This is a favorite in my collection. It is an E trumpet that belonged to Professor Hickman. I came into a lesson and played the Hummel Concerto for him. He said, “Great, but it could be a lot better.” Of course, I wanted to know how to make it better. He said I just needed to play it in E. I said, “If I only had the money for an E trumpet.” He said, “Do you have three hundred bucks?” I said, “Sure.” He handed me this horn and said, “ Bring me a check for three hundred bucks next week.” What an amazing little instrument. I use it on Hummel and the Toccata from Pulcinella. I also use it on some works calling for D trumpet. It is a true frankenhorn being assembled from parts of a D, C, and Bb trumpet. As you can see, some interesting bends have been added to the leadpipe. It also has had the back bow of the bell bent to fit the key. I have been offered as much as $1500 bucks for this horn. One former colleague even put a roll of bills on my stand offering to buy it. Mr. Hickman asked why I didn’t take them up on it. Frankly, this is a small part of Mr. Hickman and I do not intend to give it up. He was such and inspiration to work with. Thank you Mr. Hickman.