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My grandson will be in 4th grade next fall and he wants to take up an instrument (euphonium his first choice). He has blown my tuba and, more successfully, played some recognizable notes on a euphonium that I used to play. Any suggestions on a euphonium suitable for the next few years while his parents determine if he is serious about it. He can use my horn, a 3-valve, detachable front bell, front action Olds Studio model that's in fairly good shape (over 40 years old) or we can look for something else. The school has already warned parents about Costco/Walmart horns and cheap stuff on the auction site. Does anyone have an informed opinion about front vs. top valve for that age (he's on the small side), or would you suggest starting him on the trumpet (his second choice)? Or any other thoughts on the subject My ultimate goal is promote him to tuba when he grows quite a bit more. Thanks for any info.

I would just stick with the Olds if it's in good shape. I played a 3 valve Olds Studio Model in junior high and high school until I got my own horn.


Arul

I also think you might as well use the Olds if it is in reasonable shape. Have him use the bass clef music. Probably shouldn't think of going to tuba for at least two years unless he is much bigger than average. My granddaughter just started tuba in the 6th grade, and even though it is a small size, it is as much as she can handle.

4th graders are plenty capable physically to play a tuba... I started in the 4th grade, and I was pretty small. Carrying it around might be tough, but for a 4th grader- so is carrying around a trumpet case!

If he really wants to play tuba, he should just play tuba.

Being a retired band director, I have found that every student that I put on a little three valve Holton became my best HS tuba players. It was not a good-looking euphonium or was it very big. It has lost its case many years prior to my time; however, it had a great big sound. The sound will get them hooked into playing low brass. Look for an instrument that has the sound that you want you grandchild to fall in love with. I did not see it mentioned, buy a top quality mouthpiece that matched the instrument and your grandson. Call Roger Lewis at WWBW and he will send you some to try. Demonstrate for your grandson and have him choose the sound that is in his head and what feels the best on his chops. Best of luck and keep us posted.