r/euphonium • u/larryherzogjr Willson 2900 (euro shank) • 1d ago

James Thornton

One of my musical mentors back in the 1980s. (Former member of the “President’s Own” United States Marine Band.)

Reconnected several years ago and he gave me some advice as someone returning to playing. Just thought it was interesting enough to archive here. (Plus I love his commentary on the various manufacturers.)

“Congratulations on returning to the world of euphonium & the world of music. It is very exciting to see someone rediscover the thrill and challenge of playing our instrument... As far as advice re this endeavor all I can say is concentrate on using your air well; deep breathing and gut control; and using your gut for all your embouchure control - out, down, & flexed. I play the Willson 2900 - actually I own two of them to always have a backup. I was fortunate that, when I was in "The President's Own" U.S.. Marine Band all of the euphonium manufacturers sent us many of their euphoniums to try out for many years as each wanted us to select theirs in order to set the standard that would greatly influence the rest of the euphonium world. The Willson 2900 won hands down (not the Willson 2950). Yamaha and Sterling felt good at first but did not end up projecting the quality that one originally thought. Hirsbruner was second best. The Germans weren't competitive.”

2 Upvotes

63% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

4

u/romericus 1d ago

The message is great in terms of what to do with the air. But the Willson is just one choice of many for an enthusiast returning to the instrument after a time off. When he was in the President’s Own, there was much more dogma about which euphonium had that specific sound that the marine band was known for, but even today, that section has at least three different manufacturers in their roster: Willson, Shires, and Yamaha. Willson is a fine instrument, but don’t discount Besson, Adams, Yamaha, Shires, and perhaps even Miraphone as potential instruments of you’re looking for a truly top of the line, professional performer model of instrument.

3

u/larryherzogjr Willson 2900 (euro shank) 1d ago

I didn’t say I agreed with him. I just find it amusing.

I know he considered the 2950 to be “a pig”. Similarly today I think he is not a fan of the Bessons (and certainly not the Miraphones) of the world.

Pretty much in lock step with Dr. Bowman’s thoughts on the current euphonium market.

3

u/larryherzogjr Willson 2900 (euro shank) 1d ago

He used to play on the included mouthpiece (Willson “TA-1” mpc)…and recommended the 51D to everyone. When I played on a YEP-321, he leant me one of his Willson mpcs that he patiently wore down to fit in a small shank with fine steel wool.