*
banner

Advert: Wessex Tubas

There is now a fantastic alternative to the traditional British brass band BBb tuba — and it can be played in contests too!

Wessex tuba
 

Wessex Tubas have just introduced another fantastic new tuba to the family – and it’s an ideal alternative to the normal brass band BBb tuba.

New addition

The new addition to the Wessex family is a full size five rotary valve BBb tuba which makes a very realistic alternative to the traditional compensating BBb bass.

The 5th valve is a flat tone (a bit longer than first valve) allowing spot on tuning in the low register without the need for the compensating system while at the same time making it much more free blowing.

Bigger and clearer sound

This will produce a bigger and clearer sound while the tuba itself is just slightly larger than a compensated EEb bass.

BBb tuba to use

Jonathan Hodgetts of Wessex Tubas told 4BR: "This is the BBb to use with a band. Its 18 inch bell allows the sound to blend perfectly, while it’s much easier to play if you are normal size person and not a giant!

The rotary valves take a little while to get accustomed (Jonathan mastered it in one month) but are light under the fingers and provide half the length of travel, meaning that once familiar they make fast passages a lot easier."

Its tone is awesome, while if you’re wondering, there is nothing in the contest rules to stop playing this instead of traditional style bassWessex Tubas

Awesome

He added: "Its tone is awesome, while if you’re wondering, there is nothing in the contest rules to stop playing this instead of traditional style bass. Its different appearance may cause initial interest from the conductor, but once they hear the sound it makes they will be sure to ask for more!

So if you like putting out huge pedals under the band, but don't like handling an ungainly monster, then give beauty a try!"

For more information go to:

http://www.wessex-tubas.co.uk/

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Kirsty Abbotts

Abbotts flugel role with Grimethorpe

September 5 • Kirsty Abbotts is the new flugel horn player at Grimethorpe Colliery Band.


Brighouse

British Open Countdown: T minus 7

September 5 • 10 bands taking part this year have lifted the famous British Open Gold Shield in triumph...


Mead

Tour marathon for Mead

September 5 • Steven Mead marks a musical milestone with a marathon Asian tour.


Boax

Bands need to tick right Boax at Registry

September 5 • Cory Band baritone player Charlie Boax has joined the Brass Band Players Registry as their new Office Administrator.


The Hepworth Band - Public Rehearsal ahead of the 2026 British Open

Tuesday 8 September • Ossett Town Hall, Market Place, Ossett WF5 8BE


Sherborne Town Band - Free-Music in the park

Sunday 13 September • Sherborne, Dorset-Pageant Gardens DT9 3NP


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Grenadier Guards

Thursday 17 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Duchess of Edinburgh String Orchestra

Friday 18 September • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - The Band of the Irish Guards

Thursday 1 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Enderby Band

September 5 • Championship section band seeking CORNETS (positions negotiable), Eb BASS, and PERCUSSIONISTS to join our committed, hard-working and friendly team, performing a balanced diary of concerts and contests.


Harrogate Band

September 4 • The Harrogate Band are looking for a 1st Baritone and Soprano player to complete our team. Forward thinking and exciting band with a wide range of engagements and contests. Rehearsals are Wednesday 8pm in our own bandroom with great transport links.


Yorkshire Imperial

September 3 • Yorkshire Imperial band have SECOND HORN and BBb BASS vacancies available. . At Imps we have a proud tradition, clear ambitions and a sensible, well-planned schedule. We're looking for musicians who want to make outstanding music & will enjoy the journey.


David Hirst

MA, B.Ed (Hons), LTCL
Conductor, adjudicator and arranger


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd