Posted by Lee A. Stofer, Jr. on June 24, 2001 at 09:41:42:
In Reply to: Re: bell front vs upright bell posted by Frederick J. Young on June 23, 2001 at 20:17:09:
Dr. Young,
Thank-you! I don't think it could have been said better. In the last seven years, I have played extensively on a 1935 Conn, which the catalog referred to as "the BBb bass used by professionals in their recording work". Many people have argued against the 36J "Wonderphone" - that is, until they hear it. I estimate that it requires 25- to 30% less effort overall to play this 6/4 tuba than the 5/4 CC upright I used to play. I think it is largely about fashion, as piston valves were not fashionable for a while, but are again. To the writer of the original post; yes, the bell-front makes a great outdoor and dixieland horn, but I use mine for brass quintet, concert band, and orchestra, too!
-Lee A. Stofer, Jr.