Re: Euphonium cutting


[ Follow Ups ] [ Post Followup ] [ TubeNet BBS ] [ FAQ ]

Posted by Klaus on May 10, 2002 at 17:21:30:

In Reply to: Euphonium cutting posted by Julie on May 10, 2002 at 16:21:19:

Euphs, especially of the 3+1 comp variant, are very short in cylindrical tubing. That is a problem in cutting.

The short branch of their 2nd valve branch is very short. Where to cut that one? The same goes for the comp loops on the back of the 1st and 3rd pistons. That is another problem in cutting.

Even if it would be possible to shorten and re-taper conical parts of the main bugle, there would be a need to lower the top bow considerably. How to get access to the valves then? That would be a major problem in cutting.

One of the great orchestral tuba solos was written for a 6 valve French C tuba, a model no longer in production.

The British brass makers experimented with applying the comp system to instruments as small as cornets. The experiment did not survive even on Eb alto horns (tenor horns), where there would be a real need for a device improving intonation in the lower range, that actually is used from time to time.

Especially on 3 valve compensating instruments the comp loop on the 2nd piston is VERY short compared to the actual bore of the loop, which makes the bending somewhat of a technical problem.

On my B&H Imperial 3 valve comp Brit baritone that little loop is a bit too long, which calls for some embouchure strength to get the mid and top range Gb's in tune.

My point is, that it probably would be possible to design a 3+1 comp euph, but the design would have a bit different than that of the Bb euph.

The leadpipe, the bottom bow, and most of the valve cluster most likely could be recycled from the Bb version. Whereas the main tuning slide and the 2nd branch including the top bow should have a fully new design. And the leadpipe/valve cluster should be placed somewhat lower.

Nobody knows of the musical qualities of such a redesign. And as most euphers have some Bb sliding affinities, then there hardly would be that much of a market to support the redesigning costs for a euph in C.

Klaus


Follow Ups: