A Dictionary of Music and Musicians/Glen

GLEN. An eminent Scotch firm of musical instrument makers. Thomas Glen, the founder, was born at Inverkeithing, Fifeshire, in 1804; commenced business in the Cowgate, Edinburgh, in 1826; in 1836 removed to North Bank Street, and died July 12, 1873. Amongst the instruments invented by him was a wooden Ophicleide, of which a large number were made, and known as 'Serpentcleides.' The business is still carried on by his sons John and Robert. The Glens are now chiefly noted for their Bagpipes, of which they are the recognised best makers.

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