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US Civil War 1860-65 Band Instruments
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and Keyed Bugles

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Keyed Bugle in D   c.1840

The Keyed Bugle was the first  trumpet-like lip vibrated wind instrument which could play complete chromatic scales. It was first  introduced in Europe and Great Britain early in the 1820's.  Keyed Bugles sound much like modern cornets and quickly replaced natural trumpets and cornettos.  It is in the family of flugelhorns due to the continuous conical taper throughout its length.  Keyed Bugles were in use up through the 1860's. They were invariably made of copper with brass keys and trim, and had either eight, nine , or later, 12 keys.  They were made in various keys including: C, Eb, Bb, and A.

This Bugle is in the key of D and has eight keys.  It is unmarked and was likely made in Germany for the English or American market.  The German Bugles invariably had no makers name on the brass garland.  This bugle has had the pads replaced and is in superb playing condition. note the detail photos below