This is a historical replica of the Starck alto sackbut, made by Thein in Bremen, Germany in 1996. It is an exceptionally detailed, top-quality reproduction, built with no corners cut in replicating historical construction and decorative techniques.
The instrument features cast ferrules with extensive hand-stamped decoration, hand engraving, traditional snake-clasp slide braces, raw brass inner slide tubes without stockings, and historically seamed and hammered components. The ferrules and braces are gold plated, as is the highly decorated, hand-engraved bell garland.
A tuning slide has been thoughtfully integrated into the historical design, making the instrument considerably more practical and adaptable for modern performance while retaining the character and appearance of the original Starck instrument.
This is a particularly fine example of Thein’s historical instrument making from this period, combining exceptionally elaborate handwork with historically informed construction.
