Posted by Jay Bertolet on August 19, 1999 at 14:50:37:
In Reply to: BBb tuba for my son posted by Cim on August 19, 1999 at 13:39:40:
My best advice would be to have your son play on a VMI 103 and see if he likes it. If so, that would be my first choice. I'd stay away from the St. Peterburg because it might have a low resale value. The same would be true of the 3/4 VMI. Try to pick an instrument that will have desirability to future buyers. In the price range you're looking at, I think the VMI 103 is the best bet.
As a general rule, I advise students to get 4/4 tubas because of their versatility. Many 3/4 size tubas have limited application if the student progresses to more advanced playing situations. I personally don't believe that any student should need to play on a 3/4 tuba for physical reasons. That's just my opinion and I'm sure others will disagree. The most important thing is that the student feels comfortable with their tuba. Your son's current level of expertise and his aspirations in music will dictate just how much tuba he'll want/need. Good luck!