Posted by Tony Clements on March 01, 2004 at 21:30:27:
In Reply to: Thoughts on raw brass posted by MH on February 29, 2004 at 06:31:16:
I have always preferred raw brass. I think there is more CORE to the sound of a tuba when there is no lacquer on it. Also, the tuba seems more ALIVE in my hands in raw brass. I like silver next as it adds less MASS to the tuba than lacquer. As far as look go, if you don't touch the bell (which I NEVER do), and just wipe it down after you've played it, it should look nice forever. After a year or so, a nice patina will cover the instrument and you don't have to be that concerned about looks. Devalue? I don't think so.