Jozef Matthessen
I finally want to let you know how things are going with the new euphonium. I have now had it for about one month. The euphonium is truly magnificent. It is the best euphonium I have ever played.
Adams euphonium, a success across the board!
I only want to play Adams euphonium. What is so wonderful is the tone color. Very clear with many overtones. The response is also unusually good. It is also the only euphonium where you have the feeling that the metal is not dead. Because of the choice of material and I believe especially the thickness (0.5 mm), the instrument vibrates along. I have that same feeling with my Hirsbrunner.
The idea that the sound of the euphonium would not “carry” is completely incorrect. The intonation is also exceptionally good compared to other brands. So, the Adams euphonium is a success across the board. Next week I will use the euphonium for the first time in the National Orchestra.
Some time ago I heard that Adams was developing a new C bass. My curiosity was awakened. With some hesitation I put my Hirsbrunner aside for a moment to test this new bass tuba. It took some getting used to, but to my great surprise, after some time playing, I started to feel better on the Adams bass tuba. Playing the middle register is comparable to the Hirsbrunner. However, the Adams makes the difference in the octaves above the high C and below the low C. The response of the notes is very accurate. The evolution of the tone color (timbre, intonation) from very soft to extremely loud is excellent and also from very round (p) to very brilliant (ff). The sound always blends optimally in the symphony orchestra.
The comfort offered by this instrument and the ease with which I can play it mean that my Hirsbrunner, after so many years of faithful service, has to make way for this new C bass.
Jozef Matthessen
