Posted by Tony E on April 27, 2002 at 23:32:04:
Recently, I�ve been thinking of acquiring a 6/4 BBb. Today, I had an opportunity to audition a 6/4 Holton BBb. Since it was an introduction through a mutual friend, I have the horn here for a few days to try out, and will be playing it next week in at British Brass Band. I�ve got some early feedback and some questions for you old timers/vets.
First, the basic facts. From the Holton book, it appears the horn is a model BB345. Four pistons in front. All original. Worn out lacquer, but great metal. (never over buffed). A few dents and dings to deal with. Serial number was 372,000 and change, which the Holton book puts at 1964.
I began my audition with Hummel�s Concerto I. Right off the bat: MY GOODNESS LORDY!!! Beautiful, colorful tone. This horn has a soul and a voice. Not quite the race car that my new King 2341 is, but DAMN CLOSE (how can this be?) I can�t imagine a passage that couldn�t be navigated due to the horn. Put a small, thin rim mouthpiece on it, and it just sings above staff. Put in an orchestral mouthpiece, go down low, and, well�.the pictures on the wall actually rattle. Clean, consuming lows.
Here are the questions:
1. Price is 5K. With complete overhaul and refinish, I�ll be in over 8k. A new Gronitz 6/4 PBK is about 1500 less. However, with the Gronitz, you write the check and take �yer chances. I�ve heard terrific things about the big Gronitz instruments, but haven�t played one (there isn�t one around to play), and normally wouldn�t order an instrument without playing it. Is the price right for the Holton? Should I stop thinking about the Gronitz or save the $1500?
2. I�m just an amateur, and I�m not going to have 2 BBb�s around. This is just a personal discipline issue. So, there goes the King??? Wow�wouldn�t that be something. My �big horns in small ensembles?� post/question a few days is now exposed. Most people don�t pick a 6/4 for their sole battle-axe. I�m not worried about the solo pieces. A little concerned about small ensembles and quintet work. My sense after playing it is that the Holton could be dialed in appropriately with an intelligent mouthpiece selection. And, as I said in my earlier post, I have a sweet spot for the sound of the big horns. Any thoughts? The new 2341 is a pretty good selection if you can only have one BBb. I really like the King�but I�m in love with the Holton. Am I due for a check up at the mental health clinic?
Tony E