive than basic entry-level models but offers signature features and unique aesthetics not found on budget instruments.
Does the instrument require a specific mouthpiece?
While it can be used with any standard trumpet mouthpiece, players often pair instruments like this with professional options such as the Yamaha Allen Vizutti Gold Plated mouthpiece or Denis Wick models to further refine the sound.
Who is Charli Green?
Charli Green is a professional trumpet player and educator. This signature model was developed to meet specific tonal and tactile preferences associated with his playing style.
What accessories are recommended for maintenance?
To protect the silver and gold finish, a quality case or a Protec L203 mouthpiece pouch is recommended. Regular cleaning of the nickel silver slides will also ensure the instrument's longevity.