A historic Eb Tornister tuba recreated
Planned Delivery: Late January 2027
Low Stock
Small in stature but unmistakably a true tuba, the Wessex Bohème TE165 is an exceptionally compact Eb Tornister tuba inspired by instruments last produced more than a century ago—and recreated, refined and improved for today’s musicians by Wessex Tubas.
The original Tornistertubas were developed for Austro-Hungarian military bands before the First World War. Their tightly wrapped construction allowed musicians to carry them in backpacks when travelling on foot, long before mechanised transport became commonplace. Wessex has revived this fascinating historic concept while improving its design, construction and playing characteristics to create a thoroughly practical modern instrument.
Standing just 19 inches tall and weighing only 7½ lb, the Bohème is extraordinarily portable. Unlike many compact practice instruments, however, the TE165 is designed to provide the character, response and musical enjoyment of a genuine Eb tuba. Its free-blowing feel, focused tone and responsive four-valve design make it far more than an historical curiosity.
The TE165 is an ideal travel tuba for keeping your playing in shape while away from home. Its remarkably compact dimensions make it easier to transport than a conventional tuba and potentially suitable for cabin baggage, subject to the individual airline’s size and weight restrictions.
Its distinctive voice also makes the Bohème great fun for jazz—particularly when amplified—as well as small ensembles, informal performances, Tuba Christmas events and creative musical projects. Its extremely low weight makes it especially appealing to players seeking a comfortable instrument for rehearsals, marking parts or situations where a full-size tuba would be impractical.
Four smooth rotary valves provide secure response throughout the instrument’s range. Nickel-silver inner and outer tuning slides offer durability and smooth adjustment, while reinforcing plates and ribbing around the outer bows strengthen the compact body. Engraved Wyvern valve levers complete its distinctive Wessex appearance.
Compact, characterful and genuinely enjoyable to play, the Wessex Bohème TE165 brings a remarkable tuba design back to life after more than 100 years. It combines the charm and portability of the original Tornistertuba with the reliability, playability and construction expected from a modern Wessex instrument.
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For your peace of mind
Unlike most leading brands, Wessex Tubas offers a 3-year warranty against manufacturing defects on all our instruments, and in the unlikely event that you are dissatisfied with your purchase, we offer a full refund and return within 2 weeks.
You can return any item bought from Wessex Tubas within 14 days of receiving it for a full refund, minus shipping costs. However, please contact us before returning your item so we can provide you with return labels and a collection booking with our dedicated courier to ensure the safe return of your item/s. When returning the item, it must be in its original packaging and in ’as received’ condition. Please note that shipping charges apply to refund upon return of your item and any damage will also result in reduced refund.
