Starting with a fresh idea and limited time, musical instrument giant ConnSelmer (Elkhart, Indiana) began its journey to create one of the most well-known, innovative and forward-thinking sound manufacturers in the country. Recounting its roots from the 1870s to its current-day partnerships with Notre Dame's iNDustry Labs and ND Energy's Materials Characterization Facility (MCF), the following story demonstrates the important link between industry and Notre Dame and how these relationships strengthen research and economic development. 

The Grand Reprise
Notre Dame helps instrument manufacturer bridge legacy and future
Originally published in ND Stories on June 1, 2022

MCF Role

The MCF team played a significant role in conducting the forensic analysis as described in the above story. They first reviewed the relevant properties of vintage and current trumpets, both made by ConnSelmer. They then developed the overall approach to utilize a suite of analytical techniques and produced useful information that enabled ConnSelmer to impart the desired characteristics of the vintage instruments into its modern counterparts. This work will also be used to find future ways for manufacturing to become more resilient.

The MCF team members are Subhash L. Shinde, Associate Director, who provided the fundamental materials science insights and developed the overall analytical approach with the team; Ian V. Lightcap, Research and Facilities Program Director, who leveraged the complementary set of  instruments in the MCF to carry out the analytical investigations; Anna Matzner, Laboratory Specialist, who works on various MCF instruments; and Karl Cronberger, Electron Microprobe and SEM Technician, who along with Matzner carried out the experimental work.