Just before Yamaha stepped onto the world stage, This instrument was born from a technical assistance agreement with Mr. Renaldo Silky. The first-generation Custom model 911, featuring a tuning bell pushed to the limit.
[Overview]
Yamaha B♭ Custom Trumpet YTR-911 Early Model (fixed front crook ) . Includes two tuning bells. A Bell (stamped 301): 125mm, lightweight yellow brass (weight 223 grams). Unsold bead (non-resonant).Slightly thicker. B Bell (marked 302): 127mm, Heavyweight, Yellow Brass (Weight 261g). Slightly thinner with a smoother shape. Soldered bead (resonant). Nickel silver and brass 2-piece valve casing. 11.68mm ML bore. Silver-plated finish. Instrument weight 1035g (with 01 bell attached).Accessories: Genuine double hard case, 1970 model
[Condition]
Minor contact marks, faint polishing marks, and scattered light scratches. Excellent condition. Tubes cleaned, all soft parts replaced, fully serviced. *Only one bell mounting screw is present.
[Features]
The YTR-911 was Yamaha's first trumpet to fully adopt a tuning bell (sliding bell) as part of its Custom series. This instrument represents the initial specification produced for only a very short period after its 1970 release.
Its most distinctive feature was deliberately making the front crook a fixed structure (not a movable tuning slide). Tuning was achieved solely via the bell slide—a bold design even for its time.
This approach, which could be called Yamaha's "all-in" gamble, aimed to minimize airflow loss and maintain simplicity while incorporating tuning bell concepts from Silky, a company with which Yamaha had a technical assistance agreement.
This specification proved short-lived, soon transitioning to designs incorporating a front tuning slide. Yet within that brief period, it encapsulated the trial and error of Yamaha's early days and the passionate vision of engineers beginning to look toward the world.
The two included bells also possess distinctly clear personalities.
The 01 bell (A bell) is somewhat thinner with a relaxed throat. It features a deep, accommodating embrace for air, producing a sound characterized by calmness and expansiveness.
Conversely, the 02 bell (B bell) is thicker, responsive, and delivers a clear-core, taut tone. It possesses a distinct attack and forward-driving propulsion.
While differing in character from current Yamaha models, these instruments require some adjustment from the player. Yet this very aspect is the charm of these early 911s: their design philosophy directly manifests in both sound and playing feel.
This instrument still allows you to experience the traces of Yamaha's direct confrontation with technology and ideals, right before they stepped onto the world stage.
