Posted by Ridley on April 23, 2001 at 23:35:09:
In Reply to: Why F tuba? posted by Greg Crider on April 23, 2001 at 23:16:14:
Hi Greg, to me the F is more soloistic and nimble in nature than the contrabass tubas. In reality, it isn't any easier to play in the upper register on the F than on CC or BBb. In fact I have a range of a litte over 4 octaves no matter which horn I play. However, it does put those notes in a more stable place in the overtone series of the horn when you use the F. As far as the bore is concerned, it all depends on the sound you are going for. Mike Moore (since you used him as an example) has several horns which he uses for different things. As for me, I play a large bore MW45SLP which I am in love with. I play mostly brass band, quintet and solo stuff and I can get a large sound whenever I need it and a more delicate sound at other times. It all depends on the gig I guess. I'm sure there are other more learned opinions than mine but I hope mine has helped.
Brian Ridley
Bremen, GA.