Posted by C(G) on April 24, 2003 at 13:21:09:
In Reply to: Re: BAT Brass Quintet Test posted by Mary Ann on April 24, 2003 at 10:04:17:
Very apt, Mary Ann! Consider that the typical quintet is made up of 3 very cylindrical instruments (2 trumpets, trombone), one fairly cylindrical instrument (horn) and one very conical instrument (tuba). In this light, it's easy to see why some quintets prefer bass trombone to tuba (better blend) or use cornets, alto horn and euphonium rather than the usual suspects.
I could see using a BAT with the conical family of horns, but for the cylindrical fellows, I think it makes sense to use something with more "bite". The times I've used a larger tuba and then listened to the recording, the tuba sound was great, but stood out more as a lone voice.
I use an Eb in quintet and it works pretty well.