Thanks for all the insight! He is a 5 th grader, soon to be 11. Does that make a difference with any recommendations! Never before played an instrument, despite my effort to get him to learn piano from me.

Not worried about his strength, he is a very strong and determined 4'10" and 90 pounds, dad is 5'10", that is what I'd expect over the next several years.
If it matters, he would have access to a 3/4 for use at school for lessons and rehearsal, if no more kids pick tuba. Doesn't sound like the director wants it going home.
Care of it? We would! I very much appreciate a good antique, and one of the reasons I was asking here, is I think I can probably gt bet alum used and old than a newer, maybe shinier, one that might now be "like they used to be"
I nearly majored in music myself .... Flute, and have one that could be professionally used. I can hear the differences in sound quality, I just am not educated on brass.
Also nearby .... A couesnon. I think I've read on here to stay away. True?
If we were to go buy it should I have the owner play it? Make sure it is in good working and playing condition?
Also nearby. I know it's a Sousa, and not the right choice, but holton is good too, right?
http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/dak/m ... 98876.html" target="_blank