Posted by Mark E. Chachich on March 23, 1999 at 23:17:10:
In Reply to: Rotary vs. Piston posted by Doug on March 23, 1999 at 18:11:24:
I think that your valves need to be worked on, good piston or rotary valves should not get in your way. I like rotary valves (most likely because that is what I have played on my primary tuba since 1972 and I am used to them). However, valve type would not influence my choice of a tuba (and never influenced my recommendations to a student when I used to teach). I honestly never found a big enough difference to worry about, but others may have some valuable insight (I would be interested). Somewhat off the topic; it is good that so many excellent tubas are now being produced, so that we can discuss this issue. When I was an undergraduate the choice of professional quality tubas was much more limited. Sorry about the rambeling reply, it is getting late.
good luck,
Mark E. Chachich
t570466(AT)vm.sc.edu