Basses

You will see 4 tubas on the back row of a brass band - the "Basses" The smaller two, usually closer to the trombones, will be the Eb Basses and the larger two on the cornet side the BBb basses. The differences are in the pitch of the instruments with the BBb's producing the lower tonal sound. Both instruments are made from brass and then either lacquered or electro-plated with nickel, gold or silver. Both instruments use 4 valves, the fourth being on the out edge of the instrument. It is the fourth valve that accesses additional tubing to increase the range of notes available .Typically a BBb will weigh around 28lbs and cost £8-10,000 each to replace. The tuba has it's history in military marching bands - Sousaphones being the most recognisable - with the "concert tuba" being adapted over the years for use in a seated position.

George Morley - Eb Bass

Bill Willis - Eb Bass

Bill joined Bournemouth Concert Brass in 1993 on Euphonium, before moving to Eb Bass. Raised in Poole with a Salvation Army background Bill was encouraged to play and write by well known local musicians including Malcolm Wheale, Alwyn Green (BSO) and Glyn Bosanko. He was Principal Cornet for 4 years before moving to on to Bass Trombone. In addition to studying conducting with Russell Gray, Bill is a fine composer and arranger and has had many of his compositions and arrangements used in brass band competitions and recordings.

Bill lives locally and works as a Major Incident Manager for Cap Gemini.

 

Phil Henley - BBb Bass

Phil joined the band in 1998. He started playing in his school band at the age of 11. The majority of Phil's working career has been shift work with the Post Office which for 17 years restricted his ability to commit to playing on a regular basis. Phil is now retired and lives at Canford Heath with his wife Christine. Their son David and daughter Rachel have since left home and also live locally.

Paul Chiverton - Bb Bass

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