Charles Gates about the Schagerl Model Apollo
Charles Gates about the Schagerl Model Apollo
I was at judging at the National Trumpet Competition in Washington, D.C., USA in March (2010) and had some time to play-test instruments (a good number of instrument and mouthpiece makers, as well as retailers, have display tables set up at NTC, so it's a good opportunity to see what is new). Usually, I find some things that are interesting and often quite good, but generally nothing that I like better than the instruments I already have. But when I happened to stop by the Washington Music Center table and tried the Schagerl Apollo B-flat trumpet, I played it for a bit and thought, “well this is quite something.” It was immediately both comfortable and yet with some very nice characteristics that set it apart from other instruments.
I returned later when I had more time and spent more time with it in the back hall, and decided to purchase it. I believe that it will gain a following here in the U.S. – as I know many of the Schagerl instruments already have, especially the rotary-valve trumpets. It has a very lively and colorful tone, with great projection -- and it is very free-blowing, yet with just enough resistance to facilitate control.
My impression is that the Scodwell Design leadpipe is similar to the "25" pipe familiar to many American players and is configured ("gap" etc.) to make the response/feel instrument immediately "familiar" to us, while still allowing the unique color and breadth of sound that this particular instrument facilitates. And, although players choose equipment for their playing characteristics, I must note that it is a pleasure to hold an instrument that is so aesthetically pleasing -- it is beautifully designed and perfectly constructed.
Charles Gates, Chair and Professor of Music
University of Mississippi, USA