Posted by Doug Whitten on January 11, 2004 at 12:33:55:
In Reply to: Re: "All Around" F posted by Dave Roberts on January 11, 2004 at 11:15:05:
I have a 45S (not SLP or SLZ). Since I started playing this horn, my beloved PT6 sees little playing time. The 45S is a big F tuba, but not quite as big as the SLZ. It can handle a lot of sound and has a great low range. Yet , it still maintains an F tuba clarity and sound quality.
For a long time I was convinced that I needed 3 tubas: A big CC, a small CC for quintet and lighter rep, and an F for solo work. With this F I can cover quintets and light stuff just fine, but is no replacement for a big contrabass tuba for orchestral work. I am quite content with just the 45S and my PT6.
For the playing I do, no F could cover everything. But if you rarely play with a full orchestra, then a big F would be a viable option as a lone horn. I, personally, would still choose a 4/4 CC, such as a Mirafone 186, as a do-it-all horn.
Douglas Whitten
Director of Athletic Bands
Professor of Tuba and Euphonium
Pittsburg State University