Wessex Tubas founder Jonathan Hodgetts recently returned from a trip to China to visit the factory where most of their brass instruments are manufactured.

Successful trip

Jonathan told 4BR that he believed it was a very successful trip with a number of exciting outcomes.

"Some quality improvements were agreed to raise the standard of the Wessex brand even further," he said.

"As a result there will be new enhancements and improvements to existing models which will be announced as they are released over the coming months and most exciting of all, some new models too."

Development

Jonathan would only tantalisingly reveal that one development should cause great excitement amongst BBb bass players, although he was prepared to reveal another new model now.

To supplement the increasingly popular 19" bell EEb compensate tuba, Wessex will soon be releasing a new version with 425mm (16.75 inch) bell — ideal for solo playing and brass quintet work, or as an ideal instrument for developing young players.

Jonathan would only tantalisingly reveal that one development should cause great excitement amongst BBb bass players, although he was prepared to reveal another new model now4BR

New features

Jonathan also said he believes that it will include some revolutionary new features, not seen on a compensated EEb before.

Also to be made available are leather half covers to protect any make of EEb tuba from scratches from uniform buttons or buckles.

Jonathan added: "I’m delighted to making new instruments and accessories available – and all at Wessex’s usual reasonable prices!"