I get the sense that the Willson is a bit larger (both in size and price....
I think there's a greater market for side-action (a.k.a. "American system") horns in this (my) country (U.S.A.).
The Willson plays like a solid 4/4 Eb. Very full, and a joy to play.
The Bombino is a petite instrument, and very much a full sounding 7/8 or 3/4 size. It's a good sound, and every bit as strong as my Besson 4v Prototype Eb (a great horn, BTW).
Instructor of Tuba & Euphonium, Cleveland State University
Principal Tuba, Firelands Symphony Orchestra
President, Variations in Brass http://www.jcsherman.net
AHynds wrote:
Same here--I'd buy a modern reproduction of the British F in a heartbeat.
I was discussing this only yesterday, but was doubtful if there are enough potential buyers to justify making. Depends on how much it could share parts with Bombino.
Wessex have not done demo video as yet. However there may well be in 2016 now that professional tuba/euphonium quartet are playing Wessex. More on that later.
The Bombino has become my favorite 'parade' tuba - it is what I now mostly play with Wessex Military Band. I have played as only tuba for band of about 20 with no complaints about lack of bass. It would also be my choice to play for brass quintet, or in orchestra where lighter tone is desired.
There will be Bombino available to try at US Army Workshop in February, NABBA in April and ITEC in June.
