Posted by Lew on August 06, 2001 at 20:43:54:
In Reply to: Tuba for an 11-Year-Old posted by wcc3 on August 06, 2001 at 18:52:15:
I think you are on target except, if this is a "transitional" instrument in that she may transition to a 4/4 instrument at some time, I see no reason not to start with a 3 valve horn. I believe that a used Conn 10J, 11J, or 12J (the 10J & 11J are no longer made), King 1135 or 1140 or Yamaha 103, 104, or 105 (the 103 and 104 are no longer made) would all work. Check www.1800usaband.com for some used tuba prices. These should cost between $1200 and $1800. In my opinion the Yamaha 621 isn't worth the extra money that you will spend. Any of these horns used will
Absolutely have her try playing any horn before you buy it. Although she can get comfortable holding most horns, some will be better than others, and some just won't work at all because of the leadpipe height or other factor.