Posted by Gus Pratt on January 13, 2000 at 07:16:19:
In Reply to: Shaping rotary valve keys??? posted by Gary S on January 12, 2000 at 22:38:23:
Another option that you might have Gary is to have the 4th valve converted to be operated with the thumb rather then the pinky finger. I'm sure a competent repairman could do this. I have a similar problem with my 4 valve front action euphonium. My history is pretty much with 3 valve horns or with compensating horns so using the pinky is difficult for me. I installed a hook right below the valve cluster (like trumpets have for their pinky) and rest this hook on my left center finger allowing me to support the horn and operate the fourth valve with the index finger of my left hand. I got this idea from seeing a person operate a 5 valve double bell euphonium. I never good figure out how someone played a 5 valve horn with only 4 fingers until I saw him do this.