tpter1

Hah, Miles. I had a thought: let's post your post on the entryway to the instrument showroom hallway at Amherst this year! Hah.

Trent...what was the final count of missed high G's?

Seriously now...that's a great post, Miles. I agree thoroughly. Unfortunately, some people have rather large egos and sense maybe the need to compensate for something else by showing off how high and loud they can play. Some dealers allow you to take their instrument to a practice room if you leave your license or credit/debit card with them. That's the best way, I found. Then you're away from all those people who aren't really trying horns as much as they are showing off. Best scenario is if a classroom or hall is available to "break into"; where you can have an objective ear with you, if you're serious about buying it.

I might add that you play something familiar and tuneful, that you have memorized, in several keys to get a sense of the evenness and intonation of the horn.

__________________
-Glenn
"Roses have thorns; shining waters mud. Clouds and eclipses stain the moon and the sun; and history reeks of the wrongs we have done. After today, after today, consider me gone."- Sting