Keyed bugle in E-flat

The keyed bugle was the principal solo instrument in American brass bands prior to the advent of the valved cornet. E. G. Wright was perhaps America's most noted maker of brass instruments during the nineteenth century, and he crafted numerous keyed bugles from precious metals as presentation pieces for famous bandleaders and soloists. According to the inscription on its bell, this instrument was given in 1854 to Joseph J. Brenan, leader of the Marietta, Ohio, town band.