cyras21 wrote:I've never attended one of these. What can I expect? Do dealers sell horns at the conference? Are they priced normally or are there some discounts. Does anyone know which dealers will be present?
You can expect good performances (including solo work with jazz band accompaniment, band accompaniment, and orchestral accompaniment, in addition to wonderful pianists), fun reading sessions (especially considering that John Stevens is leading the big one on Saturday), big-name artists, excellent clinics, greasy bowling-alley food, first-rate fellowship, close inspection of entering vehicles, brisk walks between buildings, an exhibit with most of the tuba stores in abundant attendance, and the need for Aspirin if you plan to spend more than about half an hour in the elephant room. In short, about all that you could expect from a tuba conference, and more because it is free.
Yes, dealers sell horns at the conference, at normal prices except that they would not mind having to tote them back to the store, making them perhaps more willing to accommodate a reasonably offer. I bought my big F at the conference last year, and was afforded the opportunity to compare it to about six other instruments in one corner of the elephant room during a lull. You can't ask for much more than that!
Dillon Music, Baltimore Brass, Lee Stofer, and Custom Music are always there. The Tuba Exchange has been there at times (but not last year). Willson, Miraphone, and Besson are often there with factory displays (Willson and Besson being the most consistent, with Miraphone sometimes represented by dealers). Mike Finn was there last year, and Doug Elliott is usually there. Windsong Press and BVD Press will be there, plus one or two others. There will be one or two general music stores with displays.
Rick "recommending that you come early and don't expect the exhibitors to be as accommodating during the last two or three hours of the show on Saturday as they will be earlier" Denney