A professional cornet with a classic Besson sound The Besson Prestige BE2028 Bb Cornet is a professional-level instrument designed for players who demand a focused, expressive sound, precise response and outstanding control across the full range. With its distinctive centred tone, excellent projection and superb valve action, the Prestige BE2028 has become a firm favourite among serious brass band players, soloists and advanced cornetists. Designed and continually refined with the needs of leading players in mind, the BE2028 combines traditional Besson characteristics with modern precision. Its sound is more focused and intense than the Besson Sovereign, while retaining the playing qualities that have made earlier Besson Prestige, 921 and International cornets so highly regarded. Why we recommend the Besson Prestige BE2028 Rich, centred and focused professional sound. Hand-hammered yellow brass bell for a responsive, expressive tone. 11.89 mm (.468") bore designed to provide a powerful yet controlled response. Three top-sprung, hand-lapped Monel pistons for fast, smooth and reliable valve action. Main tuning slide and third-valve slide triggers for precise intonation control. Gold-plated finger buttons, caps, triggers and water keys for a premium finish. Shepherd's crook design and traditional Besson styling. Supplied with a Deluxe hard wood-shell case and a comprehensive accessory outfit. The BE2028 is equally at home in a brass band, solo setting or demanding contemporary repertoire. Its combination of tonal focus, projection and flexibility gives experienced players the control they need to shape everything from delicate solo passages to powerful ensemble playing. Who is this cornet best suited to? The Besson Prestige BE2028 is an excellent choice for: Professional and semi-professional cornet players. Principal and solo cornet players in brass bands. Advanced students preparing for higher-level examinations and auditions. Players looking to upgrade from a student or intermediate cornet. Experienced musicians who value the traditional Besson sound and feel. Players looking for a versatile instrument capable of handling both established and modern repertoire. Rather than simply being a high-specification instrument, the Prestige BE2028 is designed to give the player a genuine connection with the instrument. Its centred response, accurate valve action and comprehensive intonation controls allow experienced players to concentrate on musical expression rather than working against the instrument. Our experience At The Wind Section, we've helped brass and woodwind players choose instruments at every level, from first instruments through to professional models. With professional cornets, we know that small differences in response, resistance, intonation and tonal character can have a significant effect on how an instrument feels in the hands of an experienced player. The Besson Prestige BE2028 is particularly appealing to players who want the characteristic Besson cornet sound combined with the precision and flexibility required by modern brass playing. Expert recommendation from Malcolm Kirkpatrick, Managing Director "The Prestige BE2028 is the sort of cornet that makes sense to an experienced player straight away. It has that unmistakable Besson character, but with the focus, response and control that serious players expect from a professional instrument. For brass band players in particular, it offers a very impressive combination of warmth, projection and precision.” Malcolm Kirkpatrick, Managing Director, The Wind Section Malcolm Kirkpatrick has decades of experience helping brass and woodwind musicians select instruments, with The Wind Section supporting players, teachers, schools and professional musicians from its Edinburgh base. Why buy from The Wind Section? Choosing a professional cornet is about more than specifications. Our specialist team can help you compare different models, finishes and mouthpieces and discuss how an instrument is likely to suit your playing style and requirements. Whether you're upgrading your current cornet, preparing for a principal position or simply looking for a professional instrument with the classic Besson sound, we're happy to offer knowledgeable advice before and after your purchase. Technical Specifications Model: Besson Prestige BE2028 Key: Bb Bore: .468" / 11.89 mm Bell: Hand-hammered yellow brass Bell diameter: 4.88" / 124 mm Valves: 3 top-sprung, hand-lapped Monel pistons Water keys: 2 lever-style forged water keys Triggers: Main tuning slide and third-valve slide triggers Features: Shepherd's crook Finish: Clear lacquer or silver-plated Weight: Approximately 1,225 g Outfit: Deluxe hard wood-shell case, shoulder strap, external accessory pouch, lyre, microfibre cloth, Alliance mouthpiece, valve oil, heavy caps and finger buttons. Our verdict If you're looking for a professional Bb cornet with a focused, centred sound and the unmistakable character of Besson, the Prestige BE2028 remains an outstanding choice. It combines traditional brass band heritage with modern playability, excellent valve action and the flexibility needed by today's advanced players. Models: BE2028-1G-0: Clear lacquer finish BE2028-2G-0: Silver-plated finish
