Posted by Chuck(G) on December 10, 2000 at 13:15:44:
In Reply to: Leaky mouthpiece posted by Phillip on December 09, 2000 at 09:07:33:
One sometimes sees this problem when German-style rotary tubas are being played. The leadpipe has a section running along the top bow that is higher in elevation than the mouthpiece where condensation collects and runs down the leadpipe back to the mouthpiece.
The solution is to remember to drain the leadpipe periodically while playing by removing the mouthpiece and tilting the horn to your right to allow the condenstation to flow out the receiver onto a cloth you have handy for the occasion.
I've often wondered if the leadpipe path isn't also the reason that red rot seems to be much more common in German rotaries than in piston valved instruments.