Posted by TUBAdAMORE on February 25, 1999 at 01:50:37:
In Reply to: Low range on different horns posted by David Hamrick on February 24, 1999 at 11:45:24:
It is not science, it is VOODOO!
Sure, a tuba's design characteristics determine it's sound and playabilty - But, if it were truly a science, all instruments of a particular model/manufacturer would be identical, they are not.
Not all large bore instruments speak well in the low register...etc. It is rather an alchemy of ALL the design; bore, metal thickness, wrap, contour, and the resonant characteristics of the particular alloy of brass...et al- that determine it's playabilty. There are so many variables, and exceptions to the "rules", that it makes instument design more akin to Black Magic than Science.
and yet, lest we forget-
The most critical factor is the player, a different player might play the same two instruments & come to the opposite conclusion! No two players are alike. Vive la Difference!
Matching Tuba Player to Tuba is not a science, it is a comedy of trial and error.
So, lets just say this particular St. Pete suits you better than this particular Cerveny.
P.S. Mouthpieces are also a factor, but we'll leave that for another post.