Posted by Tom C. on November 06, 2000 at 14:20:45:
In Reply to: Why DO pros use different instruments? posted by A Guy in CA on November 06, 2000 at 11:07:44:
To my ears, the timbre of upper range notes makes them stand out more; almost like a solo. Even when played lightly they've got that quality.
Suppose you're playing in the middle C range and functioning as the bottom of the trombone section. Even though you're playing the bottom notes, the listeners can tell that you're playing "high" for that CC tuba. If you're playing the high notes you must be the lead instrument, right? Play the same part on an F and you'll get closer to a tone that will blend with the 'bones because you're playing lower for that instrument.
On the other hand, if you don't have to funtion as part of a section, any tuba might work.
It all depends on how you need to sound at any given time.