Posted by Chuck Jackson on February 20, 2000 at 02:13:06:
In Reply to: Buying tubas for Brass Band posted by George on February 19, 2000 at 19:07:19:
I don't think you will ever go wrong with Besson 3up+1side compensating instruments. This is what the majority of the music is written for. Although I may get some arguments, it is easier to play on them also. They are meduim bore instruments(.690 EEb and .730 BBb) and can handel the facility needed as well as put out ample sound, as is evidenced by recordings of any of the British bands. I wouldn't rule out Yamaha Compensating instruments. The big plus is that they come with cases. I have had mixed results with both the EEb's and the BBb's. Too much to go into here. Lastly, being somewhat of a traditionalist, I prefer horns that face right, my opinion, for what it's worth. Good luck, and, you shouldn't have any problem finding the Bessons used. Dillon has a couple of BBb's on their site. They are honest businessmen and will do you right. Good luck!!!