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The Horn Guys
 

Wagner Tuben

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Alexander

               

 
Hans Hoyer

           

Jin Bao / Stauffer

 

The rarest of brass instruments is the Wagner tuba, which combines elements of the French horn and the tuba.  It was originally designed for Wagner's Ring cycle.  Here's an informative Wiki page about the Wager tuba.

We offer Wagner tubas custom made in Germany by Alexander, Engelbert Schmid, and Hans Hoyer.  We also have a new one...read on.  Most of these instruments are custom built to order in 90-180 days, but importer B&S USA does try to keep a set of Hans Hoyer Wagner tubas in stock at their Elkhart, Indiana warehouse. If you would like to test them out, we are glad to arrange that. Please call for current pricing and availability.

Traditionally, Wagner tubas have been used in pairs in the orchestra; one pair being pitched in Bb, the other in low F. 

The few Wagner tubas we've represented have been full double models, pitched in Bb and F with a change valve just like a double horn.  Both full double and compensating double Wagner tubas are available.  Prices vary, but you can expect to pay about $10000 for a German double Wagner tuba, and only a few thousand less for a single in either Bb or F.  It's definitely an investment for the French horn aficionado. 

We do have something new on the drawing board.  This fall we hope to represent a compensating double Wagner tuba from Tianjin, China, made by Jin Bao Musical Instruments.  It will be marketed under the Meister Has Stauffer line.  Though the Chinese are not known (yet) for being premier brass instrument makers, this is a good looking and nice playing horn.  It will stand in either Bb or F, has a compensating valve system for light weight, and includes a hard case.  Pricing is expected to be under $1000.  These will be tuned up and play tested here to ensure a quality instrument.  We already have taken reservations for a set of four.

$10000 or $1000?  We wish there were some middle ground, but this is all we see available in the market place.

A player's comment about the Alexander:

Complete double tuba in Bb/F with four rotary valves, left hand valves, upright bell. This Wagner tuba plays like a dream.  The valves are in a cluster position but that does not increase resistance when blowing through them.  The intonation is excellent, much better than similar models from other makers.   It stands in Bb with a trigger to F for the low concert F-B, but it can be adjusted to stand in F if you prefer.  Includes hard case.

 

Shipping:  $80 within the US 48, quote elsewhere