"I consider and deem as unprofitable instruments those such as the rebecs and the trumpet marine."

When Sebastian Virdung set about writing an instrument manual in 1511, he described the rebec and the trumpet marine as "unprofitable instruments," a disparaging remark indeed. However, his only real complaint was that he was unable to describe how to play them — the only way for a person to learn that was to practice! Having built rebecs and a trumpet marine, I found the possibility of using Virdung's appellation too good to pass up, though please note that I do not share his opinion. With a little bit of practice, these instruments are sure to please.