Ian Balmain

I first became aware of the Eclipse U.K. C Trumpet when Noel Langley asked me to try it out after he helped develop both the B flat and C. I am always happy to trial any trumpet especially if it's a U.K. made instrument.

I was amazed to see how many trumpets Leigh and his team had already made and the variety of different metals, finishes and bell sizes. The quality of service was first class. Within twenty minutes he changed a bell for me just as an experiment.

My first impression of all the trumpets was the fantastic tuning. I play the C trumpet quite regularly and have always had to cross finger the usual troublesome notes. I couldn't believe they were perfectly in tune. Also the top of the instrument needs very little help.

The other reason for me to choose to play the Eclipse C trumpet is the quality of the sound. I have forever been looking for an instrument that has a dark colour with depth.

Of course, the proof of the pudding is when you put it through its paces in the orchestra. At first I thought during the louder sections it wasn't carrying, however, I was delighted with the results when I listened to the televised production of the Tempest by Thomas Ades from Covent Garden in which I certainly had plenty to do.

I look forward to a long relationship with Leigh and the First Class Brass team.