Double-Bell Bass Trombone, Part 1.

The intricate mechanics of a truly one-of-a-kind double-bell bass trombone. Commissioned by Ben Anderson of Orchestra Victoria and the Ossicle Duo, this extraordinary instrument was handcrafted by Bret Gustafson and merges two bass trombones. Its two bells, one brass and the other copper, each produce a distinctly different tone. Specialised components from Meinlschmidt Valves and Instrument Innovations allow the player to move between these contrasting voices, sounding each bell independently or blending them together. This photograph reveals the instrument’s complex network of tubing and change valves, along with the striking combination of metals that culminates in the brass and copper bells at the rear of the image. Many thanks to Ben Anderson and Orchestra Victoria for allowing me to photograph this remarkable instrument.