I have performed and recorded on the same euphonium for 10 years and was very intrigued when asked by Custom Music to try the new exclusive model euphonium by Hirsbrunner. I was initially very impressed when testing this horn against five of the most widely used professional model euphoniums on the market today. The larger bell flare and the increased diameter of the 4th valve are the biggest differences between the exclusive and the standard Hirsbrunner models. Nonetheless, I was skeptical about how these changes would affect the overall instrument. What I discovered was a free blowing instrument with a very focused core sound throughout the entire range of the horn. This horn provided me with flexibility enough to achieve six Bb's as well as a wide range of performance styles.
For many years, Hirsbrunner has been designing professional model instruments to meet the high standards required by the most demanding performers in the world. If you are a performer who demands that a single horn provide the flexibility to easily go from the most intimate chamber settings to symphonic band and orchestral demands then I would recommend you give the new exclusive Hirsbrunner a try.
Karl Bradley
Euphonist & military bandsman