very interesting 1908 78rpm Columbia Phonograph Co. TEST PRESSING

$

40

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This 10" record is still quite a mystery to me. Researching test pressings can be quite an obsession, with lots of detective work. I will present to you my research up to this point. Performed on this record is a beautiful cornet solo of the song "I'll Sing Thee Songs of Araby," backed by an orchestra.  Recording duration is 2 minutes 24 seconds. 

Written in the lead-out area is the following:

26889

x569

3-x 2

The disc dimensions and groove modulation look/sound like an early Columbia, although not as thick as the ones from the 1902-1904 era.  The font of the numbers on the disc also closely resemble those used by Columbia, but on their later discs.    After presenting this performance to a highly educated musicologist and a host of cornet aficionados that are familiar with early trumpet performances, it was analyzed and  suspected that this might be an early recording of Jules Levy.  No records of Jules Levy performing this piece are known to exist.   I delved further into Columbia discographies, looking matrix numbers in the 24,xxx to 28,xxx block.  Although not listed, the 26889 matrix number would land this disc around 1908, using extant matrix numbers as a guide.  If this is so, this recording could be of Charles Leggett, who did in fact record, "I'll Sing Thee Songs of Araby."  The matrix number could possibly be unrelated to Columbia completely, and this could certainly be Jules Levy.  I have no conclusive evidence.

  Test pressings this early are not common at all, and this disc is a true survivor.  Looks better than my grade.  I grade this disc conservatively "V+" using the VJM Record Grading system.  Any interested researcher/collector is welcome to send me your email address and I will provide you with a full .MP3 audio file of this recording for your evaluation.   I audition all records on a modern turntable with a lightweight sapphire stylus. RECORDS WILL BE PACKED PROPERLY between several sheets of cardboard, surrounded by packing peanuts, in a sturdy box. If you are outside the USA, please email me directly for an exact quote. The automatically generated quotes are always a little more than the actual cost. Payment via PayPal, or in person. I ship WORLDWIDE.

I will gladly combine purchased to save you money on shipping.