Posted by Rick Denney on October 02, 2003 at 09:46:19:
In Reply to: Another clueless parent-we're everywhere posted by Sharon on October 01, 2003 at 12:45:56:
Allow me to offer some contrary advice.
Part of the joy of owning one's own tuba is searching for just the right one. Were you buying one for a student, then I'd counsel buying something vanilla with a good reputation that is well-made and holds its value (such as a used Miraphone 186 BBb), because I think it likely the owner will want to trade it in for something that fits their emerging musical sensibility if they stick with the instrument.
For an adult, however, they are past that, and they'll want to learn about the possibilities and make a choice on their own.
Therefore, I think you will be even more kind and loving if you give your son a certificate "Good for $2500 towards the purchase of the tuba of your choice" and include the phone numbers of Dillon Music, Baltimore Brass, Low Brasswerks, and The Brasswind. The tuba specialist at any one of those stores will reliably make an effective selection for your budget and musical objectives, and all will allow the instrument to be returned (less shipping, of course) if it doesn't work out.
Rick "who thinks a used Miraphone 186 would be the most likely effective choice if a choice had to be made" Denney