Overview
This Olds P-22 single valve bass trombone is a rare and collectible model famously associated with George Roberts, the legendary low brass voice of the West Coast sound. Roberts played this exact model for much of his career and was known for achieving remarkable results with a single-valve setup.
Made in the early 1970s, the instrument features a 9" rose brass (gold brass) bell, a .565 bore, and a nickel silver handslide. This combination produces a tonal profile that is warm, round, and highly responsive—well suited for jazz, commercial, and orchestral pops playing.
This example has been fully serviced, including slide realignment, and remains structurally sound. The rotary valve system functions smoothly, and the instrument maintains the characteristic ease of response that defines this model.
Player Perspective
From a playing standpoint, the Olds P-22 offers a different experience compared to modern dual-valve bass trombones.
The response is immediate and open, with less resistance than many contemporary in-line valve systems. This makes the instrument especially appealing for players who value agility and tonal color over extended low-range capability.
The rose brass bell contributes to a broader, more relaxed sound, while the .565 bore provides enough depth to support bass trombone repertoire without becoming overly heavy in feel.
For tenor trombonists doubling on bass, the P-22 presents a natural transition point—offering the weight and sound of a bass trombone while maintaining a level of flexibility that feels familiar.
Questions Trombone Players Often Ask
What makes the Olds P-22 different from other single-valve bass trombones?
The P-22 was built specifically for and endorsed by George Roberts. Its design prioritizes warmth, tonal depth, and clean slide geometry, offering a more agile and responsive feel than many heavier bass trombones.
Is a single-valve bass trombone still practical today?
Yes—particularly in jazz, commercial, and Broadway settings. The F-attachment provides access to low F, E, Eb, D, Db, and C. While low B-natural is less accessible without a second valve, many players—including George Roberts—used slide extensions to reach it when needed.
How does the rose brass bell affect the sound?
Rose (gold) brass contains a higher copper content than yellow brass, producing a warmer, broader tone with fewer upper overtones. Combined with the .565 bore and nickel silver slide, the result is a round, rich sound with quick response.
Condition Summary
- Model: Olds P-22 Bass Trombone
- Era: Early 1970s
- Configuration: Single valve (F attachment)
- Bore: .565
- Bell: 9" rose brass (gold brass)
- Slide: Nickel silver handslide
Service performed:
- Full inspection and setup
- Slide realignment
- General playability optimization
Condition notes:
- Moderate lacquer wear in grip areas
- Light cosmetic aging on the bell
- No dents or structural issues
- Fully playable and gig-ready
Includes original Olds P-series case in clean condition.
📸 Photography From Our Early Archive
The images shown in this listing are from the early years of The Brass Exchange and reflect our original approach to instrument photography.
While our current photography workflow has evolved toward more refined, high-resolution presentation, these earlier images remain an important part of our archive. They document instruments as they passed through the shop and contribute to the broader historical record we maintain for players and collectors.
🏅 Why Players Trust The Brass Exchange
The Brass Exchange has been serving brass players since 2010, working directly with musicians, educators, and collectors at every level.
We’ve handled thousands of instruments with a focus on condition, playability, and accurate representation. Each instrument is evaluated from a player’s perspective—not just as inventory, but as a musical tool.
📌 Archive Reference & Next Steps
This Olds P-22 George Roberts model is now part of our historical archive at The Brass Exchange. It is preserved here as a reference for players and collectors researching vintage single-valve bass trombones.
Looking for a similar instrument? 🔎 Browse our current inventory:
👉 https://thebrass-exchange.com/trombones
