Music123
"Baritone / Euphonium FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions concerning what to look for when purchasing a baritone or euphonium
Author: © 2004 Woodwind and Brasswind
Q. What is the difference between a baritone and a euphonium?
A. Simple. A baritone is cylindrical, the euphonium is conical. That is, a baritone has a bore that stays mostly the same size until the bell flare. A euphonium has a bore that gets larger all the way through the length of the instrument. In the United States, the instruments that are commonly used in bands are euphoniums.
Q. Should I buy a 3 or 4 valve euphonium?
A. A 4-valve euphonium is always the preferable choice. The addition of the extra valve, whether compensating or not, will greatly improve low range facility. The 4th valve will aid extension of the low register as well as improve low register intonation.
Q. What is the difference between a compensating and a non-compensating Euphonium?
A. A compensating euphonium simply adds extra tubing to “compensate” for the low register tendency of being sharp. When the 4th valve is depressed, air is redirected through an auxiliary set of slides on valves 1 through 3, when they are used. These auxiliary slides lower the pitch even more to help bring the lower notes closer to in tune. A non-compensating euphonium has a 4th valve that acts as any other valve. In this case, the pitch is lowered 2-1/2 steps. The performer must do any other adjustment needed to bring the low range in tune.
Q. What are the differences in mouthpiece shank sizes?
A. Many years ago, there was no industry standard for euphonium mouthpiece receivers. Over time, manufacturers found that they needed to make instruments that were compatible with modern mouthpieces. They found that the only difference between trombone and euphonium mouthpieces was in the shank size. (The shank size is the diameter and taper of the end of the mouthpiece that goes into the instrument.)"
