Posted by 5 valve guy on January 30, 2004 at 08:18:36:
In Reply to: thumb addicts posted by fingers on January 29, 2004 at 21:09:00:
I have owned one tuba in this configuration, but the 5th valve was a "quint" valve, dropping the F tuba into the key of BBb. The 6th valve WAS a long 1/2 step.
I understand the amusement at the set-up, but wouldn't (or at least, "COULDN'T") the 6th valve take over as a replacement for a 5th valve or 1st valve slide pull? That is to say, if you can't get it in tune with a slide pull somewhere, then perhaps it's time for the mysterious 6th valve to be used (once a month, whether you need it or not).
Also, re: the 9 uses of the 6th valve, are there ANY exclusive uses where you MUST employ the 6th valve AND a slide pull -- where there is no other way to do the same thing? If so, the that is a problem. If not, then you are certainly welcome to remain amused, but the owners of these horns aren't doomed to utter frustration (at least not due to the configuration).
Hey, can't you solve this by moving the 6th valve to the right hand also?
8^O
Steve Inman
Kokomo, IN