I'm a tuba player that plays the euphonium occasionally. I have a Yamaha YEP-321 that I really like with one exception. The 4th valve is lower than the other 3 valves. I find that I either have to play that valve with my little finger extended horizontally, or I have to twist my hand to get to it. Neither seems optimal to me especially when compared to the natural hand position on my tuba. So, my question is: Is this bad ergonomics on Yamaha's part, do I happen to have a short little finger, or should I just stop whining and practice more?
I recently tried a 3+1 horn, but that just felt wierd after many years of playing my current configuration. I would like to keep consistent with my tuba (Miraphone 191). Any suggestions?
Thanks,
davek