Keyed bugle

From Oddwinds

The keyed bugle (Category 1), a bugle with woodwind-like keys, was developed in 1810 by Joseph Haliday. Instruments pitched in C and Eb were made.

Keyed Bugle Family

In 1817 the French firm Halary introduced a family of three instruments based on the keyed bugle. Other instruments were added later. Besides the original instrument there were:

Alto ophicleide, originally called a 'quinticlave', in F and Eb.
(Bass) ophicleide in C and Bb.
Contralto ophicleide in Ab.
Contrabass ophicleide, or 'monster ophicleide', in F and Eb.

Pictures

Edinburgh University Collection of Historic Musical Instruments:
Keyed bugle; 6 keys (George Smith, Wolverhampton, 1818-30).

Miscellaneous Links

Ophicleide entry in Contrabass Mania
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