Re: Re: Re: Re: Who taught the godfathers???


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Posted by MA on March 30, 2003 at 21:11:24:

In Reply to: Re: Re: Re: Who taught the godfathers??? posted by js on March 30, 2003 at 20:20:26:

Yes, according to Song and Wind...

"In keeping with his aural concept of orchestra sound, Stokowski requested a true contrabass tuba that would supply an organ-like quality to the Philadelphia Orchestra. In answer to his request, Phillip Donatelli contracted JW York Band Instrument Company of Grand Rapids, Michigan, and ordered a very large CC tuba. In 1933, in answer to Donatelli's request for a true contrabass tuba, Bill Johnson designed and built two large CC tubas.

Characteristic of all 1930-vintage Yorks, this tuba has a short leadpipe going directly into the fist valve, with the tuning slide located between the fourth and fifth valves. Fortunately, or unfortunately, depending on one's perspective, the short leadpipe created problems for Donatelli. Being of portly stature, whenever he breathed, his body would push the tuba away from him, making playing this instrument nearly impossible. One day Donatelli, knowing that Jacobs needed to purchase a tuba, called him into his studio and offered to sell his large York for $175."

The rest is history. If you want to read more, buy Brian Frederiksen's book.


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