A NEW BRASS INSTRUMENT.
\V have seen and heard a musical instrument newly invented by Mr. JOHN SnAw, of Glossop, in Derbyshire ; an ingenious mechanic, who has made the improvement of brass instruments an object of his attention for nearly twenty years. During this time he has produced five new kinds of valve for lengthening and shortening the tubes ; and has now constructed an instrument bearing a general resem- blance to the Cornet•ii-pistons, but decidedly superior to that in- strument in simplicity of mechanism, quality of tone, and facility of performance. It is so small that it can be carried in the pocket without inconvenience ; yet, notwithstanding its diminutive size, its tone is six perior in power and volume to that of the Cornet-a-pistons or the Cornopean ; and it has a clearness and brilliancy—a crispness—of which those instruments are destitute.
The instrument which we have examined has a perfect chromatic scale, extending from the G below the lines of the treble staff to the double D, in the hands of an ordinary player, but the scale may be carried still higher by a powerful lip. Its intonation is exceedingly true ; and it seems capable of being played as easily as a German flute. Such an instrument must be an important addition to our orchestras, and to military bands be invaluable. Mr. SHAw has taken out a patent for the invention ; though the instrument has not yet been brought into use, nor, we believe, even christened.
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