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I've been asked to play in an orchestra supporting a production of Barnum by schoolkids. The orchestra is being put together on somewhat of an emergency basis apparently as a result of the previous music director failing to follow through. I'm on the road this week and won't be able to see the music until a rehearsal, and that will be the third rehearsal for the small orchestra being assembled.

So, the questions. What should I expect? What is the range? What instrument would you guys use for the part?

Rick "who only wants to carry one instrument to the rehearsal--and not the wrong one" Denney

I did a production in LA in 1991. Played it all on a 187CC. For some reason they were missing the tuba part, so they paid me extra to transcribe the part from the recording. Quite a fun part. That was my only horn at the time, so I didn't have the F tuba option. No problem on CC though. A few great solos, including solo tuba, trumpet, and trombone at the start of the second half. The kids really love it.

But don't take my word on the CC. There's a sucker born every minute.

I did it on a BBb sousaphone. Seemed very appropriate for the score and stage work.

I used both an upright Besson BBb and a souasphone for the solo in the beginning of the second act. We strolled in from the back of the auditorium so the sousie worked well for that. Lots-o-fun!

kenk