Though few in numbers the ancient Greeks did have brass instruments....for example the trumpet (salpinx), and the horn (keras).
Salpinx
This trumpet like wind instrument was best known for its large sound that was best used for signalling to a large crowd or at a distance (up to 10km). It was often used for giving the start signal at athletic events, signals for coordination for teamwork, and military commands. This Greek version of the salpinx has been around since the times of Homer, and is typically constructed like the one pictured at the left. The sound was produced by the player blowing air through the mouth piece and articulated sounds with his tongue and mouth positioning.
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Keras
Typically known as a "poor man's horn" the keras was made from a hollowed out animal horn. Sound was produced when air was blown through, and different sounds were produced depending on the person's embouchure (mouth position).
This type of horn was most often used by shepherds and armies to call animals in, or transmit messages. |