I gave both the John Packer and the Willson a good ride, trying technical, brassy and slow sonorous exerpts to compare properly and both sounded great.

I then tried both JP and was charmed, more so by the gold brass than the silver.Īfterward, I got both Willson and put aside the 2900S which was too small compared to the 2960ST and the John Packer. The Preantucci had the best valves I ever tried (like a Ferrari). Not being a big fan of Yamaha, I still gave them a chance and, as expected, they were very good, but sounded too bland and bright to my taste. Once at Dillon Music in New Jersey, I tried both Yamaha (642 Neo and 842), a used Perantucci Sterling, both JP374 Sterling (Silver and gold brass) and two different Willson (2900S and 2960ST). I drove 7 hours to the closest John Packer dealer to be able to personaly assess what I had been reading about it. Also, I have a natural tendency to sound very bright on my instruments so I was looking for a darker sound. Kate Williams - Principal Baritone - Desford Colliery Band - 20.12.17įirstly, I have to mention that I've been playing a Silver B&H Imperial from the 70s medium shank that belongs to the band for some 40+ years. These really are instruments that demand a place high up in the brass retail market and I will be happy to recommend any of them to prospective purchasers of the appropriate standard. The case is smaller than that of the JP274 and has a ‘gig bag’ feel to it-ideal for the busy professional. Tuning on the trigger model is of course perfect in the hands of a knowledgeable and proficient musician. Articulation, dynamic extremes, intonation and freedom of flexibility are outstanding. They feel exceptionally comfortable to hold and the playing position dictated by the design seems completely natural assuring the performer that they are playing an instrument of pure quality. Each has the benefit of a larger 12” bell which seems to aid projection for the more advanced player.

The JP374 Sterling and the JP374 Sterling (Trigger) are both essentially the same fully compensating 4 valve euphonium.

Added to this the fantastic prices being asked and they almost seem too good to be true. All were striking examples of the modern style of instrument design as well as displaying a high quality of build. As part of my job I recently had the pleasure of appraising 3 of the superior John Packer euphoniums on behalf of our students.

John packer jp274 euphonium