Yamaha YBH301 Bb baritone horn

The Bb baritone horn has a range similar to a euphonium but, owing to its narrower cylindrical bore, produces a thinner and brighter tone that is an essential ingredient of the traditional brass band sound. This Yamaha YBH301 is a very popular non-compensating model designed as a step-up instrument for intermediate students.

All the baritone horn’s tubing is made from yellow brass that has been pressure formed to create a perfectly round bore for consistent airflow. Its bell is welded to the rest of the instrument using Yamaha’s innovative pluzuma laser fusing technique. This results in an unbeatably smooth join and perfectly even vibration at any volume.

Like all non-compensating brass instruments, this baritone horn has slightly inaccurate intonation in some contexts. This is explained by the mathematical rules of acoustics and can be combatted by the addition of extra tubing and valves or triggered slides, all of which add weight and complexity. The YBH301 has three top sprung piston valves which, like the tuning slides, have been carefully honed by hand to eliminate air leakage and make for a smooth and responsive action.

Each YBH301 baritone horn is finished in an attractive clear lacquer and comes supplied in a protective hard case with a moulded interior and shoulder strap. Also included in the outfit is a Yamaha 45C2 mouthpiece that has a small inner diameter with a deep cup – perfect for controlling the instrument’s tone in extreme registers.