Posted by Mike Solms on April 30, 1999 at 12:30:57:
In Reply to: 2nd request:Mahillion Tubas posted by JRTapes on April 30, 1999 at 10:54:04:
Mahillion instruments were made in Belgium and imported in the U.S.,
I think, by Walter Sear. The one professional I am aware of who
plays them is Howard Johnson (Gravity). Howard has been quite
outspoken about his preference for top-action piston valves. I
believe that the ebay seller "brass01" is Dillon Music. If so, that
horn has been in their store a long time. It has a lovely sound up
high but is stuffy and nasty down low even by F tuba standards.
I also found the left hand position required to operate the 5th and
6th valves pretty awkward. Remember, the above is just my opinion.
Your mileage would likely vary.