C.G. Conn is one of the oldest and most respected American manufacturers of brass and woodwind instruments, known for its contributions to the development of modern band and orchestral instruments. Founded in 1874 by Charles Gerard Conn in Elkhart, Indiana, the company initially gained recognition for producing brass instruments, particularly cornets. Over time, Conn expanded its offerings to include trombones, saxophones, French horns, and other wind instruments, becoming a dominant force in the American band instrument industry.
Conn is particularly well known for its innovations in brass instrument design, including improvements in bore construction, valve mechanisms, and overall playability. The company’s saxophones, especially those produced in the early-to-mid 20th century, are highly regarded by collectors and professional musicians alike. Models such as the Conn 6M “Naked Lady” alto saxophone and the 10M tenor saxophone are celebrated for their rich tone, fast action, and unique rolled tone hole construction. Additionally, Conn’s trombones, including the popular 88H symphonic trombone, remain a top choice among professional orchestral and jazz musicians.
Throughout its history, Conn has been associated with quality craftsmanship and has supplied instruments to military bands, professional musicians, and schools worldwide. However, the company underwent significant changes in ownership over the years, eventually becoming part of Conn-Selmer, a division of Steinway Musical Instruments. Despite these transitions, the Conn brand continues to produce high-quality brass instruments, maintaining its legacy of excellence in the band and orchestral world.
With a history spanning over 150 years, C.G. Conn remains a symbol of American musical instrument craftsmanship. Its influence on brass and woodwind design has shaped generations of musicians, and its instruments continue to be played in concert halls, jazz clubs, and marching bands worldwide. Conn’s commitment to innovation and tradition ensures that its name remains synonymous with quality and musical excellence.
C.G. Conn
C.G. Conn is one of the oldest and most respected American manufacturers of brass and woodwind instruments, known for its contributions to the development of modern band and orchestral instruments. Founded in 1874 by Charles Gerard Conn in Elkhart, Indiana, the company initially gained recognition for producing brass instruments, particularly cornets. Over time, Conn expanded its offerings to include trombones, saxophones, French horns, and other wind instruments, becoming a dominant force in the American band instrument industry.
Conn is particularly well known for its innovations in brass instrument design, including improvements in bore construction, valve mechanisms, and overall playability. The company’s saxophones, especially those produced in the early-to-mid 20th century, are highly regarded by collectors and professional musicians alike. Models such as the Conn 6M “Naked Lady” alto saxophone and the 10M tenor saxophone are celebrated for their rich tone, fast action, and unique rolled tone hole construction. Additionally, Conn’s trombones, including the popular 88H symphonic trombone, remain a top choice among professional orchestral and jazz musicians.
Throughout its history, Conn has been associated with quality craftsmanship and has supplied instruments to military bands, professional musicians, and schools worldwide. However, the company underwent significant changes in ownership over the years, eventually becoming part of Conn-Selmer, a division of Steinway Musical Instruments. Despite these transitions, the Conn brand continues to produce high-quality brass instruments, maintaining its legacy of excellence in the band and orchestral world.
With a history spanning over 150 years, C.G. Conn remains a symbol of American musical instrument craftsmanship. Its influence on brass and woodwind design has shaped generations of musicians, and its instruments continue to be played in concert halls, jazz clubs, and marching bands worldwide. Conn’s commitment to innovation and tradition ensures that its name remains synonymous with quality and musical excellence.
