The Distin Family

The Distin Family, 1844. John Distin and his sons were British musicians who performed on saxhorns and were influential in the evolution of brass instruments in then popular music. 'Mr. Distin and his four sons have been for several years before the public. Mr. Distin senior, for more than nine years, was principal trumpet in the private band of King George IV'. They '...were invited to make a trial of some newly-invented instruments, manufactured by M. Adolphe Sax, in Paris. Upon the introduction of the Distin's improved Sax Horns in Paris, they at once ensured success...The Distins are at present the only performers on the Sax Horn, which unites the powers of the French horn and those of the cornet-a-piston but is infinitely superior to both, for it combines the mellowness and sweetness of the former, with all the brilliancy and power of the latter'. From "Illustrated London News", 1844, Vol I. Artist Unknown. (Photo by The Print Collector/Heritage Images via Getty Images)