The Roth trumpet was originally manufactured by Ohio Band Instrument Co., F.A. Reynolds’ student instrument manufacturing division. Advertisements for Roth instruments in general exist from 1940; the earliest recorded Roth trumpet is SN 31959 (~1943-44). After the corporate sale to Scherl & Roth in 1946, Reynolds continued to produce Roth instruments under the Ohio Band name until 1950, then briefly under the “F.A Reynolds” label until they were rebranded as “Roth-Reynolds” instruments circa 1952.
The Roth “Tone Tempered” model with nickel-silver bell flare was introduced in the mid-to-late 1940s, but was soon thereafter designated as the new Emperor model trumpet when that model line was launched c.1950.
1936-c.1950
c.1950-1952
Model | Size | Description | Example |
300 | Bore: TBD Bell: TBD |
Roth B♭ Trumpet (Made by F.A. Reynolds) | Body: TBD | Valves: TBD | Finish: Clear lacquer or silverplated gold bell | No photo available |
1952-1964
Notes and Quotes
1953 Roth-Reynolds catalog:
Roth Trumpets and Cornets – the greatest value in band instruments today! Designed to guarantee maximum quality at a minimum investment. Carefully made and modern in design, this model is ideal for student musicians. Hand-lapped, nickel silver pistons for years of service. Ease of blowing means young musicians will learn quickly, play proficiently and enoy their instrument. Durable brass with clear lacquer finish and complete with new design trunk style case and special fittings.
1958, 1959 Roth-Reynolds catalogs:
Designed to guarantee maximum quality at a minimum investment. Represents finest American craftsmanship (not an imported horn). Carefully made and modern in design, this model is ideal for student musicians. Hand-lapped, nickel silver pistons for years of service. Ease of blowing means young musicians will learn quickly, play proficiently and enoy their instrument. Durable brass with clear lacquer finish and complete with a newly designed Gladstone case and special fittings.