Posted by Sean Chisham on March 02, 2004 at 14:16:50:
In Reply to: Military band instruments posted by Gary Swart on March 02, 2004 at 02:26:35:
In our band the only criteria is that the brass instruments must be silver plated. All of our Sousaphones must look the same from a reasonable distance.
As long as the above criteria is met than the choice of which brand to buy is pretty much up to the individual musician. For expensive instruments like a tuba, we have to justify the expense. For instance if our oldest tuba is only 3 years old then swapping it out for a new horn because someone new does not like the one leftover from a guy who just got out is difficult. Just like other Army equipment, there is an expected lifespan for equipment. Also need to factor in the budget available each year and hope for the best when making the request.
As far as who owns the equipment, that would be the US of A. You don't own that shiny new PT-6 any more than an infantryman owns his issued hand grenades or M16A2 rifle. In most cases the instrument is checked out in your name and is exclusivelly for your use.