I played it last night for the first time at an orchestra rehearsal. While sitting there and playing, I realized that this is the first time in it's estimated 200 years that it was played in USA or possibly outside of the German/Bohemian region. I have information now that for the last 100+ years or so it was used in German orchestras by just two owners, both having the bass for several decades each and only selling it when they reached retirement age or beyond. The last owner in his 90s. To them, it was a 'keeper' and I can see why while playing it last night. I didn't say a word to the other 5 guys in the section about having a new/old bass or an old Lionhead but one glance and their eyes were stuck on the bass. Each player nudging the other to look at it. It was a good feeling.
