sbring wrote:For several reasons, among which is acquiring a couple of very old tubas, I have become interested in odd valve systems and the use in history of different valve length solutions. I therefore ask for your help in terms of info about instruments with odd valve systems that you own or know of. My definition of odd is everything not corresponding to any one of the traditional 3, 4, 5 and 6 valve length systems shown in the table below.
Apart from info on the valve system itself, I would be grateful for as much info as possible concerning make, model and age of the instrument. Pictures are welcome.
I've played several old HN Whites where the 4th valve was 2 steps (so like modern 2+3).
I've also got a Couesnon C French tuba where the 3rd valve is 2 steps (also like modern 2+3).
The Cerveny CFB-654 has a left-hand 5th valve (I think it's a long half-step -- Marty Neilan could confirm or correct that) and a larger-bore right-thumb 6th valve after the main tuning slide (it's a 3.5-step or quint valve).
"Don't take life so serious, son. It ain't nohow permanent." -- Pogo (via Walt Kelly)
Yamaha has a new student trombone that has a subtractive full step lever, played like a usual F attachment, to get 6th position equivalent for 2nd space C for beginners with short arms.
Many old tubas have a very long third valve slide, allowing the player to choose between 1.5 tones or 2 tones lowering of pitch. There is much more history and variations discussed in Art's excellent site.
