Dear Patrick,

In India, Turbinella (Xancus) pyrum is used in almost all religious Hindu
ceremonies as a trumpet. Large numbers of these shells are available in
seaside souvenir shops with their protoconch cut off. Shopkeepers make it a
point to demonstrate their trumpeting capability at unsuspecting visitors!
Turbinellidae species would make good trumpets.

The above species dates back to thousands of years and its use is steeped in
mystery (especially the sinistral specimens). These shells were sounded to
herald the beginning of battle, to indicate victory at the end of battle,
and in religious prayers to announce the arrival of God as manifested
through the idol when the doors of the inner sanctum of Hindu temples are
opened to worshippers.

I have however yet to come across musicians in India who are using the conch
as an instrument. Maybe some one will get innovative.

Cheers,
Ashish
Madras, India
-----Original Message-----
From: Patrick Draeger <[log in to unmask]>
To: [log in to unmask] <[log in to unmask]>
Date: Monday, May 01, 2000 4:28 AM
Subject: Conch Trumpets


>Dear any and all trumpeters,
>    Does anyone know how to make a conch trumpet?  Which genera makes the
>best trumpets?
>
>Many thanks in advance,
>Patrick
>