Yamaha YCR4330GII Bb cornet

The YCR4330GII is the second generation version of Yamaha’s popular Bb cornet, and an ideal step up instrument for intermediate students. It is built with a Shepherd’s Crook style bell which is the preferred shape in British brass bands, and comes supplied with everything a student will need to get playing straight away.

Like all Yamaha instruments, this cornet has been carefully designed to optimise playability and tone quality. Its tubing is made entirely of yellow brass to provide maximum projection and stability, and comes in a choice of gold lacquer or silver plated finishes (the finish has no effect on tone). The three monel piston valves are extremely durable and should be oiled regularly to maintain their responsive springy action.

Cornets produce a darker sound than trumpets owing to their conical bores. This model starts with a medium wide diameter and features a specially rounded lead pipe, both of which reduce resistance and add to the smooth richness of the instrument’s tone. Its intonation is excellent across the whole cornet range, and fixed hooks on the 1st and 2nd valve slides make it easy to fine tune notes in extreme registers if necessary while playing. There are also two water keys within easy reach which are used to expel unwanted moisture and so prevent brass corrosion.

Every YCR4330GII cornet outfit includes a Yamaha 11E4 mouthpiece, a pot of valve oil, and a polishing cloth. All this comes in a deluxe hard case with a moulded interior, pockets for music and accessories, and comfortable shoulder straps.