A couple of additional thoughts on buying a tuba...

[SousaSaver]

Pretty good.

It's good to understand that people selling instruments ARE NOT music stores and vice-versa. Different rules apply when dealing with each.

I think (given the context) that you are right. More so with higher value instruments.

[TubaRay]

Pretty good.

Pretty good??! I think it is excellent. Well said!

[sloan]

They're not a "free pass" to be snotty.

Well, you apparently are well acquainted with "snotty".

[Todd S. Malicoate]

I also think the work involved in completing a DMA in tuba/euph performance is an impressive feat.

This is the only part of your post I disagree with.

Up to 20 years ago, when there were still SOME standards, yes; a DM or DMA degree was an impressive feat. Now, not so much.

I personally know a (fairly) recent tuba DMA graduate who routinely cheated on exams, played recitals that most undergraduate tuba majors could have easily pulled off, and plagiarized about 80% of his terminal degree document. He can't be the only one.

As for college students buying tubas I simply ask...why? 90% of them will never be used in a professional, money-earning situation. The most honest answer I can think of is "I can buy one now on the government's (loan) dime if I call it an "education expense" and not have to worry now about paying it back."

[Timswisstuba]

This is excellent real life advice for both seller and buyer. LJV puts it in a way that is truthful. Very often in private instrument sales one party does not see things from the other's perspective which could cause problems from either party.

It is much better to read this and be aware of possible difficulties when selling/buying an instrument, than to experience problems first hand.

The wise shall read this and understand....


To the DMA's who have cheated on exams, life will certainly find a way of revenge for their wrongdoings in some form or another. (even if it is having to sit through boring faculity meetings.....)

I remember when I was at Eastman, Don Harry used to say that he didn't want to teach any Doctoral students because he didn't want them hanging around the cafetéria.