Apologies for being off-topic, but hoping knowledgeable folks might be able to help out.
I can’t seem to find any information on what is used in modern concert practice for the low alto trumpet that Rimsky-Korsakov commissioned for Mlada, and which sounds a 5th lower than written. There’s a few scores (Glazunov, Rachmaninoff, Prokofiev, Shostakovich) but even the Russians apparently no longer make or use it.
Appreciate any pointers. Many thanks!
I don’t know what is typically done but can guess by looking at the score which I downloaded. And I know what I would do.
Obviously the range and transposition is perfect for the Horns but not a good match timbre wise. This leaves the Trombones as the best solution with an option for Alto on the high part. Since it’s public domain, input the parts and transpose for the Bones is what I would do.
Of course, if you’re rich (you need 6 of them) I believe Thein makes this instrument in both piston and rotary varieties.
If we’re off in the weeds, I’d suggest that either Baritone or Euphonium is going to be a closer match the 'bone.
If I recall correctly, R-K didn’t use the lowest notes so the part could be played on normal (B flat) trumpet. This is mentioned in his orchestration book - he wanted a bit “larger” sound to the lower notes of the normal trumpet. Maybe flugelhorn?
Perhaps different instruments are used as substitutions depending on the score? It seems Glazunov used notes below C in Karelian Legend. The R-K alto trumpet was made with rotary valves in the German style, but Glazunov pairs it here with 2 trumpets in C, which I think speaks to the more open and clear sound the R-K trumpet must have had.
My idea was a valve trombone as a substitute but based on the range and transposition, the alto trombone seems like a good fit. Incidentally, the Glazunov piece has been recorded several times but so far I’m not able to find any information on the instrument used.