Originally Posted by
Jonathantuba
The new Festivo has the compensated system of the regular euphonium combined with the much greater ergonomic comfort of front action valves which mean the arms are in much more comfortable position. Designed so the 4th valve can be operated by the left hand like regular top action euphonium, or the little finger of the right hand as on many tubas.
This is a very interesting (and I would even say "innovative") approach to the design of the instrument. I'm afraid it will make it difficult for some people to continue with the argument that the Chinese instruments are simply "copies" of Western designs. Of course, perhaps the design is "western" (UK?), but it matters little since the real importance lies in the result.
Personally, I'm a little skeptical of the ergonomics -- for myself. But I can't really make a judgment on that until I try the instrument. I was previously skeptical of my ability to use a 3+1 instrument, but now I'm not inclined to consider anything else. I thought that the top-action valves coupled with the side fourth valve would give me more problems with my shoulder arthritis. But they didn't, and in fact they seem more comfortable -- for me anyway. I do suspect that this instrument may be noticeably easier to play while standing or marching.
There are definitely advantages to a front-action horn like this -- not the least of which is how water drains in it.
So I guess the real question is "When will the replaceable bell front / bell up model be released?".
Gary Merrill
Wessex EEb Bass tuba (DW 3XL or 2XL)
Mack Brass Compensating Euph (DE N106, Euph J, J9 euph)
Amati Oval Euph (DE 104, Euph J, J6 euph)
1924 Buescher 3-valve Eb tuba (with std US receiver), Kelly 25
Schiller American Heritage 7B clone bass trombone (DE LB K/K10/112/14 Lexan, Brass Ark MV50R)
1947 Olds "Standard" trombone (Olds #3)