Rentals

[Dan Schultz]

Aren't you within driving distance of these guys?

http://www.baltimorebrass.net/

[Dan Schultz]

does Baltimore Brass rent them? cash flow is a lil tight and I just maxed out my credit buying a house so financing isn't an option.

Check with your local school system and see if they have any 'surplus' horns. Sometimes you can get bargains on 'beaters'. Save the dollars you would fritter away on rentals and put the money toward a good used horn later.

[Lew]

The largest music store in the area is Chuck Levin's Washington Music Center (in Wheaton, MD). They might lease/rent tubas, but are unlikely to have many in stock.

[Mark N.]

In the 90's, Washington Music Center (Levin's) was the only store in the DC area that rented tubas. I believe they had a Miraphone or two available and the rent was not cheap. I think you are better off saving some money and buying a horn. It will be much cheaper in the long (and possibly short) run. Others have mentioned Baltimore Brass and going to the Army Tuba/Euph. Conference to look for an instrument and I want to second those comments. If you go to the conference, Dillon and Balt. Brass are excellent to deal with and you will probably be able to find a much better and permanent solution than renting.

The community group in your county is the Loudoun Symphonic Winds. Look them up when you get a chance. There are around 25 community bands in the DC area so you should have no problem finding one that works for you.

Good luck.

Mark