Yes, I would definitely agree that trying those horns in the Trumpet Fest exhibit room was challenging to say the least. I was there around 8 am and the exhibitor were still setting up. I should've tried the horns then. The next time I went in during a break, as you got near the exhibit room it sounded like someone had let about 100 geese into the room. Very loud geese! At any one time there were between 10 and 30 horns playing. I think the room was only about 40 by 40 feet. I was able to try several trumpets and almost had to go by feel rather than sound. I would play directly at a flat surface to hear myself. I was able to try the two Stage1 Flugels that were there and wow they were nice! I tried the Rimless bell but it was hard to really listen to it. I did try the Lawler Model B, and for some reason was drawn to it. Mainly the feel and response. It really felt right on, when you went for a note it just came out! All of these horns are out of my reach anyway. My only hope was the door prize.
Though it is nice to comparison shop.
The clinics on the other hand were absolutely GREAT! Tons of good information and practice techniques that I have already started to incorporate today!
Hat's off to JC and All those involved.
Thanks for giving us a great day.